Caray, Caray!

Recap by Urban Anthropologist

Most of this is recitative, as there were only a couple of duets and only one short aria.


Casa McGuire: Ivan and Lucia get some private time while Alex is in school and Tony visits Carlota. Te amo, te amo, etc.

Ag Ass Office: Camilo and Antolin talk about security for their crop (or something), segueing into talking about Antolin's impending fatherhood. Antolin is excited at the prospect and tells Camilo there will be life after Lucia; he'll find another girl.

Casa McGuire: Ivan and Lucia talk about getting their own house although it bothers her a bit to be leaving her mother after everything that's happened.

Hacienda Curiel: Tony visits Carlota. They talk about Lucrezia.

Carlota: She doesn't say it, but I know she's destroyed.
Tony: The same as you, Carlota.
Carlota: She isn't getting over the loss. You never think that the young will be first to die. When they go first it's impossible to think about how to go on.
Tony: Don't keep thinking about this, Carlota; it doesn't help anything. As they say in the theatre, “The show must go on.” Make plans for the future.
Carlota: What plans can I make at my age?
Tony: I don't know about you but I have some.
Carlota: Tell me.
Tony: I always thought I would go back to the US to take care of my businesses. But, Carlota, when I think about that I realize it would be very difficult to separate from you. Carlota, I have much affection for you.
Carlota: And I do, too, Tony.

They move in closer for the kiss and Tony hides it from the camera with his hat. WTF???

Casa McGuire: Lucia takes her leave of the other men of this household to take her mother to the doctor. Benito drives Alex to Carolina's house, then drives off to buy something Alex reminded him about. Fausto watches, then calls El Gordo on the cell phone to tell him that the coast is clear because the servant is out and the chauffeur just drove off. El Gordo is en route, carrying his clown getup. He says he'll change right away and get there pronto.

Hacienda Curiel: Lucia tells her mother about Ivan's plan to buy a house. Lucrezia takes it very well and encourages her to go ahead. She has learned her lesson although it has been an expensive one. She even gives her blessing.

Casa Carolina: El Gordo – in his absurd clown suit – picks the lock on Carolina's house, then charges in at gunpoint. “Te mueves, si te mato! Sientete!” Poor Alex will probably have a clown phobia for the rest of his life.


Commercial Break that leads with a promo for La Que no Podia Amar.

Hospital / Casa McGuire: Lucia and Ivan talk on the phone about Lucrezia's reaction. He tells Tony, who is happy for them. After everything he will finally have his FPS (Felices Para Siempre) with the woman he loves. Although it looks like Tony would like them to live with him.

Casa Carolina: El Gordo grabs Alex and takes him out of the house with the gun to his head, threatening to kill him if he makes any noise. Alex is crying. Carolina is left tied up on the floor. Benito arrives in the white sedan. As he rings the bell Carolina tries to scream despite having been gagged. She moves around on the floor and knocks some things down. Benito hears the noise, but continues to knock on the door. He finally calls Ivan and tells him to come, then continues to knock.

Car: El Gordo holds Alex, who is now covered up with the clown costume, in the back of the car as Fausto drives. (How did he get change and get the greasepaint off so quickly? Placido Domingo would like to know). He orders Fausto to stop at a gas station so he can use the pay phone to call the boy's family.

Casa Carolina: Ivan arrives and Benito explains that nobody is answering the door. Ivan tells him to call a locksmith. [cerrajero] So they do exist in Mexico after all.

Pay Phone: El Gordo calls Tony from a pay phone to tell him that he has the boy and if they call the police they will never see him again. He uses a rag to handle the phone so as not to leave fingerprints. This is the first evidence he has any brain cells.

Casa Carolina: Antolin arrives just as the locksmith does. Benito offers the locksmith money for his trouble, but he turns it down. Antolin unlocks the door and they all go in to find Carolina on the floor. They untie and ungag her. She's almost incoherent, but we know she tells them what happened. Tony calls Ivan's cell and Ivan tells him that Alex has been kidnapped. Tony says that the call he got was genuine.


Commercial Break that leads with a promo for El gran Show de los Peques.

Casa McGuire: Tony sits on the couch, in disbelief.

Casa Carolina: Antolin and Ivan decide to investigate who bought the clown suit (disfraz de payaso). Antolin calls his mother to come over to stay with Carolina so he and Ivan can go out and look for Alex. She passes the phone to Camilo.

Costume Tienda: The shopkeeper explains that there was one clown suit that was rented a few days ago and not yet returned. He tries to hide behind the customer confidentiality thing (He's been watching too many episodes of La ley y la orden,) but Ivan and Antolin aren't letting up.

Street: Ivan speculates that the name and address given to the costume shop owner were false. Antolin realizes that El Gordo is the guilty party. It's all about money. This time he's dug his own grave.

Hermosillo Hideout: Gordo and Fausto arrive to a gloating Saul. El Gordo skimasks himself before removing the cover from Alex. He orders him to be quiet, then locks him inside. The second he's alone Alex prays for his dad, Carolina, and Bruno to find him.

Casa McGuire: Antolin, Ivan, and Tony start discussing next steps. Ivan only wants to get Alex back alive and well.

Casa Carolina: Carolina is freaking about what's happened. Arcelia tries to reassure and tells Carolina they will go to her doctor tomorrow; Carolina is worried about her pregnancy. They talk about Antolin having a heart of gold. Anvil watchers are getting antsy.

Casa McGuire: Continuation, with Camilo joining them. They conclude that El Gordo was the clown, Saul is behind this, and then speculate on who else is involved. Tony doesn't think JJ is involved. They talk about how kidnappers typically allow a family to stew for a couple of days before making the ransom demand. Ivan then says that someone has to be near the phone at all times.


Commercial Break

Casa McGuire: Ivan tells Lucia about the kidnapping.

Casa Carolina: Antolin finds his mother asleep on the couch. He swears on his father's grave that the criminals will pay with their blood. Arcelia tries to get him to chill on that.

Casa McGuire: Ivan is crying as he and Lucia talk.

Ivan: What terror he must be feeling. Tantas cosas pantosas. I can't stop thinking that they're hurting him, abusing him.
Lucia: We have to believe that the only thing that interests them is money. You pay the ransom, they release him, Alex comes home safe and sound. You think it was this El Gordo?
Ivan: Yes, but I know Saul has to be behind this. You know he's perverse and he hates me.
Lucia: Yes, he attacked me, but is he so perverse as to kidnap an innocent? It's too much.
Ivan: Saul doesn't have limits. Look at what he did to you. He tried to kidnap your mother. Killed your father in the process.
Lucia: We better go to the police.
Ivan: But if we go to the police....

Casa Carolina: Antolin reassures Carolina they will find Alex.

Casa McGuire, office: Tony says the same thing about the money motive. Ivan tells him to get some sleep while he takes the vampire shift with the phone.

Hermosillo Hideout: El Gordo snores as Alex grabs a box of cereal and a can of soda to keep up his strength. I don't know how well he can see in this light but he gets up to look at his captors' faces. Smart boy!

Casa McGuire, morning: Ivan sits by the phone; Tony tells him to get some sleep. Ivan tells him he needs to call David to find out if anyone gave Saul any money. Tony has decided to call the commandante de policia for advice. Benito informs Tony that Bruno is in Alex's room with his unwashed clothes and won't come out. He knows something is up.

Hacienda Curiel, breakfast table: Lucia – who can't eat for worrying – has to tell Lucrezia and Carlota. Son impactadas.

David's Office: David tells Ivan he hasn't seen Saul in a while and has had very little to do with him since he found out what he did to Lucia. He just knows he's desperate for money and that he grabbed whatever Esther had in her purse. He doesn't think their father is helping him.

Casa Mondragon: Ivan tells JJ and asks whether he's heard from Saul.

JJ: They kidnapped your son? But how is this possible?
Ivan: That's what I've been asking myself. Who could be so cowardly they would victimize a child? I suspect it was your son, Saul. I need to know what would make him do this. Did you give him any money?
JJ: No. [???] Neither can I believe he would be so stupid as to get mixed up in a business this delicado.
Ivan: You more than anybody realizes your son is the worst. Do I have to remind you of everything he's done?
JJ: No, that's not necessary. I don't understand how I could have such a miserable son. I was an abysmal example for him but to kidnap a child... my grandson, too.
Ivan: How quickly you forget what you taught me when I was a child. It's very clear to me that Saul learned your teachings well. Con permiso, Señor Mondragon. (exits)

Hospital: Antolin, Carolina, and Arcelia walk out to the red convertible. The doctor seems to have given them good news. Antolin, you really should consider trading in that chick magnet car for something a little more appropriate for a family.

Casa Galvan: Camilo interrogates Carmen about her recent contact with El Gordo. She had seen him a few days or weeks ago. He had told her that Lucia had given herself to Saul. What did she tell him? She had told El Gordo that Carolina and Antolin were married, that Carolina can see, and that Antolin now works for Camilo. And what was wrong with that? Camilo angrily tells her that Alex has been kidnapped and if anything happens to him it will be her fault, just as the killing of Gerardo Lomieli was. Carmen starts crying. Perra, you're more afraid of Camilo than of what could happen to Alex. But then maybe you should be.

Casa McGuire, office: Tony and the Three Musketeers talk to el commandante, telling him that they won't take any chances. He advises them to stall the payment if they can. He plans to investigate El Gordo. Antolin tells him he used a clown costume, but doesn't know where he lives at the moment, as he hasn't lived in Alamos for some months. He also has a different car. Saul's name comes up and Ivan tells the others that David last saw him in Hermosillo. Bruno has one of Alex's shirts and won't give it up. As Ivan and Tony escort el commandante out, Antolin tells Camilo that El Gordo has somebody in Hermosillo and that he knows something.


Commercial Break which leads with a promo for La Rosa de Guadalupe Sounds like the Scrooge edition.

Street in Hermosillo: Camilo (nicely dressed in a dark blue shirt left open over a bare chest) chats up a female food vendor about El Gordo's relative and gets a clue to Fausto's address. He tells her he's going to offer the man a job and she tells him the man's been out of work. He buys a bite to eat from her.

Casa de Fausto: Antolin and Camilo pay a call, telling Fausto's wife that they're there to offer Fausto a job. She keeps on washing the floor, not looking up, as she tells them he already has one. They tell her that El Gordo recommended him. When they tell her they will pay him more than he's getting she tells them that's not possible. They ask for details, but she tells them she doesn't know anything. Our two studly hermanos aren't buying this enchilada.

Barn: El Gordo gorges himself as the three idiots play cards. Fausto's wife calls him to tell him about Antolin and Camilo. She describes them and when Fausto repeats the description Saul ID's them. They realize that the Galvans are on their trail. El Gordo throws down his cards and tells the others he's going in to Hermosillo to use the pay phone, then orders Fausto to turn off his cell. They can be tracked through it. [rastrear] The three look like they're going to fight among themselves before this is over. True to form.

Hacienda Curiel:

Carlota: Have they called to talk to you?
Tony: No. The commandante said it always takes a while.
Carlota: Why?
Tony: To make us nervous. We haven't done anything except tell Commandante Aguilar that we're handling it in a private manner. We are desolate, Carlota.
Carlota: We also share your pain. How could anyone do this to a child? Nobody does things like this; it's inhuman.
Tony: Ivan is desperate.
Carlota: You'll see; Ivan will recover Alex safe and sound. He will win in the end because his fatherly love is huge.
Tony: I hope to God it goes well.
Carlota: You have to have faith. It will move mountains. The only thing we have when everything looked bad is [hope?] and nobody can take that from us. Nobody.

Tony still looks worried as the music swells.

Outdoor Cafê: Antolin and Camilo talk as they finish catching a breath, a bite, and a brew. They know that Saul was last seen in Hermosillo. Antolin is convinced that Fausto's wife knows something. They discuss whether Alex is being held in Hermosillo or whether the criminals are onto them and moved him back to Alamos. They finally decide to find a photo of Saul to give to Commandante Aguilar. Possibly one from the society page of the paper, por dios.

Casa McGuire: Ivan is crying from anxiety and frustration about Alex.

Lucia: My mother and I just got back from the cemetery. Is there any news? Did they call?
Ivan: No. All this time I spent searching for my son, fighting for him, and now I have to wait here for these wretches to call.
Lucia: Ivan, you can't lose hope. If they're interested in money they will return him.
Ivan: It's been 24 hours.
Lucia: That's not a lot of time. They are allowing time to make us anxious, nervous.
Ivan: Alex must be in hell. Alone, surely locked up. And I don't want to think of anything else.
Lucia: Ivan you have to keep it together [mantenerte entero] The only thing that's important is Alex gets home safe and sound.

The desk phone rings. Suspense music begins. Ivan answers.

Ivan: Talk.
El Gordo: Who's this?
Ivan: Whom do you want?
El Gordo: One of the McGuires.
Ivan: Ivan McGuire speaking.
El Gordo: Look, imbecile, we want six million dollars for the boy. You get that? And if you don't pay us the money I have a gringo willing to pay that. He says Alex is pretty, like a little girl.
Ivan: To get that kind of money isn't easy. Particularly into Mexico. I will need at least four days.
El Gordo: You have three.
Ivan: Where do I contact you?
El Gordo: I will contact you. No police!
Ivan: How is my son? I want to talk to him!

El Gordo hangs up and Ivan gets dead air. [Ridi, Pagliaccio, sul tuo crimine infranto!
Ridi del avidità, che t'avvelena il cor! ]

Lucia: What happened?

They're now in the next room with the others.

Ivan: They are demanding six million dollars.
Tony: Six million?
Ivan: We don't have that much cash on hand.
Tony: We'll have to raise it somehow. Sell shares, get a loan, call in debts. Don't worry.
Ivan: We only have three days.
Tony: We have no time to lose. I'll need to talk to Aguilar about getting the money into Mexico.
Ivan: I'm very afraid.
Tony: Of what?
Ivan: That they might do something to my son. The guy who called said he had a gringo interested in Alex. That he pleases him. (Lucrezia looks afraid)
Tony: Those are lies!
Ivan: And what if they're not? What if it's true?

El Gordo, en pocas horas, seria muerto.


Avances:

Nothing specific to tonight's episode, but there will be a shoot-out. I can't believe there are only four hours till the end.


Vocabulary:

cerrajero locksmith
disfraz de payaso clown suit
enseñanzas teachings
payaso clown
rastrear to track

Just a heads-up to the group: Since Monday will have a two-hour episode with a 7PM special and a possible cast reunion show on Don Franciso Presenta, the finale episode gets recap priority.

Labels: Fuerza

RECAP BY MARTA IVETT

Happy holidays everyone!

Get ready for a thriller roller coaster ride of an episode... Lots or running around at multiple locations...

Reviews:
Connie tells Nata that Fina and Blanca were behind the whole baby scam to hurt her and Regina. Nata is in disbelief, they were at the jail nuthouse. Connie says they did.

Berta calls Fina and tells her Nata is pregnant and that Nata and Jero did not get married and it was not either of them who ‘caused’ it. (German heard her conversation)

Antonio arrives at MR manor and lets Nata and Regina know that he found Marina and that Jero did not come to MC with her. That Saul lied to them.

Tonight’s ep:
We see a strange woman in a shack with a chalis releasing smoke and she is waving it over someone who might be dead or half dead…

Nata walks away then turns around thanking God and very happy tears saying Jero did not abandon her after all. Gina says I knew it!! Connie also says she had her doubts. Nata agrees with them. Antonio, the voice of reason, brings them back to earth… If he is not at Valle de Guada or in MC, and has not contacted anyone, chances are something bad happened to him.

Dona Sabina, the strange woman, sends a young man for more herbs. She won’t give up to try to help the guy laying down as long as his heart keeps beating.
Now we see how she witnessed Augie’s men kick Jero and roll him down a hill… they left assuming he would die very shortly afterwards since they gave him a good beating.
She found Jero, noticed he was still alive and somehow dragged him on her carreta and brought him home. If God had put him in her path, she had to try and save him.
We finally get to see Jero, with weird marks on his face as if someone put his face in a 350 degree oven for an hour.

Charlie and Mati… they agree on getting married on Sunday, even if Carlos is not thrilled about not waiting or Jero. Prissy is looking at them from behind a tree.

At MR offices, Matias, Adri and Hono are discussing that German and Roberta are lovers. Hono was reluctant to admit it but then tells them that German also tried to abuse Beth. Matt and Adri drop their jaw at unison. Matt says Gonzo should know this and together they should make a decision about German. Hono and Adri are irritated about German abusing his power and role with women who are disadvantaged.

Anibal asks Carlos and Lazaro for a job and to be able to stay at LaBonita. Tells them that Augie kicked him out since now Nata is not there to ask that Augie host him. Lazaro is visibly mad…

At MR manor, Nata calls the hacienda and asks if they know about Jero. No. Then let me talk to Carlos like YESTERDAY!!

Back outside, Lazaro is not quite buying the story by Anibal. Tells Carlos this could be a trap by Augie. Allison backs Anibal up. Carlos is not willing to hire anyone without Jero’s approval. Allison tells them Anibal has nowhere else to go. What about his mom?...

Herminia interrupts to summon Carlos inside to Renata’s call.

Allison tells Anibal that if he tells them the truth about his mom’s death, they will hire him.

Melesio gets with a worker at LaBonita who tells him about Prissy being an enologa who is helping Carlos fix up the mixes for the LaBonita wine.

At MR Manor, Connie can’t believe that so many days have passed and noone has said anything about Jero. Nata gets Carlos on phone and tells him that Jero did not leave with Marina, Nata sends him to the police station to report Jero’s missing. As he and Lazaro run out, Mati is ready to celebrate that her ‘hermoso’ did not abandon his wife with Marina. Manuela is not so happy, she is worried that if he did not leave with Marina, he could be worse, he could even be dead.

Marina called Padre Seve… Padre tells her about what Saul went to see Nata to tell her that Jero had abandoned her for you (Marina). He tells her Nata is pregnant. He regrets telling her… Marina wonders how did Saul know that Jero was not with Nata… Padre wants her to return but she says she has to stay in MC to try and locate Saul to ask him to explain what he did.

Augie at his laptop saying ‘you always saw as a lesser enemy, Linares, you never realized my power…’… Augie remembers his planning with Saul that Saul would enter the plane with Jero’s ticket, get to MC with Marina and return immediately to go see Nata and tell her that his woman left with her husband… and remembers ordering for Jero to be killed/beat up. ‘you are a genius, Augie… and Nata will soon be mine… JAJAJAJA’

Melesio goes to see Priscilla and says he is representing potential buyers of wine who are interested in the product of the Valle de Guadalupe. He wants to know when the wine will be ready.

Mati and Manuela tell Kari about the news about Jero. She can only wonder how Nata must be feeling. Manuela notices Kari has the baby… gets mad at Allison for delegating her responsibility to others. Kari defends Allison for being ‘in love’.

Outside Anibal and Allison are walking. They thank each other for inspiring them to be better. Kiss.

Regina tells Nata that she just called Gonzo. He had hired a PI to find Jero to get him to show face. They convince Nata that he meant well with hiring the PI. Nata suddenly feels like going out. She asks Antonio to go with her. Gina and Connie are not so thrilled that she wants to go out at this moment. Gina asks Antonio to stop her from doing anything crazy.

Dona Sabina continues to care for the stranger… she tells the young man that if the people who did this to him find out he is still alive, they will try to finish him off, and maybe even get to her too. The young guy asks if she is not afraid he will do anything to her, she says he can’t even move. Lets wait until he wakes up and then God will tell.

Gonzo is terrified at all the news about Jero… Adri offers to go with him to accompany Nata. They all agree that Nata needs all their support right now. Gonzo and Adri leave. Mat admits he had questioned Jero. Hono says he did too, but at same time it was odd to him that Jero had done that to Nata. Jero had shown his nobility and generosity lately. Hono wonders if Jero’s dissappearance too has been planned by Fina… Hono says if Jero has not been reported as having had an accident, someone must be behind his dissappearance.

Nata had gone to visit Marina to ask when and where was last time she saw Jero. At Ensenada a couple days before she left, (so it is clear they did not see each other the day she flew to MC). Marina tells her what she and Jero talked about. She would love to be able to tell her that Jero hessitated, but he never put Marina and the babies above Nata. Nata thanks her for saying it. Marina says truth is best, no matter how painful. Marina tells Nata she has to take care of herself, her pregnancy. Nata asks who told her. Her uncle. Nata thanks her for her understanding and solidarity. Marina promises she will find Saul, anywhere he went. He is a key piece of this puzzle. Nata offers to let her know of anything she finds out too.

Back at LaB, Anibal asks Allison to help him decide to leave or to stay… They wonder where Carlos and Lazaro left to in such a hurry. Hopefully they will let him stay. Allison is counting on Lazaro letting him stay, because he would know Allison would suffer if he left.

Priscilla looks for Carlos and runs into Mati. Mati is rude with her, Prissy is trying to force Mati to tell her where Carlos went, but Mati refuses to tell her where he is, and tells her that Prissy might know more about their job as ‘enologos’ but she knows his heart better. Prissy gets anxious, Mati insists on saying ‘I don’t believe that MY Carlos will have time for you… so move it’…

The PI visits MR manor and tells them what he has done already about finding Jero. Now that he knows that Jero is not at MC he will direct his investigation to Ensenada and the airport, he will request the video tapes… maybe they can identify who boarded the plane in his name. Nata wants to go with him and gets into a loud argument with Gonzo, who would rather have her stay and rest. Antonio offers to go with the PI to identify anyone. The PI says that won’t be necessary and for their own security, he would rather go alone. Also, it is better for fewer people to find out Jero is missing and not gone. Everyone should still think that they believe Jero left her and is in MC with Marina. THE PI will visit Marina to see if she can give him a photo of Saul.

At MR offices, Hono calls the client that German is supposed to get a signed contract from. Hono finds where this signing will take place. The client, Jorena, already signed the contract but German asked to borrow his vacation house to be there with Berta. Hono summons Beth to find out the address of Jorena’s vacation home… Hono asks Beth who German went to sign the contract with when he went to see Jorena. She says he left with Berta, and furthermore, she caught German and Berta kissing in his office.
Hono is just a bit surprised, Matt is visibly angry.

Gonzo encourages Nata at MR Manor that they will find Jero… Berta arrives home. She asks why the family reunion with funeral faces. They tell her about Jero missing instead of gone with Marina. They are sure something bad happened to him. Tell her about the PI Gonzo hired. Berta asks what if Jero is hiding with ‘la doctora’. Nata goes irrate… Berta insists what if he is lying? Nata yells some more and says not all of us practice the same sport! (LOL!) you have issues. You are nuts… Adri and Connie pinch-hit in favor of Nata. Only to get yelled at by Berta that they should not butt in, they are not even family! Adri and Connie leave. Berta blames Nata for causing that. Nata yells ‘NO ITS YOUR FAULT!’… Nata leaves very upset. Gonzo yells at Berta to understand Nata. Berta yells whinning that they always defend Nata… Gonzo and Gina are left alone in living room speechless… (wow! What a family!)
Berta does not loose a breath to call Augie to let him know that everyone is sure that Jero dissappeared. She asks him what he did with Jero. Augie assures her noone will find Jero or be able to link him to Jero’s dissappearance. Berta takes a picture of her and Nata, tells it ‘don’t know why Augie did not take you instead of Jero. Only until you dissappear I will be in peace’..
Augie calls him and orders them to destroy or dissappear the videos from the airport from the day that Marina left… he will compensate them with $$$$..

Previews:
Augie counts on not being linked to Jero’s dissappearance…
But he is wrong… ‘Renata my love’ … Jero is giving signals of life…
Padre Seve assures someone (Lazaro and Kari?) that Augie is behind all this. Nata also receives some news over phone.

-Marta Ivett

Labels: Cuando

Sandra and Candy demand to know what the hidden message from Yuriko meant! "Sarudos!" uh, Saludos. That signified "the coast is clear, the husband is gone."

Ana supports her dad: the heart rules. Pepe: still sulking about losing his car. Jessenia: lies to Ana, saying Chela is with her "galan." Actually Chela's walking in the dark and crying.

Pancho scoops Rebe by the waist and asks, "What will we do with these sentiments we have for each other?" She turns away and says their kiss was an error. "I'm not ready for this relationship."

Vince is afraid of Yuri but tells himself "you can do it!" He knocks on her hotel room door and hopes she isn't there; as he starts slinking away, the door opens - and there's Candy, looking spectacular! "Yuriko is gone - I told her, 'if your husband DOESN'T sign the contract, I'll tell him everything!' And I told her you aren't Pancho." Vince smiles a sickly smile and invites her to have a drink. They kiss instead, until...

... Candy's cellphone wakes them from their lust - it's Pina. Candy wails: "and I'm kissing her husband! When I'm with you I forget everything - including that you have a spouse!" Pina says "I need you Candy, more than ever." It sure broke the mood. Candy: "I feel guilty because your wife is my friend and you're the worst enemy of my brother." "I'm burning for you." "Is sex all you think about?" "Yes," nodding and nodding. Then Vince senses that was the wrong answer and says "No." He coos until she calms down; they coo together. Finally, she asks him for a ride - since they're both going to his house.

Monica moons about Pepe and greets her dad sadly. He says, confide in me, trust me! She tells him "Pepe lost his car in the race." He's happy! She is sad that Freddy is humiliating Pepe. Enzo starts complimenting Freddy again, but Monica wants to talk about Pepe: "I promised to stay away with him but I won't promise not to love him." "You aren't in love with him, it's a caprice." "No, I've never been so in love." "You like him because he's different. I know best." "No, I'm in love."

Whining again, Rebe points out: all the kids prefer Chela after eight years with her. Pancho interrupts: "and that's the reason I can't love her, I love you. You're just looking for excuses - now you use my family against me?" "Chela and Candy hate me." He says he doesn't care about that. Rebe: "Let's quit this before we begin." He leaves, bitterly disappointed. She drops a tear or two.

Alex tries to convince Freddy to give back the car. "No, I need it! It's the best machine I've ever seen. I have to admit he's a great mechanic. I have to find out his secrets."

Pancho tells Ana things are going badly with Rebeca. Unempathetically she says that makes her happy.

Vince and Candy roll into his driveway - she goes in, leaving him behind ("We can't arrive together"). Turns out Pina is asleep, dreaming about Tom the plumber washing the car without his shirt on while she "helps." Candy wakes her and asks, "Who were you dreaming about?"

Avoiding that question, Pina moans, "I don't want to share my program with you. And things are getting worse and worse with Vince. Right now I'm sure he's in bed with Yuri." "No, Pina, he is NOT in bed with Yuri." "How do you know that?" "OK, I'll tell you the truth!"

But Vince arrives. Pina: "Candy just assured me you weren't in bed with Yuri." "It was Pancho that told me," Candy improvises. "Then who WERE you with, my love?" "We will not have a marital conversation in front of others." Candy bolts, shocked that she was on the point of telling Pina "Vince drives me crazy with lust."

Pancho can't believe Chela would lie about having a boyfriend. He confronts her, saying "You abandoned your family." She cries some more.

Ana scolds Candy for her thing with Vince and is disgusted by his twee remark about "revealing our souls to each other." A huge batch of flowers arrive from Vicente.

"Our love is advancing on a spiritual level," Vince tells a disbelieving Enzo. "It's ethereal!"

Pancho wants to try out a theory on Rebe - "close your eyes" he begs, then gets nose to nose and then lips to lips and despite everything she's said, the second kiss is upon us. No better than the first, sadly.

Labels: familia

RECAP BY IBARRAMEDIA

Capitulo 97 Maripaz's Sacrifice/Descanse en Paz

Part1
At Alamos, Sonora-- Ivan,Lucia and Maripaz arrives while Cleto greets them. Maripaz asks for as minute of Ivan's time. Meanwhile Cleto asks Lucia how her mother is doing. Lucia says she's better,better. Thank you. She is calm and will have surgery soon. Cleto asks why what is it? Lucia responds by saying it is a kidney problem.

The scene shifts to Ivan speaking to Maripaz. He says of course but doesn't understand. Maripaz asks Ivan to tell Alex she is making a big sacrifice for her mother, Alex's grandmother and for him. She wants him to admire and earn her love. Ivan says very good and she thanks him. After Lucia finishes answering Cleto's questions, she thanks him for his concern. Ivan returns to Lucia and she asks what is it? He says he doesn't know. Truthfully he does not understand it.

Back at home, Ivan speaks to Tony about his conversation with Maripaz. Tony tells Ivan to explain to Alex that Maripaz is donating her kidney to her mother but not to tell him about her sacrifice,etc,etc. Tell him nothing about that nonsense. He feels the child may feel guilty if something were to go wrong.

They discuss at great length how generous Maripaz is by donating her kidney. Tony says generosity must come from inside her not because she is obligated to help her. They accept the generosity but not to make her a victim.

Meanwhile Lucia attends to the baby Perlita. There is a knock on the door and it is Maripaz who wishes to speak to Lucia. She asks if she could enter and Lucia says yes you can. Maripaz greets Perlita Hello Little niece. I think that Lucia is saying that she is wondering how Maripaz is the only complatible donor. Maripaz is saying that giving up one's kidney is not easy. They discuss Ivan,Camilo and Antolin willing to be donors. She says something about the both of them. Maripaz responds by saying that I'm the mother of Alex and the father of Perlita is Saul. Tjhey argue and bicker. Lucia asks "what she is talking about?" Maripaz says that it's her turn now. She goes on to say that Lucia was always been the only saint, the good one, Lucia who could do no wrong, generous Lucia. Now it's my turn i'm doing something significant for my mother. Saving their mother's life will be her and not you Lucia. As she departs the room,Maripaz says to Perlita goodbye pretty one while Lucia sort of rolls her eyes while dissecting all of this.

At the office, Ivan meets with Antolin and Camilo. He tells them that Maripaz is a match. Camilo asks if she accepts and agrees. Ivan says yes. Antolin exclaims his surprise at the turn of events. The talk turns to how Carolina is doing. Antolin says they are happy. Everything is all good. He asks that both Ivan and Camilo be the Godfathers to his son. Camilo asks if it's a boy and Antolin says yes Ivan congratulates Antolin. Antolin says something to Camilo, then turns towards Ivan who looks on awkwardly and uncomfortably.

At the Sacred Heart Hospital, we see Carlota sitting down and waiting while Lucresia lies in the bed. Lucia enters the room and says hello to her grandmother. She returns the greeting. Lucia kisses her mother on the forehead, and she wakes and greets her daughter with "my love". Lucia asks her what she needs. Lucresia says she doesn't need anything. The doctors are here ad she's sick. She asks where Maripaz is. Lucia says she's still at hime. Relax. Lucia says she will return. Carltoa touches Lucresia's arm as she bids goodbye. Lucresia weeps silently.

While walking out of Lucresia's room Lucia explains to Carlota how this sudden transformation into a heroine by Maripaz is because of her. She feels that Maripaz is competing with her. Later on Ivan goes into Alex's room where he is using his laptop. Evidently they are studying human anatomy and the functions of the various organs of the body like lungs,heart,intestines,kidneys. They talk about the kidney being used to filter blood and other waste products. He tells Alex that his grandmother is very sick with bad kidneys and that she needs a donor. Alex asks if she is dying.

Back at the ranch Carlota sees Maripaz sitting down with thoughts on her mind. She says it's good to rest. They revert to bickering and Maripaz states how Lucia is good and that they turned Alex against her, told him she's a witch. That she is a bad person. They talk about Lucia being good and Maripaz's mistakes and errors. Maripaz says she is not a monster and she would like to do good by her mother. Carlota regrets that Maripaz will donate a kidney to Lucresia to compete with Lucia. Back in Alex's room, Ivan continues to explain that his mother, Maripaz is donating her kidney to help save the life of his grandmother. Alex thinks she must be good to do that kind of thing.

In David's apartment, David with Berenice tells Ester that the divorce will soon be finalized with the division of assets, you're a rich lady. Berenice adds that they are all free. Ester says that she will live with her sister and Berenice adds that Ester is young and pretty and she might find a good man. Ester mentions something about making a will and adding David and Judith in it. David asks if she is alright and she says yes. He asks what about Saul. Ester quietly shakes her head to indicate no. They say something about the lands.

Night falls and amidst the backdrop of a fountain and 2 frog statues we see a lonely and forlorn Juan Jaime Mondragon. He walks quietly around the darkly lit mansion. He then quietly picks up the phone to call Lucresia. Carlota picks up the phone and they both share pleasantries. Juan Jaime asks to speak to Lucresia but Carlota says she is sorry Lucresia is not available because she is in the hopsital. Juan Jaime asks why? Carlota explains the dialysis failed and that she is getting ready for a transplant. Carlota adds that Maripaz is donating her kidney. Juan Jaime wants to wait in the hospital. Carltoa says that at this time only immediate family can wait. Juan Jaime asks if tomorrow is the surgery. Carlota confirms this.

At sacred Heart Hospital, Ivan goes to see Lucia whom is keeping vigil at Lucresia's bedside. He asks how she is. Lucia says she's a nervous. Ivan asks Lucia to get something to eat in the cafeteria. Lucia says she is not hungry. Lucia asks if he spoke to Alex. Ivan says yes. He told Alex that Maripaz will be the donor. They say something about it being good for both Alex and Maripaz. They then talk of getting married. Getting their own place....

Part2
At Antolin and Carolina's bedroom, they talk about the ranch and the job... It's not easy running the ranch. Carolina says she is a strong woman and then she flexes her biceps. They talk about Lucia's mother being sick and Antolin says yes. And tomorrow is the surgery. They express shock that Maripaz is donating her kidney. They hope all is well. They then proceed to play around in bed.

It is now the morning of the operation and we see Juan Jaime at the foot of Lucresia’s bed. He tells her not to worry. Lucresia says that she has been bad and that she is being punished and that she could die.
Juan Jaime says that’s nonsense. You’re a great lady. Lucresia says she doesn’t know about that. Juan Jaime wants to get together with Lucresia. Lucresia reaches out her hand and says that they are good friends forever. A nurse enters the room to say that it is time. The nurse tells Juan Jaime to wait in the waiting room. Juan Jaime kisses her on the forehead.

In Maripaz’s room, she says my God, I’m here really nervous. There is a knock on the door and Maripaz says yes. It is Lucia and she says hi to her sister. She thanks her for what she will do for their mother. She hopes that one day they both can have a relationship as sisters and not as enemies. Maripaz seems to look a little touched by this after being slightly defensive earlier. Ivan knocks on Maripaz’s door and both he and Alex enter with a single yellow rose. Alex tells her that she is so brave. She tells him she’s making a sacrifice. Before she could say more, Ivan cuts her off and speaks gently to her with reassurances. Before Alex leaves, she requests a kiss from her son and he obliges. He wishes his mother good luck.

Lucresia is wheeled into surgery. They say their goodbyes then Carlota and Tony look at each other lovingly from a distance. Then she walks over towards Tony and they hold hands. He says cheer up, have courage. Carlota says it’s her daughter. He says it’s normal to feel this way. Both of them will recover. Maripaz is now being wheeled in. Carlota looks and touches her lovingly. Despite what she might have done in the past, she is still her granddaughter. She loves her and she will be the key to her daughter living. Maripaz has a worried look on her face. Carlota thanks her. Maripaz says you’re welcome. Carlota says let’s go. Maripaz says let’s go.

Mother and daughter are wheeled in end over end and they clasp hands to get ready for surgery. Lucresia thanks Maripaz.

At the office, Camilo says they are at the hospital now. David says yes. They talk business a bit and David says Lucia and everyone are at the hospital. Camilo asks if they have any idea where Saul is. Conversation becomes a little heated at this point.

During the surgery the doctors are very concerned because something wrong is happening. A lot of blood is being lost. There’s hemorrhage. They cannot control the bleeding.

Ivan walks in the hospital. He asks how things are at home. Lucia says it’s better, better. Ivan says there won’t be troubles anymore. Forever. They kiss. Camilo walks in on them. Lucia looks at him then rushes to her grandmother. Juan Jaime walks towards them. At this time the doctor comes out and Carlota asks how the operation went. The doctor says they finished transplanting Maripaz’s kidney to Lucresia but they could not control the hemorrhage. He says he is so sorry but Maripaz had died in the process. Lucia starts to weep and Ivan sheds a tear. Despite all they had been through Maripaz was his first love, his former wife and the mother of his son Alex. Carlota now starts to cry. Lucia and Carlota embrace.

The doctor says Lucresia is well. She is in intensive care. Tony offers his condolences. Juan Jaime offers to take Lucia and Carlota to the house. They don’t want to go but Ivan convinces them that Mr. Mondragon is right. They should get some rest. Lucia thanks him. Juan Jaime says you’re welcome. Camilo says he is sorry. Lucia hugs Camilo. Tony tells Carlota to go home. There is no need for them to be here.

Carlota and Lucia go to see Maripaz’s body. They weep again. Carlota tells her to rest in peace. Lucia thanks her sister then kisses her on the forehead.

Back at home Cleto asks Ivan “what’s up?” Ivan says Maripaz died during the transplantation surgery. I think Cleto says My God in heaven. Ivan asks where they want to bury Maripaz. Lucia says right next to her father. Ivan says I’m here. Then after a brief discussion, Ivan has to go home. Carlota and Tony talk about how hard it is to lose a child. Tony says he lost his son and wife. Carlota is saying something about a high price to pay. Tony says that Maripaz demonstrated that there is goodness in her. Tony tells her to be strong for her daughter. He tells her not to have a great feeling of guilt. Be strong for your grand daughter and great grand kids, for Lucresia. They embrace.

Ivan has returned home and Benito asks how things went. Ivan says Lucresia’s operation was successful but they lost Maripaz in the process. She passed away. Benito does not know what to say. Ivan asks where Alex is. Benito says in his room. Ivan instructs Benito to pack some things since they will be going to the Curiel household. Ivan enters Alex’s room and says hello. Alex says hello. He talks about his grandmother’s and his mother’s operation. He says the operation is over. His grandmother is okay. But you’re mother….. She gave up her life so that his grandmother may live. He says she said she loved Alex very much. Ivan tells Alex about his mother named Alicia and how he loved her very much. He says that Alex’s mother loved him too even though she did not treat Alex well in the beginning. He tells Alex that Maripaz just did not know how to become a mother, but tried to overcome her fear so that she could be a better mother to him. She loved him but did not know how to show it. Alex says that to give up her life for his grandmother, she must be a good person. He then looks down into the picture frame with Maripaz’s picture in it. He looks sad. Ivan tells him that the best way to let her be at peace is to forgive her then let her go. He tells him to close his eyes. Alex says he forgives his mother, he will never forget her and farewell. He then hugs the picture and cries. Ivan also weeps by his side.

At the Sacred Heart Hospital, the doctor tells Juan Jaime that Lucresia is in room 305. He asks if she is awake. And he asks if she asked about her daughter. The doctor tells him to wait with the family and they will break the news to Lucresia.

At Lucia’s home, Lucia asks how Alex is doing. Ivan says well enough. She says good. Ivan asks about Lucia’s grandmother. She says she is waiting. Lucia gets a phone call. It is Juan Jaime and he says that Lucresia is now in intensive care and that the doctor needs the family to be there when he informs Lucresia that her daughter passed away. Lucia thanks him and says they will go there. Lucia relays this message to Ivan.

It is now night time when Lucresia regains her consciousness. The first thing she sees are pink roses with a yellow one in the middle. Juan Jaime says welcome back to life. Lucresia asks how Maripaz is doing. Juan Jaime says it was a success. She says she’s blessed and again asks about Maripaz. How is she? On cue, everyone files into the room. Lucia says how nice that you are well. Lucresia responds with “yes my love, thanks to Maripaz.” She again asks how Maripaz is. Carlota looks towards the doctor and he begins to explain. There was a problem in the operation. I’m so sorry. Lucresia says “I’m so sorry???” What are you talking about? She then realizes that her daughter died. She screams Maripaz is dead!!! Maripaz is dead! Why? She asks “why?” She become very inconsolable. Juan Jaime looks on sadly. Lucresia asks why her daughter died before she did?

A few days later, it is raining in the cemetery as Maripaz is laid to rest. The priest says a prayer for our sister Maripaz for the eternal repose of her soul. Carlota throws the first yellow rose then followed by Alex, Lucia and Ivan. Then the rest soon follow. Everyone is there. Even the servants. The only people absent are Lucresia who is still recovering in the hospital, Carmen, Lichita and of course the fugitives Saul and El Gordo.

Weeks later, Lucresia walks with Lucia and she wants to rest. Lucia says the doctor ordered her to exercise. Lucresia says she is tired. Lucia says a little more. Lucresia says that a little more and she will be able to visit her sister in the cemetery. Carlota remarks how nice it is that Lucresia is walking a lot more now...Lucresia asks how her granddaughter is. Lucresia says something about herself being a sinner. Lucia gives her daughter over to Lucresia to hold while she sits down.

In Hermosillo, Sonora we see Saul and El Gordo at a restaurant. They talk about being very desperate for money but to be very careful because they are worried about Antolin. They begin to put Alex’s kidnapping plan in motion.

End of episode 97.

Avances: Gordo, dressed like a clown (how appropriate), breaks into Caro’s house, holds her at gunpoint and ties her up, and takes Alex!

Labels: Fuerza

Labels: Cuando

Tonight Vince goes for a triple-down. Will he be able to hold it all together? Let's see how entangled in his lies he becomes...

Rebe admits to Pancho that Vince did wrong. Pancho accuses her of not trusting him to make presidential decisions. She says she had no option but to go along with Vince's charade but Pancho doesn't buy it. He thought she was a different person. Then he clicks his tongue and goes "Meh!" which was pretty funny.

Fernanda's doctor wishes her good luck in Germany. She mentions that her investigator hasn't found anything yet but she vows she'll find out the truth.

Pancho ambles around his old vecindad and thought bubbles some memories to his dead wife. He thanks God for his family; cue Lupita who arrives to give Pa a warm hug. She asks him what's wrong and he says trickery (chanchullo) is what's wrong and he explains a bit. She assures him he's a hunk (tipazo) and a big shot (señorón) in the neighborhood. They hug and say being together is the most important thing, awwwww...

Vice and Enzo drink and congratulate themselves on how well the meeting and overall foolery went. Enzo warns Vice not to lose sight of their objectives.

Fer waits for Pancho to get home so she can say goodbye. They recall when he saved her life and it changed both of them forever. She takes his hand again and tells him since she adopted him his happiness is hers. If he ever has problems don't ever give up, No se rinda! They hug and she calls him son. I think we know what tonight's theme is.

Vice practices his Panchoisms behind a desk FULL OF GREEN PENCILS. Yuri and her tatas sneak in and trap him in the office. She's in full-on seduction mode with a cute little red skirt and fishnet stockings. She says she's heard about the famed Mexican prowess and she wants a bite of his chimichanga. He manages to put her off but she says tomorrow when hubby goes to Columbia she plans to lag behind (rezagar) and expects him to visit her own private little mochi bar. Adios, arigato and see you soon mi amor!

After Fer leaves Rebe shows up to apologize yet again. She agrees she is a different person. Pancho was right, she can't believe she let Vince get away with his funny business. They are interrupted by the brat Temo who had a nightmare. He sees Rebe and squeals like a 3-year old, "what's SHE doing here? Wahhh." How old is this kid anyway? Rebe, no longer the center of attention, departs.

Pancho carries Temo to bed and they have a man-to-brat talk. Pancho feels about Rebe the same way Temo feels about some girl named Camila. They give the guys ñañaringas? Must mean butterflies in the stomach. Temo wishes Pancho got butterflies about Chela. Since pa can't get this record to stop skipping he gives Temo a big hug. They're so lucky to have each other!

We are in the DF and the scene opens in a market with multicolored chorizo (yes, chorizo verde!), fresh cheeses, tortas on the grill, and happy people stuffing their faces. Rewind. Pepe's got the blues and tells Chela that he lost his Champi to that slimeball (baboso) Frauddie. Monica arrives and gives the best consolation ever, a huge kiss right on the smacker. She knows his car meant everything to him and wonders if she can intercede on his behalf with Frauddie. He tells his Sirenita no way but he feels better that she came.

Pancho tells Kojak and Big Boy all about the meeting and how he pretended to be the waiter. He had everything under control at all times. He even managed to hog-tie (lazo de cochino) Rebe because she turned up at his house later. He really had the little piggy by the tail (la puerca al rabo) but Temo woke up and blew it.

Pina tortures Frauddie about Brasil and Elena until both Vice and Frauddie beg her to cool it. They're not happy about Tom the plumber snooping around the house. When Pina pipes up about having some compassion Frauddie and Vice split. Pina reminds Vince they have plans tonight. Ruh roh, Vice remembers promising to meet Yuri and tells Pina he can't make it. Hummmph, always alone, she gripes, like a dog! Abeja's ears perk up in offense.

Lupita finds Alex, still wearing the fashion scarf, and apologizes. He forgives her and sighs "I love you Lupita" after she leaves.

Candy waylays Vice as he leaves for the office. She gives him a smelly note with flowers and hearts that invites him to dinner tonight. Not tonight, he moans, staring at her shapely behind as she trots off in the distance.

Kojak tells Pancho he suspects Chela's boyfriend doesn't exist, he's pure Chinese bulls**t  (puro cuento Chino). I have no idea why the Chinese part is in there but that's what he said.

Pancho and Vice repeat their argument about Vice's charade. V says he did it to get the contract signed. P says it was dishonest. Blah blah blah. Vice says Pancho will never be in his class. Pancho retorts Vice had to use lies and no matter the reason, a lie is still a lie. Pancho chugs his brandy first to prove he's the better man. They conclude with some cute physical comedy, pretending to hit each other, and vowing they're not done eating this chicken yet.

Chela with her "new look" and lowest cut dress so far arrive to tell Pancho that Pepe lost his Champi. Pancho asks her about her boyfriend and she snips she's not interested in Pancho's Miss Anorexia and he shouldn't be interested in her boyfriend.

Candy bounces over to Pina's house. Pina and her producer Hector were having a meeting but he prefers to stare at Candy's tatas. And stare. And stare. He tells her the result of the focus group is that the audience loves her. She bounces up and down and Hector says the show will be split equally between the two of them. He'll tell her anything to get her to bounce some more. Pina's not as excited about the news.

Pancho starts to make a move on Rebe but Beto interrupts them with finance news. Pancho whispers to Rebe that he wants to see her that night.

Ana and her platonic band mates yuck it up at practice but the mood changes when Manuel pops in, kisses Ana and calls her Mi Amor.  Orale! Ana insists there's nothing between them. Manuel smirks and the other guys want her to explain things because it affects the band. Manuel was kind of creeping me out in this scene.

Pina tells Candy she's going to cancel her plans for tonight because it's more important for the two of them to get together to discuss the show. Candy squirms and admits she has a sort of date. After she leaves Adoracion gushes in envy that Candy's got boyfriends to throw around and them, they've got nada. Pina's gets annoyed and calls her Ignoracion.

Candy calls Vice to flirt but he tells her can't meet her tonight. He has to go with his wife to a media event. Candy's Peace and Love is split down the middle and she mutters he's a liar.

Pina suspects Candy wasn't being sincere with her. Pina Opina is very important to her, she fought for it. First some chica with curves and spheres shows up and now her public loves this Candy Lopez! Ado points out that Hector nearly had a cardiac arrest over Candy's spheres of influence.

Candy shows up at Vice's office and Sandrucha doesn't want to leave them alone. Candy accuses him of lying; Pina herself told her the truth about tonight. She demands to know where he was last night and he says with the Japanese. She's jealous because he was with that Chinese woman (China esa), errr, that Japanese (Japonesa...esa). 

Vice tries to appease her, it was only business and he doesn't want to talk to her about work. He'd rather play Cyrano de Bergerac. Candy thinks that sounds dirty. Vince moves in for a kiss but Sandra interrupts with a special message from Yuri. It's "Sarudos" with a terrible Asian accent. Nope, our consistently non PC telenovelas are not disappointing us tonight. More bad accent jokes before Candy and her UFO earrings demand that Vice tell her the truth!

Avances: Candy tells Pina she's going to tell her the truth, but something tells me nobody is going to tell anyone the truth. Not for a while yet.

Vocab:
baboso/a = slimeball (la babosa = slug)
chanchullo = trickery
no se rinda = don't give up, don't surrender
rezagar = to lag behind
señorón = big shot
tipazo = hunk

Labels: familia

Carolina has just broken the happy news to Antolín that she has a bun in the oven and he needs to chill out with all the twirling he’s doing with her in his arms. He is sure that any baby of his will be big and strong, and able to take a few whirls. They are both over the moon and celebrate with kisses (and hopefully more).

At Rancho Curiel, Ivan has come to visit Lucia to come clean about the conversation he had with Camilo about his intentions towards Lucia. Ivan initiated the conversation because he wants to be friends with Camilo again. He tells Lucia that Cam has accepted that Lucia is not for him, but admitted that he is still really in love with her. Ivan’s hoping that Cam will get over it. Lucia isn’t so sure it’s that easy. Either way, Ivan knows this situation is none of their faults; it’s just life. He apologizes for getting jealous. He trusts her and she’s free to do what she wants and befriend whom she wants. He was just being stupid.

MP interrupts them to report on Lucrezia’s continued weakened condition and vomiting. She asks Ivan if she can come see Alex that day, but he will be at Caro’s. MP gets permission to visit him tomorrow instead. She does all of this politely and then immediately leaves, to all of Viewerville’s surprise. Lucia seems to be softening too, because she tells Ivan of MP’s seemingly sincere desperate need for Alex to start loving her. Ivan doesn’t know what to do because Alex is scared of her. “We each reap what we sow”, says Lucia. (Cada quien cosecha lo que siembra.) Ivan tells Lucia about Carmen and Lichita’s disappearance.

Camilo and Anto have met up at a restaurant to discuss the same thing. They’ve had no luck with their inquiries of taxi drivers. They are sure Carmen went chasing after Saul, and if they are together they are probably hatching some plan to get money, like kidnapping someone. Anto thinks Cam could be a potential target (with his new job and all) so he should get his hands on a gun for protection.

JJ meets with a lawyer to see about formally acknowledging Carmen as his son’s woman and Lil’ Alicia as his grandchild. The lawyer wants him to be careful of this young woman living with him and asking for money. And on top of it, she’s Antolin’s sister! It all might just be a scheme to get money out of JJ.

In their new bedroom, Carmen has more important things to do, like watching her telenovela and filing her nails, than listening to her daughter. Lichita wants to go to school, instead of being cooped up in a room all day. Carmen ignores a call from Celia and Lichita questions why she hung up. She lies to Lichita that it wasn’t her grams and tells her to shut up. (Mother of the Year material, that one.)

Ivan visits Celia and tries to assure her that Carmen wouldn’t do something stupid (ha!), and is probably just with friends. The Galvan boys return home with no news.

At Casa Less-Meandragon, JJ has brought back a bag of new toys for Lichita. She’s initially pleased, but then complains that she already has plenty of dolls. What she wants is a toy dish/tea set (vajilla). JJ says he’ll get on it. He then orders Carmen off her lazy butt to the kitchen to help the maid prepare dinner. He actually does it fairly politely (for JJ), but there’s no doubt it’s an order. Carmen is still in enough doubt about her position in the Mondragon house to agree and hops to it.

Anto gives Celia something to be happy about by sharing the pregnancy news. Hugs all around from his mom, brother and Ivan. They all think that Carmen is a grown woman (mujer hecha y derecha) and can do what she wants, but Lichita is the real concern. Ivan wonders if she has a galan elsewhere. Celia thinks it’s her fault Carmen left because of their last big fight. She’ll check Lichita’s school tomorrow to see if Carmen has taken her.

MP cuddles her mom in bed and whines about how no one loves her, and how Lucia and Tony are saying things against her to Alex. Lucrezia urges patience. MP swears she’s sorry for the things she’s done, but now SHE needs love/affection (cariño). She NEEDS people to love her. The love of Lucrezia, who has always loved her no matter what, is not enough. Lucrezia advises her to behave and do good deeds. Having never attempted good deeds, MP even needs advice on what those could be. Lucrezia shakes her head.

Gordo and Saul get together in a bar in Hermosillo and discuss the addition of Gordo’s cousin to the plan. Soon, Saul will be able to leave his little rat buddies behind and live in luxury. They discuss the kidnapping plan. Gordo thinks Alex staying with blind Caro (guess he doesn’t know about the surgery) so often is the key to getting their hands on the kid.

Judith comes home and for the first time meets Lichita, who is having a fine time playing cards with her abuelo. (It’s kind of cute actually. Never thought I’d say that about a scene with JJ.)

Judith is even more shocked to see Carmen emerge from the kitchen decked in an apron and announcing that dinner is ready. JJ tells Judith that the house won’t feel so lonely anymore and bids them all to go to the dining room to eat.

David is just as shocked to hear this news from Judith later on the phone. Ditto Esther, when he passes the news on to her. Esther wonders if JJ is messing around with Carmen, but even David thinks that would be going too far for JJ to get involved with his son’s woman. He thinks it’s more likely that Carmen is holding something over JJ to blackmail him. Esther agrees that he sure as heck is NOT doing it out of the goodness (bondad) of his heart. (They both are underestimating the power of loneliness.)

Camilo tries to calm her, but Celia can’t sleep because of her worry about her daughter and granddaughter. David pays them a late night house call to break the news about Carmen and Lichita being the newest additions to the Mondragon household. They all think Carmen must have done something or is holding something over JJ to convince him to take her and Lichita in. Camilo takes off immediately with David to bring them back home. Celia insists on going too.

Ivan and Lucia have a pre-bedtime phone call, exchange love talk, talk of marriage, and gossip about Anto and Caro having a baby. Lucia asks Ivan if he’ll make any distinctions between Perla and Alex and any children they may have together. Of course not! Ivan is all for making their own version of “Yours, Mine and Ours”.

JJ’s peaceful night is disturbed by Camilo and Celia barging their way into his home and starting a screaming match with Carmen. Both Camilo and David start interrogating him about his reasons for letting Carmen and Lichita live with him. He says he doesn’t have to give them explanations. (I agree with him. Carmen’s a grown woman and Lichita’s his grandchild.) Celia says that Carmen DOES have to give her an explanation. Carmen says she’s tired of being treated like a second class citizen at home. (I don’t think she’ll like being treated like a servant and the nanny of his grandchild by JJ either.) She refuses Celia’s and Cam’s demands and pleas for her to return with them. JJ tells them to get out and pulls a gun on them all! Celia yells at him to shoot (dispare)! Shoot so that he can be hauled off to prison! Lichita is awakened by all this noise and wanders into the living room. She looks on in terror when she sees her new grandpa holding a gun to her beloved grandma.

Saul and Gordo sarcastically toast to a long life for JJ. (Anvil alert?)

JJ immediately lowers the gun under Lichita’s fearful gaze, and says he only wanted a better life for the little girl and to fix Saul’s error. Celia doesn’t think the way to do it is by buying her off with gifts and toys, but not with love and affection, which he’ll never be able to give her. Camilo insists they are taking Lichita with them. Carmen begs JJ to let her stay on her own, but his only interest was Lichita. He tells her to pack her stuff and go with her family. He says farewell to Lichita and tells her to behave. Carmen continues to beg, but Lichita is ready to go home and also encourages her mom to pack their stuff. (You know you’re acting a fool when a six year old is acting more mature than you are.) Lichita hugs her uncle and grandma, and Camilo thanks David for his help. After they leave, David and Judith wonder what JJ could have been thinking. Judith thinks it’s loneliness and mentions JJ’s request that she and Carlos live with him. David says he offered him the same thing with Bernie.

In Casa Galvan, Lichita says JJ is a good guy, but she wanted to return home. She says goodnight to Celia and Camilo, who tells her he NEVER wants her to leave this house. Lichita drags her wayward mommy off to bed. Celia asks Cam what they are going to do with Carmen. Cam doesn’t know. She can do what she pleases, but they sure as heck won’t let her take Lichita with her again. Celia can’t help but be worried about them both. Cam decides to call Anto with the news so that he can stop worrying and just enjoy the news of his baby with his wife.

Esther talks to the McGuire family lawyer, who I guess is now her lawyer, about her divorce case outside the judge’s chambers. JJ arrives for the appointment. He doesn’t bring a lawyer, but asks for some time alone with Esther. JJ admits that he learned too late what he was losing. He accepts that he was a blockhead (torpe). She doesn’t let him off the hook and reminds him how he continued his old ways, even after she came back to care for him. And to top it off, he was willing to frame her for his fraud! It’s better that it ends this way. She asks him to not make it more difficult. “Our relationship (lo nuestro) is over forever.” JJ accepts this as the last word and goes with her and her lawyer into the judge’s chambers.

Saul and Gordo discuss how to avoid a run-in with Anto when they attempt to kidnap Alex. They both want to get rid of him. They figure that he must be working regular office hours at the Ag Association now that his brother is the president. They decide they need to contact Carmen to get the inside scoop.

Lucia hangs out with Alex in his room and asks him to give MP a chance- tell her his stuff, share his music with her, and such. Ivan comes in to tell Alex MP has arrived. Alex agrees to chat with her for only a bit (un ratito). Once he’s out of the room, Lucia and Ivan discuss the situation. Ivan adored his mother because she was good and loving. But Lucia also loves her mother, who is anything but those things. They chuckle about this. Lucia loves her mom because they’ve shared some good moments, and Lucia understands her faults (defectos). Plus, she’s her mother. Ivan doesn’t think it’s good for Alex to be afraid of his mother. If he can get over that, he will be better off for it.

In the living room, MP is asking Alex if Tony or Lucia have been badmouthing her. She presses him when he denies it and asks if he’s lying. “I don’t lie!” (A trait he did NOT inherit from her. Actually, his looks are the only thing he inherited from her.) MP tells him she regrets the things she did and wants him to love her, because she’s his mother. “And that’s the only reason why I should love you?” “All kids love their mothers!”

Ivan waits nervously with Lucia in Alex’s room for the MP-Alex session to end. He finds the picture MP gave Alex of herself, turned face down on his shelves. In the living room, things are going a bit better, as Alex has taken Lucia’s advice to share about his favorite things with MP. He wonders why she doesn’t like Bruno. Because, he’s an animal. “Bruno is not an animal; he’s my friend!” MP is not impressed by friendships with perros. You would think she would be, considering she’s a perra. (Oops! Did I just say that out loud?) Tony interrupts before this argument can escalate. He has Alex take Bruno for a walk and sits down to chat with MP. She immediately starts accusing them of badmouthing her, and that’s why Alex won’t warm up to her. She’ll show them all that she’s BETTER than Lucia! As she’s leaving, Tony freaks her out by pretending Bruno has wandered back into the room. MP jumps half a foot in the air, causing Tony, and most of Viewerville, to chuckle.

Gordo stuffs his face as usual while he keeps an eye on Casa Galvan. Also as usual, Celia is cooking up something delicious in the kitchen. Camilo kisses her goodbye, and Carmen gives her plenty of sass before going out. Gordo follows her. She’s not happy to see him or to know anything about that good for nothing rapist Saul, but Gordo tells her it wasn’t like that.

MP is cuddling her mommy and whining, AGAIN. Lucrezia tells her to resign herself (resignate) to the situation, but MP refuses to let Lucia “win.” Everyone sees Lucia as being “buena, noble, generosa” and MP is sure she can be those things too. Lucrezia wonders what it is she wants—to win Ivan back by winning the heart of Alex? No, she just wants people to think she has changed and that she’s not a bad person. Lucrezia says she never thought she was a bad person. She just thought she was a bit wayward (descarriada) and different/odd (rara). She kisses her favorite child on the top of her head as they cuddle.

Speaking of wayward daughters, Carmen has decided to believe Gordo and Saul, of all people, above Lucia’s version of events. She knew Lucia offered herself up! She complains about how hard her life is and then readily offers up gossip about her brothers. This includes the news that Anto is married, that Caro now has sight, and Anto is working on Camilo’s ranch.

Gloria can’t lure Lucrezia out of bed nor tempt her with Jello and chicken soup. Just as Gloria is taking the tray of food away, Lucrezia cries out in excruciating pain and clutches her side while writhing on the bed. Lucia and MP come running. Lucia goes to call an ambulance as Carly comes in on the upsetting scene.

At the hospital, the Curiel women, minus Lucrezia, and with Ivan, meet with the doctor. It’s not good news. The treatment is no longer effective, her kidneys have totally failed, and a transplant is needed as soon as possible. Carly offers hers up. The doctor rules her out because of her age. Ivan and Lucia next offer their kidneys. MP seems to feel the peer pressure and hesitantly offers to donate hers. The doctor asks if she’s married or planning on having kids. Nope. Since Lucia does plan to marry and have more kids, the doctor warns her about all the dangers having one kidney poses on a pregnant woman. He warns her to think about it carefully. Ivan says they can also find other potential donors. They’ll begin to test everyone for compatibility. The ladies go in to see Lucrezia and Ivan gives Lucia a kiss for luck.

Lucrezia is in bed and on pain meds. When they tell her about the need for the transplant, she says she doesn’t want them sacrificing a kidney for her, given what a bad mother she’s been. Lucia says she’s made mistakes like everyone else, but she’s not a bad mother. (Lucia is a far nicer person than I.) MP says she has nothing to complain about. (Very true.) Lucia says they love her and they’re family. Lucrezia’s having a real redemption moment now. She is tearful and feeling very unworthy, especially considering how she tried to manipulate their lives. Lucia reminds her that she gave them life and stayed by their sides. MP says they need her. Carly urges her to be strong and fight. She’s important to all of them. She kisses her only daughter on her head and strokes her face.

Ivan accompanies Lucia and MP home. They will go do the compatibility studies tomorrow. If he’s a match, Ivan would much rather donate so that Lucia can be healthy to have children in the future. He’s sure Camilo and Antolin would also be willing. He knows she has the last word, and he’ll support whatever choice she makes. It doesn’t change their love for each other. They already have two kids anyway- Alex and Perlita.

Gordo reports on the conversation with Carmen to Saul. The fact that Anto is now living with his wife Caro, and therefore sleeping in the house at night, complicates things. Anto might recognize him, even if he’s masked. Considering his girth, Saul doesn’t think this would be so difficult for anyone. Saul thinks they should just kill anyone who gets in the way, and just be done with it. They think about what a good time they’ll have with lots of women (viejas) once they have their money.

Ivan discusses his desire to have a baby with Lucia with Tony; it’s his dream. To have a child with the woman you love is a blessing. But he is also pleased with the children they already have- Alex who is his, and Perla who is Lucia’s. “And like they say, what’s yours is mine.” Tony points out how he lost both his only child and the woman he loved, but look at him now. He has the son he chose. If all fathers could choose their sons, Tony bets JJ wouldn’t choose Saul. Benito announces Camilo. Ivan called him over to ask him something important. First, Cam tells him where they found Carmen.

Carly asks MP about her hesitation in offering to donate her kidney. She’s pretty sure Lucia is going to be the one ending up donating hers. MP gets offended. “Lucia, Lucia, always Lucia!” Doesn’t Carly think she’s capable of doing something so noble (digno)? “Well, are you?” MP wants to show the whole world that she can be better than Lucia. Carly doesn’t understand this obsession with competing with Lucia when Lucia has always loved MP. MP says it’s not true; Lucia has always envied her! She took her man and her child! “Ay Maripaz, Maripaz.”

Camilo accepts getting tested for compatibility; Tony’s age and heart condition prohibit him. Camilo is concerned for how much Lucia must be suffering.

Well folks, time has passed, and the results are in! (Drum roll please…) And the lone compatible person is…..Maripaz Lomeli!! Come on down!!!!! Oh wait, MP’s face does NOT look like someone who has won a coveted prize. She looks downright terrified, in fact. Lucia asks about her own compatibility, but she is not a match. Ivan offers himself, Camilo and Antolin, but MP seems resigned to her fate. They’ll get started on the paperwork right away.

Carly checks in on Lucrezia and gives her the news about MP’s compatibility. Lucrezia starts to cry. She would prefer to die than have her daughter go through that. Carly gives her a pep talk. She and MP will be fine soon, but of course they will then have to take certain precautions. MP will give Lucrezia life, just like Lucrezia gave her life. “It’s not fair mama. It’s not fair.”

Avances: MP thinks she’s won the nobility game and gloats to Lucia. MP kisses Alex, who wonders if perhaps she isn’t as bad as he thought, and he visits her in the hospital. MP and Lucrezia hold hands before surgery. Something goes horribly wrong during the procedure and the doctor says we’re losing her! The doctor comes to the waiting room with a grim look on his face. Did one of them not make it? Who could it be?

Labels: Fuerza

... and Pancho does a pretty bad "sleazy waiter."

Pancho reveals that he isn't just going to sit around while Vicente (maybe "vice" would be a better nickname) plots against him. He, too, has a plan. Which he will not reveal to everyone (though everyone is clearly concerned that this will be a hairbrained scheme).

Chacho bursts in and informs everyone that Chela's got a boy. His buds circle round to chatter and gossip. Pancho says they need to find out who that suspedocho is.

Meanwhile, Chela is rehashing the jealousy plan. She swore Chacho to secrecy, so half of Mexico knows already.

Lena is still moaning. It's been days. One new detail: she swears she'll have vengeance, which I take to be a positive sign.

Vice is shocked to see "Tomas Plomero" in the house again and tries to show him off, but Pina flounces down the stairs and tell him the sob story about T's family. Meanwhile, Tomas heads off to snoop around the house. Adoracion races off to gawk at him or something.

Monica is with Pepe, rehashing her chat with Fred. Nothing new, but they're pretty cute.

Tomas carries his tools into Fred's room and sees the racing trophy. He begins stroking it and dreaming about what would've happened if he'd been born rich. He sees the plumber off with some rudeness, then sits on the bed inexplicably clutching his heart.

Alex is wearing a ridiculous scarf. He's trying to get back in Lupita's good graces... he claims he can't be held accountable for Fred's actions. She asks why is he still friends with the Fraud? Good question. One explanation: the gayness of his scarf is a clue that Alex and Fred will end up together in the end of the show.

Vice and Candi are at the Avon offices, smooching in the elevator. "How many times have I told you that you drive me crazy?" "Not enough." They stumble into a handy office, and Vice once again admits his mistaken identity scheme. Just like the Emperor spinning his chair to reveal his presence in "Return of the Jedi," Pancho spins around in his huge office chair with a raised eyebrow and a cough of indignation.

Vice claims that this was all to protect Pancho... Seeing as to how we've seen no indications of any other motive, I'll go with that. Pancho is not convinced. As they yell at each other, Beca appears in the doorway just as Vins accidentally blurts out that he's got something going on with Yuriko. Jealous, Candi flounces out as Beca flounces in. She's not happy, but doesn't really support Pancho, a viewpoint she carries through the episode.

The only other thing that happened that really interested me was the hilarious meeting with the Japanese. Fake Pancho and Beca sit down to the meeting, and in walks... Pancho, with a greasy ponytail and a waiter-suit. He attends the meeting, running back and forth whispering in peoples' ears. Then he tell's V that he's actually doing a pretty good impression, but he just needs to laugh more.

The Japanese want 20% of Avon, but Pancho disagrees. He doesn't even want to settle for 15%. He also doesn't want V to sign any documents, so he spills coffee all over the papers. Everyone yells at Lamberto. I'm falling asleep.... Good night, guys!


Also, could anyone cover for us tomorrow night? Thanks!

Labels: familia