31ST, 1ST & 2ND OF JULY, & AUGUST 2018....UPDATE ON "THE CANDIDATE" EPISODE #16, #17 & 18

TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY 31ST,1ST & 2ND OF JULY, & AUGUST 2018....UPDATE ON "THE CANDIDATE"

EPISODE #16, #17 & 18


SHOWN ON TV3 @9:00PM

Pacheco Investigates Cecelia

At the Martinez home, while Emiliano and Ximena are making out on the sofa, the nurse comes running in to tell Ximena that her mother is out of control. Emiliano decides this is a good time to leave.

Gerardo and Regina are sharing a tender moment together and they move in for the kiss---which does not happen because Regina moves away and says she can’t do this. Gerardo says, “Don’t you want me to kiss you?” Regina says, “Yes I do, but the problem is, I can’t do it this way. I need to resolve the problems in my own life.”CMTELLYUPDATE

Gerardo’s phone ring. It’s Ximena calling to tell him it’s an emergency with her mother. She’s going crazy, asking for Gerardo, and the nurse can’t seem to get her under control. She asks her dad to come home right away and he agrees. Ximena and Teresa hug and Teresa starts to calm down.

Regina looks at Gerardo and says she understands. He tells her, “You don’t know how much I desire you.” Regina says, “Go to your daughter.” Then she leaves.

While Cecelia is visiting Mario, Naomi shows up. Naomi demands to know who she is. Mario tells Naomi not to make a big scandal and tries to explain that he was a good friend of Cecelia’s father and felt a need to help her out after her father died. Naomi is not buying it and Mario says, “For heaven sakes, I’ve known her since she was a child! Don’t be stupid! She is younger than our own daughter!” The argument continues while Mario goes into cardiac arrest and the machines start to beep. But Naomi is more concerned about Cecelia’s presence than she is about Mario and the doctor finally asks both of them to leave. Later the doctor tells both of them that Mario is to have no visitors. Naomi seems to be barking up the wrong tree, believing that Cecelia is Mario’s lover; she would be horrified to find out that Cecelia is his love child. Anyway, Naomi tells Cecelia to hit the road and to never come back.

Pacheco is with Isela, having drinks, pretending to “woo” her while doing his investigation on Cecelia. Ignacio comes in and Pacheco explains that this is part of his investigation and his revenge against the Governor. They drink to that. They talk about trying to uncover corruption in the governor’s office. Pacheco lets him know that there is trouble regarding the secretary of health office. Ignacio is asking for details, but Pacheco says for him to do his own investigation. “The only thing I need is a job offer from you,“ says Pacheco.

Regina and Daniela are in the office discussing Regina’s problems regarding Alonso. She does not want to go home. Daniela says, “Come over to my house.” Regina says she would love to but she can’t. She goes on to say that she didn’t envision her life this way, unhappy and everything they have worked for being lost. Daniela says, “It’s the price you sometimes have to pay when you are in politics and have this much power.” Daniela then tells Regina that she is the only one who can save this country.

Gerardo comes home and the nurse tells him that she did not think she was taking on a psychiatric case and does not feel qualified to do so. As they are talking, an obnoxious Teresa calls for the nurse as if she is a slave, “What are we paying you for?” As the nurse leaves to answer Teresa, Gerardo starts to follow. Ximena then asks, “What are we going to do Dad? I don’t want to send Mom to a mental hospital.”

Regina arrives at the hospital to see her father, but Naomi says he is not allowed visitors. “Why?” says Regina. Naomi explains that Cecelia came to visit and they had a very strong argument together and so Mario went into cardiac arrest. Naomi goes on to say that Regina needs to go home, fix her relationship with Alonso and fall into line with the program. Regina is not very happy to hear this and says she is not going to be pressured into doing something she does not want to do. She complains that her mother does not give her any affection or support.CMTELLYUPDATE

The doctor comes out and says that Mario should not be under any stress or talk about something that can cause him any more difficulty because he is too weak to stand it. However, they can now visit for a short time.

Gerardo talks to Teresa who is in the middle of a melt-down. Gerardo tells her she can’t keep doing this because she must think of their daughter. Teresa claims that she is the one who has suffered and it’s all his fault. She says gambling is the only thing that makes her happy. Then Gerardo says that if she continues, she will end up before a judge and locked away without an income and without seeing their daughter.

At the elder San Roman residence, Omar walks in and says to Natalia, “So you have been telling the whole world that you are being kept prisoner here? Fine, I’ll give you a chauffer, that way you can come and go when you like.” She nods in agreement somewhat. Omar then says, “Later things will calm down, when you decide you are going to make love with me.” By this time Natalia is angry and says, “Don’t talk to me about love! What do you know about love anyway? For you, this is a sick kind of love. It is a love filled with menace. I’m just so tired of you, Omar!” Omar then says, “So you don’t want the chauffer? You don’t want to leave the house?” “Yes, I want to leave, I don’t want to be locked up here anymore.” “Ok”, says Omar, “No we are talking. You can leave as long as someone is chaperoning you at all times. It’s that or nothing!” Natalia accepts. But Omar slithers around her telling her she had better behave well tonight.

Alonso goes over to Cecelia’s place and she tells him about how Pacheco wants to lie about her.  He complains about Regina, says she has changed. Cecelia says he needs a woman who can support him. Alonso goes on to say he needs a woman who will do whatever he wants. “Cecelia, are you that woman?” Cecelia says, “Oh yes I am.” Then he tells Cecilia to take off her clothes. So she begins to disrobe…HE grabs her and it looks like they are in for a night of rough sex.CMTELLYUPDATE

Regina arrives home about the same time Emiliano is coming home. But Emiliano isn’t very friendly and obviously is taking his father’s side against Regina. He chides her for not being by Alonso’s side as he runs for President. He thinks she should set aside her own ambitions and stay by Alonso’s side. He shows her nothing but disrespect and it’s obvious that Alonso has turned him against Regina. He even tells her that if it weren’t for Alonso, she wouldn’t have become a senator, which is pretty much what Alonso said earlier to her, that she is only what she is BECAUSE OF HIM.CMTELLYUPDATE

Regina begins reminiscing about her earlier conversation with Gerardo as she lies on her bed. She thinks about the kiss that almost happened…

In the morning, as Alonso and Regina are getting ready, Regina asks, “Where were you last night? I waited up for you.” Alonso says, “Well when I got in, you were asleep.” Regina said, “Well you could have waken me up. We have something pending we need to talk about regarding our son.” Alonso says, “Well you know, we came out of that restaurant and all these reporters were there. Things couldn’t be helped. He just helped answer some questions and told the truth.” Regina spouts off, “Or all the things you ordered him to say. By the way, who are YOU sleeping with anyway?” Alonso shoots back, “I could ask you the same thing!”

In Ignacio’s office, his assistants present evidence that some money laundering is going on with the governor’s office that is driving up prices in medical expenses. Ignacio is ecstatic about the news and calls Gerardo right away.

Pacheco and Hernán are sitting at a bar and Pacheco wants to know the low down on Cecelia. He doesn’t know whether he can trust Hernán since he could be Cecelia’s beau. But Hernán reminds him that he’s a reporter and he is going to get what he wants from Cecelia so that he can publish news.

Regina is at the shelter asking about Susana and passing around her picture to see if anyone has ever known her. No one seems to know except for one lady who seems to recognize her. Daniela interrupts her reminds her she has an appointment with the textile workers.CMTELLYUPDATE

As Alonso is saying goodbye to a couple of ambassadors, Magda comes to him with a new article about how he is involved in the problem of medical expenses escalating. The article further says that his father in law has something to do with it.CMTELLYUPDATE

Ignacio presents Pacheco to Gerardo as the one behind the information that came from the Health Secretary. Ignacio asked Gerardo about why he didn’t seemed pleased to have Pacheco around. Gerardo says, “Well if he is willing to betray his old boss, what else do you think he can do? Will he betray me?”

At the textile worker’s place, Regina asks her supporters to trust her. They tell her about various problems, including those who lose their jobs. Daniela interrupts again to show her the latest article that came out about the governor’s office. Regina says, “Is there no end to the corruption there?” Daniela goes on, “The article mentions your father having something to do with this.”

Hernán comes to Cecelia and asks why Alonso was at her place. She says, “what, did you think you were my boyfriend?” Hernán says, “No I thought you were a slut.” Cecelia says, “Hey you are the same as I am. We both want the same thing. I just want the goods on Pacheco.” Hernán says, “Why should I? I’m not your boyfriend and I’m not your lover.” He walks out and says he’s not going to tell her anything else.

Natalie is at the hospital with Naomi. Naomi says, “I’m so glad you are here.” Natalia says, “Yeah, I’m here with my jail guard.” Naomi turns around and see the “guard” standing there. “So how is your husband doing,” says Natalia. “Oh he is recovering from his anger.” “What? I’ve never heard you talk that way about Mario. What is wrong?” Naomi tells her that Mario’s lover stopped by. Natalia says, “Are you sure? How do you know it was his lover?” Naomi answers, “Because I just know things like that, no one has to tell me.” Natalia shakes her head and sighs, “We are both victims of tyrants.” Btu the real reason for Natalia’s visit is to warn Naomi regarding Regina. She can’t say the details, but she knows that if Regina doesn’t support Alonso, she will be attacked. Naomi has to protect Regina.CMTELLYUPDATE

Cecilia is speaking with her mother on the phone and Itsela wants to know why Cecelia didn’t tell her that her father was in the hospital. Cecelia tells mom that she inadvertently ran into Mario’s wife over there. Isela warns her that she is too close to the truth. “I ought to go over there to see him one more time before he kicks the bucket” says Isela. Cecelia says, “No that’s crazy.” Isela says, “So what is wrong, you sound worried.” Cecelia says that it has to do with someone named Pacheco who is giving her problems. “Oh yes”, says Isela, he was here at the Caberet. Is there anything I can do to help you out?” Cecelia says, “No, let me handle it!” But too late, Isela disconnects and who should appear behind her but Pacheco. She seems to have a plan in mind.

Ignacio is at Teresa’s place and Ignacio is turning on the charm with her. He starts flirting with her and tells her that she is desirable and wants to have a personal relationship with her. He says he has something planned for her.CMTELLYUPDATE

The one lady at the shelter who seemed to recognize Susana’s picture came to Daniela to tell her story. She knew that Susana and other “girls” had something to do with a very powerful drug ring. She was a cleaning lady for the place. A “police officer” used to go by and take bribes from them to keep quiet. Then he asked what she knew and all of a sudden she was out of a job. The next day everyone was gone from the apartments and she had no idea what happened to everyone. The only thing she knew is that the policeman was referred to as “El Cuervo.” She asks for protection.

In Alonso’s office, he and Mauro discuss what is happening with the accusations. “I have to come out clean from all this.” Mauro is going to make sure that the whole blame falls on De La Garza, the Health Secretary. Mauro then says, “Hey have you seen the latest events your wife is doing? It’s like she is on the campaign trail. Have you fixed up things with her?” “No” says Alonso. “In fact, things are much worse.”CMTELLYUPDATE 

At the Caberet, Pacheco continues to “woo” Isela. She knows he’s up to something so she plays along. They go to Isela’s apartment and he is drinking pretty hard. He asks her to take off her clothes. She says that she is “all his” and leads him on. (I can’t wait to see where this is going.)

Regina arrives at the hospital as Natalia is leaving. Natalia says something about her freedom being at risk if she doesn’t leave. Naomi makes mention of someone else (Natalia) having it worse than she does. Regina wants to see her father, but Naomi reminds her that he is to have no visitors. “Well I’m not a visitor, I’m his daughter.”

“Hello, father. I have to talk to you about something.” Mario says, “Be easy with me daughter, I’m all hooked up to these tubes.” So Regina asks him, “I need the truth from you. There is an ongoing scandal right now coming from the Secretary of Health. Are you involved in these fraudulent activities?

WEDNESDAY, 01/08/18....EPISODE #17

Regina Rejects Gerardo’s Love

At the hospital, Regina continues to grill her father Mario about his involvement with this healthcare scandal. He tries to pin it on Omar and says, “It’s just business.” Then she asks him about Cecelia. “Who is Cecelia, really Dad?” His machines start going faster and Mario starts getting more uncomfortable. The doctor comes in to scold Regina and ask her to leave because Mario is prohibited from having visitors because he is much too weak to handle any kind of stress. Reluctantly, she leaves his room.

Regina comes out to see her mother there, and Noemi accuses her of trying to kill her father. But here comes Alonso. Regina gives him that looks that shows she is not pleased with his presence there. The two of them go off to talk.

Mauro is having a “friendly” meeting with the Secretary of Health, De La Garza. He wants to pressure the good Secretary to admit to fraud, something he is not guilty of, so that the Governor Alonso keeps his hands clean. If he agrees, he will get to retire nicely in Miami after he has served his time in prison. Seems Mauro has the entire scoop on the Secretary, everything about his family, his wife, and his kids. He knows the names of his kids’ teachers and the fact they are going vacation in Los Cabos. He also knows which exclusive spa/fitness center his wife is a member at. “It would be just too bad,” says Mauro, “if they all ended up having a terrible accident. But you will be in prison, so it won’t matter. Think about it.”CMTELLYUPDATE

At Isela’s place, her “girls” take pictures of a nearly nude Pacheco with themselves. They go off and Isela comes to his side as he wakes up. She tells him he just fell asleep as he must have been tired. But then the scene pans over to a previous scene where Isela drugged Pacheco’s drink to put him in this condition.

In Gerardo’s office, Ignacio tells him that he was over at Gerardo’s home. Gerardo is not too thrilled over this and says, “And what are you doing with my personal private business? Who put you up to this?” Ignacio says, “Morales”. Gerardo says, “Look, I don’t like any of you going behind my back.” Ignacio says, “We did it all for you. We want to protect your candidacy.” Gerardo tells him, “Look I’m not going to make my candidacy a lie. Teresa is not my wife and we are divorced. And if they ask me, I’m going to tell them.” Ignacio then says, “Teresa is sick, the people are going to see her as a victim in all this and you are going to lose votes over this.” Ignacio goes on to say, “We have negotiated that she stays in your house and we have hired a psychiatric nurse for the night. This is all for our party, so that she won’t get into trouble. This is a lot better than putting her in a psychiatric hospital.” Gerardo is not happy about this at all.

In the hospital cafeteria, Alonso and Regina begin talking. He says, “Boy, it’s sure been a long time since we have shared a cup of coffee together.” Regina says, “It was surely before you went from bad to worse.” She looks at him sternly. Then Alonzo says, “When did you decide to go against your family?” Regina looks at him and says, “What? Me against my family?” Alonso says, “Yes, you have put yourself in front of me and my candidacy. Don’t you think this is too much?” “I already know what you are up to” says Regina. “In order to achieve what you want with your candidacy, you have to get me out of the way first.” Alonso says, “No, you are wrong. I just want us to be together in this. Please think about what you are doing. You are destroying your family with your ambition. What is more important, your candidacy, or your son, your husband, and yoru family? What do you say, Regina? I know you better than anyone. You are the one who wants to serve the people with the law so that they can have better lives, right?” Regina nods and says, “Exactly. That is what I studied in school about, how I prepared my life, and that’s why I became a senator.” Alonso then says, “Then why would you risk all of that? We could do all of this together as a couple.” Regina explains that she has her own ambition. Then she looks at Alonso and says, “Why don’t you just admit that you don’t want me to be a candidate because you want to be President.”CMTELLYUPDATE

Hernán goes to see Cecelia and he tells her that it’s over. He promises he is going to unmask her to the world. She cries about how he is like all other men, just wants to sleep with her and how the whole world is really manipulating her. Magda stands in the doorway. –CMTELLYUPDATE

Mauro, who had left Health Secretary De La Garza sitting on the couch comes back and says, “Do we have deal or not?” De La Garza makes his demands. He wants the best lawyer and he only wants one year in prison. He also wants his family protected financially and physically. De La Garza says, “If you are going to put my head in the guillotine, then I want to have some say about what happens to my head. This will not be for free, do you understand?” Mauro nods and looks like they have a deal.

Cecelia decides to confide in Magda. Magda comes over and says they really have a lot in common. First Cecelia thinks that Magda and Alonso had been together. But Magda says, “Oh no, not Alonso. He’s young enough to be my son. It’s his father Omar, he was the grand love of my life. I’ve never been able to love anyone else. I also have a son with him.” (Well this is a surprise.) She goes on and looks at Cecelia and says, “And you, it seems you are repeating my story. You are in love with him, aren’t you?” Cecelia says, “I can’t stop thinking about it. I just want to take care of him. Will you help me?”

At the elder San Roman residence Natalia reads by a lamp when Omar comes in and wants to know when she is coming to bed. Natalia says, “So are going to tell me when I should go to bed? Do I also need permission to go to the bathroom?” Omar says, “So why do you talk to me that way? Can’t we just live together in peace? Is it that difficult to fix up our situation?” (Dream on Omar!) Natalia gets up from her chair and says, “You are a PSYCHOPATH! You beat me up. You hold me prisoner in my own home. You have a guard over me 24 hours a day. And you think we are going save this relationship?” Omar says, “Have it your way, love.” “Very well”, says Natalia, “whatever you say, Omar. But I’m never going to sleep with you. I prefer death to ever sleeping with you ever again.”

Later at dinner time, Alonso and Regina are in their dining room and Regina says she is going to spend the night at the hospital to give her mother a break. Emiliano comes in and says he’s going out for the night. Regina protests, but Alonso tells Emiliano to take the car. (Oh boy, what a great dad! I’m surprised Emiliano doesn’t already have his own Porsche or something.) But then Alonso sends a tail after him. Regina tells Alonso that he doesn’t support her. She is angry and says she prefers to go to bed alone.

At the Martinez home, as Gerardo sits on the couch, in comes Teresa in a black negligee. “What’s going on”, says Teresa. “I’ve been waiting for you for a long time in the bedroom.” But Gerardo, not even the least bit interested says, “I’m going to sleep in the guestroom.” Teresa, undaunted by that says, “Well then I’m going to the guestroom.” She walks out and Gerardo is looking pensive. He looks at his phone and calls Regina who is alone in her room. He says he just wanted to call and say goodnight. He says he loves her and has since he first looked in her eyes.CMTELLYUPDATE

Emiliano takes Ximena to park somewhere and looks like they are going to have a good time. But the “tail” is watching.

The next morning at breakfast, Alonso says to Emiliano, “So last night, did you go out with the Martinez girl?” Emiliano looks up at his dad and says, “So did you have me followed or what?” Alonso says, “It doesn’t matter, it’s your life. But keep in mind she is the daughter of my competition in politics.” Emiliano gets up to leave, but Alonso asks him not to be seeing the Martinez girl. But Emiliano has one question, “Did my mother have anything to do with Florencia’s death?” Before he actually answers, he silently implies she did by saying that his mom has done everything for him, but Regina walks in. Regina and Alonzo start to argue a bit and an angry Emiliano decides to leave for school.

At the government building Hernán and Pacheco exchange some words together. He asks Pacheco what is being investigated, but Pacheco says that he doesn’t know whether he can be trusted. He walks away, Ignacio approaches, while Regina walks in. Pacheco says something to Regina about Cecelia and the two (Pacheco and Ignacio) walk off. Walking further on, Regina bumps into Gerardo and they say good morning. He smiles says, “I wish every day would start this way with us together.” She sighs and rolls her eyes, walks past him saying, “Oh please!” She turns to him and says something about “do you know where we are at?” in reference to their place of work and the things they are supposed to be accomplishing. Then he says something about life and homes and Regina didn’t seem to understand (and neither did I). Gerardo’s phone rings and he says it’s his office and he has to run. She says she will talk with him later.

Cecelia comes into the office and is greeted by Magda. Magda tells Cecelia that Larreta, the party chief has met with Regina. Cecelia wants to know how Magda knows all this and Magda explains that she knows ALL the secretaries there. Cecelia excitedly goes to tell Alonso and they both have made a deal to take care of each other in this business. She thanks Magda and Magda says she just wants to see Alonso in the Presidency.CMTELLYUPDATE

In Regina’s office, she and Daniela are going over some work and Daniela says something going for the candidacy. Regina says, “What options do I have?” Daniela says, “You have Gerardo. You have to negotiate with him. I could meet with Larreta again.” “Now that’s the attitude, Regina!” Regina says, “I’m glad to have you as a friend.” But Daniela says, “I’m more than your friend, I’m a big fan!”

Pacheco gives Gerardo the proof that Mario Barcenas bought up all the vaccine supply of H1N1 and was going to resell it at a much higher price. Gerardo say, “The father in law of the Governor, oh no.” He rubs his hands together and sighs. He says he needs more. Pacheco says he needs a deal first and leaves the room. Ignacio and Gerardo talk and Gerardo says to Ignacio that Pacheco is dangerous. “That’s why we need him”, says Ignacio, “because we need someone who doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty.” As they leave, Ignacio tells Pacheco they have a deal.”

Regina catches Gerardo outside and asks for his support for the law she is trying to get passed. He tells her that she cares about the law, but he really cares about her. Now he starts getting political and loyal to his party and won’t give her his support. He tells her that she is cooperating with a lot of corruption and lets her know that her father is in on it. He walks off and she stops him and asks about why he called her and said that he was still in love with her. Now he is accusing her father of such corruption without proof. Regina says he’s being exactly the way Alonso is doing. But Gerardo says, “I don’t play dirty!” Then Teresa, wearing a nice red dress, barges in and says, “Oh am I interrupting?” But Regina turns around and says, “The Senator and I are finished.” Regina walks away. Teresa seems to know about the corruption scandal Mario is involved in. Gerardo says to her, “Since when are you interested in politics?” Teresa says, “Since you are running for President and I get to be First Lady.”CMTELLYUPDATE

At the elder San Roman home, Natalia is getting ready to go out and Omar says, “And where are you going?” Natalia says she is going to the hospital to see Mario.” Omar wants to know since when she is so interested in Mario. So Natalia says it’s really to keep Noemi company. Omar sends his chauffer to guard Natalia.

A press conference is taking place and Gerardo is in the middle of it. He is exposing the matter about the corruption regarding the vaccine supply prices being highly inflated because of Mario Barcenas. Meanwhile, Alonso is watching the whole thing and is angry. Cecelia asks if he thinks Regina might be involved in this but Alonso doesn’t think so. He does tell Cecelia that he needs a woman like her by his side, supporting him. She is elated.

Regina complains to Daniela about what Gerardo said and did. But Daniela, says that she doesn’t believe that Gerardo did this out of malice, that there must be some real strong suspicions about him. Daniela reminds her that they need to go see Senora Galindo, the lady from the shelter, the one who knew Susana.

Cecelia goes to see Magda and wants information on Laretta. She tells her to go see Lorena Sanchez, the secretary of education. But who is she? Magda says, “Oh she’s one of us.” Cecelia says, “But what do you mean?” Magda tells her finally, “She’s Larreta’s lover!

Daniela and Regina arrive at Señora Galindo’s place, several flights of stairs up. At first, she doesn’t want to cooperate, because she says she doesn’t know anything. Regina just wants to know who the police officer was. Señora Galindo does not want this man to find out that she said anything as she is afraid for her life. She promises to help her and pass the law that will help her child. She just wants to find out what happened to Susana, that’s all.CMTELLYUPDATE

Isela arrives at the hospital to see Mario, but the doctor tells her no visitors. She pleads with the doctor to just tell him that Isela is here to see him and he will want to see her. Natalia is in the background watching and tells her chauffer to take her to the governor’s house.CMTELLYUPDATE

Cecelia wants another favor from Hernán. “How many more favors are you going to want?” says Hernán. He wants a little bit of sex for a favor but Cecelia has other ideas as things are quite complicated. She says that Hernán is her only friend, she likes him, but at this time in her life, oh well, she says “forget it.” But this makes Hernán say, “Well what do you need?” She tells him she needs him to investigate Lorena Sanchez. She wants to talk to her and doesn’t want to incriminate Alonso. De La Garza, that traitor is the one who should be punished.CMTELLYUPDATE

Meanwhile, Alonso has De La Garza in his office and tells him if he doesn’t obey, he will send him and his family to the cemetery. He is offering him a year in prison and then a happy life afterward. If not, he is signing his death warrant for his funeral. Alonso tells him his offer expires in half an hour.

THURSDAY, 02/08/18.....EPISODE #18

Alonso's Attempt to Win Regina Back

Alonso marched into his office, complaining that he was alone. Magda followed him, telling him he was not.

“You have Cecelia. She's loyal. She's efficient. She plays on your side.”

Alonso looked up, but Natalia's arrival stopped him saying anything had he been inclined.

“Good afternoon,” she said.

Magda gave her a cold look and got a dismissive one in return.

“Leave us,” Natalia whispered. Magda obeyed.

“Hello, Mother,” said Alonso as Magda left the office and closed the door.

“Yes, your mother is now becoming a museum piece.”

“Don't talk trash about Father, please.”

“Don't tell me you're going to defend your father's actions against my lover.”

“Ex-lover. It's better we don't talk about that, isn't it?”

“You're right,” she said, not agreeing but not wanting more conflict than necessary. “Totally. I'm condemned by your father. That man wants to think he's the exemplary husband but in reality.... I don't want to talk about this. As soon as you've made your bid for the Presidency I will separate from your father.”

“No, no, Mother. You can't. This can't happen.”

“Of course it can. Your father is sick and I won't spend my life going mad with a psychopath. As soon as you're elected I'm leaving him and it doesn't matter what you or your father want. I will do it.”

Alonso shook his head in disbelief. He must have seen enough divorces in his life that he should have seen evidence of dysfunction, but he was just as incapable of seeing his own.

Daniela met Andres, her contact, in his car. He gave her a flash drive containing the information she was looking for. She thanked him but he didn't want her thanks; he wanted a date. Daniela smiled as she tried to think of an answer.

Natalia went home and found Omar in his den.

“You're still here? I thought you would be at work.”

“I was just about to go out. Why?”

“It doesn't matter; you will do as you please, as always.” She went upstairs.

When she was out of hearing distance Omar looked behind her then turned toward José, the chauffeur he had assigned to baby-sit his wife. He questioned him about the day's activities. Jose explained that Mario had not been permitted visitors so he had taken Natalia to Alonso's office at her request. Despite that she had gone to see Alonso, Omar was still angry at what he regarded as her defiance of his will.

The press went after the Secretary of Education and stopped him for questions. Lorena, his assistant, broke away from the group and went into the waiting van to meet de la Garza who kissed her before the car took off. As it pulled away it revealed Hernán, who had probably concealed himself behind the tree at the side of the road. He was on his cell phone talking to Cecelia, who thanked him for his detective work and immediately went to Magda to tell her she had to see Alonso. They were about to open the office door when Omar arrived, saying he wanted to see his son. Magda said she would announce him.

“Why do you insist you have to announce me, Magda?” he said, irritated.

She did not reply, but merely opened the door. He closed it on his way in. Magda turned to Cecelia.

“I'm in love with him and look at how he treats me. You have to be more intelligent about this.”

She went back to work, leaving Cecelia to stare at the closed door.

“I'm in charge of this, do you hear? I'm in charge,” Alonso said over the phone as Omar took his seat. He hung up. “What is it, Father?”

“I know that your mother was here. What did she want?”

“You're imagining too much, Father.”

“You know what she did to me.”

“I have enough to deal with without one of my parents looking for a divorce.”

“Who's talking about divorce?”

Magda came in without knocking.

“Excuse me, Governor, but de la Garza is on the news.”

Alonso got up and buttoned his jacket.

“I was talking!” said Omar.

“Yes, yes, Father,” he said as he left the office. He was irritated but probably relieved at postponing what would have been a very inconvenient conversation.

“Alright,” Omar said, getting up. “I promise not to bother you about the divorce.”

Magda caught that and she stood there for a moment in a state of surprise.

“You just go on with what you do,” Omar said.

Magda followed Alonso out of the office The television was tuned to the news and de la Garza was taking full responsibility for the price fixing on vaccines. He publicly resigned from his position, declaring that his colleagues were blameless. Everyone in the office applauded.

Later, Alonso congratulated Cecelia on meeting the challenge and they drank to it.

“He has a lover. Much younger than himself. She's very pretty and she works for the Secretary of Education.”

“Of course. Very good. Very good,” Alonso said as he took another sip. Cecelia smiled at her victory.

Daniela showed mug shots to Mrs Galindo at the shelter, who finally identified a young man with thick dark hair and a slightly drooping mustache, somewhat 70's-looking. That same man was in Isela's establishment, keeping an eye on her. She was irritated at his tendency to appear out of nowhere and they went into her office. Cecelia arrived a moment later to see her, but was told she was in the office with El Cuervo. She asked for a double tequila and for her mother to be informed that she was there. Her wishes were granted and she drank down the shot. Pacheco appeared, greeted her as though they were old friends, and ordered a whiskey.

“What are you doing here?”

“No, no, no; the question is what would the governor say if he knew that his press secretary's mother ran a... cabaret like this? Tell me.”

“What do you want?”

“Destroy his existence. Nothing else.”

Cecelia stared. For a moment she looked like a frightened child.

Regina was on her way out of the office and ran into Gerardo on her way. She was not pleased with him over what he had said earlier to the press. She accused him of being ambitious for the presidency at the expense of his feelings and sarcastically wished him luck.

Cecelia told Pacheco he was pathetic.

“I have nothing to do with anyone the Governor fires. You're useless and that's why he did it.”

“You can think what you want but I will see you rolling in the mud. Do you get that?”

The bartender returned, sensing trouble. Pacheco finessed his way out by telling him that Cecelia and he were colleagues. He then departed. Cecelia told him nothing and got up from her seat in time to see Isela enter the room. She walked up to her and said “I have to talk to you” before going into Isela's private rooms while El Cuervo sat at the bar and ordered a drink.

Nayeli treated Emiliano to a strip show via Skype. He covered the screen with his jacket to take a call coming in on his cell, but he was only on long enough to say he was talking to a friend and would call the next day. He then removed the jacket in time to see that she had removed her brassiere with her back to the camera.

Cecelia watched Pacheco in the bar and told her mother she didn't like him being there. Isela called someone on her mobile device.CMTELLYUPDATE

Regina got out of the shower wrapped in a towel to see Alonso pouring her a glass of champagne. He was still fully dressed. He happily told her that Gerardo showed himself to be a traitor before suggesting they drink a toast to their anniversary. He touched the glass in her hand and drank. She did not follow suit.

“I'm sorry, I forgot,” she said. But she was clearly apprehensive.

Alonso took out a chain with a pendant, which he presented as a gift. It was a figure of Dame Justice, which he said symbolized her. Reluctantly she turned around so he could put it on her.

“One day,” he said, “you gave me a wallet which was a symbol. That day I fell in love with you.”

She turned around, wanting to head this off at the pass.

“Alonso,” she began.

“Who better than you symbolizes justice for me? Regina, you are blessed with justice.”

“You fell in love with me but [???]”

“That can change. We can recover this.” He began caressing her. “We can overcome our problems.” He kissed her.

She did not resist, but hesitated before beginning to participate in the kiss. He released the towel, which fell at her feet. She was naked in front of him, like a woman in a harem. While he remained fully dressed. Eventually his clothes joined the towel on the floor and they were in bed, engaged in the missionary position. Alonso did not notice, but when her eyes were not closed she was looking away from him.

Ignacio appeared at Gerardo's apartment to have Teresa let him in.

“This is a surprise. What are you doing here?” she asked in a voice absent of annoyance.

“I came to collect my part of the deal,” he said as he entered.

“So soon?” she asked.

“Why not?” He moved in on her neck like Count Dracula in that play I saw in New York some years ago.

“Wait, I can't,” she whispered. “My daughter is in her room.”

“Mama?”

Right on cue Ximena entered the living room.

“What's going on?”

Alonso had managed to don pyjamas and was sleeping. Regina could not sleep. She lay awake next to him, also in nightwear. Her cell phone indicated a message and she sat up to read it. It was from Gerardo. [If anyone knows what it said, please e-mail me the correction; my screen isn't large enough to read it on.] She made sure Alonso was asleep and tried to decide what to do.

Gerardo was in his car. He texted I know what I am doing is crazy but I need to see you, Regina. Come down, please.

She saw this on her screen and checked her husband's status again.

“I know you work for my father but I don't understand why you are with my mother.”

“No, I'm not.”

“No; he came here to see your father,” Teresa said.

“I'm looking for him but he didn't answer his cell phone so I came here.”

“Don't worry,” Ximena said, “We'll solve this quickly.”

She texted her father on her cell phone as Ignacio watched. Dad, are you alright? Where are you?

He texted back. I'm finishing a meeting. I'm leaving to go home.

“What do you need to see him about that's so important?”

“That's privileged. It's good to see a fast answer.” He paused for a second. “I'm sorry to disturb you at this hour.” He looked at Teresa and rubbed her right upper arm. She smiled back at him. “Therefore I hope this is solved.”

“What's important is that we found him,” Teresa said.

“Then excuse me,” Ignacio said with a smirk before he left.

Ximena was immediately more suspicious. Teresa knew it from her expression and asked “Well, what?”

Regina put on her robe and stepped out of the house with her cell. There were security men in the pool area but she did not see them. She called Gerardo and he answered immediately.

“Regina?”

“The secretary made it clear what you said.”

“Listen to me, please.”

“The initiative was obvious. What are you trying to do now? Judge my marriage or bring false accusations against my father?”

“You're mistaken, Regina. I don't want to judge. I want to see you. I can't not be with you.”

“Then you will have to demonstrate this some other way.” She looked toward the door as she ended the call. She went back into the house.

“Regina? Regina?” Gerardo said. As he put his cell in his pocket the bald security guard knocked on his window and ordered him out of the car.

El Cuervo at at the bar having a drink. Pacheco approached him.

“Do you know the owner of this place?” he asked him.

“What does that matter to you?” he answered, not looking at him.

“I'm a reporter doing a story on the city's nightlife.” He slid a business card toward him. “In case you know anything important I never reveal my sources.”

El Cuervo said nothing. The bartender appeared, grabbed Pacheco by the shirt. and tossed him out. El Cuervo looked at the business card with a sly grin.CMTELLYUPDATE

Regina told the bald security guard that all was well and that Gerardo was a colleague. Alonso came out.

“What happened?”

“Some confusion,” Regina said. “All is well.”

“A suspicious van outside the gates,” said the guard.

“Whose?”

“Senator Gerardo Martinez.”

“I don't know why he was here,” Regina said.

“Therefore, why did you wake up?” Alonso asked. He sent the security guard back to his duty, then turned to Regina. “Is there something you want to tell me? This doesn't look normal. You're outside of my house at this hour. You must have gone out to see him. That's how it looks.”

Regina had tried to stop him before he got there, but ended up folding her arms in frustration.

Omar entered Natalia's bedroom.

“I see you are looking for a divorce.”

“I see you've been talking to our son.”

“I will never give it to you.”

“What do you think you're accomplishing, Omar? We were over a long time ago.”

“Not for me. You love me.”

“Since when?”

He slapped her. She fell against the furniture behind her, giving him the opening to haul her up and throw her on the bed. He climbed on top of her and continued to slap her. She yelled at him to leave her alone as he continued to do so, finally leaning over like a vampire going for her neck. Jose was out in the hall and heard this. He breathed hard and looked indecisive. He knew who his paymaster was, but did not seem to like being put in this position.

Daniela and Andres went out for a pint or two and appeared to be having a good time. She took her purse and said she was going home, but he held her back. She told him this was complicated because he was a friend of her ex. She told him he was attractive and she liked him but that she didn't want him making the same mistakes, including taking her out drinking in a police bar. Finally she kissed him on the cheek and thanked him for what he did for Regina.

Isela and Cecelia had Pacheco in the office. When he said he was investigating she turned on the computer monitor and showed him the video she shot of him and two of her girls. He realized she had him by the short hairs and accused her of blackmail.

“No; I'm merely looking out for my own interests. If you pull anything again I will release this.”

He paused for a second.

“Do what you want with it. I have no wife and no engagement.”

Cecelia looked him in the eye.

“Think about what you say. Something like this can really hurt a new candidate for the presidency, don't you think?”

Omar was calling for help on his cell phone. He sent Jose out to search for help, immediately. After this he poured himself a straight one and swallowed it down. Magda came in to ask what happened. He told her he didn't know, that he had lost control. That there was no response. He almost begged her to help him. Magda took his hands and said she would help. She was truly a fool.

Gerardo was brought before Alonso, angry that he was being treated by a traitor to Alonso's empire. With all the control he could summon, Gerardo told him he was there to apologize to Regina for his recent errors regarding the accusations against Mario. Alonso wanted to make more of this to use it in his favor, but Regina tried to get him to back off.

“There is no innocence in politics,” he declared. Then said he wished to speak to Gerardo alone. Reluctantly Regina went inside the house.

“What are you up to with my wife?”CMTELLYUPDATE

Magda gasped when she entered the room. Natalia was lying on the floor. She was conscious, but unable to get up. There was a cut above her left eyebrow that was bleeding. Magda rushed to the bedside phone to call a doctor to get him there immediately. Omar watched from the door where Natalia couldn't see him. He entered and asked Magda if there was anything he could do. She said “You know what? Get out of here. Leave me here alone with her, please.” as she guided him out of the room and closed the door.

Cecelia got off the elevator to find Hernán with a large envelope. He was still intent on continuing their sexual relationship but she was not interested.

“'Love' is too big a word. I don't want to feel anything for anyone. I don't want to suffer. I just want to worry about myself.”

“But I won't hurt you.”

“But what if I hurt you?”

“You can.” He paused. “So at the core, you do feel something for me.”

She could not figure out how to answer that. Instead she changed the subject.

“Hernán, thanks for what you did for me. I need to concentrate on this.”

Hernán was living proof that men can be such fools for love.CMTELLYUPDATE

Alonso and Gerardo continued their conversation in the living room. Alonso sat in his comfortable throne while Gerardo sat on the couch. He tried to make Gerardo admit stupidity in bringing accusations without proof. Gerardo tried to bring home the point about the people being hurt by corruption. Alonso's attitude showed that this did not matter. Gerardo did not change his opinion, finally accusing Alonso of being the property of the powerful and wealthy men in their country.

“Further, you do not own Regina. This damned delusion is your worst weakness. Good night, Alonso.” He left him sitting in the dark.

The San Roman's family physician came down the stairs. Omar asked about Natalia.

“She's recovering. Look, Don Omar, your family has trusted me for a long time. But I can't continue to be an accomplice.”

“What are you trying to say?”

“You hit her. I won't say anything now but the next time I find Natalia in this condition I will be obliged to inform the authorities. Good night.” He headed for the door.

“Good night, Doctor,” said Magda.

She stared at Omar for a moment and he turned away from her gaze.

The following morning Alonso brought this up again, telling Regina that Gerardo was planning to run against him for the presidency and that “neither of us could win the presidency alone. Neither myself nor you.” All the petty people [mezquinos] would not be with them. He was sure that Gerardo was trying to separate them to insure his own election.

“Gerardo isn't an enemy,” Regina said. “Just a member of the opposition. Just an ethical and noble politician, so relax.”CMTELLYUPDATE

“Well, if he's so noble and ethical, then why did he oppose your initiative?”

Mauro arrived at the office; Magda was already there. He saw that something serious had happened. She began telling him about it.

Mario had been released from the hospital. Noemi tried to get him to have breakfast and relax, saying he was told by the doctors he couldn't return to work until he was completely well. Like most men whose pride rested on their control, he insisted he felt completely well and renewed thanks to all the medications and procedures. There was also too much to do.

“Soon our daughter will be First Lady,” he said.

“You don't know her either? Are you so sure she won't fight?”

“Of course. We have no time to think about this. We have to concentrate on making sure that things between Regina and Alonso are improved.”

“Do you think it will be that easy to get Regina to give up the candidacy?”

“Regina has to forget about the presidency. And you have to help me. Make her give up this stupid fantasy about being the president.”

“We can't allow the resignation of the Secretary of Health to go without investigation,” Ignacio said to Pacheco. “We have to find more things to hang on him for the governor.”

“We want de la Garza to be guilty of everything. Right now as far as the people are concerned he is the corrupt one.”

“But we know that is not the case.”

“Ignacio, reality is one thing, perception of reality is another. That's the only thing to keep in mind. I don't want anyone talking about this. That's it.”

“You don't get it. I need to look everyone, under rocks if necessary. I need all the information to bring anyone down.”

“Calm down. Let me explain that the resignation enhances our credibility.”

“Yes. But we need dirt on the senator and on the governor.”

“It's going to be hard to investigate that.”

Gerardo walked in.

“I don't want to hear anything said against the father of Senator Barcenas,” he began. “We have problems enough with Mendes.”

“We have a fight.” said Ignacio.

“Without concrete proof we have nothing.”

“Then we have to investigate more. Attack him and attack her.”

“I'm not so sure of that,” Gerardo said. “I will make this clear: the political strategy will be decided by me without attacking the governor.”

“At your orders, boss,” said Ignacio with a sarcastic tone. He left the office. Pacheco followed him.

Alonso, Mauro, Pacheco, and Cecelia were in an office when Magda let them know that Lorena Sanchez was in her office. Alonso told her to bring her in. After she closed the door Alonso said they needed to go after Gerardo. “I want to make his life a nightmare. Go after his wife. Look into her addiction, into their daughter, too. I want her out of the city.”

The men indicated their compliance as Alonso left the office. Cecelia followed him. He threw her another bone of approval, then said “I need to destroy Gerardo Martinez.”

Pacheco reluctantly admitted his recent sexual adventure to Ignacio, telling him that this could be a problem with their proposed investigation. Ignacio laughed and called him an imbecile. His phone rang. He checked the screen and excused himself to take the call. Teresa was inviting him to her house. He told her he was unable to come because he was busy.

“Don't give me the same excuses as my husband!” she almost shrieked.

“I know this isn't what we talked about. I'm busy. These are working hours. There is nothing I can do.”

“That is not important to me. I want you here now!”

“Excuse me, please. I can't see you right now.” He ended the call. He had no idea what he had started or tried to end.

Lorena Sanchez entered Alonso's office. She wore a green wrap dress and simple jewelry. After the usual greetings she took her seat opposite Alonso. He spoke of hearing of her work and that he thought she would be an asset to his team. He spoke of promoting her to the position of Secretary of Health. He was sure she was qualified. He did not drop his gaze as he asked her whether she accepted.

She looked like she was looking for the price tag of acceptance.