One Hundred and two-One Hundred and eleven

December 30, 2010 at 1:29 pm | Posted in betty la fea | Leave a comment
Tags: Yo soy bety la fea

Telenovela:  Yo soy Betty la Fea, or I am Ugly Betty.  Was created  and written by: Fernando Gaitan and Liliana  Hernandez.  This version is the first, it’s from Colombia and aired in 2000. This English translation, was done by me.  For entertainment purposes, no copyright infringement is implied.

Lorena De Allister is an actress that has done a few telenovelas.
She played Diana Ceo from Rag Tela  on YSBLF.

One Hundred and Two

Armando approaches his mother, and gives her a hug and a kiss. “Hi mom, oh I’ve missed you so much.” Margarita tells him, “oh my love.” Armando asks, “oh mom it’s a bit strange to see you here. You left me a bit unsettled, I thought when you would arrive you would go straight home and get some rest. Since it’s such a long flight, I was going to see you tonight to say hello. What are you doing over here?” Margarita tells him, “I was just dying to see you and your father had a lot of business to take care of. Plus I didn’t want to stay at home all by myself. Marcela has so much too do, we are running out of time. I really do have to help her, don’t you think?” Armando tells her, “oh it’s delicious to see you here.” Margarita asks, “so how is everything?” Armando tells her, “everything is going well over here. Would you like to sit down so we can talk.” Margarita tells him, “no thanks I’ve been sitting for 10 ours on a plane. I want to walk around, why don’t we go for a walk through the company. Say hello to everyone, and we talk one on one alright?” Armando tells her, “I like that I thinks that’s perfect. Really I do, come on lets go.” As Armando is ready to go, he stops and stares at Betty’s door. He is angry that he has to leave the office.

Patricia sees them, and smiles. Margarita tells her, “oh Patricia how are you?” Patricia tells her, “fine Margarita its a pleasure to see you.” Margarita asks, “I didn’t think you worked today?” Patricia tells her, “oh I arrived very early.” Armando tells her, “oh mom don’t worry about her. She doesn’t exist.” Margarita tells him, “well the thing is I’m asking because I didn’t see her car at the front that’s all.” Armando tells her, “well you won’t find that car around either. In fact it doesn’t exit.” Patricia gives him a surprised look. Marcela tells her, “well Patricia had a problem with her car.” Patricia tells her, “yes but soon it will back here.” Margarita asks, “what was it stolen, did you crash it,  was it robbed? What happened?” Armando tells her, “oh yes it was taken by a lawyer and she will never ever get it back. Isn’t that right Patsy Pat. But the taxi services are very reliable isn’t it?” Patricia grinning tells him, “no Armando I haven’t lost my car as of yet. Sooner or later you will see it back here.” Armando smiles and tells her, “oh yes that I am certain of that you blond bimbo.” Marcela hits his chest with her elbow. Margarita gives him a stern look, “don’t call her that.” Armando tells her, “but mom everyone here calls her that. You blond bimbo.” Hearing that, Patricia goes straight to her cell phone. While the rest head to the elevator.

Over at Terra Moda, both men are working. Hermes tells him, “we have here a figure of 2546 and multiplying that with the saints help. We get 56936.340 that is utility gains right?” Nicholas tells him, “yes Don Hermes but today they have gone down.” Hermes tells him, “oh how strange?” Nicholas burst out laughing, and tells him. “Very good joke Don Hermes.” Hermes tells him, “very bad joke I am serious. Has Betty left instructions, what were suppose to do with that money? Do we leave them in Colombia banks or do we transfer them to American.” Nicolas tells him, “let me think about that give me a minute. The cell phone rings, excuse me Don Hermes hello.” Patricia heads to the bathroom, “oh Hi Nicholas it’s me Patricia.” Nicholas smiles and heads to the living room. “Oh hi Patty how did you wake up this morning?” Patricia tells him, “better better but I am still very embarrassed with you with what occurred last night. Oh that call bothered me so very much. It disturbed my composure, I awoke very uncomfortable and embarrassed. Well getting all anguished makes me that way.” Nicholas tells her, “well yes I understand. At least you awoke fine.” Patricia asks, “Nicholas I really do hope that I didn’t pressure you so much with asking for that loan last night. The thing is I don’t want any misunderstanding’s between the two of us. I just don’t want you to think, that I’m only seeing you for your money. That isn’t it at all Nicholas, well then I was thinking very clearly. Maybe it’s best that you don’t get involved in this. I will look ahead, alone like always.”

Nicholas tells her, “oh no what makes you think that. I am working on that now, don’t you worry.” Patricia is overjoyed, “oh really is that the truth oh Nicholas. You mean your working on it right now. Oh I’m bothering you right now.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no no it’s my pleasure. Look I’m talking to various banks and friends, and have a lot of influences I am going to ask for a loan.” Patricia tells him, “do you know how long that will be. You know those investments, dealing with the banks, that could take pretty long.” Nicholas tells her, “yes look Patty the thing is I know that you’re in a hurry. I am aware of that.” Patricia with a big smile tells him, “oh Nicholas you are so divine. I didn’t call you for that, I called you to just say hello. To tell you, I hate it that our night ended so badly. I thought maybe if you liked, we could go out another time. You know this time, no phones or cell phones around. Nor discuss the topic of materialism. It will be only be you and me both relaxed.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Patty I think that is a fabulous idea just fabulous.” Patricia asks, “oh really well how about we meet up tonight.” Nicholas tells her, “yes sure tonight is ok but I don’t think I will have your results tonight.”

Patricia tells him, “oh Nicholas lets not talk about loans tonight. I was talking about us two. So can we meet up tonight?” Nicholas tells her, “ok how about I call you later so we can talk about the time. We can be on the same level.” Patricia tells him, “ok Nicholas you don’t know how much relief you bring into my life. You don’t know how important, this friendship is for me. You don’t know how important, it is to count on you. In these moments of my life. Its at this point, that you really see who your friends are Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “oh yes Patty for me its a pleasure. A real pleasure.” Patricia tells him, “ok bye.” Then blows him a kiss, Nicholas responds by giving her a kiss as well. When he hangs up, Hermes asks. “Why are you eating that thing? You electric vampire.” Then he laughs, Nicholas tells him. “Don Hermes I was sending a kiss using via satellite.” Hermes asks, “who were you talking too so much. You wasted time. Nicholas simply shows him the picture of Patricia. Do you think I’m a fool or what?” Nicholas puts the picture back, and tells him. “Fine then stop asking then, all your are is yap yap yap.” Hermes asks, “well then what are we going to do with 25000?” Nicolas looks at the screen, “I think what we should do is bring some to Colombia. To some new investments.” He begins tapping the frame, Hermes does the same and asks. “Well how much are we talking about?” Nicholas tells him, “how about 2000 or maybe 3000.” Hermes tells him, “ok lets make it 3000 ok then we are talking about 6000.” Nicholas asks, “how much?” Hermes repeats, “6000.” Nicholas taps his head with his pencil, “oh that’s brilliant Don Hermes.” Then he laughs, Hermes tells him. “Be very careful, now then Mr. Nicorats what are you going with 6000?” Nicholas tells him, “put it in an investment that I am looking at Don Hermes.” He touches Patricia’s photo, Hermes tells him. “Anyway I really do think, you must consult this with Betty.” Nicholas tells him, “yes yes we are going to consult her.”

Back at Eco Moda, Margarita sees two employees. “Hello.” They nod and enter the elevator.  Margarita tells him, “everything looks very nice and nicely run. It seems people have been working a lot here.” Marcela tells her, “everything is ready for tomorrow.” Gutierrez is yelling at Bertha, “who the devil gave her permission?” Bertha tells him, “I assure you that she won’t be long. She just went to the drug store, but she’s on her way back.” Gutierrez tells her, “but that’s what you told me an hour ago.” Bertha tells him, “well its not that long.” Gutierrez tells her, “how could she leave at this very moment.” Margarita asks, “Gutierrez what is all this yelling about?” Gutierrez smiles and tells her, “oh its nothing Dona Margarita.” Bertha asks, “oh hello how are you?” Margarita tells him, “I’m well thank you.” Margarita asks, “so what is going on?” Gutierrez tells her, “Dona Margarita what a pleasure seeing you again. Oh how embarrassing for you. You see Sophia the financial advisor left here to go to the drug store. Its now been an hour since she’s been gone. She has abandoned her post, I don’t know how much I have to liquidate for the temporary employees. That is very grave, I think its for the best that she get a special warning.” Marcela asks, “the drug store for what is she sick?” Bertha tells her, “well yes yes she has a very grave problem and she’s just not feeling well.”

At the jail house, Elfrain is huddled in a corner of his bunk. The guard tells him, “you have a guest.” Elfrain puts himself together, and is very excited. “Oh my sweet love is here.” He is disappointed when who comes by but Sophia. She’s carrying a bunch of things. The guard tells him, “you have 10 minutes.” Elfrain asks, “Sophia what are you doing here?” Sophia tells him, “to do what she didn’t do. Look I left work, but I don’t have that much time left. I brought you some fruits, drinks and some sandwiches. I also brought you this pillow, and things you might need.” Sophia gives him a blanket. Elfrain tells her, “a thanks.” Sophia asks, “so did you sleep here?” Elfrain tells her, “ yes and I’m lucky I don’t have to be transported to a bigger jail. There’s no cell room, they say I might be transferred tomorrow.” Sophia tells him, “well then becareful and take everything with you.” Elfrain tells her, “that place is filled with hard nose criminals. I don’t think there’s a man like me, who simply didn’t pay child support. To his ex and his kids.” Sophia tells her, “well maybe so Elfrain. Your not the only man, who doesn’t fulfill his duties to his family. They’re so many, I don’t know if they are sent to jail or not. Or else the jails will be more than overcrowded. Oh Elfrain this is out of my hands now. Its now in the courts systems, you know exactly what you have too do. Just pay the money at the court, and they will let you go.” Elfrain tells her, “yes yes of course I know.” Sophia tells her, “I also brought you this change of clothes. I hope this still fits you, since this is the last few things you left when you left home. Well then you can change, so you won’t have to wear the same clothes.”

(Elfrain is so in love with Jenny, he just doesn’t see that Sophia still in love with him.)

Elfrain tells her, “well yes thank you Sophia.” Sophia tells him, “well I image this should tie you over till she comes by. She should bring you things, from your apartment when she has the time.” Elfrain tells her, “well she has been very busy lately. Will that boss really fire her, from that place right?” Sophia tells her, “yes Don Hugo is very strict.” Elfrain asks, “will you also get in trouble as well?” Sophia tells him, “well yes.” Elfrain asks, “so did you ask permission then?” Sophia tells him, “well no and they weren’t going to give it too me either. Tomorrow is the collection launch, the day after that is the big council meeting. There is a lot too do.” Elfrain tells her, “why then?” Sophia tells him,” its best that I leave.” Elfrain tells her, “Sophia they gave you 10 minutes and that time hasn’t finished yet. I’m guessing over 4 minutes have passed.“ Sophia tells him, “well lately we just have nothing to talk about in those seven minutes. Would you like to talk about, the lawyers or the process about selling the house and splitting it 50%.” Elfrain asks, “how are the kids? Do they know that I’m here?” Sophia tells him, “they are fine and don’t you worry. They will never know that you were here. Its just that they don’t ask about you anymore. Well you can stay here, or be transferred. They will never find out, if you like you can even leave the country if you wanted.”

Elfrain tells her, “well I just don’t think its right that they find out. Well if once they do ask for me. He looks at the bag, and find a submarine sandwich. He smiles and tells her, its been so many years since I’ve eaten one of these. Ever since we’ve lived together.” Sophia tells him, “I knew that you would like it.” Elfrain tells her, “thank you would you care to join me.” Sophia asks, “you want me to eat that sandwich.” Elfrain tells her, “why yes and I don’t want to eat alone.” Sophia tells him, “Elfrain no I can’t keep coming by the jail and giving you more sandwiches. Maybe you should save it for later.” Elfrain tells her, “I don’t care please join me. Come on and sit down Sophia.” Sophia goes and sits next to him, “oh this isn’t a bed its a torture table.” Elfrain tells her, “yes I had a terrible night like a dog. They start eating their subs, so what are you thinking about Sophia?” Sophia tells him, “I’m reminded of our honeymoon.” Elfrain asks, “why remember that here?” Sophia tells him, “this place just reminds me.” Elfrain laughs, “oh Sophia please. Come on its wasn’t that torturous.” Sophia tells him, “we were really poor Elfrain do you remember. We both worked, and we were hardly making any money to live on. Remember we said, that no matter what we would have something called a honeymoon. We didn’t care how, or any form that really didn’t matter. We were very happy, we scrounged around for money which we didn’t have. We went to that really poor hotel, but it had one grace. Do you remember Elfrain?”

(Sophia is hoping that this will finally make him react. By reminding him of everything they shared.)

Elfrain smiles and tells her, “oh yes it was very poor but it had a lot of flowers. In the middle of all that it was happy.” Sophia tells him, “it was a small room with a bed like this. We were so very happy, that we didn’t care. We just didn’t notice how hard it was. That night of honeymoon turned out so well, we left holding hands walked around the park of the town. We dreamed of eating everything, but we didn’t have the money for nothing. We just didn’t have the money.” Elfrain smiles and tells her, “yes we didn’t even have enough to eat at a restaurant.” Sophia tells him, “we closed ourselves in that room. All we could afford were these sandwiches. We didn’t care, we weren’t hungry. All we wanted was too be together. In a bed as hard as this one, a terrible room like this one. All we wanted was to promise love, love and love. Elfrain looks her way, and she tells him. Oh Elfrain how could life turned out like this, how could we leave that place were we loved one another so very much. To end it right here, in this room. Could you even have imaged it Elfrain?” Elfrain tells her, “never I think nobody could ever image this. Where once a priest united, it could all disappear in front of a judge. Where everything that starts out in a church, could end in a jail cell.” The guard appears, “Senora you must go now.” Sophia tells him, “alright. She damps her tears away and goes to the guard.” Elfrain tells her, “Sophia?” Sophia tells him, “Elfrain look I hardly touched it eat it later. I hope it doesn’t bother you.” Elfrain smiles again, and tells her. “Oh just like old times, I was always finishing your sandwiches remember.” Sophia tells him, “if you need something call me.” Elfrain tells her, “Sophia thank you for coming I don’t know how to tell you, what this visit meant too me. It surprised me greatly.” Sophia tells him, “ well in the end good memories cover up the pain. I am just thinking about those good times, hopefully stay in tact.” Then she turns and leaves.

(What a beautiful scene, that is acting at its best.)

Hugo is with his girls practicing. Hugo tells them, “now then I want to see you walking like royalty. Stand like your another material, you are all transparent. Your like air, hey what are you eating don’t chew gum here. Throw it away.” As Jenny walks the runway, Fernanda finally arrives. Hugo tells her, “Maria Fernanda look at the time why so late?” Maria Fernanda tells him, “I called you before remember I was on a photo shoot in Medellin.” Hugo tells her, “excellent hallelujah great that you finally arrived. Now Jenny put your foot off my stage, the real model has arrived.” Hugo comes down and tells Maria Fernanda. “Oh I had to mark the movements with that one. He screams, Inesita.” Ines screams, “I’m coming Don Hugo. Oh you look just divine, Ines get her her change of attire for she is going to work with us.”  Ines tells him, “yes sir Don Hugo.” As she’s ready to go he calls out too her once more. “Ines.” Ines turns, “yes Don Hugo?” Hugo tells her, “now then I want you to also fix her dress to her size.” Ines tells him, “yes sir I’ll do that.” Hugo tells her, “quick quick oh this is eternal. You get off.” Jenny is furious and leaves the runway.” Marcela calls out too him, “oh Hugo guess who’s here.” Hugo smiles and goes to her, “oh Margarita oh at last an intelligent person in this company.”

Margarita tells him, “oh but  your so thin. Well so how is the entire collection going?” Hugo tells her, “the collection is royalty your going to have to put a pillow on the floor. For you are just going to faint when you see it. You are going to die.” Armando tells her, “oh yes your going to die when you find out how expensive this collection turned out.” Hugo asks, “let me ask you one question Margara how could raise such a playboy. Are you sure that he’s your son? Or did you just forget that you adopted him, maybe they switched him at the market.” Margarita touches her son, “no this one I personally brought to this world.” Armando just smiles at her, then Hugo asks. “Now then when will the honourable Marcela Valencia. Finally try out the wedding dress.” Margarita asks, “so the dress is already?” Hugo tells her, “its ready ready vine what’s wrong is she hasn’t had the time to try it on. You know since she’s so very busy. She hasn’t tried it on.” Marcela asks, “well do you have time now?” Hugo tells her, “sure I’m just waiting for a girl to change and I’m ready.” Marcela with a sly smiles asks, “care to see the dress?” Margarita tells him, “oh yes I do.” Marcela touches Armando’s face, Armando then follows the three. Hugo asks, “and where are you going?” Armando utters, “to see the dress?” Hugo asks, “what to see the dress?  Don’t you know that its bad luck, to see the bride before the wedding. Plus you have given that girl, so much bad luck. For my poor Marge.” Armando stops him, and simply tells him. “ZZZ.” Hugo smiles and tells him, “very good thank you.” When Hugo leaves, the models go say “hello.” Armando just smiles, waves and approaches them. “Well hello how have you been?” Armando tells her, “I’m been fine.” Then kisses three models, and one asks. “So when is the big day of the wedding?” Armando tells her, “I don’t know why don’t you make up a date.” The girls just smile and laugh, and continue flirting with him.

Betty is in her office working as always. When the phone rings, “yes President office of Eco Moda. No at this very moment, Don Armando isn’t here at the office. What is it that you need? Oh hello Don Roberto, how are you? I’ve been very well thank you. Don Armando isn’t here, but if you like I could go get him. Please wait for just a second. She hangs up, and goes out. When she sees that he’s up to his old ways, she just shakes her head. Don Armando, Don Armando.” Armando is startled then he turns her way, “oh hello Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “your father is looking for you.” Armando looks at the models, “yes continue what you were doing you all looked great. He grabs Betty arm, oh we were just tweaky some of the chorography for tomorrow’s collection launch. You know everything has to be in order.” Betty coldly tells him, “no no no you don’t have to give me any explanations. Sir your father is waiting on the phone.” Armando tells her, “please inform my mother that I’ll be in the office alright thank you” Armando heads to the office, Betty asks the models. “Excuse me but do you know, where Dona Margarita went?” One of them tells her, “she’s with Don Hugo.”

Betty tells them, “thank you.” As she enters, Margarita tells Hugo. “Oh its so very lovely.” Betty just stands there, she is stunned to see Marcela in her wedding dress. Margarita sees her reaction, and Hugo tells her. “Oh haven’t you seen, the most beautiful bride in this world.She’s so outetue.” Margarita hears the evil tone in Marcela’s voice. “What do you need Beatriz?” Betty tells her, “I’d like to inform Dona Margarita that Don Armando is in the president’s office.” Marcela asks, “anything else?” Betty tells her, “no senora.” Hugo tells her, “you have nothing to do here. If you came here to gossip about this dress of Marg. Now you’ve seen it, this is the last time that you will see it. I don’t think that you will invite, the muskrat here to the wedding?” Angrily Margarita tells him, “Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “just to inform me to see if I’m going or not. Betty ignores him, and just stares at that dress and what it represents. From what I understand, this wedding is going to be very chic.” Marcela quite coldly tells her, “she knows now that she is not invited isn’t that right Beatriz.”

Betty tells her, “well it doesn’t matter for that day I have an important engagement too go too.” Marcela smiles and tells her, “oh that makes me so very happy.” Betty tells them, “excuse me.” Betty leaves the studio. Margarita looks at them both, “how could you two be so very cruel to her.” Hugo asks, “me hard me hard me hard? He laughs, and he tells her. Margara I would like to confess to you, why I’m very hard on her. You see a woman who doesn’t even bother looking herself in the mirror. Inesita I need those blue safety pins, that I’ve asked you for.” Ines tells her, “I’m coming here.” Hugo tells her, “oh look at the time oh what a lovely watch this is.” Marcela has something in her eye, and then glances at her train. Margarita asks, “and you why are you so very hard on her?” Marcela tells her, “she is Armando’s clandestine, she’s way too bold since she’s been here. She is misusing the power that Armando has given her. She suffers, she’s suffering because I am going to marry him.” Margarita asks, “well is she in love with Armando or what?” Marcela in disgust tells her, “oh no no she keeps saying that she has a rich boyfriend. But she is an enemy of this relationship, she arranges all the meetings with his mistress. If it were for her Margarita, she would rather that Armando marry anybody else rather than me.” Margarita can’t believe what she’s saying, “oh no wait wait Armando has a lover?”

Marcela looks down and tells her, “the thing is I’m not sure that he still has her by his side. I am sure that he did indeed have one, a woman that became very very important too him. Beatriz has been a big part a willing participate, now do you understand. Why I detest her.” Margarita moves away, while she just covers her face in pain. Hugo tells her, “oh no you calm down I want to see that lovely face of yours so very happy. You are going to damage that design of that dress. Ines where are my pins? Look at the time, just look at the time.” Ines tells her, “yes yes here they are.” Hugo tells her, “now where are the clothes for Maria Fernanda?” Ines tells him, “I’ll get them I’ll get them. You just haven’t given me time to do anything Don Hugo.” Margarita notices that she is quite tried, “Hugo let her rest. Inesita I see that you are very pale, are you alright. Have you gone to the doctors?” Ines tells her, “at what time Dona Margarita? I’m just hoping that after this collection I will have time to go. Apparently its there, where I was told I would get some vacation time.” Margarita asks, “oh that’s wonderful. So where are you going?” Ines tells her, “where would I go?” Margarita asks, “and your kids?” Ines tells her, “well my kids have grown and moved far away senora.” Margarita asks, “so your all alone?” Ines tells her, “I’ve been alone for such a long time. That is how I will die.” Margarita is sad to hear her tale, Hugo tells her. “Oh no, the thing is I introduced her to a very nice porter at my building. Oh he is so divine, anyway. Can you believe, she didn’t bother going out with him.” Ines tells her, “are you kidding I am between here and hell. I’ve known love, I enjoyed it, I suffered for him. I told you that I’m too old, to go out with those plans Don Hugo.” Hugo then repeats, “well where are my safety pins then?” Ines leaves, and he laughs. “Oh she’s so divine she so efficient Quasimodo.” Marcela just laughs at his joke.

Armando is in his office, talking to his dad. “Oh dad we will talk tonight. Don’t you worry, Catalina is at the airport. Coordinating the arrival of our guests, who arrive on international flights. Yes I am fine dad.” Betty stares him down when she arrives, Armando just stares back trying to figure out what happened now? We are fixing everything now, so everything goes fine. Betty goes to her office. Look dad tonight I’ll head to the apartment, and we can talk about everything there. Yes sir yes sir, I love you too dad. I’m so very glad that you are here.” When he gets off the phone, he just so exasperated he looks above. Margarita and Marcela return to his office, both very happy. Margarita tells him, “oh that dress is so spectacular. You just can’t image, so what will you be wearing. A suit or a tuxedo?” Armando just utters, “I don’t know I hadn’t really thought of that.” Marcela tells her, “well the thing is I am in charge of this event. He will wear a tuxedo.” Margarita tells him, “guess what Marcela told me that everyone has responded and will be there. Isn’t that just wonderful?” Marcela tells him, “well its practically like the collection. The guests, the meal, the drinks. The change is the centre show, instead of a collection its us my love.” Armando glances at Betty’s door.

Margarita tells her, “I think the best news is your going for your honeymoon to the orient. That way your long gone, and can distress yourself from this office. Disconnect yourself from this office, get some clean oxygen. Leave this office, and finally give Marcela your full attention.” She hugs Marcela, while Armando just glances back at Betty’s open door. “Yes of course.” Marcela tells them, “kisses love I have so much to do still.” She then takes off, while Margarita sits down. “Oh son the grand day is approaching.” Betty is like in a daze and just eavesdrops. Armando is stunned and asks, “what grand day? Do you mean the council meeting, or the collection launch.” Margarita just stares her son, “your wedding day son of course? For me the council meeting nor the collection launch isn’t that important to me. Rather this is, Armando this is something so important too me. That both your father and I, have waited so longed for. Its just not a simply ceremony like any other, its between two people who we love so much. Its a desire that has come true, its like fulfilling the final wishes of the Julio and Susana Valencia’s.” Armando utters, “yes I guess so.”

Margarita tells him, “son with your marriage its like your defiantly changing. Your now the president of a strong company. At that council meeting, your going to show how great you’ve been maintaining it. I know that it has been excellent.” Armando just stares at her, and feeling so very guilty. Armando nods and tells her, “well yes its been well.” Margarita tells him, “well with this marriage it rectifies that you at last are living a normal life. Living the life of an adult and as a  responsible man, who is marrying a marvellous woman that loves you so very much.” Again he stares at Betty’s office. He just utters, “oh yes.” Betty gets jolted from her state and gets the phone. “President’s office of Eco Moda.” Its Nicholas, “oh hi Betty how are you its Nicholas.” Loudly she laughs and tells him, “oh hello Nicholas how are you?” Once again hearing this, Armando gets quite jealous. Nicholas asks, “Betty what’s wrong are you drunk? Why are you flirting with me?” Betty tells him, “oh I’m fine thank you and you how are you?” Nicholas tells her, “Betty Betty what is with all this love. Your really are making me quite nervous.” Betty tells him, “at what time are you going to pick me up?”

Margarita just watches him, and asks. “You seem quite strange Armando. Is something wrong?” Armando hits the table with his fists, “what oh mom everything is happening. I am so very tense, well the thing is the collection is on top of me. The council meeting is like tomorrow, the collection, and that meeting plus that wedding. He makes a fists and hit his hand. Everything is now on top of me.” Betty says loudly, “oh that is just delicious Nicholas.” Margarita tells him, “I think you are very evasive with the topic surrounding your wedding. Tell me something, aren’t you sure that you really want to get married or what.” Betty tells Nicholas, “oh Nicholas how could you say such things. Why don’t we talk tonight alright?” Margarita tells him, “why don’t you close that door once and for all?” Armando gets up angrily and tells her, “yes I will close that door.” Betty tells Nicholas, “oh where ever you want. When he sees Betty he tries to stare her down. Betty with a fake smile tells him. Please sir, could you close that door thank you.” Angrily he tells her, “with pleasure Betty.” Once it’s close, Betty breaks down.

Nicholas asks, “hi Betty so is it safe to talk now. You are going to drive me crazy, or are you going a bit crazy. Hey Don Hermes, it seems soon you will be my father in law. It seems Betty is crazy for me.” Hermes tells him, “me have a son in law that’s a baker forget it you croissant head.” Then he just laughs, Nicholas tells him. “Stop putting me down Don Hermes, I’m the best suitor Betty will ever have. Its going to be hard, to find another like me believe you me. Oh Betty, Betty so we can honesty talk now yes or no.” Betty in tears tells him, “ok tell me your father wants to know what do we do. With that money we have in the states, should we leave it as a deposit for the banks. Or do you want to liquefy and disperse the money?” Betty tells him, “no Nicholas Terra Moda can’t stop its production. I need that balance up to date by tomorrow ready.” Nicholas asks, “oh can I also use 3000 for a few investments.”

Betty tells him, “do what ever you want with it. I just need that balance ready, put it with the rest.” Nicholas asks, “Betty are you alright? What’s wrong, your attitude changed so drastically? What’s going on?” Betty in tears tells him, “Oh Nicholas I want you to come early for me?” Nicholas asks, “Betty what’s wrong? Are you not feeling well?” Hermes stops working and looks over at Nicholas. Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas I am going crazy. Life is leaving my hands, I just don’t know what I’m doing anymore Nicholas. Please come pick me up.”

In the office Armando tells his mother, “mom the truth is I just don’t want to talk about that topic anymore. Its not that I’m annoyed talking about the wedding. Its just not that, I just have a lot of work too do. I have way too many things, that are pressuring me right now. At this very moment, I would prefer that we discuss all this when I arrive at the apartment tonight. We have all night really. He looks over at Betty’s again. I really have to fix a lot of problems here right now, lots and lots of problems.” Margarita tells him, “I just hope that its just that your overworked with the job instead of anything else. Or like someone told me, somebody else.” She gets up from the chair, and leaves. Armando just stares at her, then back at Betty’s door.

Night has fallen, when Sophia returns to the office, She tells Bertha, “oh its just awful he’s in a place that they would put skeletons in. You know what Bertha, the thing is I thought I loathed him but today when I saw that he was so frail and so destroyed. I felt so much pity, I took him his things. He asked me to stay with him.” Bertha tells her, “oh really.” Sophia asks, “what’s wrong?” Bertha tells her, “its this pregnancy well I have to go to the bathroom again.” Sophia tells her, “oh no come on Bertha. Here I am spilling my guts out, and you interrupt to tell me you have too go to the bathroom.” Bertha tells her, “well its like the soaps as they get good there’s a commercial. This is one of those times.” Jenny is complaining once more to Hugo, “Don Hugo I can’t continue practicing. My sweet love needs me, I haven’t visited me not once. Plus why and I here remembering that chorography, when I’m not even going to walk it.” Hugo tells her, “look Jenny I need you to help Inesita Quasimodo. She’s an elderly lady, and she has a lot of work too do.” Jenny puts her foot down, “Don Hugo please.” Sophia tells her, “oh come on Jenny relax don’t you worry. Elfrain doesn’t need anything, I already went and I took him. Food and clothes, plus a blanket and pillow. I took him his clothes.”

Jenny asks, “you did what? Your the reason he’s in jail, Dona Sophia you put him there. Now why would you do that?” Sophia tells her, “why because the poor guy had the night of the dogs. Someone had to do something, you were suppose too go but no you were so very busy.” Jenny tells her, “I just can’t believe what I’m hearing. Your a witch, you did a bad thing now I know this was all a plan to get him back.” Sophia tells her, “no no no more enough shut up what I did was a act of humanity kindness. Elfrain is no longer my husband, he’s your lover. Even though he’s my kids father, even though that man is going through a tough time now. Without anybody being by his side. When he needs his woman to be by his side, a woman who he lost everything for. Doesn’t even bother to go visited him. I don’t mind trying to help you out, the thing is your just a passing fad Jenny. Before he knows it, you are going to dump him for someone better too come along. He will continue being the father of my kids, and that is for his entire life. So don’t worry about it Jenny. You really don’t have to help me out at all.” Jenny tells her, “I don’t care I will still be with him. He needs me more, than you Dona Sophia. I am going even though its a bit late.” Hugo who has been listening intently to this conversation. Tells Sophia, “oh shortly just let her go because she’s the one that will be fired. So go ahead fly fly goodbye.” Jenny gives him an annoyed look, and takes off furiously. Hugo laughs and goes back to the studio. Bertha returns and tells her, “the commercials are over and continue telling everything.” Sophia is now in tears, “wait wait wait till I catch my breath.” Bertha just gives her a moment.

Over at the studio, Ines is hard at work. “Now dear pull your hair out like that.” One of the models gets in Hugo’s way. “What do you want to dance or something? He goes to one of the models, and grabs her dress. Inesita can you believe, that Jenny dump her work. Its going to be just the two of us tonight along.” Ines tells him, “but she had to do a very important errand Don Hugo.” Hugo then asks, “excuse me but what is this?” Ines tells him.” its what’s left.” Hugo tells her, “I know that is what’s left Ines. Oh in what tone, must I talk with now. I don’t know I just don’t know. I told you, that this dress had to be tighten for Maria Fernanda.” Ines tells him, “I know that but you had me working all day on Dona Marcela’s dress. Plus all the six one’s that needed to be fitted.” Hugo tells her, “fine just give me blue thread this just can’t remain here like this. Oh and give me my measuring cord, for once in your life stop using mine.” He then hits the models butt, and tells her. Oh my love, did you fight with your boyfriend you are so very thin. Come back here oh Ines.” Ines tells him, “yes sir.” Hugo tells her, “where is my measuring cord and that thread. Oh look at the time, oh this watch is so very lovely.” Ines is very tired and weak, she touches her head. “Here you go Don Hugo.”

Hugo tells her, “thank you.” Then she tells him, “I don’t feel well Don Hugo. I’m not feeling well, I think something is going to happen to me.” Hugo asks, “what?” Ines tells him, “I think I’m going to faint.” Hugo becomes concerned and goes to her side, “Inesita what’s wrong? What’s wrong, and then he’s holding her in his arms. She has fainted, he screams. You mannequins do something, get some help or something. Oh my Inesita come on, Inesita please.” The models tells each other, “call a doctor.” Outside Sophia tells Bertha, “can you believe that wretched woman she was complaining too me. Oh no.” Then they hear Hugo screaming, “Inesita.” Bertha screams, “what happened?” Then she screams in pain, and grabs her belly. Sophia tells her, “relax I will see what occurred.” Bertha tells her, “something has happened to Inesita.” Sophia sits her down and tells her, “I know but I will see what happened. Bertha I’ll be right back.” Bertha sits in pain, while Sophia runs to the studio. Ines is now on a lounger, Hugo frantically calls her name. “Inesita Inesita.” Sophia comes in and asks, “what happened Don Hugo what happened?” In tears he tells her, “I don’t know someone get her water or alcohol. Call a doctor, help me help me. Call an ambulance, Sophia takes off. What is that thing they do with her finger. Maybe I should bite it?”

The models stop him, “no no no.” Sophia heads to the phone, Bertha asks. “Sophie what happened to Inesita?” Sophia tells her, “it was nothing she just fainted.” Bertha tells her, “what do you mean she fainted?” Sophia tells her, “no you are going to sit back down please. Do this one favour, now try to relax. Are you alright?” Bertha tells her, “yes just a bit. Sophia runs to the bathroom to get water. The phone rings, yes Wilson tell Gordo I’m on my way down.” Bertha asks, “Sophie do you think its best we take Inesita to a clinic or something.” Sophia tells her, “no no don’t you worry its nothing now you head on down. I will call you if its serious, now you head down now.” Hugo screams, “what happened with that water?” Sophia screams, “I’m coming Don Hugo, oh what horror.” She runs in and gives it too him. Hugo tells Ines, “Inesita you can’t do this too me. Look Inesita I apologize for everything that I’ve done. I’ve called you Quasimodo and I’ve made you work extra hours. I’ve been such a tyrant towards you.” The models tells him, “not really.” Hugo tells her, “ok not a tyrant oh Inesita what will my life be without you. How can you die now, when you haven’t even enjoyed your pension.” Sophia screams, “here’s the water here’s the water.” Hugo tells her, “I will die if your not here.” Sophia gives him the water, “ok Inesita dear.” Hugo angrily tells her, “don’t you dare touch her. Or get too near to her, you’re going to give her an attack of freight or something. Fly fly goodbye. Now Inesita here drink some water, now where is that doctor?” The models tell him, “he’s on his way.” Hugo asks, “did she drink anything?”  Ines finally speaks, “please Don Hugo calm yourself down. I promise you that I will get better.” Hugo screams, “don’t tell me too calm down. I won’t calm down.” The models tells him, “calm down now.” Then instead of giving the water back to Ines Hugo drinks it. Hugo tells them, “if in five minutes that doctor doesn’t arrive. I will take her on my back, if I have too. I don’t care if I fall I will take her.”

Over at Armando’s office, Mario enters and looks over at Armando. Who by now has begun drinking. “So how is that balance?” Armando turns and tells him, “I don’t know I don’t know. Why don’t you go right in, and ask her yourself.” Mario asks, “and what happened?” Armando tells him, “I am in no mood to ask her today. I will simply sit and wait right here, for her to come out. So she can give me that blasted balance.” Mario asks, “what another fight between the couple. Another domestic fight?” Armando tells him, “well no no simply Nicholas Mora called. He invited her out, and figure this she practically died out of emotion. Listen again she almost died out of emotion.” Mario all excited tells him, “so I guess that tonight you are going to go chase her tonight.” Armando tells him, “no I can’t my dad is waiting for me so we can talk. Apparently my mom is with Marcela and Patricia. You know that I can’t leave her alone, with those two vipers. No I won’t be following her tonight. Let her do what ever she wants, all I want is that blasted finished balance once and for all. ” Mario tells him, “fine I will go ask her for it.”

Betty is working as he enters. “Oh hello sir.” Mario tells her, “I’m fine thanks Betty very well. But I am a bit worried, that the balance isn’t ready yet.” Betty tells him, “I am still working on that sir.” Mario asks, “so it has all the proper fixes that we need?” Betty tells him, “tonight you will have the real balance. While tomorrow will be the manipulated balance.” Mario tells her, “but Betty another day has passed and nothing. Armando’s family has already arrived, we only have 36 hours for the council meeting. So Betty at what time will it be ready?” Betty tells him, “it will be ready tomorrow.” Mario tells her, “tomorrow without fail?” Betty just nods, while he utters. “Ok work finish bye. He leaves and sits down next to Armando. It seems she hasn’t quite finished the real balance yet. Tomorrow she will finish the manipulated balance. Oh that bothers me a lot I am getting pretty worried. This is making me quite nervous.” Armando looks at his glass, “so this is making you nervous. Image how I am, I am going crazy.” Mario tells him, “calm down calm down.” Armando tells him, “that is what I’m doing Calderon. I am trying to calm myself down.” Mario tells him, ” you can’t leave you can’t let her leave and let him go with him. I’ll be in my office.” The phone rings, “oh President’s office of Eco Moda. Yes Nicholas has arrived, please inform him that I’m on my way down.” Armando finishes his drink, and goes to see her. Betty gathers her things, and turns everything off. “Hello Beatriz tell me are you finished with that balance?” Betty tells him, “it will be done tomorrow sir.”

Armando tells her, “tomorrow yes because we have so much work too do. You know what Beatriz, this isn’t going to happen your going to finish that balance tonight. Now right here tonight.” Betty tells him, “I’m sorry sir but they are waiting for me downstairs.” Armando asks, “oh someone is here for you oh what happy news. So you would prefer to go with that guy, then finish your job right?” Betty tells him, “sir I am tired and want too leave.” Armando stops her from leaving. “No you are not tired Beatriz you are fine. In fact what you want is too torment me. Make me go crazy isn’t that right Betty,” Betty tells him, “you are mistaken sir. Have a nice evening.” Armando does move, and tells her. “no your not going to leave her Beatriz. No senora, I am getting tired of this situation. I am getting sick with this situation. You are going to stay here with me, we both like the song say. We both will finish that balance. We then will manipulate that form.” Betty tells him, “sorry sir but that will be impossible. Please calm yourself someone might notice.” Armando quietly tells her, “not possible someone might noticed. Who cares if someone notices. He approaches her, who has been looking for this who. He grabs her face, and then releases her. You’ve been looking for this, you want something grave to happen here. You know something is happening Beatriz, you want me to go crazy. He screams, perfect I am now crazy I am going to tell you something. My dear Beatriz, you are now looking at the Armando that you created. If he wants to scream at you, he will scream at you. If he wants to kiss you, he will kiss you. He will do what ever he wants with you understand.” Uncontrollable he grabs Betty, and tries to kiss her. Betty tries to move away, “sir please.” Then Armando brings her close to him, and kisses her. Coming in the office, is Catalina and witnesses what occurring.

Angelly Vanessa Moncayo was born on November 4, 1979 in Cali Colombia.

She has done several telenovelas since 1999. She played Karina Larson on YSBLF.

One Hundred and Three

When Catalina sees what’s occurring, she goes back out and closes the doors. Betty tells Armando, “sir someone opened the door.” Armando releases her, and asks. “Who opened that door?” Betty tells him, “I didn’t see who clearly opened that door. Sir you are taking too many risks.” Then Patricia opens the door, “go right on in Margarita.” Betty quickly goes to them, “excuse me good evening.” In unison they say, “good evening.” Betty leaves the office, and sees that Aura Maria is with Freddy. Betty asks, “Aura Maria have you seen Dona Catalina? Did she leave already?” Aura Maria tells her, “no I haven’t seen her.” Betty sees that they are quite nervous, and asks. “What’s going on?” Freddy tells her, “we have received grave news from the palace that Inesita is sick.” Betty asks, “what happened?” Aura Maria tells her, “we don’t know a doctor is checking her out.” Freddy asks, “where?” Aura Maria drags Freddy, “come on you idiot lets hurry.” Betty is quite nervous, and heads to Hugo’s studio. Inside Margarita tells Armando, “my love come on lets go or aren’t you coming home with us?” Armando tells her, “I don’t know I’ll be home in a half an hour mom. I just want to finish things here.” Margarita tells him, “ok I am going with Marcela.” Armando tells her, “yes ok.” Marcela is none to please to hear this. She sees the liquor on the table. She tells them, “sure lets get going.”

Margarita asks Patricia, “oh Patricia are you coming with us?” Patricia tells her, “oh no Margarita I would love too but I have another important engagement to go too.” Margarita tells him, “really.” Patricia tells her, “please if you can could you drop me off at my apartment. Marcee I have to change my clothes.” Marcela tells her, “yes.” Margarita asks, “what is that important thing all about. Is it with a boyfriend, or a suitor” Patricia smiling tells her, “oh its someone I’ve recently been dating Margarita. Can you believe this, he’s a young business man. A man with a lot of projections, he owns a solid company. He has a lot of money, oh yes its going super well.” Margarita tells her, “well congratulations he might be the man of your dreams.” Armando tells her, “yes hopefully so she can leave once and for all.” Margarita tells him, “Armando don’t say such things. Ok we should go.” Armando goes to her, and gives her a kiss. “Bye mom.” Margarita tells him, “see you soon my love at home.” Armando tells her, “yes ok.” Patricia gives him a dirty look and follows. Marcela asks, “my love your drinking?” Armando angrily tells her, “yes I’m drinking and I’m tense and you already know that.” Marcela tells him, “I know that you are tense that is fine it was just a question. We will see one another at your parents place.” Armando pours himself another drink, “yes I’ll be there so will Daniel be there?” Marcela tells him, “no but he asked Roberto here for a meeting to talk to him.” Armando tells her, “here tomorrow there’s no council meeting.” Marcela tells him, “I know well I’ll see you then.” Armando utters in his head, “well at least it wasn’t them that opened that door. But who the devil opened that blasted door.”

Betty sees everyone gathered around Inesita. The doctor has finished his examination. Hugo asks, “what is wrong doctor?” The doctor tells him, “exhaustion?” Hugo asks, “is that grave?” The doctor tells him, “do we have to take her to a clinic or should we take her to a hospital. That won’t be no problem, Inesita deserves nothing but the best clinic in the world.” The doctor tells them, “its not necessary all she needs is to rest. I will prescribe medication so she can take. She’s going to have to get complete rest.” Ines tells him, “no doctor I just can’t tomorrow is the collection launch. I have to be here with Don Hugo.” Hugo puts his arms around her, “oh don’t be an idiot you heard the doctor. You need complete rest.” Ines tells him, “but I have to…” Hugo tells her, “no nothing if this collection has to be cancelled so be it. If they want to fire me, let them fire me. The most important thing here, is you health Inesita ” Catalina tells him, “Hugo she needs to be taken home.” Hugo tells her, “yes of course.” Freddy tells him, “excuse me everyone but Ines my bike is at your disposal.” Hugo tells him, “are you talking about the motor-bike the motor-bike?” Freddy tells him, “yes the one everyone recognizes just to let you know I’m not selling it.” Hugo tells him, “let me tell you someone winged messenger. We would like that Inesita arrives home safe and sound to her home. We would like her to get better, that means taken care of by everything and that includes you and your motor-bike.”

Catalina tells him, “alright Hugo calm down.” Hugo utters, “that idiot.” Betty tells him, “if you like I can take you home downstairs the car is waiting.” Catalina gives her such a look, Betty just stares back. Hugo tells her, “nobody touches Ines. I will take her.” The doctor tells them, “here take this prescription and get the medications she requires.” Catalina gives it to Hugo, he tells him. “Thank you very much doctor.” The doctor tells them, “good evening.” In unison they say, “thank you doctor.” Aura Maria approaches him, “Don Hugo look I’ll take that prescription and take good care of Inesita. I’ll make sure she takes all her medications.” Hugo tells her, “oh no Inesita will be going to my apartment. Aura Maria looks towards her group, and then back at Hugo. No I will take care of her?” Ines tells him, “no Don Hugo I don’t want to go to your apartment. I don’t want to bother you and your boyfriend. I feel pity bothering you two.” Hugo tells her, “oh my sweet boyfriend knows how to sew and how to iron. Plus he’s sleeping on the sofa, no he won’t start any problem just relax. Oh my Inesita relax.”

Ines tells him, “please I’d like to just go home. I’ll be fine there, plus the girls will look after me. Please just follow my wishes.”  Hugo tells her, “well alright then its alright but I’m going with you. I won’t leave your feet, ok everyone help her up.” Aura Maria helps her sit up, Freddy puts back her shoes. Hugo tells his models, “alright ladies you are going to take off those clothes. Put them on hangers just like Ines would do. Fly fly fly away. He goes over to Ines, now then one step for Don Hugo now another.” Catalina tells them, “well I’ll see everyone tomorrow.” Betty stops her, “Dona Catalina please give me one moment. I need to talk too you.” Aura Maria tells her, “sorry for the interruption Betty but we have too do something. We can’t let Inesita go with Don Hugo. Oh can you just image, those two sleeping together no.” Sophia laughs and tells her, “oh I don’t think he will try to make a pass at Inesita.” Aura Maria tells her, “no you idiot I’m not saying that. Well I’m talking about visiting, aren’t you all going to want to visit her. Or are you going to let her be all alone. I won’t leave her alone, I will make sure she is well taken care of.” Sophia tells her, “oh we are talking about that plus we must advise Sandra and Mariana.” Aura Maria tells her, “alright I will go with Freddy then to Ines’s place.”

Betty tells her, “I’ll be there later on.” Aura Maria tells her, “alright bye see you both tomorrow.” Catalina looks over at Betty, while Betty tells her. “Dona Catalina I know that you saw… Well you noticed… well that Don Armando and I… we were…” Catalina tells her, “don’t worry about it Betty I didn’t see nothing.” Betty tells her, “Dona Catalina I know that you are very good friends with Dona Marcela. Well with the Valencia’s as well as the Mendoza’s I don’t want.” Catalina tells her, “listen to me I didn’t see nothing. Well even though I saw everything. That is the only commentary that I will make Betty. Betty stares at the floor, I understand that your problem is very very grave.” Betty in tears tells her, “now you know why I want to leave here.” Catalina nods and tells her, “yes Betty and your going to have too. The thing is I don’t know, what’s really happening. But the only thing clear is, I wouldn’t want to be in your place.” Betty tells her, “well I don’t want to be in my place either.” Catalina asks, “would you like to talk?” Betty tells her, “well my friend is downstairs waiting for me.” Catalina asks, “is he your friend or boyfriend?” Betty tells her, “I don’t have a boyfriend we will talk tomorrow Dona Catalina.” She then just leaves. Catalina just closes her eyes, and realizes just who the boyfriend is.

Armando is furious and walking back and forth in Betty’s office. “I don’t know Calderon, who it was who saw us. Or who it was that opened that door. Or maybe it was just a trick of Beatriz, so I would release her I don’t know?” Mario tells him, “I don’t know if you don’t calm down with Betty. Or we will get a tragic incident my friend.” Armando tells him, “well there’s the problem I just couldn’t control myself. She would rather go see that guy, than to stay here with me to finish that balance for the council meeting.” Mario is now sitting in the boardroom, and tells him. “You are like crazy or what? What if were your mother, or Patricia or Marcela?” Armando tells him, “don’t say that. I’m sure none of them saw it.” Mario tells him, “fine but do me a favour go to your parents drink with them. Stop putting yourself in any more trouble, why don’t you that’s better.” Armando simply tells him, “yeah right problems. That is what we will have problems Calderon, if Betty doesn’t manipulate that balance tomorrow.” Mario tells him, “do me a favour look stop lying to me we both know what torments you more. That is Betty and what she might be doing with that idiot Nicholas than that bloody balance.” Armando tells him, “I know perfectly well what torments me its that council meeting.” Mario tells him, “brother stop diluting yourself you are hiding it you don’t want to see isn’t the big problem that has entered your life. If you have it clear, the problems isn’t solved but at least you know where you stand. Do you understand, do you know at this very moment we are up to our necks. Look Armando we need clarity, lucidness, the day after tomorrow there is that council meeting. Everyone will arrive very lucid, to hear the state of this company. Especially Daniel Valencia, I don’t want this companies president my president to be mix in a personal matter. Please confronting jealous feelings you’ve never felt before. Armando please react, look I want to see you tomorrow with your feet on this earth understand.” Mario leaves and Armando continues drinking.

Daniel is working in his office, “thank you Nancy.” Olarte arrives and goes to his desk, and opens his briefcase. “Hello sir excuse me.” Daniel asks, “so did you find out anything about the company Terra Moda.”Olarte tells him, “yes I’ve just come from there. I have here a copy of the company and who legalizes and represents that company.” Daniel asks, “who are the owners? Who are the investors? What is the capital?” Olarte tells him, “its not a big company its a personal company.” Daniel thinks about this, then asks. “So who are the owners?” Olarte tells him, “its a woman hear this well sir its none other than Beatriz Pinzon Solano.” Daniel utters, “Beatriz?” Olarte tells him, “yes sir I warned you sir that she wasn’t too be trusted. She’s the owner of the company.” Daniel looks at his notes, “I thought the owner was a man by the name Nicholas Mora.” Olarte tells him, “Nicholas Mora yes yes he appears here legally as an representation of the company sir.” Daniel sits down, and asks. “What is their capital?” Olarte tells him, “it began with 760.” Daniel tells him, “lets round it too 8000. What is the gains now?” Olarte tells him, “in fact it doesn’t have a year in service.” Daniel asks, “what is their function?” Olarte tells him, “apparently their mission is investments, giving out loans, and taking properties sir.” Daniel asks, “that’s a pretty broad function.” Olarte tells him, “yes it is sir.” Daniel asks, “where is it located?” Olarte tells him, “it at block of 42 1625.” Daniel tells him, “its a residential place right or am I mistaken?” Olarte tells him, “yes sir your correct seems its at a residential barrio.” Daniel tells him, “now very good give me those certificates. It seems that vacation did you well. You may continue working here.” Olarte tells him, “yes thank you and its nice to be back. He once again extends his hand to shake it, Daniel ignores him once again. Well excuse me.” Daniel doesn’t say a word, he just utters. “So the owner of Terra Moda is Betty. Now where would she get 80000.”

Nicholas is waiting outside by the car for Betty. When he sees her, he approaches her for a hug but Betty moves back. Then he asks, “what’s wrong girlfriend of mine.” Betty tells him, “open the car and lets here right now Nicholas.” Nicholas looks over at Wilson, then asks. “What happened with the hugs and kisses?” Betty tells him, “tonight its over just open that door.” Nicholas tells her, “yes of course right away boss.” Betty enters and he asks. “What do you mean its over, is it that were breaking up or am I getting fired.” Betty tells him, “no Nicholas this theatre production is over. I’m going to stop tormenting Don Armando, because in the end I’m the one that ends up suffering. Oh Nicholas I don’t know what I’m doing. I think I lost north.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Betty what is going on? What happened?” Betty tells him, “everything an important person in Eco Moda saw what’s occurring between me and Don Armando. Oh Nicholas everything is becoming pulverised. I am killing him, and myself. Nicholas there’s no point, trying to make him jealous for I know that he doesn’t love me. The thing is he’s still doing everything, for me to manipulate that balance for the council meeting. He swears to me, that he loves me. He swears to me that he’s not going to get married. He chases me, tonight he tried to kiss me at the office.”

Nicholas asks, “what and you permitted it.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas I already told you that I am so very fragile. I’m the one that ends up losing it all in the end. Oh what I’m now doing, its just plain ridiculous. Nicholas I lost the cause, everything that I’m doing with him. To torment him, its just an extravagant game. A ridiculous clumsy act, Nicholas I’m not the same Betty as before. Sometimes I feel like a woman in a comic, the clown without make-up. A bold crazy woman. Oh no Nicholas, everything that were doing with this game. She hits the car, with this car. Going to those restaurants, those big costs of ours. Its just isn’t us Nicholas, what were doing is just ridiculous.” Nicholas tells her, “Betty again with the same thing.” Betty tells him, “yes Nicholas I am playing around with Don Armando. With his family, and this company. You are playing a rich man with that woman. They are making fun of us, I know for sure that she is making fun of you.” Nicholas tells her, “oh yes now I know you just want to ruin my night. My romance with Patricia Fernandez.” Betty tells him, “no Nicholas but you have been warned. Live with what you can from this dream. This ends this week, I won’t be here for Don Armando’s wedding. Plus you shouldn’t be in Patricia’s panorama, either or near anybody Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Betty what is going on. I now got goosebumps and I’m filled with fear. What do you have planned on doing?” Betty tells him, “come on lets go on the way I will inform you.” Nicholas asks, “where are we going?” Betty tells him, “I have to go to a work colleagues house because she got sick. I’ll tell you where she lives lets go.” Nicholas tells her, “alright boss.”

Inside the office, Armando goes to Betty’s house and stares at her chair. “Why are you doing this to me Beatriz? Why are you doing this? Where are you taking me, why are changing my life like this? Explain it too me please, I don’t know exactly what I feel for you. I’m telling you what ever it is that I’m feeling, you shouldn’t treat me this way. Its unjust, is this what I get for loving you so much. Don’t respond, don’t respond relax. Its been some time since, you haven’t responded too me. Talking to you, is like talking to an empty chair that’s in front of me. Its the same thing, Armando you are going to leave here. Leave the office, and where ever you go you must go alone. You just have this whiskey bottle to join you. Its the only thing now that I have. Thank you for everything, thank you so very much Betty. He walks out and finds Catalina working. Catalina what are you doing here, at this time?” Catalina tells him, “organizing everything and sending them to the venue. Really early tomorrow for the collection launch.” Armando tells her, “no no no that isn’t your job Catalina. We have other people to do that, let Hugo or Inesita take charge of that. Catalina noticing he’s drunk just shakes her head. What weren’t they practicing? What is going on, where is everybody? Shouldn’t we be practicing for the collection launch? Its tomorrow.”

Catalina tells him, “didn’t you know that Inesita got sick.” Armando asks, “what happened to Inesita?” Catalina tells him, “where is she is she alright?” Catalina tells him, “relax she just fainted. She got got overworked and passed out. She should be now at her home, the grave thing is. The doctor recommended, that she needs complete bed rest. Now we can’t leave Hugo on his own. With everything that’s needed for the launch.” Armando hits the wall, “like they say yes when you don’t want everything turns out badly. Well then Catta see you tomorrow be well.” He kisses her cheek and walks away. Catalina asks, “Armando were you drinking alone. Problems are they quite grave? Is it the collection launch, that council meeting. What could be bothering you so much? Can I help you with anything?” Armando tells her, “no no no Catta look the presidents of big companies like myself. We just don’t worry about what’s occurring in our companies? We have other problems, do you understand. Problems that sometimes don’t have solutions. So nobody can help us out nobody. Well that is life, well goodnight.” Catalina tells him, “be careful that bottle might fall off of your pocket.” Armando just pushes the bottle more inside his pocket and heads out.

Betty in the car, tells Nicholas. “See Nicholas now you know that you must break things off with Patricia before the council meeting.” Nicholas asks, “yes I understand that but are you sure of what your going too do.” Betty tells him, “yes the green house that’s the one. I’m sure of it, I have no doubts. Would you like to come in, to say hello to Inesita.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no Betty I’ll just wait right here but don’t be too long.” Betty smiling tells him, “don’t worry I won’t ruin your date with that other woman.” Nicholas tells her, “thanks boss thanks for being so understanding.”

(Question how does Betty know the addres, if she’s never been there.)

Inside the house, Mariana and Sandra are coming out of the kitchen. Mariana tells Sandra, “isn’t this too hot for Inesita?” Sandra tells her, “I don’t know try it.” Mariana asks, “why is it always me.” Hugo screams, “what happened with that tea?” Sandra screams, “were coming were coming.” Mariana tells her, “well go get that door.” Sandra tells her, “ok just take that up to Inesita.” Betty enters, “oh hi girls so how is Inesita?” Sandra tells her, “well Freddy went to get the medication. Don Hugo is doing all the preparations for Inesita.” In the bedroom, Aura Maria fixes Ines pillow. “Is that alright Inesita?” Ines tells her, “yes my dear.” Hugo comes in wearing her apron and has a hot water bottle. “Inesita just see what I brought you. Oh you make yourself very comfortable. I’m putting this close to your feet, so you can be very nice and get better alright.” Ines tells her, “oh Don Hugo you just go home and relax. The girls will be staying here to take care of me. You have a lot of work too do. Just leave me here too relax.” Hugo tells her, “and leave you here with these worthless mob. Oh tells me everything, tell me to drown you or kill you with a pillow but don’t ask me that.” Sophia is shocked by his words. Ines tells her, “Don Hugo please.” Hugo tells her, “look that husband of yours that you once had for many years. That miserably abandoned you, well this new husband that you won for free. Will never abandoned you ever. Hear that, think of me as your guardian angel.” Betty and the girls enter, “good evening.” Everyone in unison tells her, “hi Betty.” Betty wants to kiss and give Ines a hug.

Hugo stops her, “no don’t kiss her we don’t know what ugly virus your going to give her. Where is that water that I asked for?” Mariana tells him, “right here Don Hugo here.”  Hugo tells her, “well I’m going to try it before her. Ouch this is way too hot, what do you think that Ines instead of a mouth she has a kettle. None of you have a sensitive bone in your bodies. Bring her a spoon quickly.” Sandra annoyed tells him, “yes I’ll go.” Hugo tells Aura Maria, “here take this.” Betty asks, ‘Inesita how are you feeling now?“ Ines tells her, “well I can’t say I’m felling well because I don’t. Just seeing you all, and how worried you are about me.” A cell phone rings, Hugo tells her, “oh its probably my boyfriend. Tell me my life.” Armando just rolls his eyes, and tells him. “Give me Inesita you crazy life you.” Hugo asks, “what do you want with her? She is away from airwaves.” Armando tells him, “I am worried about her and want to know how she is.” Hugo tells him, “I’ll do it with one condition only if you don’t torment her.”

Armando screams, “give her too me now.” Ines asks, “who is it?”  Hugo tells her, “who else can it be. Who else screams like that, that savage of Armando.” Ines gets the phone, “hello oh hello Don Armando how are you?” Armando asks, “Inesita how are you? Are you feeling better, what happened? Are they taking good care of you?” Ines tells her, “yes Don Armando they are taking good care of me. All the girls are here with me, plus Don Hugo. Freddy went to buy me the medications. Don’t you worry.” Armando asks, “oh so all the girls are there. So I guess that Betty is there as well?” Ines tells him, “yes Don Armando she is here as well. Armando takes another drink from the bottle. Tell me something Inesita, did she go with her boyfriend?” Ines tells him, “well I don’t know that Don Armando. Give me a moment, I’ll ask her. Betty did you come with your boyfriend?” Hugo gets angry, “what is this him calling to ask about others instead of asking how you are. What is he looking for gossip?” Betty tells her, “yes Nicholas is in the car waiting for me.” Ines tells him, “yes Don Armando he’s in the car waiting for her. So don’t you worry.” Armando tells her, “no I’m not worried. You take care.” He hangs up and angrily looks outside.

Ines utters, “hello hello hello.” Hugo tells her, “can you believe that he hung up on her. Yes he’s always hanging up on everyone with words yet to say. Can you believe that?” Betty asks, “so what did he want Inesita?” Ines tells her, “oh dear nothing important he just wanted me to get better. Dear why don’t you ask your boyfriend to come up. Its just bad that he’s waiting in that car.” Betty tells her, “I told him to come up but he is way to timid.” Mariana tells her, “timid Betty maybe he just doesn’t be around poor people.” Hugo tells her, “oh its not like were talking about a sultan. Mariana stop confusing yourself, not everyone that has a Mercedes is prince charming.” Betty tells him, “no he is just modest but very timid.” Sophia tells her, “oh isn’t it a luxury to have a rich boyfriend waiting for you in the car. As if he’s a chauffer.” Everyone just laughs.

In the car Nicholas is miserable, “we have our days numbered. Well I mean our nights, we only have tonight and tomorrow night. He stares at Patricia’s picture, then I have to let you go. It will be a cruel goodbye, but what can I do. C’est la vie, c’est la vie. I know that your going to miss me well so shall I with you. It will be a horrible moment, but we really should prepare for tonight and tomorrow night. He kisses the photo, lets hope its corresponded.”

At Patricia’s place, Patricia is on the phone with her dad. “Yes dad I’m going out with that guy I told you about. Yes things are going the right way, what are you asking about. The loan or that romance, no he promised me that he would help me out. Look I don’t have much time left, but he promised me. No dad I swear to you, that tonight he will give me that money. Oh no I won’t lose my Mercedes. Ok dad, we will talk later bye. Patricia fixes herself dinner, its cheese with a tomato on a small piece of bread. Her stomach begins to growl, oh no don’t start with me. Remember we are on a diet, its a force diet.” She then has her meal.

Nicholas tells her photo, “I’m sorry but I won’t be able to help you. Even though I have a separate account with only 6000 for you. I know that you love me, I know that but I just can’t give them too you. I promised Betty, she’s my boss and you know what my true best friend. Just so we are clear. If I would have done so, it would have been from the heart. The thing its just not enough, you need more of my chequebook. Plus Terra Moda will so close, so were both fried. It would be great to say a final farewell. You with your kisses, and me with that 6000 in my hands. Then we do the exchange, never forget me well I won’t because. If I did, I would be disfigured. Betty I wouldn’t look so disfigured, just look at this figure. He fixes his hair, its there in the mirror where he sees Freddy arriving.” Freddy gets off the bike, look at him in the car. Both men nod at one another, and then Freddy heads to the door.

Hugo is coming out of the kitchen, “I’m coming I’m coming.” Freddy tells him, “how are you Dona Hugo?” Hugo asks, “what did you call me?” Freddy tells him, “Don Hugo how are you here is the drug medication.” Hugo asks, “are you sure you got the right ones. Did they read the prescription correctly. Yes you can tell that a doctor did it, I couldn’t read it doesn’t it look like hieroglyphics.” Hugo takes the prescription away from him, “not the receipt but give me the medication. I’m also giving her some nice herb tea.” Freddy asks, “excuse me so is everyone upstairs?” Hugo tells him, “no you idiot they are in the basement.” Freddy runs upstairs, Betty asks. “Why isn’t Bertha here?” Sophia tells her, “as soon as she found out that Inesita got sick. She too also got sick.” Mariana tells her, “another one.” Sandra tells them, “well I called them and found out the gordito will be taking her to go see a doctor.” Freddy coughs and tells them, “good evening.” In unison they say, “hi Freddy.” Freddy tells them, “hi again girls oh I’ll kiss all of you later. Hello Inesita, how are you feeling?” Ines tells him, “I’m better son and thank you very much.” Freddy tells her, “good now Don Hugo has your medications. Ines forgive me, but I have brought for you this small gift from myself and my queen.”

(Your not allowed to mix herbs with regular medication. You might poison yourself.)

Aura Maria tells her, “oh great idea my grasshopper.” Ines takes the apple, and tells him. “Thank you Freddy now girls don’t just stand there. Its like I’m being getting set to be buried.” Aura Maria tells her, “well then excuse me then girls. I’m going to sit next too her.” Sandra tells them, “excuse me I’ll lay here.” Mariana sits by her foot, and gives her a hug. While Betty sits next to Mariana. Sandra tells them, “come on Betty its the ugly girls bed.” The girls all laugh, and Freddy just watches them and Hugo is shocked to see them all near Ines. “What are you all doing in here? Inesita is sick, she needs air. She needs to breathe, you are all going to drown her come on fly fly away. All of you out.” The girls all complain, Ines tells him. “No Don Hugo don’t take them out of here. Its been a long time, since it hasn’t been filled with people I love. Ever since my ungrateful Raphael left then my kids. Oh I feel so good, thank you for all being here with me. She taps Sandra’s head, who would have thought. That being sick would make me so very happy. In fact I feel very happy.” Hugo asks, “excuse me but why is there an apple near you?”

Ines tells him, “well Freddy brought it for me.” Hugo tells him, “so now your an expert on medicines. How dare you give her an apple. Like a famous Argentina guy once said, they pay you little to do little.” Freddy tells him, “no problem Don Hugo you see us poor people live on a diet.” Then he takes a bite of the apple, the girls just laugh. Ines tells him, “come over here Don Hugo sit next to me here.” The girls in unison tells him, “come on if you dare Don Hugo.” Hugo tells them, “better dead than coloured. My dream has never been, sleeping in a bed with a bunch of women. Especially being surrounded by ugly women.” Ines tells him, “Don Hugo sit everywhere but they aren’t going to leave here.” Hugo tells Mariana, “fine then move it. There better not be a hidden camera anywhere.” Aura Maria tells Freddy, “over here my grasshopper.” Hugo tells her, “look bring him over and I’ll go call my boyfriend over so he can join us as well.” Sandra tells him, “enough just relax.” Hugo tells her, “don’t touch me.” Sandra tells him, “oh give me the spoon so I can give Inesita her medicine.” Ines tells them, “girls calm down now behave.” Hugo tells her, “no don’t give me orders. How very disrespectful.” Ines tells him, “no Don Hugo I don’t want any medicine I’ll take it later.” In unison they tell her, “no ready one two three.” Everyone cheers, Sandra keeps on teasing Hugo. While he keeps repeating, ” stop touching me I am very ticklish.”

Nicholas is getting quite bored, “oh where is that girlfriend of mine. Why is she taking so long, this is my last night? Oh what should I do?” He gets out of the car, and that’s when Armando arrives. Armando is on the cell, “yes my love I have just arrived at Inesita’s house. I’m going to go see how she is, yes she fainted I’ll go see how she is. Then I’ll head to my parents alright. Nicholas just eyes him in the car. Yes I’ve had a few whiskeys, I am fine don’t you worry. I’ll see you at my parents house later. What now your going to stop me from drinking?” He hangs up and gets out of the car, he goes past Nicholas giving him the evil eye. Nicholas eyes him but stays by the car. Freddy gets the door, and sees him. “Don Armando hello?” Armando asks, “what are you doing here?” Freddy tells him, “I’m visiting Inesita and you sir.” Armando tells him, “I am going to visit Inesita.” Freddy tells him, “I guess were in the same boat I see that you are more happy than usual. You seem very bright, very lighted sir.“ Armando just stares at him, “does it affect you at all Freddy.” Freddy tells him, “not at all.” Armando looks around, and asks. “Where is Beatriz?” Freddy asks, “Beatriz or don’t you mean Inesita?” Armando tells him, “Beatriz or Inesita where are they?” Freddy tells him, “upstairs sir.” Armando almost falls as he heads upstairs. Freddy helps him then releases him, laughing nervously. Armando slowly heads upstairs.

Ines asks, “oh Don Hugo what will you do tomorrow? With the collection launch?” Hugo tells her, “don’t you worry that is my problem.” Sandra plays with Mariana’s hair, as Aura Maria plays with Ines’s. Mariana tells her, “zero stress girl. We are going to help Don Hugo with everything that he needs.” She touches him on purpose, then Sandra plays with him.” Hugo tells them, “oh stay still girls stop touching me. Tomorrow I don’t want to see any of you.” Sophia tells him, “oh yeah just watch tomorrow you’ll be yelling and screaming for help.” All our playing around, when Armando enters. “Good evening everyone.” Everyone gets up, and they gather in a corner. Armando stares at Betty, who now is quite nervous. Hugo tells him, “great Mr. Spoilsport arrived and ruined the party. We were having a delicious time.”

Ines asks, “Don Armando what are you doing here?” Hugo tells her, “he probably came by to see if Eco Moda had to play for all the expenses. Like the ambulance trip or the doctors medication. Or if you won’t be coming to work tomorrow. They will cut your paycheque.” Ines tells him, “oh shush.” Armando straightens up, and goes to her. “Inesita I came here to see how you were. How are you feeling? He goes and gives her a hug and a kiss. To the shock and surprise of everyone. I was very worried.” Ines tells him, “now don’t you worry about me. I feel a lot better Don Armando thank you.” Hugo tells him, “but she won’t be working tomorrow. She’s been told to get rest.” Armando tells him, “look what ever your name is. Its not my fault that she’s like this. Your the one that overworked her. Your the inhuman one.” Ines tells them, “no enough please both of you calm down sirs. Don Armando would you care for anything.” Armando looks over at Betty. “Have a whiskey?”

Hugo asks, “where do you think you are? That you are at an English pub? At Marg’s apartment? At the wage you give Inesita, she hardly has enough to eat. What can we offer you, instead of whisky. Lets see we have alcohol disinfectant, laundry detergent, rat poison. Where were you getting drunk? You seem very happy.” The girls just grin, Betty almost burst out laughing. Oh just look at those bloodshot eyes.” Betty takes this moment and goes to Ines, “well excuse me everyone I really should head home. We all need to get up early, goodnight Inesita I will call you tomorrow to find out how your feeling.” Hugo tells her, “don’t you dare think of giving me a kiss.” Betty tells him, “I was just going to say goodbye. Bye girls.” The girls in unison tell her, “bye Betty be well.” Armando tries to stop her from leaving, but she moves him aside and tells him. “Bye Don Armando have a nice night.” Ines asks, “would  you care for a cup of coffee.” Armando quickly tells Ines, “no relax Inesita I just came by to see if you were feeling better. I’m glad that you are fine, please do excuse me.” Ines tells him, “thank you Don Armando.” The girls in unison tells him, “see you tomorrow Don Armando.” Freddy tells him, “where are you going Don Armando the party will get better.” Hugo screams, “no that man is stranger than pink panther. The girls start talking all at once. Sophia tells them, “well I’ve never seen him like that.” Hugo tells them, “he is acting quite strange.” Then Aura Maria starts teasing him once again, “oh don’t say that.” Hugo tells her, “oh enough with the touching.” Ines tells them, “enough already.

Outside Nicholas is back inside the car. “Finally she came out.” Betty almost runs to the car door. “Nicholas quickly open this door.” Armando screams, “Beatriz wait.” Betty tells him, “please sir we are going to talk tomorrow at the office.” Armando looses his mind, and grabs her. “Why are you so in a hurry?” Betty tells him, “please sir your drunk plus your family is waiting for you.” Armando tells her, “what am I ruining one of your plans.” He slams the door, and stares at her. Nicholas screams, “watch the car door your going to ruin it.” Betty tells him, “sir please let me go.” Armando grabs her, “you are going with me alright.” Betty pushes him away, “no you are crazy sir?” Armando tells her, “no you are coming with me so we can go someplace and just talk. We need to be someplace alone.” Betty tells him, “look I’m not going anywhere with you.” Armando asks, “what you want to leave with this idiot guy. Or with me, please stop playing?” Betty tells him, “Nicholas picked me up at the office and he will be the one too take me home. He’s been waiting for hours.” She tries and tries to open the door, but Armando just continues to grab her.

Nicholas screams, “let her go let her go. Oh this guy is just looking for trouble, but with me.” Armando asks, “you love me right like I love you right? Let me show you, how much I do love you. You are going to come with me. Your going to leave this guy here understand.” Betty tells him, “please sir leave me alone.” Armando tells her, “no I’m not going to leave you in peace.” Nicholas has had enough, and comes out of the car and goes over to them. “Let her go.” Armando tells Betty, “I won’t let you go because I adore you. I am dying for you.” Nicholas screams, “let her go.” Armando screams, “you shut up you shut up get back inside the car you idiot.” Nicholas asks, “what did you call me?” Armando screams, “you stupid get back inside this car. Right now, for this is between her and I. You have nothing to do being here.” Nicholas screams, “if its with her than your dealing with me.” Armando asks, “and when did this start come over here?” Betty tells him, “please sir come on Nicholas get in the car.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no forget that Betty. This guy will respect you.” Armando tells him, “oh really.” Nicholas opens the door for Betty, “lets go lets go.”

Armando once again closes the car door. Betty screams, “its better sir we talk tomorrow.” Armando tells him, “no she’s staying here. She’s staying here, and she’s going with me.” Nicholas tells him, “your going to be in trouble with me.” Armando screams, “the one with the problem with me is you.” Nicholas screams, “like what?” Betty gets in-between the two of them. “No we won’t start arguing here. Nicholas get in the car.” Nicholas goes to his side, “no Betty what problems does this guy have with me. What what?” Armando goes over to him, “you know what problems I have with you. You know what problem I have with you. Betty goes again towards the two. You are a user, or a wretched man, your a thief. You are driving around, in a car that doesn’t belong too you. One that you don’t deserve. You are wasting money, wasting a fortune that isn’t even yours. You know perfectly well what Terra Moda is. I put that money for that company. Stop exploiting Betty you idiot.” Betty asks, “what are you saying Don Armando?” Armando tells her, “I’m telling him the truth. You be quiet Beatriz for I know everything. I know everything.” Nicholas tells him, “oh no wait one minute wait wait we bought that car from the utilities from Terra Moda. You know the reasons we have those utilities, it came from my head and working every day on the stock market. She also worked using her head, that did the work. While you didn’t put a thing.”

Armando laughing tells him, “so I didn’t put nothing oh no I only put 80000 oh yeah that’s nothing.” Nicholas tells him, “oh really Betty did the work or did you forget who really works.” Betty tells him, “please Nicholas no more.” Nicholas tells him, “no Betty wait wait. Is he insinuating that were robbing from him. So what if he put in 80000, and he bought the sky. You didn’t buy that car, you didn’t work on the plan to pay for that car. Nor the meals we ate, so what are you complaining about?” Armando screams, “fine brother you get all that money but leave Betty in peace.” Betty tells him, “sir you don’t know what your talking about your drunk.” Armando tells her, “yes I know what I’m saying Beatriz. That guy is after you, for Terra Moda money. That guy is after the comfortable things he can buy. That guy exploits you, he exploits you.” Nicholas screams, “the only exploiter is you you are the delinquent.” Betty screams, “no more Nicholas please.” Armando tells him, “no more Betty wait a minute Betty won’t go with you. She won’t leave with you understand. She has someone who can defend her, of all your atrocities you beast.”

Armando screams yet again and tells him, “oh a hero?” Nicholas tells him, “your the abuser.” Armando tells her, “oh you got yourself a hero. The hero with a black Mercedes, oh the executive of Terra Moda don’t make me laugh. Oh I’m shaking, what are you going to do too me executive? What are you going too do?” Nicholas takes off his jacket, “relax sir I’m going to tear you to pieces. Stand aside Betty.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas.” Armando tells her, “oh you relax Beatriz I want to see how he destroys my face. Well then lets begin then.” Nicholas tells him, “you do continue to insist.” He takes off his glasses, and Betty tells him. “Please Nicholas.” But without his glasses he begins punching air. Armando laughing tells him, “I’m over here you blind man.” Nicholas hearing his voice, punches his face. He then begins to dance about. Armando just looks away, and waits. Betty screams, “no more no more.” Armando tells him, “you are going to die.” Nicholas continue punching air, Armando continues laughing at him. Then Armando strikes and both are now fighting it out. Betty screaming, “no no no stop stop. Please sir noooo.” Nicholas is on the ground, and Armando continues punching him.

Scarlet Evis Ortiz Pacheco was born on March 12, 1974 in Caracas Venezuela.

She is 5’9, she’s been doing several telenovelas since 1997. She played Alejandra Zingg on YSBLF.

One Hundred and Four

In the house, Ines asks. “Oh what is going on outside? One of you go see what’s going on?” Hugo tells her, “Inesita look I’m sorry but your neighbours have to shut up or I’m calling the police.” Ines asks, “I wonder what’s going on?” Aura Maria just holds her, “you relax.” Mariana tells her, “please you must relax.” Ines tells them, “since Raphael left I’ve had the same quiet neighbours. They’ve been there before I moved in.” Sophia tells her, “well something weird is going on then.” Hugo runs back up.” Ines asks, “what happened son?” Hugo screams, “can you believe this but Armando is fighting with Betty’s boyfriend.” Everyone is in shock, and covers their mouths in surprise. Ines screams, “see if you can part them.” Then all the girls race downstairs, as Hugo goes to Ines. “Oh dear there are so many violent men, out there in this country.” He holds onto Ines, she tells him. “Just relax Don Hugo. Oh there are so many, but its the noise that they make.” Hugo tells her, “I’m not going to look.” Hugo tells her, “no my love don’t look. Just relax.”

Outside Armando is beating up poor Nicholas. Betty continues to scream, “no more no more.”  Armando screams, “here’s another you karate man.” Betty sees the girls, she screams. “Please stop this now he’s killing him.” Armando screaming, “be a man. Freddy tries to stop him, Armando begins yelling at all of them. Touch me and I will kill you.” Sandra pushes Freddy, “hurry stop this he’s going to kill him.” Freddy tells her, “no he’s liable to fire me.” Freddy takes that risk, and grabs Armando. Who is still punching Nicholas. “Let me go Freddy let me go.” Betty quickly goes over to Nicholas, trying hard to get him up. He’s all blooded up. Armando screams, “if you don’t let me go your all fired.” Freddy quickly releases him,  Sandra tells Freddy. “You shouldn’t have let him go.” Betty tells him calmly, “Don Armando no more please no more.” Armando asks, “so brave one oh where’s that man? You out of the way, or else I’ll push you aside.” Then with all her might, Betty slaps his face hard. Then she covers her mouth, when she realizes what she’s done. All the girls just gasp, Hugo comes out. “Tie that beast up, has the scandal finally come to its end. Oh very good Don Armando, our distinguish president of Eco Moda. The girls all go too him. To come here, and create such a brawl like a dog. Oh this man, doesn’t care coming to this barrio to create such a squabble. Armando just touches his face and stares in disbelief at Betty. You know what you shouldn’t be Armando Mendoza. You should be called Armando the fighter respect.”

Betty tells him, “please apologize to Inesita. Please forgive us, come on Nicholas get in the car I will drive.” Nicholas coughs up blood, and Hugo utters. “Oh now look at this one he’s completely destroyed.” Nicholas tells Armando, “this doesn’t end here you are now on my bad side you badly standing.” Armando looks at him, then everyone. Hugo tells them, “he is vomiting.” Betty drives back, while Sophia tells them. “We should really get back inside. Come on lets go inside.” Armando just watches at Betty leaves him. The group runs inside the house. Armando curses and lends by the fence. The cell phone begins to ring, “hello Marcela yes I’m still at Inesita. Yes yes but I’m not heading to my parents. No no why because I am not in the mood. I don’t have the energy. Yes I know that I’ve been drinking. Yes I know that I’ve been drinking. That’s why I can’t go see them, please make up an excuse or something. Do me this favour Marcela. Yes I know I am a bit agitated, look if you don’t believe me. I will be at my apartment, call me in 15 minutes at least. Or if you want talk to the porter. Yes see if I am with someone or notm just leave me in peace. When he wants to go to apologizes to Ines, he changes his mind. He begins cursing, what the hell did I do. Blasted jealousy jealousy jealousy. It was jealousy, it was jealousy jealousy.” He then touches his face in horror, for what he did.

Betty tells Nicholas, “oh yes it was an attack of jealousy. See did you hear everything that truly torments him. That you drive this car, and use his money of Terra Moda. That was indeed what has him worried. That’s what’s making me lose it, and he gets all anxious. Plus I haven’t given him the balance yet, he is drinking like crazy and chasing me left and right.” Nicholas touches his bruised face, “yes Betty that guy is crazy. Oh what a spectacular show.” Betty tells him, “yes the spectacular show I gave. I hit him Nicholas, I slapped him on his face in front of the whole world.” Nicholas tells her, “I’m glad that you slapped him. Or else that guy would have killed me. Yes I would have killed him later.” Betty tells him, “yes after you were already dead.” Nicholas asks, “what are you insinuating Betty. Your the one that didn’t want me to confront him. Yes that guy really took me by surprise. That was a huge surprise wasn’t it.” Betty tells him, “he could have killed you Nicholas. He really could have killed you, he was like a crazy man. At that point of view, I don’t care that I hit him. It just hurt me to see, how he was hitting you.” Nicholas tells her, “yes it does hurt a lot ouch.” Betty tells him, “I will never ever forgive him for this.” Nicholas tells her, “no relax this doesn’t end here just relax. Tomorrow I’m going to Eco Moda, and I’ll be waiting for him outside understand. This time he won’t catch me by surprise. I am going to be very prepared, just wait till you see you’ll see.” Betty tells him, “talk about what look stop talking foolishness. Tomorrow you’re not going to wait for anybody.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no this can’t stop here what will your friends think of me. That I’m a chicken or what, plus every time he sees me that guy is going to hit me. He’s going to hit me because of yes and no. Even hitting me out of spite, remember what happened when we were at school. Oh no I have to do something, I have to revolt or something. Or else this will get worse, just you wait and see. No this doesn’t end like this.” Betty tells him, “yes this stays here Nicholas this is over. I can’t wait I’m just counting the hours, for this all to end.”

The girls are back at Ines, and they are very troubled. Ines asks, “its quite strange I wonder what could have happened to Don Armando.” Hugo tells her, “the explanation is quite simply he was drunk and that beast he was capable of nearly fighting with his shadow.” Mariana tells them, “oh no no Don Hugo but forgive me but sorry to contradict you. But Don Armando, isn’t like that. If he fought, with Betty’s boyfriend he must have had a reason.” Sophia tells her, “what if it was Betty’s boyfriend that started that fight. We really don’t know him very well. We don’t know how he really is. We don’t know how he reacts.” Hugo sarcastically tells her, “oh that violent guy we can expect anything from him.” Sandra tells him, “oh girls what delusion remember when Betty. Would describe her boyfriend, that he was a tall strong man a gorgeous looking man. That doesn’t describe that guy, he is ugly.” Hugo tells her, “look at that muskrat as long as someone loves her tells her what ever it is about the man.”

Mariana tells them, “oh no girls I’m sorry to talk bad about our friend but that guy isn’t attractive at all.” Hugo tells her, “oh come on when that girl looks at the mirror. What ever guy comes around, she thinks is bombi. At this point Aura Maria gets in the covers with Ines. Oh that guy is really funny looking.” Ines tells him, “enough.” Aura Maria tells them, “to me girls he has that certain something. He seems interesting.” Hugo tells her, “and who said this excuse me.” Sophia tells him, “who else Aura Maria.” Hugo tells her, “hey big breasts tale away that Mercedes. Delete it completely, what’s left?” Aura Maria thinks about it, and tells him. “Nothing.” The group then start laughing, Ines tells them. “Alright girls listen to me tomorrow, I don’t want you to say a single word. At the office, of what occurred tonight. Because people will start talking, and misunderstandings will occur. No word did you all hear me. Everyone looks at each other, they don’t say a thing. Ines repeats, did you hear me?” The group utter, “yes Inesita.” Hugo tells her, “but that goes against what men think.” Sophia asks, “of who?” Hugo tells him, “like the guy that’s in jail because of you.” Ines tells him, “please now remember tomorrow is the collection launch. The mood will be very tense, Don Roberto and Dona Margarita will be there. If this is mentioned, things are going to get very bad. Now come on, no word about this. Heard me, did you hear me?” Sandra tells her, “well you heard Don Hugo Inesita.” Sophia tells her, “well we can’t help the pleasure. It’s that we enjoy gossiping. In fact we can find out, what really happened tomorrow. Of course with the doors closed of course.” Hugo tells her, “well you better tell me first. Because if I find out first, this gossip is going to fly. Aura Maria grins like a Chester cat. Did you hear me, did you hear me?” Everyone in unison tell him, “yes Don Hugo.” Hugo tells them, “good.”

In the car, Betty tells him. “Now tomorrow as soon as you can, give me that general balance of Terra Moda.” Nicholas tells her, “don’t worry it will be finished by tomorrow afternoon. I’ll do it with your dad.” Betty tells him, “now do it side by side make sure it looks every dollar is accounted for. Where is all that money, what banks are they in, are they international ones. What did it produce? Nicholas you told me you wanted, to invest 3000 in something. What was it, what happened with that?” Nicholas coughs and tells her, “well its separated.” Betty tells him, “well in any case make sure its accounted for. Find out where that money is going. The cell phone rings, I wonder who could it be? Is it the blond bimbo? Oh no don’t tell me, you have another date with her.” Nicholas tells her, “well what am I going to do now Betty. She is crazy for me, crazy to see me.” Betty tells him, “you know exactly why she is crazy.” Nicholas tells her, “look we discussed that tonight we weren’t going to discuss business. We were going to talk about us that’s all. Yes I know, I know I only have two nights with her. This might be the last.” Betty asks, “and how much will this night cost us. Did you bring money?”

Nicholas shows her his credit card and tells her, “I got it today relax I will pay for everything that I use. From my proper salary.” Betty asks, “what your going to show up there all beaten up? Come on just answer that phone, its going to drive me crazy.” Nicholas tells her, “please be quiet don’t even breath.” Nicholas answers, “hello.” Patricia is lying on her couch, “oh Nicholas so are you coming over or not?” Nicholas tells her, “look that was my intention but I had an incident.” Patricia asks, “what happened?” Nicholas tells her, “well I came around some guys were looking for a fight. You know that I awaken so many resentment in people. People who are very jealous of me, they started fighting and I was stuck fighting back. I fought and fought, and those guys now are at a clinic. I tear them to pieces with my fists.” Patricia asks, “Nicholas you fought with some guy?” Nicholas tells her, “oh Patty there are things in my personality that you don’t know yet. Its quite complete, and I turn into a savage when provoked. Betty just grins and continues driving. Understand, and that’s the consequences. These people don’t know, who they’re messing with.” Patricia annoyed gets up, and asks. “So did they hurt you very badly?” Nicholas tells her, “a bet but not in comparison from what I did too them. I sent them to a clinic, well that’s why Patty I can’t go see you.” Patricia asks, “well then what are you going to do then? Are you going to a clinic or what?” Nicholas tells her, “oh no don’t think that I’m heading home. I’m like a lion, and take care of my own wounds.” Patricia grins and tells him, “why don’t I take care of all those injures. Come by and I’ll take care of you for just a little bit.” Nicholas asks, “you mean you take care of me?” Patricia tells him, “yes come here I will take care of your injuries.” Nicholas tells her, “really really.” Patricia tells him, “yes of course yes.” Nicholas tells her, “ok then I’ll be coming over. I’ll see you soon bye.” Nicholas hangs up, and Patricia screams. “Remember to bring me that cheque.” Nicholas overjoyed tells Betty, “Betty she wants to take care of my wounds and its free.” Betty tells him, “alright but be careful with the car. Take care of not giving her any money. Now if you don’t do that, those men in that clinic really will come after you tomorrow. What happened tonight, will be the first talk of gossip of the day at Eco Moda.”

Over at Ines’s house, they are all falling asleep. Sophia is on a chair, leaning against a dresser. Freddy is sitting next to Mariana, and he has his head down. Mariana and Sandra are asleep on the bed, as is Aura Maria. In the end Freddy puts his head on Mariana’s side. Hugo is sleeping next to Inesita, while she continues talking. “My son Jorge moved out when he was 18, he went to Russia to work. It was there he fell in love, with a Russian girl and married her. In the end he decided to live way over there. He would call me every 15 days, later it was just once a week. Then it was Juliana who in the end, won a scholarship to study in Canada. There she met a Canadian and they got married. I’m glad that I was able to educate them, so they can travel afar. But I never thought, that I would lose them.” Hugo gets up, after hearing Sandra snoring. “Well this visit will end right now, since everyone is sleepy.” Mariana awakens, and wakes up Freddy. She tells him, “don’t you worry Don Hugo if your tired you go home and we will stay with Inesita.” Hugo tells her, “forget that I’m going to be staying with her. Aura Maria awaken, and Ines tells him. “No Don Hugo you have a ton of work too do tomorrow.”

Aura Maria tells her, “I’m sorry Inesita but I’m staying right here. Freddy will do me a favour, and go to the house pick up some clothes. Then I’ll shower and change, and head off too work from here.” Freddy tells her, “yes yes of course I’ll sleep here as well to make sure you rest. Tomorrow I’ll bring you some clothes, then take you to Eco Moda.” Hugo tells him, “no you idiot your not staying here. Neither will you two to disrespect Ines’s house, and of course Ines’s bed.“ Aura Maria angrily tells him, “oh no were not going to do anything of the sort.” Ines tells Hugo, “don’t say such things.” Hugo tells her, “Ines you don’t know these two. As soon as you two are asleep they are going to run like a bunch of rabbits. To reproduces mind you.” Aura Maria gives him such a dirty look. While Ines looks upward, Hugo tells them. “I’ll be watching.”  Aura Maria tells him, “can’t you believe him fine I’ll stay alone then.” Hugo tells her, “no no I’ll be staying Aura Maria.” Ines tells him, “Don Hugo you have to work tomorrow.” Freddy falls asleep once more, Hugo tells her. “Oh no I’m going to pass the night right here. Tomorrow morning, I’ll head to Eco Moda. I’m in charge of giving you your medication. Alright you have to take your medicine, around 2am then at 5am. I’m the one that gives the orders. Mariana glances over at Sophia, who looks over at him. Well everyone, everyone head home for our girl has to rest. Or don’t you see that our girl is sick. I’m going to take care of you.” Ines repeats “Don Hugo Don Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “oh no nothing come on go on fly fly away.”

Aura Maria wakes up Sandra, “oh let me sleep.” Hugo tells Freddy, “well get her up.” Freddy wakes up and asks, “who me?” Hugo asks, “do I see another man here?” Freddy tells him, “yes I’m a man and what a man I am. But I’m not carrying her.” Then everyone screams, “Sandra.” Sandra gets up, “what happened?” Mariana tells her, “wake up were still at Inesita’s house.” They then get up, Sophia tells him. “Your going to work tomorrow, Inesita will be all alone. Someone has to be here.” In unison they say, “yes.” Ines tells them, “no no no the one that stays may lose their jobs.” Hugo tells her, “no no lets do something I will get a nurse.” Sandra goes over at hugs Freddy, and falls asleep again. Ines tells him, “oh no Don Hugo please. Don’t even think about it, I won’t have a stranger running around in my house. Oh no I’ve lived here over 20 years, alone, sick and I’ve never wanted for nothing.” Sandra awakens and pushes Freddy away. Hugo tells her, “ok lets do this then tomorrow you lot do a raffle. The one that wins comes over to take care of Ines.” The girls agree, “yes that’s good.” Sophia goes over and kisses her cheek, “ok see you tomorrow Inesita.” Aura Maria blesses her, before going. Mariana tells her, “if you need anything just call.” Ines tells them, “thank you everyone.” Mariana tells her, “you take care now bye.” Sandra tells her, “ok Inesita bye.” Ines tells her, “get some sleep Sandrita.” Sophia tells Hugo, “see you tomorrow Don Hugo.” Hugo tells them, “don’t you dare kiss me goodbye.” Freddy goes by, and tells him. “Don’t even think about it? Now you better not try anything with Inesita. Just in case she falls asleep, you get better Inesita.” Ines tells him, “thank you Freddy.” Hugo tells her, “can you believe that fake messenger.” Then he closes the door.

Patricia runs to her bell, when it rings. “Yes?” The porter tells her, “just let him pass please.” Patricia smiles and quickly runs to her bedroom. “Perfume perfume where is that perfume? Oh where is that mirror mirror?”

Back at Ines’s house, Hugo tells her. “Now my dear girl, your going to sleep and get some rest. Everyone has left, don’t worry about a thing. I will be in charge of your medications, I’m a bit of an over sleeper. So see this clock, I will set it.” Ines asks, “so where are you going to sleep Don Hugo?” Hugo tells her, “what do you mean where am I going to sleep. I’m going to be with you, what now your going to be nervous to sleep with me. The one that should be afraid is me, what if your going to grab me or something. Or wrap your legs around me, or what else your going to do too me. I’m going to wake up raped or something.” Hugo once he takes off his shoes goes into the covers and gives Ines a hug. Ines tells him, “oh do be quiet I’ve stopped doing that many years ago. Its been over 20 years, since nobody has slept on that side. Only the memory of Raphael in my head.” Hugo asks, “Inesita do you remember him often?” Ines tells him, “yes my son but like he’s dead.” Hugo tells her, “ok then why don’t we dream of angels then. So we can dream deliciously alright. Tonight you will have the gift of sleeping with your new husband. The one you caught at Eco Moda, oh my dear girl. He kisses her cheek, while she giggles. You do know that I love you so much. Thank you for everything.” Ines tells him, “you as well.” Hugo turns off the lights, “see you tomorrow.”

(Ines reminds me so much of my mother’s mother. May she rest in peace.)

Nicholas arrives at Patricia’s floor. “Oh man, just look at me. Oh Nicholas you must be prepared for everything. Then he begins putting on cologne, then he puts it in his mouth and gargles. He spits it out in a flower. He then takes out the cheque book, oh why oh why did I bring this chequebook. You are such a brute, its just a big temptation. Patricia and I, and this chequebook no. He puts the chequebook under the flowerpot. Now then we will discuss, just love two of us alone ok Nicholas. He rings the doorbell, and she opens.” Oh Nicholas just come right in.” He cleans his shoes on his pants and enters. “Hi Patty how are you?” Patricia touches his face and tells him, “oh Nicholas come on in oh who were those savages that did this too you.” Nicholas tells her, “ouch I’ll tell you.” Patricia tells him, “oh you must be so very sore come on lie down.” Nicholas asks, “in your bed.” Patricia tells him, “of course in the bed here I’ll take off your jacket. Its so we both are very comfortable. You know right, I have to cure you right.” She pushes him on the bed, Nicholas utters. “Yes of course.”

Patricia asks, “care to drink anything? How about wine, since we didn’t have anything the last time.” Nicholas tells her, “don’t you worry about it Patty.” Patricia tells him, “well then give me a minute and I’ll head to the washroom. I’ll bring some cotton, some gauze, band aids with alcohol.” She caresses his cheek. Nicholas tells her, “sure yes yes.” Patricia leaves Nicholas just twiddles his thumbs, then he tests out the bed. When she does return, Patricia asks. “Now how did you get in this fight?” Nicholas tells her, “I’m going to be honest with you Patty sooner or later. You will find out, it wasn’t a lot of guys but just one.” Patricia asks, “and who was this savage?” Nicholas tells him, “you know him Armando Mendoza.” Patricia utters in shock, “Armando Mendoza but why?” Nicholas tells her, “I really don’t know I just don’t understand why? Its just not very clear, see I took Betty over to visit a friend. He arrived and he was very drunk, I was waiting outside for her. Then they both left, and they began fighting about work you know. The guy began treating her very badly, he was screaming at her. I got very angry, I am a good gentlemen. We began fighting, I almost killed him.”

Patricia tells him, “well he almost killed you as well. Oh just look at the way he left you oh that savage.” She begins to dab very hard at his wounds. Nicholas screams, “ouch.” Patricia tells him, “oh what a savage he’s like gone crazy.” Nicholas tells her, “well I was crazy too.” Patricia tells him, “oh you just look horrible. Does it really hurt?” Nicholas moves away from her. “Yes just  a bit.” Then she begins kissing his forehead, and she asks. “Well does that hurt as well.” Nicholas tells her, “oh these feelings I’m getting are indescribable.” Patricia just laughs, and asks. “Well do tell me how did things go for you today?” Nicholas tells her, “in the stock market fine how was your day? Mine was ok.” Patricia tells him, “and me giving you more problems. Bothering you about my loan.” Nicholas tells her, “well I already got that ready for you.” Patricia tells him, “yes really so your going to get a loan for me.” Nicholas tells her, “just one catch it won’t be available till next week.”

Patricia gets very annoyed, and ask. “What do you mean next week? She daps him harder with the cotton on his forehead. Oh no Nicholas, that’s just too late then its no point getting it then Nicholas. I just don’t want to even think about that, I don’t want to think about that. It just depresses me, it just saddens me that I’m not going to be able to see him again. I’m going to lose him forever. Its like I gave him away as a gift Nicholas. Oh it just tears me to pieces. Then she falls on top of him, oh Nicholas this night wasn’t about that. It was about something else. Nicholas just pats her shoulder. We were going to share time together as friends. I was going to take care of your wounds, you were going to take care of mine. With your presence, with your company. Nicholas oh my mercedes.” Then she pretends to cry. Nicholas tells her, “relax Patty we will find a solution.” Patricia tells him, “there isn’t one Nicholas there just isn’t one.” Nicholas tells her, “look I will help you. I will figure something out.” Patricia asks, “and what way can you help me Nicholas. Tell me, tell me.” Nicholas tells her, “I will give you that loan.”

Patricia gets off him, “you? Nicholas just nods up and down. Patricia smiles and tells him, oh Nicholas oh you oh Nicholas. Oh your making me crazy, then she begins kissing his cheek. Then begins kissing his neck, so you think you can give me that cheque tonight. What do you say Nicholas? She then begins kissing his lips, Nicholas remembers what Betty told him. So can you write it right now, just give me that cheque tonight. What’s wrong?” She stops kissing him, Nicholas tells her. “Patty well I can’t write that cheque for I forgot the chequebook in the car.” Patricia tells him, “no my love you are mistaken. You always carry it, maybe its over here.” She begins to tickle him, but in reality she begins searching for that chequebook. While Nicholas just starts laughing. “Please Patty relax.” Patricia realizing its not there, utters. “Oh Nicholas?” Nicholas tells her, “like I said I didn’t bring it with me. I am really sorry.” Patricia gets up and begins whining, “oh Nicholas look I’m sorry.” Nicholas watches her as she moves over to the bed and lies down. Nicholas asks, “what’s the matter Patty?”

Patricia tells him, “Nicholas forgive my freak out I went crazy that’s all. Nicholas places a kiss on her shoulder. She continues talking, oh I feel so much pity here I am searching your pockets for that chequebook. Here I am pressuring you, and here I promised you that this wouldn’t interfere with us both.” Nicholas caresses her arm, “look Patty I understand. The passion and those kisses, he kisses her hair. Well then I’m sorry about you losing your mercedes. I really do understand you, just relax.” Patricia asks, “what are you going to think of me? What will you think of me?” Nicholas tells her, “I’m always thinking great things about you Patty. That’s why were friends right.” Patricia tells him, “oh Nicholas I just feel pretty bad just awful. I want to be alone Nicholas, I feel quite guilty. Putting you in this horrible position, oh too talk about that loan and kissing you. Since your engaged to Betty, oh dear lord Betty.”

Nicholas tells her, “oh don’t you worry about Betty.” He’s about to kiss her neck, and she pushes him away. “No Nicholas. He quickly moves away. I want to be alone, I’m sorry that I’m behaving this way but I need to be alone you understand.” Nicholas smiling tells her, “yes I understand I just want you to feel better. I want you to feel better, well then see you tomorrow.” Patricia stares at him, then thinking he’s going to kiss her lips goes closer. He in turn kisses her forehead and gets up from the bed. Patricia very sweetly asks, “how about you give me the cheque tomorrow.” Nicholas tells her, “sure no problem you can count on that. Don’t you worry.” Patricia tells him, “well thank you Nicholas thank you I love you so very much.” Nicholas looks around, then tells her. “Oh yes I love you too Patty bye.” Nicholas leaves, and Patricia utters. “What a wretched bastard not bringing his chequebook. What does he want? Does he want me give myself too him? As if I’m that easy.” Nicholas is just standing by the door, and touches his chest. “Oh dear I’ve touched heaven, Nicholas you touched heaven. The angels are blond, oh now I don’t feel pain this woman cured me from everything. At least I saved 6000, oh Patty your kisses are quite expensive. Oh very costly, very costly. Then he goes back and gets the chequebook from the plant. Like I said you and I won’t enter in there. We won’t be going out together isn’t that right Patty. You and I how dangerous, he kisses the chequebook oh goodbye you beautiful blond.” Then he takes off.

Its the next morning at Eco Moda, Mario is waiting for Armando at Sandra’s desk. Armando tells him, “hello.” Mario tells him, “well good morning Mr. President. Now then may I ask why, you asked me here so very early.” Armando tells him, “catastrophe catastrophe.” Mario touches his face, “oh and what happened here?” Armando tells him, “don’t touch me what’s wrong with you.” Mario asks, “what happened?” Armando tells him, “last night I had a fight man I think I did it too myself.” Mario asks, “what do you mean why?” The girls arrive and Sophia begins talking about that night. “Oh you should have seen how drunk and aggressive Don Armando was. She stops talking when she sees him. Oh hello Don Armando.” Armando tells her, “oh hello Sophia.” In unison they get out of the elevator, and all utter. “Good morning sir’s.” Sophia tells them, “well like I was saying Don Armando de Revero Castillo. Image he had a few drinks and he became very nice and charming. Oh he was quite aggressive, that Armando de Revero Castillo. Was left with nothing, well that is how the soap ended.” She stares at Armando, and then Mariana tells her, “Oh yes that soap is really good.” Sandra tells her, “yes quite good.” Armando tells Mario, “lets head inside your office.” Mario tells him, “yes of course galan of the soaps.” When the door is closed, Sophia freaks out. “Oh do you think Don Armando noticed that I was talking about him.” The girls just start laughing. Mariana tells her, “of course he did. Don Armando de Revero Castillo, drunk and hero of the soap. Is different from the Armando that we know.” Sandra tells him, “oh come on even I was shock to see him.” Sophia tells herself, “oh blasted it.” Mariana tells her, “oh don’t stress out Sophia the one that wants the earth to drown him is Don Armando girl.” Sandra tells him, “oh yes him and Betty oh what a slap that she gave Don Armando. That post of her, is now in danger.” Sophia tells her, “ok girls as soon as Betty arrives immediately we take her to our meeting room. I won’t be able to work, not knowing why those two started fighting.”  Sandra tells him, “well neither do we.” Sophia walks away uttering, “me and my big mouth.” Sandra tells her, “oh that one always messes up.”

In the office, Mario just can’t believe his ears and just coves his face with his hands. Mario asks, “so you beat him up?” Armando tells him, “oh Calderon the guy left his car understand. He got in-between Betty and I. What did you want me to do?” Mario tells him, “but weren’t you telling me that you were trying to stop her from getting that car. What did you think that guy would do? Oh yes a drunk boss comes by, insults his girlfriend. Well do tell me, where were you going to take Betty?” Armando tells him, “its not what your thinking Calderon. I saw her, with that guy and thought about that balance which she still hasn’t given to me. Its still not manipulated, I got nervous and worried. So I wanted to take her some place, so we could talk and resolve this matter. That was all that I was going too do.” Mario tells him, “oh yes and try to seduce her if you could.” Armando tells him, “if I had to seduce her I would have.” Mario tells him, “yes of course and you couldn’t support that that guy would be taking her. In that instant, you went crazy and you beat him up.”

Armando tells him, “no no Calderon no its not that at all. I began to complain, I told him he was a wretched user and that he was driving my car and using my money. He was after Betty, because of Terra Moda. This guy became quite angry Calderon, he began yelling at me. He said he had earned it, and that it was his money. He worked for it, he justified his costs. Plus he threatened me, he said if I continued to treat Betty badly I would pay for it. What did you want me to do? Stand there with my hands crossed no sir no way.” Mario tells him, “so you beat him in front of the whole world. Bravo, bravo.” He begins clapping, and Armando tells him. “Yes yes I know I went blind, I lost it with him oh but I felt a fresh delicious feeling. When I was hitting that guy, I wanted to knock that idiot’s teeth out. You know I did go too far, I was hitting and hitting. Then I just couldn’t stop man.” Mario asks, “well what stopped you? Or is it a confidential secret?” Armando sits down and tells him, “the whole company will know soon Calderon.” Mario grinning tells him, “so do tell me?” Armando tells him, “Betty stopped me with a single slap. Mario touches his mouth once more with his hand. She left me cold.” Mario utters, “oh no.”

Armando replies, “yes.” Mario tells him, “well all you can do is suicide. Do anything you can’t continue living. Look you already hit bottom please, the ugly pushes you away. The ugly waltzes around with that guy under your nose. She doesn’t want you, nor to sleep with you anymore. She has your money, she slaps you in front of the whole world. Oh I wouldn’t mind losing my company, than going through with this humiliation. Oh please I would kill her.” Armando tells him, “yes yes kill her I kill her. Oh yes she dies and her family will inherit Eco Moda. Oh how divine.” Mario tells him, “fine don’t kill her then. Now then you will get on your knees, and think of a good excuse.” Armando utters, “do what?” Mario tells him, “yes senora no matter if she hit you you showed up there drunk. You wanted to force her to go with you. Yes sir in front of that guy, and in front of everyone. You are going to have to make some excuses. Now then, we need this little ingredient. Here’s a pen, you are going in there on your knees with an excuse and a card. Please lord inspire this man.” Armando tells him, “oh shut up I can’t concentrate and write.” Mario utters, “please help this tortured soul.” Armando tells him, “shut up.” Mario seriously tells him, “Mr. President Mr. President.” Armando gets angry and tells him, “what what?” Mario asks, “did you find out how Inesita is doing today?” Armando tells him, “no I didn’t.” Mario tells him, “I see.”

Over at Ines’s house, Hugo is fast asleep while Ines wakes up and gets out of bed. Hugo awakens and begins reaching for his boyfriend. “Hunny oh don’t you leave me. Oh where are you? He awaken quite scared, and utters. Oh my god where am I? Who was I with last night? Where am I, oh there’s saints over there. Oh Ines, Ines Inesita.” Ines tells him, “yes sir calm down calm yourself down. I am here.” Hugo tells her, “oh what calm down calm down. You scared me, where were you? Are you crazy? Remember the crazy one is me.” Ines tells him, “yes Don Hugo Don Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “go back to bed.” Ines tells her, “no I have to go shower and change Don Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “what do you mean your going to shower? Oh no you just can’t take a shower, not until the doctor authorized that you are fine. Now get back to bed insofacto.” Ines tells him, “no Don Hugo I must take a shower and change in order to feel better. If I don’t bathe I won’t feel better.” Hugo tells her, “do you really think that I’m going to permit you to go in there. You might get an infection or something. Remember that ugly Betty was here, she might have left a virus.” Ines tells him, “no just relax. I will take a shower and get changed.” Hugo tells her, “no Ines lets do this lets bathe together. We can both use the soap, I’ll close my eyes so I won’t get shocked.” Ines laughs, “oh Don Hugo please I never ever took a shower even with Raphael. When we were younger, and at my age. Let alone with you Don Hugo, since your my boss. Now then fix yourself up, and head home and head straight to work. Remember you have a lot of work too do today.” Hugo tells her, “Ines I’m not going anywhere. Until you are dressed and perfumed and in tact understand.” Ines tells him, “fine fine.”  Hugo tells her, “now go take a shower but leave the door open. If your about to faint, scream make a fuss give me a sign.” Ines tells him, “oh ok if I faint you will hear me fall. That will advise you.” Hugo tells her, “oh your so very funny. Oh Ines I am all wrinkled and ugly. Oh Ines why didn’t you loan me a baby doll.”

Betty arrives too work, “oh good morning.” The girls all run after her, and stop her in her tracks. Sandra tells her, “oh no wait one darn minute what do you mean good morning and take off like that.” Mariana tells her, “oh no friend tell us what happened last night. Why did your boyfriend and Don Armando start fighting?” Betty tells them, “oh please come on I don’t want any gossip in the corridors. I don’t want this to be a big deal, look what occurred was that their was a misunderstanding. It was because of drinks, that’s all.” She’s ready to go again, Mariana stops her and takes her over to Sandra. Sandra tells her, “oh no you come over here. Betty you slapped Don Armando or don’t you remember? He almost left you without a boyfriend. It won’t stop at that like that no sir.” Mariana tells her, “ok tell us everything so we can at least make it sounds not so bad. Lessen the intensity here at the company.” Betty tells her, “its nothing quite simply Don Armando arrived a bit drunk. He wanted to take me away, so we can talk about work and business. He is quite tense about that council meeting. Nicholas was waiting for me, he didn’t want to permit me to go with him. You know how men are, they deal with their anger through hitting one another. Especially if one is very drunk, look nothing further ok. Please I’m asking for prudence.” Sandra tells her, “prudence forget that Sophia already set up a meeting in our board room.” Mariana asks, “well then what do we do then?” Betty tells her, “forget that this topic ends here. There will be no meeting, I have a lot of work today. So did Don Armando arrive yet?” Sandra tells him, “yes he’s with Don Mario at his office. Oh Betty you really gave Don Armando such a slap.” Mariana tells her, “oh we got really worried. We thought as soon as he sees you, your going to get fired.” Sandra tells her, “oh no no.”

Over by Sophia’s side, she’s on the phone. “What you can’t come too work? For how long? You are fine right Bertha? Alright stay in contact with us, and tell us everything. Yes I will inform you of every single gossip. There’s a huge one, but it might make you give birth. Oh Bertha we will talk later you take care bye.” Sophia sees Betty, and races to her side. “Hi Betty.” Betty tells her, “hi Sophia how’s Bertha?” Sophia tells her, “well they won’t allow her to return to work. With Don Hugo screaming and going on yesterday. With what occurred with Inesita, well she almost had her child. So they sent her straight to bed, Betty what happened last night. Why did you give him such a slap?” Betty tells her, “I’ve already gave me version to Mariana and Sandra I really don’t want to talk about it anymore.” Sophia stops her, “Betty Betty please just answer me one question. How can you even face Don Armando, after that humongous slap you gave him.” Betty tells her, “well if he’s going to fire me let him do so.” Sophia is utterly shocked.

Over at Mario’s office, Armando finishes his card. “Finished and done with.” Mario asks, “well then may I at least read it or is it confidential.” Armando gets up, and heads to the door. “Its confidential.” Mario tells him, “I see now then do you have your knees pads?” Armando tells him, “your stupid.” He then leaves the office, and head to his office.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Armando is surprised to see Patricia by her desk. “Good morning Armando.” Armando tells her, “no good morning but congratulations. It is indeed a pleasure for this company having you here, for arriving to work before 9am Patricia Fernandez.” Patricia asks, “Armando what happened to your face?” Armando tells her, “nothing happened to my face. You know yesterday I had a great feeling of strangling a blond bimbo. Like you are but I resisited. I resisited thank god. You know why I did it, because its not your turn yet understand.” Patricia utters, “nothing.” Then he takes off.)

Marcela arrives and Patricia screams her name. “Marcee Marcee so how did things go last night.” Marcela is furious, and looks around. “Terrible, she approaches Patricia. Image this, last night  Margarita and Roberto made this big dinner for Armando and Daniel. Can you believe neither of them showed up? Daniel no idea why? While Armando, oh because he went to visit Inesita. That he wasn’t in the mood, because he was very drunk.” Patricia grins and asks, “so he didn’t tell you why?” Marcela tells her, “because he was very drunk. Patricia laughs and she asks. Why? What do you know?” Patricia tells her, “oh no I don’t want to get in the middle of gossip.” Marcela tells her, “but you started this Patricia. What do you know?” Patricia tells her, “because he got into a fight over there.” Marcela asks, “a fight a fight with who?” Patricia tells him, “Marcee you know that I don’t get involved with gossip.” Marcela angrily asks, “with who?” Patricia tells her, “Nicholas Mora.” Marcela tells her, “Beatriz’s boyfriend.” Patricia tells her, “and mine as well Marcee.”

Betty is working in her office, Armando enters quite nervous. “Beatriz I didn’t realize that you had arrived.” Betty tells him, “its nine sir I always arrive early.” Armando looks away then tells her, “I’m so very sorry. I feel really bad Beatriz, I’m sorry for what occurred last night.” Betty tells him, “don’t worry about it sir.” Armando tells her, “it worries me just worries me. Look I know that I went crazy, its like I lost my mind. Like its never happened to me before. I don’t know what happened to me Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “what is was was the hatred and that you don’t trust Nicholas. Don’t you worry about it sir, I’ve spoken to him and my father. The balance of Terra Moda will be complete this afternoon. The balance will be with every single penny accounted for.” Armando tells her, “no Beatriz you don’t have too do that. That’s just not necessary, I’m not asking you for that.” Betty tells him, “that’s not what you said last night.” Armando tells her, “no no no what happened last night was different Beatriz. He sits down, last night what occurred was I was jealous. I was very jealous last night.” Betty tells him, “in any case we will be giving you that balance.” Betty continues working, Armando tells her. “Beatriz the only thing that I want. I want you to understand, believe in what I’m feeling. Please forgive me, please accept my apologies.” Betty tells him, “I told you not to worry about it sir. What you must worry about is about your version of what occurred last night. That gossip is now all over the corridors, what they don’t know is why you fought Nicholas. It’s best not say it was jealousy. Nor that you doubt, the way Nicholas is running Terra Moda. You can’t use either one, of those versions.” Armando tells her, “it was jealousy read this.” He hands her the card, Betty just looks his way.

Elias Rima Nassiff has been working since 1992.
Doing so many telenovelas, he played Dr. Alberto Contreras on YSBLF.

One Hundred and Five

Betty reads his card. and he watches her reaction. “I know that what I did was wrong. The thing is don’t fault me, because now I don’t know who I am. Its just a reflection of what you produce in me, its because of your coldness. You pushing me away, this loneliness that maintains me. Its like you don’t hear my desperate screams, its like you don’t care that I love you. What isn’t it important Betty, and don’t ask me to be different when you are with him. Don’t make me into a sink hole. He is taking you away from me, and that I don’t like. For you belong to me, even though there’s this distance between the two of us. I am in this dark place, and I don’t know the way out. Please give me back your kisses, tell me that your mine again. Give me the peace, Betty I do love you. Armando Mendoza.”

Betty tells him, “your trying to tell me that you will admit in public that what you did was out of jealousy. Will you say publicly, what this card says.” Armando sits back in his chair, and tells her. “Yes but after the council meeting Beatriz just like I promised you.” Betty tells him, “yeah right.” Armando tells her, “it has to be this way for its better nobody knows what has occurred between the two of us. Please give me time, give me till the end of the council meeting.” Betty tells him, “don’t you worry about it sir don’t feel that I’m pressuring you. In any case, I feel its very necessary that we have the same version of what occurred last night. I have already invented something, I don’t know if you like it or not. I told them, that you wanted to bring me back here to do some work. You were going to ruin my night with Nicholas. He didn’t permit it.” She stops talking when she sees Marcela arriving. Marcela tells him, “good morning.” Armando curses and gets up to greet her. “Oh hello how did you get up this morning?” Armando tells her, “fine and you?” Marcela tells him, “fine last night I ate with your parents. Then I went back to my apartment. What happened to your face?” Armando tells her, “I was in a fight.”

Marcela tells him, “another one another fight Armando. What is it this time, once again with a taxi driver. Or were you so drunk, that you don’t know who you were fighting with. It really doesn’t matter, in fact you don’t even have to tell me. I am waiting for what ever.” Betty glances at him, as he glances back at her. Armando tells her, “I had a fight with Betty.” Marcela utters, “what? Why?” Armando tells her, “I went to see Inesita to find out how she was. There I saw Beatriz, and wanted to bring her back to Eco Moda so we can finish work.” Marcela asks, “last night? You asked Beatriz, to return back to Eco Moda.” Armando tells her, “yes I’m very tense and have a lot of work too do here. I wanted her to finish the balance for the council meeting last night. I asked her for that favour, for her to return. I bothered her, and her boyfriend didn’t like it. We argued and he defended her, and we fought.” Marcela looks over at Betty and tells her, “oh what a lovely boyfriend that you have.” Armando tells her, “I was the one that started that fight.” Marcela tells him, “oh Armando congratulations lately you have been doing some great shows. Marvellous shows, first your drunk you are asking every type of person for a fight. One of these days, they might kill you.” Armando tells her, “it won’t happen again. It won’t happen, and at this moment I was apologizing to Beatriz and to her boyfriend.” Marcela sarcastically tells him, “oh yes Armando why don’t you get on you knees all the way over there. So you can ask her for forgiveness.” Then she takes off, Armando asks. “Is that the version of the story that you gave?” Betty tells him, “yes the only thing I left out was that I slapped you. I feel really bad sir, it was the only way to control you. To definitely stop that fight.” Armando tells her, “don’t you worry about that Beatriz. I deserve that slap. I need that, and so much more.” Betty tells him, “ok in 15 minutes I will print this balance up and will give it too you in 15 minutes.” Armando tells her, “thank you Betty thank you.” When he closes the door, she utters. “Yeah right after the council meeting.” She takes his card, and puts it with the others.

Gutierrez tells Sophia, “how is this possible that Bertha is on bed rest. I didn’t know, plus I’ve never received a single notification.” Sophia tells him, “but sir she just went to the doctor’s this morning. You should receive that letter soon.” Marcela asks, “what is going on?” Sophia tells her, “Dona Marcela what happened is with what occurred with Inesita. Well Bertha got sick, and the doctor has given her total bed rest. The thing is, she can’t return to work until she has the baby.” Marcela asks, “so she is fine then?” Sophia tells her, “ yes yes but she needs bed rest but she’s fine.” Marcela tells him, “well then wait for that letter then and don’t you dare call her at home.” Gutierrez tells her, “oh no don’t worry about it Dona Marcela. No no no bother her and let her remain in bed rest, until she has her baby. Baby doll, let her take a very long time. As long as its possible, now then who can I get to replace Bertha excuse me.” He enters her office, and Sophia tells Marcela, “I’m sorry Dona Marcela please watch out for him. This is the best news, he’s heard in a long time. He’s always been dreaming, of getting rid of Bertha. He wants a model to be his secretary, if she returns she’s going to find out she’s been replaced.” Marcela tells her, “don’t worry relax I’ll find someone to replace her.” Sophia is very happy with the news.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia all excited asks, “Marcee Marcee so what did Armando tell you?” Marcela tells her, “exactly what you told me. That he fought with Nicholas, because he was really drunk. Patricia just smirks, and looks at Marcela. She asks, did you go and visit Inesita?” Patricia just gives her a look. Marcela asks, how did you find out?” Patricia tells her, “information first hand.” Marcela asks, “so last night you went out with Nicholas.” Patricia tells her, “correction he as at my apartment. To heal those wounds made by your boyfriend Armando.” Marcela tells her, “so you played nurse all night?” Patricia laughing tells her, “oh Marcee you should see how good I was.” Marcela coldly tells her, “I don’t have to know how nicely you did it.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee you don’t have to torment yourself with that.”)

Marcela heads back to her office, and bumps into Hugo who’s just arriving. “Oh how late it is, oh hello Marg. Oh tell me, isn’t this the most bombi watch that you’ve seen in your life.” Marcela tells him, “just a bit.” Hugo asks, “oh has my models arrived? Marcela tells him, “they’re waiting for you at your studio. Were you with Inesita, how is she?” Hugo tells her, “well they should call her Ines the stubborn. She didn’t want to stay in bed, so she got up and took a shower and changed. Then we had a delicious breakfast, a Hawaiian that was outetue.” The girls are listening in, and Sandra asks. “Don Hugo Don Hugo did you leave Inesita alone?” Hugo tells them, “yes girls since you know that she didn’t want us to leave a nurse. Which one of you, are going to take care of her.” Sandra looks over at Mariana, telling her. “I’ll go.” Mariana asks, “how is she doing?” Hugo tells her, “well I left her in the bed she promised me that she would stay there. But we all know she won’t do that, keep on calling her. For she isn’t Ines, she’s Ines the stubborn.” Both girls laugh, and go back to their work. Hugo looks over at Marcela, and tells her. “Oh Marg definately even in black you are brilliant. You are radiant, and transparent.”

Over at Ines’s home, Ines is up and doing some dusting. The door bell rings, and Ines utters. “I wonder who it can be. I’m coming, I’m coming I’m coming.” She is shocked to discover its her missing husband at that door. Ines utters, “no no no.” A man tells her, “hello Ines.” Ines utters, “no no no  it just can’t be. Its just can’t be, this is an illusion no this isn’t true.” The man tells her, “no its for real Inesita your husband Raphael.” Ines once again tells her, “no no it just can’t be true. In tears she tells him, “no it can’t be true.” She continues to repeat, and he enters the house. Holds her, so she won’t pass out. He closes the door, and tells her. “Please calm down.” Ines tells him, “no it can’t be true no it isn’t.” He tells her, “I’ll get some water.” He heads straight to the kitchen. While Ines utters, “it can’t be him. It’s not true, its not true. She sees him once more coming from the kitchen, its true.” He tells her, “here have some water. Ines repeats over and over those words. Drink this water, its as real as me.” He tells her, “I’m sorry that I have just appeared just like that. Without informing you, I found out that you got sick and I had to return.”

Ines asks, “and how do you know that?” He tells her, “I was here last night when they were bringing you in that car. They helped you out, and then a lot of people came by to visit you.” Ines asks, “what have you been spying on me?” He tells her, “no no I sometimes come by her every now and then. I have been tempted on various occasions to knock, but I never do I just couldn’t do it.” Ines asks, “why have you come here? You are dead.” He tells her, “no Inesita no in disgrace of me I am still alive.” Ines tells him, “you left here over 20 years ago. You too me, are dead and buried. Why did you come back?” He tells her, “to know how you were doing? To see my children. I want to tell them, that yes I am here. Even though I am useless.” Ines tells him, “no Raphael your nothing absolutely nothing.” Raphael tells her, “alright then I just wanted to know how you were. I wanted to tell the kids, that I still have them here in my heart. Even though I have reappeared so late, I’ve always dreamed of them. Tell them please, tell them please so I can die in peace. I know that you loathe me, and that you may never forgive me. I know that you don’t accept my apology. Please please tell them, tell them tell them. Now regarding you, I need your forgiveness. So I may leave here, to go straight to hell alright. But at least with your forgiveness.” Ines tells him, “get out Raphael and may god forgive you. I just can’t.”

Raphael calls out to her, “Ines Ines.” She arrives in her bedroom, and looks at a picture of Christ. “Why oh why did you make him reappear to me. Why did you ask him, to come back here. When I had already forgotten him, when I have gotten the idea that he was gone and for him to never say goodbye. Never to ever return again, why did you bring him back. Why didn’t you leave him there, where he had been. Why did he have to return, when at last my life was settled. Why did you ask him to return. Too me he’s like a dead man without a grave. She cries and cries, the phone rings and she answers. Hello?” Aura Maria is on the phone, and tells her. “Hello hello hi its Aura Maria Inesita how are you?” Ines tells her, “I’m fine dear I’m fine. I feel find, thank you.” Aura Maria tells her, “now Inesita listen here we did a raffle amongst us and Mariana won and got permission from Dona Marcela. To spend the entire afternoon to take care of you.” Ines tells her, “no Aura Maria tell Mariana thank you but there’s no need. Don’t you worry, I just want to be alone.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no senora don’t be stubborn. You right now have to do one thing and that’s rest.” Ines tells her, “really dear thank you look I will continue calling just to inform you and that you all don’t worry about me.” Aura Maria tells Marcela, “Dona Marcela she doesn’t want us there.” Marcela gets the phone, “Inesita how are you?” Ines tells her, “oh hello Dona Marcela how are you?” Marcela tells her, “no I’m fine now don’t you worry thank you.” Marcela tells him, “of course I’m worried Inesita do me a favour and wait for Mariana. She will finish a few things here, and will head over there. Don’t make me punish you.” Ines tells her, “but Dona Marcela?” Marcela tells her, “don’t insist Inesita wait for Mariana goodbye. She hangs up, and puts back her earring. Now then finish those form, and head straight over there.”  Mariana tells her, “yes of course Dona Marcela.”

Aura Maria tells her, “well then I’ll head back to reception.” Marcela tells her, “no your coming with me.” Aura Maria asks, “go where Dona Marcela.” Marcela tells her, “don’t ask any questions just follow me.” She looks at the girls, Sandra asks. “What’s going on?” Aura Maria follows Marcela, Mariana looks over at Sophia. “What did she do?” Sophia just shrugs, “wait wait.” In Gutierrez’s office, he’s staring at a model and tells her. “Now then I don’t know how long you will be in replacing Bertha. Well then what I need from you, is for you to start right away like now can you.” The woman smiling tells him, “but of course sir.” Gutierrez tells her, “I’d like to inform you that over here I have a big workload in this office. This area is very important to the running of this company. Very important, and we here work till very very late. Well if you have a boyfriend, suitor a fellow tell him we here work very hard.” She tells him, “don’t you worry I don’t have a boyfriend.” His smile gets bigger, “ok well then why don’t we do your contract right away. You may start by reading this contract. When Marcela enters, and sees the woman. He tells her, oh very good Dona Marcela let me present Susy. She will be replacing Bertha while she’s away. What do you think?” The woman gets up and is about to shakes Marcela’s hand when she say. “Gutierrez you are mistaken Bertha’s replacement will be Aura Maria. Maybe you will be available to replace Aura Maria. You will be advised and thank you very much for coming goodbye.” The woman tells Gutierrez, “well then in any way thank you for seeing me and look forward to your call.” Gutierrez takes her hand, and tells her. “Yes Susy very nice to meet you as well goodbye.” The woman tells them, “excuse me.” When she’s gone Gutierrez tells her, “we must contract her immediately. We can’t leave the reception area alone.” Marcela tells him, “I’m the one that tells you yes or no who too contract alright. To replace Aura Maria, now then I want you to gather your things and bring them up to Bertha’s desk. You inform her, what she needs excuse me.” They both utter, “yes Dona Marcela.” When she’s gone, Gutierrez has a disgusting look on his face, as Aura Maria closes the door. “Oh the bread and the cheese oh what a meal. He then uses his walky-talky and tells Pepe, we need more poison for those cockroaches.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Marcela tells her, “now get Freddy to take over the reception. While we find a replacement. Gutirrez can’t take this over, for he might hire another loose woman.” Aura Maria tells her, “yes of course Dona Marcela.” Marcela asks, “but you don’t seem happy doing the job. Don’t you want to rise up the company. So you won’t have to answer phones all your life?” Aura Maria tells her, “yes yes of course Dona Marcela. Its not the work its just that, Mr. Gutierrez is quite tricky and has tried many times to seduce me.” Marcela tells her, “oh really you keep me informed because if that guy. Tries anything I am going to fire that man. Kick him out into the streets.” Aura Maria just nods, and follows Marcela. Mario shows up, “well hello.” Marcela tells him, “hello.” Then notices him grinning again at Aura Maria. She utters, “don’t start again.” Aura Maria simply utters, “hello Don Mario.”)

Betty walks slowly to Armando’s office, with the folder in her hand. Then she hands it too him, and he takes it and glances at it. Mario runs in and asks, “so is the balance already?” Betty tells them, “its there now the first page has the resume of the total cost of the company thus far.” Armando asks, “Beatriz for the lord’s sake what is this?” Betty tells him, “its the real balance that you asked for.” Mario tells her, “Betty but its not the balance that’s manipulated.” Betty tells him, “I told you two that this would be the real balance. To later of course manipulate it.” Armando tells her, “yes of course Beatriz I understand but tell me. At what time, will that be finished.” Betty tells them, “in the evening.” Mario just shakes his head, and Armando tells her. “No no no Beatriz we can’t wait, till the evening for this to be finished. We need to at least have something to show my dad today. We need to know before hand, what we are going to tell the council members. When will we meet?” Betty tells him, “I can’t give you an approximate time for that sir. It will be ready tonight.” Both men look at one another, Armando asks. “Does anybody have a copy of this? Betty nods no. He tells her, good perfect you won’t be making any copies. You know perfectly well, this can’t be going around everywhere. Beatriz make sure that computer that has the real archives is hidden please.” Betty annoyed looks at them and goes to her office. Armando angrily throws the sheet on the desk.

Outside by the elevators, Roberto and Margarita arrive. The girls excitedly tells them, “oh hello Don Roberto and Dona Margarita.” As they get ready to hug them, they are stopped by Patricia who goes straight to them. “Hello Roberto and Margarita, how have you been?” She goes to kiss them both. Sandra and Mariana give her dirty looks. Roberto tells her, “oh Patricia your always looking so beautiful. How have you been?” Patricia tells him, “Roberto I was hoping that soon we would be able to get together. Maybe discuss a few things, about my situation. But I don’t know how much time you have.” Roberto is ready to answer her, but Margarita stops him. Margarita tells her, “not now Patricia Roberto just came by to see Armando and look around the company. Well then where is Marcela and Armando?” The girls are happy and high five one another. Patricia tells her, “Margarita if you like I could announce you.” Margarita tells her, “inform Marcela we will be in the president’s office. Mariana takes this opportunity to shake Roberto’s hand. Sandra just waves to him, and Patricia tells them. “Sure go right ahead Roberto and Margarita. Then Patricia gloats and utters, and what do you order?” Then she goes back to her desk, while the two eye her. Sandra utters, “wretched woman.”

(Why doesn’t Margarita, want Roberto to ever greet Mariana and Sandra?)

Mario is looking at the figures. “Oh my god just look at this disgusting figure.” Armando tells him, “yes but look we only have to keep this up for six months. Then we will get back our company.” Roberto enters and smiles at both men. “Well hello good afternoon.” Mario quickly hides the paperwork, Armando tells him. “Oh dad well you didn’t advise that you would be coming today.” Roberto tells him, “since its still my company I don’t have to advise that I’m coming. Since you didn’t have the curtsey, to go to my home to welcome me back. I had to come here, to your office to do that honour.” Armando tells him, “yes yes of course. I am really sorry about last night, things came up dad. He hugs his dad, oh hi mom.” Mario shakes his hand, “how are you Roberto? He kisses Margarita, hello Margarita its nice to see you.” Roberto opens Betty’s door, “oh hello Beatriz.” Betty gets up and tells them. “Oh hello Don Roberto and Dona Margarita how are you?” Roberto asks, “and how have you been?” Betty tells him, “I’ve been fine thank you for asking.” Roberto asks, “so how have you been taking care of my company. Oh no just kidding, I was only joking dear. I know that they are in good hands.” Mario and Armando are watching Betty reaction very clearly.” Betty simply utters, “thank you.” Roberto turns to look at the two men once more. “So do we have everything ready for the council meeting for tomorrow.” Armando glances at Mario, and both utter. “Yes everything is ready.”

Armando tells them, “well then why don’t we sit down in the boardroom so we can talk.” Roberto tells him, “yes we will discuss so many things but most important we will talk about your wedding to Marcela.” They all head to the boardroom, Armando glances at Betty then goes with them. Mario tells them, “I’ll be right with you. He enters Betty’s office, hide this please.” Betty simply utters, “yes sir.” Then he takes off, and Betty is so embarrassed. She covers her face, feeling guilty for lying to Roberto.

Catalina arrives, and enters Betty’s office. “Oh hi Betty, where is Armando?” Betty gets back up and tells her, “he’s with Don Roberto and Dona Margarita in the boardroom.” Catalina asks, “what’s wrong?” Betty tells her, “did you talk to Armando to tell him your leaving.” Betty tells her, “he won’t let me go.” Catalina asks, “then what are you going to do?” Betty tells her, “it doesn’t matter tomorrow I’m leaving after the council meeting.” Catalina asks, “go where?” Betty tells her, “I don’t know.” Catalina tells her, “look Betty well tonight after the launch I have to go leave. Thus ending the contract with Eco Moda. I have a lot of events still too do, including one in Miami. You do have an american passport ready?” Betty tells her, “yes senora I got one when I was working for the bank of Montreal. I’ve never had the chance to travel to the states.” Catalina tells her, “if you like you can come with me if you like.” Betty is quite relieved and tells her, “really Dona Catalina.” Catalina tells her, “yes it would be good for you. You get some fresh air, and get too meet a lot of different people. Be in another country, and see the sea. You don’t have to think of nothing.” Betty tells her, “oh thank you very much Dona Catalina but I wouldn’t be able to do that job.” Catalina tells her, “but Betty I really do need someone to help me. I can afford to hire you, you can be my assistant I will cover all your costs. Does the idea grab you? Betty looks down and can’t believe her good fortune. Look you think about this well. Tell me, but it must be soon. Since I have to make reservations think about it.” Betty sadly watches her leave.

(I’d would have loved to have, a Catalina Angel to help me out sometimes.)

Hugo is with his models and tells them. “Oh just look at this jewel, its from Sonja Cavera. Girl where is the materials that I asked for. We have to head over to the hotel, and there you are. Playing around with some material.” The woman tells him, “yes sir I know but I don’t know which accessory goes with these materials.” Hugo sees Jenny, “you mouth open come over here and help her out.” Jenny tells him, “that isn’t my job Don Hugo. Plus I’m leaving.” Hugo tells her, “what you do here is what I’m ordering you too do. Don’t be lazy and move it move it. Why aren’t you moving, oh my I’m going to get something. I’m going to faint, I can’t do this all alone. Oh where is Inesita, give me a valium or something.”

Patricia is with Marcela, “so is Armando in his office.” Patricia tells her, “yes Marcee they are waiting for you.” Marcela sees Mariana, “oh Mariana how is that balance going. Remember that Inesita is all alone.” Mariana tells her, “yes Dona Marcela I should be done in a half an hour. Then I’ll fly over there relax.” Marcela goes to the boardroom.

Freddy is by Bertha’s desk, and tells Aura Maria. “I am going to stay here to watch over you.” Aura Maria tells him, “you are so divine my grasshopper but no my love you must head over to reception.” Sophia tells him, “oh stop being so annoying. I will be here, to make sure that Aura Maria will be alright.” Freddy tells her, “but that can’t be well that can’t be never. What will happen if that guy, asks her to enter that office. Will you enter as well?” Sophia tells him, “well no but she does have a mouth.” Freddy tells her, “what if he bites her or what if he wants her to stay here very late then what? Will you join her, well no my life. My porcelain doll, I’m going to stay right here watching over her.” Marcela comes out, and see him. “Freddy what are you doing up here? Your suppose to be in reception.” Freddy tells her, “well I’m in an important mission. Its quite urgently Dona Marcela.” Marcela tells him, “there is no important mission you can’t leave the reception alone.” Freddy looks at the girls, “yes and stop taking away all my concentrations from my duties. Now Freddy will take care of the reception.”

He takes off, while Hugo is screaming away. “No no get out, I can’t stand you lot. I can’t even look at you all. Disappear now where is Copperfield.” Jenny is crying, and the other woman is quite upset. Jenny crying tells him, “oh Don Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “nothing fly fly goodbye.“ Sophia and Aura Maria are smiling, and Marcela asks. “What is going on Hugo?” Hugo tells her, “what’s wrong what’s wrong? I am going crazy, I have to go to the hotel. I have to go with all the accessories and the models. I have to do the final walk with the clothes on, and one final with my models. How am I going to do this all alone? Alone for the one that’s suppose to replace Ines, doesn’t know what she’s doing. All she does is a lot of disasters, you stand by the other one. I don’t want you.” Marcela tells him, “Maricela isn’t a disaster she is one of the best employees from the cutting room.” Hugo tells her, “well then she can cut it with her profession. That woman doesn’t know my likes, doesn’t know my moods, doesn’t understand my hints for example. There is just no chemistry, I don’t feel nothing just look. Plus this idiot one doesn’t collaborate for nothing.” Jenny screams, “I do try to help him but he doesn’t like what I do.” Hugo tells her, “Jenny your trying to tell me that I’m a liar.”

Marcela tells him, “ok enough please now Marcela please return to the cutting floor thank you. She takes off, and Marcela looks over at Jenny. Now you you I want to leave.” Jenny glances at Hugo then over to Marcela, “are you firing me?” Marcela tells her, “yes go tomorrow come around for your last pay check.” Jenny tells her, “but Dona Marcela you just can’t do this too me.” Marcela asks, “Hugo do you need her?” Hugo tells her, “what to make a pin cushion out of her.” Marcela goes next to Hugo, “you hear me girl now leave. Leave you are just bothering us now. Its the only think that you know how too do. She then talks to Hugo, you I need to talk too you.” She takes Hugo back to his studio. Jenny looks over at Sophia, as she and Aura Maria are overwhelmed with joy. “You are you satisfied, your probably very happy Dona Sophia.” Sophia asks, “and you what do you want?” Jenny tells her, “oh no enough you already heard everything. I was fired, I was fired. My sweet love in jail, and its all your fault.” Sophia tells her, “and what do I have too do with that. You fired yourself, I didn’t have to move a single finger. If your asking if I’m satisfied, yes and if I’m happy yes. I am overjoyed, she dances around with Aura Maria. I am happy very very happy. Tomorrow in this company, you will smell fresh air. I will never see you ever.” Jenny tells him, “yes lets see how long that works out for you. My sweet love will be dying in that jail for a very long time.”

Sophia tells her, “I don’t care whether or not he does go or stay in the jail cell. Either way it doesn’t help me, if you are so anguished come tomorrow for your pay check. Go that courthouse, pay what he owes and they will release him.” Jenny tells her, “pay with my salary what he owes you. You are crazy Dona Sophia, that money would go straight to your pocket.” Sophia tells her, “oh really can’t you believe that well then. Go and visit him then, since you love him so very much.” Patricia screams, “what is going on over there? What is the big scandal? Don’t you know that Don Roberto, and Dona Margarita are here. Can’t you at least act like normal civilized people. Is that at all possible?” Jenny goes over and grabs her hand, “oh they fired me Patricia I got fired.” Sophia tells her, “what you think that the blond bimbo will do anything to help you. When in fact, they are just waiting to fire her as well.” Jenny just burst out crying and heads to the elevator. Aura Maria tells her, “well goodbye one finally is gone now we just need to see that this one goes.” Patricia tells them, “oh lord yeah right continue dreaming. If you really think you witches can get me fired. You are delirious, while I can do too you like this. She snaps her fingers, I am friends with Roberto, Margarita, Marcela and Daniel Valencia. Oh fresh dream on really, since poor people have the right to do so.” She moves her hair once more, and heads back to her desk. Aura Maria tells her, “oh Sophie how come every time we discuss loose women that the blond bimbo thinks were talking about her.” They start laughing, Patricia claws them in the air.

In the studio, Hugo is drinking tea. Marcela is sitting down and tells him. “Hugo you must get someone too help you. You can’t do this fashion show alone, at least you need someone who knows accessories for the materials. A model is massaging his back, and he tells her. I’d rather be not accompanied than be badly accompanied. Even if I pass out.“ Catalina sits down and looks over at him. “Now I got a call from the hotel, Hugo the lights have been put up. Now you must head there quickly to practice with your models.” Marcela tells him, “we had to let go two of the girls that were helping him.” Catalina tells him, “Hugo now is not the time you can’t do this luxuries.” Marcela tells him, “now enough thinking your going to pass out. Then of course, everyone of us will get one. Margarita Roberto and Armando.” Hugo tells her, “Armando no don’t even mention his name for he just doesn’t interest me.” Marcela tells him, “well then you explain the situation and what’s going on.” Hugo tells her, “what so he can come here with his Schwarzenegger arms so he can hit me. Like he did Betty’s boyfriend, he almost killed him. He’s now better looking, with all those punches he got.”

Catalina is stunned to hear this news, Marcela tells him. “Yes I know about the fight. In fact I saw that bruise on him, I had to put make-up to hide it so Don Roberto and Margarita wouldn’t notice. How can he even fight with a man like that.” Hugo tells her, “well the thing is. Ladies please head out now. Fly fly fly away, or else I will fight with all of you. Girls go right now.” Reluctantly they take off, he looks over at the women then tells them. Well not only does he have his face like that, but it wasn’t just Betty’s boyfriend that hit him. Betty slapped him as well, oh don’t tell me that part you didn’t know about. She gave him such a slap, that it was clearly marked on his face.” Marcela livid asks, “Beatriz hit Armando.” Hugo tells her, “but of course it was the only way. For Armando to stop hitting that boyfriend of hers. We almost had to throw water on them, just like the dogs.” Marcela asks, “Hugo and the whole world knows about this?” Hugo tells her, “no all we were missing was the television stations for the whole country and world to find out.” Marcela is utterly stunned and just sits there. Catalina quickly changes the subject, “look we will get out of this problem. I will help you, and help you pack the things needed. Then we all will head to that hotel alright.” In tears he tells them…

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Next time you hire someone, make sure they are efficent enough.”)

“Oh just look at the time, that my Inesita just had to get sick.” Catalina tells him, “forget her you won’t have her helping you Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “yes but oh why oh why am I gay? In the end, I end up relying so much on a woman.”

Ines is at home, and looks down and find Raphael looking through her photo albums. She looks down from the second floor, and has her purse with her. “I thought that you had already left?” Raphael tells her, “no I’m heading out now. I was wandering around the house, one last time. I saw these photos, please let me roam around while I’m alive for when I’m dead I won’t be able too. Oh who are these children?” Ines tells him, “my grandchildren and your I guess. The one’s on the left are Jorge’s their names are Sonja and Olga. The right are Juliana, they are Maria Ines and Daniela.” Raphael asks, “and where is Jorge and Juliana?” Ines tells him, “its been a long time since they left. Jorge left and heading to Moscow, there he made roots. He got married and now has a family. While Juliana is living in Vancouver, and is doing the same. On occasion I get a call from them.” Raphael tells her, “I would have loved to meet these kids. Give our kids a hug but its way too late now. He gathers his things, and tells her. Well then I’m going now, I’m sorry that I bothered in coming by. I know that it might seem like a lie, I worry about you do me a favour. Give everyone a kiss from me, even though I will never receive it.” Ines asks, “and where are you going? Where do you live?” Raphael tells her, “I don’t know here and there. Where ever there’s a bed?” Ines asks, “how about your family your sister Mirage and your brother Luis.” Raphael tells her, “she died 15 years ago. He died two years later, I wasn’t in Colombia when it happened. They told me, that they were buried in the central cemetery. I haven’t been able to find them. I’m going this afternoon, to see if I have any luck.” Ines tells him, “you don’t have to leave if you want you may stay here. To walk around, like you said. Plus in the end, at one point in time this house was yours.” Raphael asks, ‘”and where are you going?” Ines tells him, “to Eco Moda where I am going. Every since we were together, and after you left.” Raphael asks, “but you are very sick still.” Ines tells him, “I have to work in the kitchen there’s a stew. If you want warm it up and eat it.” Raphael asks, “so you don’t mind if I stay here.” Ines tells him, “stay the night I will be back later tonight.” Ines then leaves her house, she takes a deep breath and heads to work. Raphael just watches her leaves, and looks around.

Betty is working away by her desk. Marcela enters the office and goes her way. Marcela asks, “where is Armando and my future in laws?” Betty tells her, “they’re in the boardroom Dona Marcela.” As Marcela is about to leave, she stops and goes closer to her. “Beatriz did you slap Armando in front of the whole world?” Betty tells her, “it wasn’t intentional Dona Marcela.”  Marcela asks, “what was it accidental did he move his face to your hand?” Betty tells her, “Don Armando was out of control. He could have killed Nicholas Dona Marcela. I wanted to stop the fight and I also lost control. Unfortunately…” Marcela angrily gets close to her, “unfortunately nothing unconditional nothing. You don’t do nothing unconditionally. You don’t regret nothing, you know perfectly well what you do. You are a calculated human, with every single word of it. You are a bold woman Beatriz. Its been some time, you have gone overboard. Armando gave you a hand, and you took his arm. You took him completely, you took our company you give and take. You do what you will, like you want. You know what, to slap Armando I won’t admit. Neither will I permit the employees too do so.” Betty in tears tells her, “it was the only way too stop that fight.” Marcela asks, “what you couldn’t think of another idea. They say you are quite intelligent. They say your are Armando’s shadow, that you take good care of him. That you care so much for him, you know why you didn’t think of nothing. You have no class, remember Beatriz who you are and where you come from. You are just a simple employee here. A employee yes, a secretary who had good luck. Who happened to become an assistant, but still your an employee. Well yes now a days, your now a show off. You think you have heaven in your hands. Just because you now have a rich boyfriend. A Mercedes, where you go to fancy restaurants. Where never you ever stepped in your life. Please ground yourself, you might be Armando Mendoza’s assistant. His clandestine partner of Armando, you could also be the catalyst in this company. You can work the finances, but you are still a simply employee. The owners of this company, is the Valencia’s and the Mendoza. Tomorrow we can ask you to leave through the front door, or the back door if we wanted too. Under no circumstances, listen to me clearly under no circumstance will you be able to slap the president of Eco Moda your stupid.” She slams the door and storms out.

Betty simply stares at her desk, Catalina enters and tells her. “Oh Betty where is Armando I lost him. I am now going to the hotel, I must talk things over with him.” Betty in tears tells her, “he’s in the boardroom.” Catalina takes a deep breath, “now Betty what happened now?” Betty tells her, “no Dona Catalina I just don’t want to talk about this. I want to be alone.” Catalina tells her, “yes ok we won’t talk about nothing you don’t want to talk about. Well I just found out, what occurred last night with your boyfriend and Armando. Is that what has you so affected? Just one more question more Betty. Well what did you decide about the trip?” Betty tells her, “please please get me out of here this place is an inferno. Please get me out of here, get me out of her. She goes to Catalina and holds onto her. I want too leave, I want too leave.” Catalina holds her and pats her shoulder.

Out in the corridor, Mariana tells Sandra. “Ok this is ready and do me a favour. Give this to Freddy and tell him to make copies and give them out. If Dona Marcela asks, tell her I left to go see Inesita.” Sandra tells her, “ok fly.” When Mariana touches the button, who’s arriving but Ines. She enters and Mariana looks over at Sandra. “Hello good morning.” The girls utter, “Inesita.” Mariana tells her, “you over here explain to me what are you doing here?” Ines tells them, “I came to work Mariana.” Sandra tells her, “oh no the doctor told you that you can’t work. Your suppose to be getting bed rest.” Mariana tells her, “yes.” Sandra asks, “do you want too die?” Ines tells them, “I’m going to die if I stay home.” Mariana tells her, “no enough with this stress I’m going to take you home this instant. She grabs her hand, walk with me.” Ines stops her, “no dears no stop insisting I appreciate that you want to take care of me. I won’t return to my house, did you hear me.” The girls in unison utter, “oh Inesita.” She walks towards the studio, Mariana tells Sandra. “Enough we might as well stop insisting. Nothing in this world will stop her from moving.” Sandra tells her, “oh bother.” Mariana takes her file, “ok I’ll take this to Freddy so he can take them to the stores.” Mariana waits for the elevator, and Sandra gets back to work. Patricia gets a phone call, “hello this is her to whom am I speaking with? Oh sir how may I help you?” Daniel arrives and says hello to the girls. The girls in unison tells him, “hello Mr. Valencia.” He looks over at Patricia. Patricia tells the guy, “oh yes let me inform you. That you will get your money by tonight, including all of the interest you are charging me. Plus every single cent, you parasites asked for. Now then, stop calling me and threatening me. Tomorrow, I will have that money and give it too in your proper hands. You blasted lawyer stupid.” She hangs up and jumps, when she sees Daniel so close to her.

Daniel asks, “have problems?” Patricia tells him, “problems Daniel no no in fact I am getting out of those. Tomorrow I will be getting back my car why.” Daniel tells her, “well I heard that you will get your money and the money for that lawyer tonight.” Patricia tells him, “its 6000.” Daniel asks, “and who asked so much for you?” Patricia asks, “and what do you mean how much they offered me?” Daniel tells her, “well I’m saying that tonight money won’t be given freely. What does he in exchange?” Patricia tells him, “oh Daniel he’s going to give me a loan.” Daniel asks, “and how will you pay that back. I’m guessing with money it won’t be. With that car either, since they embargoed it. Who is the one that’s the loaner?” Patricia tells him, “a special person that I’m dating.” Daniel tells her, “well then there’s no problem with that payment. So you’ve spent a few nights with him already.” Patricia tells him, “look Daniel Valencia I’m dating a nice man. A human being not with depraved and obsessed man like yourself. We have a clean relationship, we share a lot.” Daniel grins and tells her, “oh yes and that of his bank account. He touches her nose, oh how romantic Patricia.” Patricia tells him, “for your information we haven’t slept together yet.” Daniel tells her, “oh no Patricia forget about them giving you 6000 tsk tsk.” Patricia tells him, “what to bet on it?” Daniel then sees Sophia, “Sophia.” Sophia tells him, “yes sir good afternoon where is Armando?” Sophia tells him, “well he’s with Don Roberto and Dona Margarita in the boardroom.” Daniel smiles and tells her, “oh very good.” He then takes off, Patricia just gives him a dirty look. Sophia goes to the girls, “Inesita is crazy.” Sandra tells her, “yes she’s crazy and sick and what is she doing here?”

In the boardroom, the five sit. Roberto tells him, “well then lets discuss the preparations of the wedding.” Mario starts nervously laughing, and that’s when Daniel enters. “Well good afternoon everyone. Daniel shakes Roberto’s hand, and goes over to Margarita. Oh how very wonderful the entire Mendoza family all together. Hello Margarita.” Margarita tells him, “oh hello love we were waiting for you at the house.” Daniel kisses his sister and sits down. Daniel tells her, “unfortunately I had clients till very late. Roberto nice to see you, oh we have so much to discuss.”  Roberto tells him, “yes I know what you like to discuss. I’d prefer that we discuss things tomorrow at the council meeting. We are here on a social capacity, just discussing certain topics like Marcela and Armando’s wedding. Mario glances over at a nervous Armando. Daniel tells him, “perfect we will discuss that tomorrow. In fact I have a question in another capacity, I am a bit unsettled and curious. Armando do you know financially, what your assistant has been up too?” Armando glances over at Mario, who looks over at Daniel. “Of Betty?” Daniel asks, “do you have another?” Armando tells him, “no I have no clue to what her finances are.” Daniel asks everyone, “well I suggest you find out. He opens his briefcase, and Marcela’s smile disappears. Does everyone know, that Betty has a company? Have you heard about Terra Moda?” He throws the copies on the table. Armando just stares his way, then over to Mario. Both are left quite cold.

(Notice that the table is getting smaller.)

Saul Santa is best known, for being El Cheque Elfrain Rodriguez from YSBLF.

One Hundred and Six

Marcela looks at the both men, then everyone looks at one another. Marcela asks, “is that company owned by Beatriz’s boyfriend. Or am I mistaken.” Armando tells him, “well no.” Daniel tells them, “you both are mistaken. At the commerce business bureau, her name is on the registry Beatriz Pinzon Solano. She’s the only proprietor.” Armando glances once more at Mario, who looks quite nervous. Roberto asks, “and what is all this questioning? What type of company is it, and what is this mystery?” Armando tells him, “the mystery is Daniel. Its him like always, he loathes Beatriz he’s been fighting with her for months now. Oh dad he’s been trying to cut off her head for months now. Now he’s missing with her personal life. Lets see if once and for all that we fire her.” Roberto asks, “what is this Daniel?” Daniel asks, “Marcela isn’t this situation completely strange?” Marcela tells him, “yes it seems to me very strange. She shows up with a rich new boyfriend, new Mercedes and invitations to the best restaurants in town. Telling everyone that her boyfriend, owns his own business. That he is a multi-millionaire, he works at Terra Moda. Now apparently she’s the owner.” Daniel tells them, “I will explain now at this point Armando gave her almost full control over Eco Moda. Its Beatriz…”

Armando tells him, “no no no one moment Daniel. Lets be clear about things, the only job she has is she’s in charge of the financial aspect of Eco Moda. Your talking about two different aspects.” Daniel tells him, “what’s the difference one gives a person full rights to deal with all the financial aspects of a company. We all know the charge Beatriz holds, everything that Armando has given her. In fact she’s practically in charge of our entire inheritance. I have every right, to find out the truth. To me everything is very suspicious. What is really hiding behind all of this.” Armando tells him, “well then ask her then that very question. Your the one with the venom and that now has dirtied all of us. What is really hidden behind all of this?” Roberto tells them, “enough one moment please lets not argue this here especially today. The solution is very simple, call Betty over here. Lets just go ask her.”  Mario gets up quickly, and tells them. “I’ll go get her.” Marcela tells him, “no I’ll go.”

Mario looks over at Armando, who nervously sits in his chair. He tells her, “sure you go.” Betty calls home, “look Nicholas I need that balance urgently of Terra Moda. Tomorrow I’m quitting, yes Nicholas I just don’t want to be here anymore. I want to go somewhere far away, away from this country. I just don’t want to be here, tomorrow we will all be heading to hell.” She looks up and sees Marcela, “Beatriz come here for a moment.” Betty tells Nicholas, “we will talk later bye.” Marcela tells them, “she’s coming.” Betty looks at everyone, and asks. “You needed me for something?” Roberto asks, “yes yes daughter please have a seat. We just want to ask you a few questions please.” Betty just stands next to Armando. Daniel very politely asks, “so hello Miss Beatriz how are you today?” Betty nods his way, and tells him. “Hello Mr. Valencia.” Daniel asks, “what is the company your boyfriend owns.” Betty tells him, “Terra Moda.” Daniel tells her, “how strange this document of the business bureau states that your the owner of Terra Moda.” Betty tells him, “yes I know that you see that the company is under my name. Its a company, that’s owned by one person.” Marcela asks, “and why are you telling everyone that your boyfriend owns it.”

Betty tells her, “permit me to clarify Dona Marcela. I haven’t been the one, who has been showing off my boyfriend to the entire company. In reality it has been my co-workers, and the one that really took hold of the information was senora Patricia Fernandez. Now yes the company is my boyfriends, he put the company under my name and the capital. Because he considers that I have a good relationship with the banks, and that I deal well with the money. Mario eyes her very carefully. If you like you can think it as him giving me a gift.” Daniel laughs and tells him, “well Beatriz he gave you a company.” Betty tells him, “well its only worth 80 000 its not much to talk about.” Daniel asks, “so that means you have a second job opposite of Eco Moda.” Betty tells him, “I dedicate my evening to that company.” Daniel tells her, “yes but its curious that this company is worth 80 000 but has been able to afford a Mercedes that work 50000.” Betty tells him, “well the seed was 80 000 but we have been able to invest that money. Putting it in several stocks, and were talking about an advance of 52%. Now then if you have any doubts, I can bring you the financial statement of Terra Moda. The movement of the banks, I can also prove to you the capital of the patrimony.”

Roberto gets up and goes to her, and smiles at her. “Dear there is no need, well thank you very much too me is very clear.” Marcela tells him, “oh yes very clear at least you could have informed us. That you had another company going in unison to this one.” Betty tells her, “well there’s nothing in the companies policy that states that one can’s have a small business. For several people here, own markets and cigarette stores.” Marcela being spiteful tells her, “oh yes those particular business are exactly like Eco Moda.” Roberto tells her, “thank you everything has been cleared. Thank you Beatriz, you may now go thank you.” Betty tells them, “excuse me.” Daniel tells her, “thank you madam.” Betty just nods his way, and heads to her office. Armando is beaming with pride, and tells him. “So Danielito, have any other doubts? Or who you like to go to the police? To investigate Betty further. Oh what else can you invent? What other things did you bring?” He then laughs, Daniel tells him. “Well then you better be very well concentrated on tomorrow’s council meeting.” Margarita tells him, “now you two don’t start please. All the talk regarding business will be discussed tomorrow at the council meeting.” Roberto tells him, “well then we better go I am a bit tired. We are going to change for the fashion launch that’s happening tonight.” Daniel gets up as well, and tells him. “Yes see you tonight Armando.” Armando tells him, “it will be my pleasure.” Daniel then nods and tells them, “Roberto Margarita.” Margarita tells him, “goodbye.” Daniel leaves and Armando just smirks, thinking he’s gotten away with things once more.

Nicholas is getting the car washed and waxed, when Betty calls him quite frantic. “Relax Betty relax, just because I gave my girlfriend a company there is no crime. The money is moving around very legally, its been invested cleanly. We can demonstrate everything, remember were also paying taxes.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas I feel like a delinquent oh that interrogation and all their doubts. They were for a delinquent, and the worst part I am still lying and I just hate doing that to Don Roberto and Dona Margarita. Oh Nicholas, this isn’t going to turn out well at all.” Nicholas asks, “so does that change your plans in any way?” Betty tells him, “no for nothing no I’m going to continue. Now more than anything, I am sure of what needs to be done.” Nicholas hangs up, and watches as the car gets cleaned.

Daniel heads to the elevator, and tells Sandra. “Goodbye Sandra.” Sandra tells him, “goodbye sir.” Patricia is reading Vogue magazine, and Daniel goes towards her. “Well if tonight, you don’t get what’s yours Patricia don’t you worry about it. Your still sensual, bring that photo and I’ll present you to my friends.” Patricia tells him, “look Daniel I’m getting my car tomorrow. Well at least the day after tomorrow.” Daniel tells her, “fine you have the deadline till the day after tomorrow.” Patricia asks, “deadline for what?” Daniel tells her, “well an extension to give you a hand. Well of that a giving it too my friends.” Patricia smiles, and grins. “Die Daniel Valencia I’m going to get my car tomorrow. So you can go ahead and die.” Daniel smiling tells her, “no worries I’m going to talk you up to my friends.” He eyes her once more than gets into the elevator. Patricia utters, “you bastard you won’t put me down anymore no sire. She quickly calls Nicholas. Nicholas answers, “hello?” Patricia sweetly tells him, “hello your speaking with Patricia Fernandez.” Nicholas tells her, “oh hi Patty how are you?” Patricia tells him, “here thinking of you.” Nicholas tells her, “oh really I’m thinking about you as well. He touches his chequebook, oh yes we are in in-syc.”

(How does Daniel know Sandra’s name?)

Patricia tells him, “well I don’t think so. I’ve been waiting for you call all day, I said to myself Nicholas made fun of me. Well since I always end up crying, with this guilty conscience of mine. Well me always kicking you out, I just thought that you got bored of me.” Nicholas tells her, “what makes you think that. Never ever I will never forget about you. You are very special too me, a very beautiful woman. I like that your sharing all your problems, and conflicts. They are like very human.” Patricia smiling and loudly tells him, “oh your so divine. So when will I be able to see you once again.” Nicholas tells her, “when ever you like I am at your disposal at any time.” Patricia tells him, “remember we were going to see one another tonight?” Nicholas tells her, “yes tell me what time do you want me to pick you up tonight?” Patricia tells him, “well the thing is I’m stuck having to go to that fashion show of Eco Moda’s tonight. Are you invited, are you going?” Nicholas tells her, “no I’m not going that way. No way, I don’t want to meet up with that hot head Armando Mendoza he’s a trouble maker. Who knows I might kill him, it might happened and I don’t want to be charge for that death.” Patricia tells him, “oh yes I completely forgot about that.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Patty it doesn’t matter. Oh where do you want me to pick you up? Oh hold on, give me a minute. Not that much water, and cloth your going to mark the car.” The guy tells him, “yes sir Mr. Mora.”

Nicholas continues, “oh yes now where was I. Like I was asking, it doesn’t really matter. Now where do you want me to pick you up? We can go anywhere, any place of your choosing.” Patricia tells him, “how about you come to my apartment for dinner.” Nicholas nervously asks, “to eat at your apartment?” Patricia tells him, “a ha I want to have a special attention towards you. Since you invited me to go out one night. Now its my turn, I cook very well or are you doubting my culinary skills.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no Patty you probably cook deliciously.” Patricia tells him, “ok I’ll wait for you around 10 I’ll leave the fashion show early. I’ll be waiting at my apartment. ” Nicholas tells her, “ok I’ll be there around 10 at your apartment bye.” Patricia tells him, “oh Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “yes Patty tell me?” Patricia tells him, “oh I’m so embarrassed Nicholas but I need to know if your going to give me money. So I can take my car out of the pound.” Nicholas tells her, “yes Patty there’s no problem. You can count on that.” Patricia asks, “look can you give it to me now so I can give it to the lawyers right now.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no Patty at this moment I just can’t. I’m out of the office, and I’m here at the club playing golf. I’m working out to stay in shape, its just not the right moment. Oh just look at the time it is.” Patricia tells him, “fine ok but I’ll be waiting for the cheque tonight at my apartment. Is that alright?” Nicholas scratches his head and lies to her once more. “Sure no problem, I’ll bring it too you tonight bye.” Patricia sweetly again tells him, “bye and I’ll wait for you around 10pm.” Nicholas repeats, “yes around 10pm bye.” Patricia hangs up, “bloody bastard its so hard to get money from this guy. I was stuck asking him out to dinner, now where am I going to get money?” Sandra tells her, “hey bravo you blond bimbo your mind finally snapped and your talking to yourself. I guess it must be that hungry.” Patricia just goes back to her desk. Nicholas sadly tells the guy, “oh man more cloth more cloth. He looks at the chequebook, oh man she loves you only you. Tonight’s goodbye is going to be horrible very hard.”

Still in the board room, Mario is standing in his office. Marcela still sits with Armando, she tells him. “I’m very glad that he investigated that company and that man.” Armando asks, “so you think so?” Marcela tells him, “yes.” Armando tells her, “so that means you didn’t understand the explanations Beatriz told us.” Marcela tells him, “oh yes it was perfectly for Roberto and Margarita for me no. There’s something fishy going on.” Armando tells her, “so tell us tell us Marcela. Tell me every one of your doubts, now begin spitting out your venom against Beatriz go ahead.” He pats her hand, and she pushes his hand away. Marcela tells him, “oh yes you have nothing against Beatriz. But as soon as one talks about her, you go on the defensive. The whole world is your enemy, you’ve given her so much possession. You gave her our company, she’s you unconditional ally, you clandestine arranger. You gave her your intimate life, but with you she has become quite reserved. Isn’t it true, her boyfriend gave her a company for a gift. You didn’t have a clue.”

Armando tells her, “Marcela one moment let really be clear here. I haven’t given my intimate life to nobody. Understand that Beatriz, also has the right to her intimate life. I want to know why does it hurt you so. What bad things is she doing to this company? Look who cares if she has a boyfriend, and that that company is under her name. What is the problem Marcela?” Marcela tells him, “well we better not have any problems in the future. Plus this still doesn’t take away your blinders, she treats you like a puppet. She treats you any which way she likes. You even permit her to hit you, in front of all of your employees. You have fallen so down.” Armando screams, “Marcela understand things the way they are. That woman hit me, because I was crazy and uncontrollable. I could have done a stupid thing, and nothing more she did me a favour.” Marcela tells him, “oh a favour? So you justify what she did, oh its just wonderful that she hits you. Where is your image? Your turning into a clown? Is that what your projecting? Is that what you want to project? Please that woman has changed you, well if its her or that other one. I just don’t care, your not the man I meet. Your not the Armando Mendoza, that I fell in love with. Now you have become a very weak man. Every night you spent your nights drunk, looking for fights.”

Armando tells her, “yes that is what I am. Another Armando Mendoza, a man that you meet years ago is gone. I am another man Marcela, now this other one in front of you. Is the one that your going to marry, do you deserve him yes or no.” Mario is in the back moving his hands left and right, hoping he doesn’t do anything foolish.” Marcela tells him, “I understand yes I understand. I’m giving you an opportunity right, to serve you nicely on a silver platter. What do you want? To end this wedding? Marcela glances over at a waving Mario, he just stops and stand still looking at her. Answer me, answer me we still have time.” Armando tells her, “no this is all about you and your decision. You are going to marry a stranger, while I’m getting married to the same Marcela as always. The one that I got to know, and fell in love with.” Marcela tells him, “yes that’s correct yes the one that you once loved. I know that now your not in love with me. Our circumstances are now quite distinct Armando. You know what, I am still in love with you. I do want to get married, with the Armando Mendoza that’s in front of me. Armando’s miserable once more, and looks away from her. I’ll see you tonight at that fashion show.” She then leaves, and Mario approaches him.

Mario tells him, “oh macho I thought you were going to cancel that wedding.” Armando tells him, ” oh I really wanted too. At this moment, that’s the last option that we can think of. We are in hot water my king. Danielito has us in his sights. Oh I’m going to die now, I felt we were drowning.” Armando tells him, “no Calderon that didn’t happen. Oh Beatriz answer him, like so very confidently with such certainty.” Mario tells him, “yes for the moment the thing is there’s a scent of aroma of doubt in the air. Tomorrow they will arrive, Daniel and Marcela are going to looks at every single cent on that balance. That manipulated balance, has to be perfection sheer perfection.” Armando tells him, “I just hope Betty doesn’t get dizzy with all this business with Terra Moda.” Mario tells him, “well my dear president your mission to accept this or not. Is to take charge of Betty, and don’t let her go until that manipulated balance is finished. Did you hear that, the way she pushed Patricia Fernandez under the bus. Now we know for certain, that the blond bimbo was none other than Patricia.” Armando tells him, “yes of course this was all we needed. Not only do I have to put up, with that idiot Nicholas Mora using my money. But now that blond bimbo getting my money.”

Outside the corridors, Patricia races over to Marcela. “Oh Marcee I need a really big favour. Please don’t say no.” Marcela asks, “what favour?” Patricia tells her, “promise me you won’t say no. Marcela takes off, and she follows her. Oh no Marcee just wait and wait. I just need a big favour, its just tiny Marcee. I need to borrow money. I have a dinner for two, at my apartment tonight.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Marcela asks, “so your going to invite me to dinner tonight?” Patricia tells her, “no Marcee.”)

Marcela asks, “let me guess you invited Nicholas to dinner tonight.” Patricia tells her, “yes Marcee shhh the same one.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(“I want to invite him, so he won’t think I’m after his money. I want to attend too him, give him a delicious meal. Don’t worry about the wine, I think I still have one bottle.”)

Marcela tells her, “you did know what Nicholas isn’t the owner of Terra Moda.” Patricia utters stunned, “no who is it?” Marcela tells her, “Beatriz Pinzon Solano.” Patricia almost faints in her chair and grabs her chest. “Marcee I want to faint Marcee I just want to faint. That means he lied to me.” Marcela tells her, “apparently Beatriz telling us that he gave the company too her as a gift. That’s why its under her name.” Patricia tells her, “oh he’s just divine Marcee. Oh how cool.”  Marcela tells her, “but I don’t like that. I just think that’s really weird.” Patricia tells her, “please loan me the money please.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(“I’m begging you, plus I’ll pay you next month.” Marcela tells her, “you know what I really think you will return that money.” Patricia tells her, “oh how marvelous of you. I’m glad that you have believed in me once more.” Marcela tells her, “I’m guessing this dinner is a business dinner. In our words, I will give you that money. Its like an investment.” Patricia tells her, “Marcela Valencia you scare me when you talk like that.” Patricia begins to whin, “oh come on please give me the money.”)

Marcela tells her, “fine yes yes yes. Lets go to my office, there I’ll give it too you. I have to go pick up Maria Beatriz at the airport.” Patricia overjoyed follows her, “oh thank you little friend thank you.”

Hugo is telling two guys, “ok fly fly take that to the event. Girls go over to the other ones that are waiting. Ines you as well quickly. Ines listen to me carefully, your not going to drive me crazy. Your going straight home. I’ll get you a taxi understand.” Ines tells him, “no and don’t drive me crazy as well. I’m not going to home.” Hugo tells her, “fine then I’ll ignore you and you know how cruel I am when I ignore.” Ines tells him, “fine ignore me then but I know without me your going to die.” Hugo laughs and tells her, “ha ha ha without you I will die. Me well yes, and he kisses her forehead. Oh my dear, I just don’t want you to die because of too much work. Your not going to the hotel.” Ines tells him, “yes I’m going to get a taxi and head to that hotel.” Hugo tells her, “no no your not.” Ines tells him, “oh yes yes I am.” She goes inside the elevator, Hugo tells her. “Oh Ines.” Catalina tells him, “go right ahead I’ll be right down.” Hugo runs to the elevator, “oh no Ines.” Ines repeats, “no sir I’m going to that hotel.”

Betty is working once more, when Catalina enters. “Hi Betty, now I already made the reservations and you can’t back on me now.” Betty tells her, “no for nothing in this world Dona Catalina I’m going with you.” Catalina smiles and tells her, “ok very good.” She leaves and Armando enters and asks. “How is that balance going. Beatriz please, what is most sacred please give me that balance manipulated. I need you to promise me. Betty just stares at him in disbelief. He asks, what’s wrong?” Betty tells him, “if seems that you didn’t realize what occurred today sir. They are watching us, and that’s not good.” Armando tells her, “come on please nothing grave happened today. Lets just calm ourselves down. All he showed was a certificate stating your ownership of the company nothing else. You defended yourself wonderfully, and impeccable.” Betty angrily tells him, “well everything now is quite suspicious.”

Armando tells her, “Beatriz nothing is suspicious.  Now if he would have shown, the book of commerce that you own Eco Moda. That would have been different, but all he showed was a certificate of ownership. What is the problem?” Betty tells him, “Mr. Valencia will continue digging and he will notice he will continue investigating sir.” Armando tells her, “the only thing that will happen is a tragedy if you don’t manipulate that blasted balance. Just finish that balance once and for all. He gets angry and gets up, and walks around trying to calm himself down again. Ok fine, it was quite suspicious I know that. I know that he has us in his sights. The only way we have to stop all this doubt, with him and the council members. The only way to look forward in this is, is working is presenting an expended balance. One that looks very real, and excellent done manipulated form.” Betty just stares at the screen, you know that perfectly. We must look forward anyway we can Beatriz. Please for love sake, we don’t have another road to take. Tomorrow tomorrow at last, we can take away this karma forever Beatriz.” Mario enters and Armando is furious that he interrupted. “Armando truly sorry to interrupt but Fashion Court is waiting downstairs in the lobby for us.” Armando tells him, “but weren’t they suppose to head straight to the fashion launch tonight?” Mario tells him, “well yes but they are downstairs and want a tour of the place. Because tomorrow morning, they’re on the first plane out. They want too see everything.” Armando without looking at him tells him, “fine I will join you to accompany them.” Mario tells him, “fine fine.” He leaves the office, Armando stares over at Betty once more. “Beatriz I am begging you please manipulate that balance we’ve run out of time. I need it before leaving for that launch collection please.” The men just leave, and Betty coldly stares at them.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mario asks, “well how is she? Is she a bit dizzy, regarding almost getting caught.” Armando tells him, “yes she’s very nervous.” Mario utters, “I see well then will she do it.” Armando tells him, “I surely hope so.” Mario tells him, “but she has to have it done.” Then he screams, “I am in charge of that.” Mario utters, “what did you just say?” Armando glares at him, and both head down the elevator.)

Evening has now fallen, and the three girls are by the elevator. Sandra asks, “anything regarding our invitation to that collection launch?” Patricia is ready and tells them, “oh no last time you were able to get in. This time no, forget about it.” Sandra tells her, “you just leave here who told you to meddle in. Tell us who?” Patricia tells her, “me me me I have every right. You see its an exclusive event, for exclusive guests. None of the employees are invited, its only for executives.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh really than that means your not invited either. As far as I know, your not an executive nor a special guest. Neither are you a buyer, in fact your nothing no lemons for a lemonade.” The girls just laugh, and Patricia tells them. “Well I’ve always been a special guest, it doesn’t matter if I’m an employee of this company. I am above everything, I am a very special human being.” Sophia tells her, “oh you might be a very special person all you want. But you can’t give us orders, plus you can’t tell us if we are allowed to go or not. To go to that collection launch.” Patricia tells them, “oh really so you will enter very badly then.” Sandra tells her, “oh really try and stop us see if you can stop us.” Patricia utters, “oh really. Then she goes back to her desk and makes a call. Really a job, I can stop it like this. She dials a number on her cell, Marcee its me Patricia.” Sandra tells her, “oh there she is tattletale to the principal oh what can we do.” Patricia tells Marcela, “no Marcee I’m still at Eco Moda. I’m on my way out, look Marcee.”

Sophia tells her, “enough stop being so ridiculous. Just to call and start complaining about us hang up that phone.” Patricia tells Marcela, “wait one minute please. She screams, can you lot shut up I can’t hear her. Oh Marcee over here the witches of the uglies. They think they’re all that girl, and no Marcee. I’m calling you because, they want to go there badly. I told them, that they weren’t allowed there. They don’t believe me that’s why I’m calling. Yes calling the sergeant, like they said.” Sandra tells her, “I said the principal of the school not the sergeant there is a difference heard me.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee they said your a school principal. Oh Marcee they don’t respect your age.” Sandra tells her, “oh your so wretched.” Patricia tells her, “did you hear that you did hear that right. That your a wretched woman.” Sandra approaches her, and tells her. “Give me that phone, so I can talk to Dona Marcela. Give me that phone.” Patricia screams, “your not going to even touch my cell phone.” Sandra tells her, “I’m going to safe it hear me.”

Patricia tells her, “Marcee they went crazy and they said they want to convince you. Marcee why don’t you inform them, of what your opinion is. Of them showing up at that collection launch.” Marcela screams, “don’t you dare come to this collection launch.” Patricia tells them, “see now you hear her. See now you heard her understand. Now Marcee yes they heard you. Look I’m on my way now, I should be there in a half and hour. I just have to find someone who will take me. Armando just showed up, and we’ll talk later.” She hangs up and looks over at that two. Armando tells Mario, “now we better head to that collection launch.” Patricia tells him, “oh Armando?” Armando annoyed asks, “what?” Patricia tells him, “oh at what time are you going to that collection launch?” Armando tells her, “now.” Patricia asks, “well then may I go with you?” Armando tells her, “no.” Patricia tells him, “why Armando your going alone.” Armando tells her, “yes I enjoy being alone its something I enjoy doing well.” Sandra tells him, “goodbye Don Armando Don Mario.”

Sophia tells him, “yes have a great night tonight.” Aura Maria tells him, “enjoy the night sir bye.” Armando smiles at all of them, “thank you.” Gutierrez comes running by, “Aura Maria Aura Maria and where do you think your going?” Aura Maria asks, “what?” Gutierrez repeats, “where are you going now?” Aura Maria tells him, “I’m heading home sir well I’m heading over to Sophia’s place.” Gutierrez asks, “no no no and who gave you permission?” Aura Maria looks at her watch, “but sir its over 6 pm.” Gutierrez tells her, “I’m sorry Aura Maria but you can’t go home now because we have a lot of work too do tonight. A lot of work.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh sir?” Armando asks, “what’s this Gutierrez? What do you mean your not going, to the collection launch tonight?” Gutierrez tells him, “no sir Don Armando the thing is you are going to have to be without my presence tonight.” Armando tells him, “oh yes and miss your drunken shows at these events.” He just laughs, “yes yes yes but we have a lot of work too do. With Bertha being on complete bed rest. Work has been pilling up, and the achieves need to be filled. So Miss. Fuentes will be helping me out.”

Aura Maria tells him, “ah sir?” Gutierrez tells her, “the contracts for the models Aura Maria still haven’t been done. That’s very urgent.” Aura Maria looks over at Armando, “but sir.” Armando tells her, “sorry Aura Maria you heard him its urgent.” The men take off, Patricia gives her a satisfied look and gathers her things. Gutierrez tells her, “you heard Mr. Mendoza Aura Maria now then cancel your evening plans. Go back to your desk, tonight we remain the two of us. Working very late just the two of us alone.” He giggles and heads to his office. Aura Maria is furious, and tells the girls. “You disgusting pervert, oh you can image what he wants me for so late at this hour shameless feen.” Sandra tells her, “oh no girl you won’t stay here alone with that man. I’m going to stay here with you.” Sophia tells her, “well so will I.” Freddy arrives and tells them, “well good evening to you all. Well my lovely corset of my arm, I’m ready and waiting for your sculptured body.” Aura Maria tells him, “I’m sorry my lovely grasshopper. I wish I could leave but I’m stuck staying with Gutierrez working till really late.” Freddy asks, “what you alone?” Sophia tells him, “oh know we will stay and help her out.”  Freddy tells her, “well then we three will all stay behind then. We won’t leave here, until your safe and sound. Especially safe.” Aura Maria smiling tells them, “oh thank you you are so divine.”

The men then head to see Betty.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mario tells him, “by now the balance should be done.” Armando tells him, “I surely hope so or else I can’t leave from here.” Mario tells him, “I surely hope so may the lord help you out. Hopefully Betty has that balance finished by now. Well then please.”)

Betty hasn’t done nothing all this time. When the men arrive, she pretends to be working away. Armando tells her, “hello so is that balance ready Beatriz?” Betty tells him, “no sir.” Armando screams, “no why not Beatriz. Blasted all Beatriz, why isn’t that balance ready yet. Look its 7pm, tomorrow at 11am that balance has to be on that boardroom table for the council members to see it. Tell me, tell me why isn’t it ready.” Mario tells him, “Armando calm down just calm down.” Armando tells her, “fine fine sorry I got a bit anxious. I am sorry, leave us alone Calderon.” Mario tells him, “I’ll be around the corner.” Armando tells him, “leave us alone close that door and lock it securely. I don’t want nobody to interrupt us.” Mario bows and closes the door. Armando then sits down and stares at Betty. Now Beatriz, I am going to ask you a question. I want you to respond to me, will you or not do that balance. Tell me the truth, you really don’t want to manipulate that balance yes or no.” Betty gets up, and tells him. “They will discover us sir.”

Armando tells him, “again with that Beatriz again with those doubts. I told you that we wouldn’t be found out, and that there’s no problems. All you have to do is finish that balance and we aren’t going to get discovered. Now then if you have no intention of doing that balance. This isn’t the time to tell me, Betty really it isn’t. I really don’t deserve this. Look you don’t know, you haven’t realized for one second. My life and everything that I have is in your hands. My future, my credibility, my honour if I still have it. They are in you hands. Everything that I have, everything that I am. Everything that I love is in your hands. I have never in my life, never depended on anybody than I have depended on you. Especially someone that I love, Beatriz please for pete’s sake please don’t betray me. Don’t drown me, I know that I can’t ask you to love me. I know that its evident that you don’t. You just don’t feel the way you did before. Well if one time you did, even if you have a little bit of kindness for me. Feel at least compassion for me, like I have for you. If you hold dear what we lived, we worked together the accomplices that we were. Everything that we loved is still inside you. I’m begging you please take my hand. You have me in your hands, because I need you Beatriz. You don’t know how much that I need you Beatriz. Armando goes over and hugs her. Beatriz tells me, do you want to see me utterly destroyed. Do you want to see me pieces, is that what you want.”

Betty allows his touch and in tears tells him, “no sir I don’t want that.” Armando tells her, “please then don’t take me down. I beg of you, I beg you so very much. Betty do you still love me? I know that you don’t have any more feelings for me. Don’t let me fall, you I indeed love.” Betty tells him, “sir I also love you.” Armando then kisses her, and she kisses him back. His cell phone rings, they stop kissing. Betty tells him, “you should really get that.” Armando screams, “what hello!” Marcela tells him, “oh did I interrupt something. You don’t have to answer with so much hated. So at what time will you here at the collection launch. In fact you should already be here.” Armando just stares over at Betty and tells her, “I’m going over there now I’m on my way.” Marcela tells him, “oh don’t you worry about it. I’m not asking for me, but for your parents and the invited guests.” Armando tells her, “I already told you that I’m on my way there.” He hangs up the phone, and goes over to Betty. Betty takes a few steps back and tells him, “sir you must go now.” Armando tells her, “look I can’t go until I know what will happen with my life. Will I be able to count on you to finish that balance Beatriz Betty. Tell me can I count on you. Betty just nods holds him when he gets near. You are the one that I love. I love you like I’ve never loved anybody in this world. Like nobody, at what time will that be done.” Betty tells him, “it will be later tonight.” Armando tells her, “so your not going to the collection launch I would love it if you were there.” Betty tells him, “no sir its best that I stay here to finish this job.” Armando tells her, “ok I’ll call you alright. He touches her face, I want you to know something tomorrow after the council meeting. Marcela Valencia will seize to exist for me. Even if you don’t believe me, it will be our day.” He kisses her once more, she permits it. Thank you, I will call you truly.” He kisses her once more, then heads to the door. Betty watches him leave, and touches her face.

Out in the corridors, Armando touches his lips and then sees the four working. “What are you guys still doing here?” Sophia tells him, “were just waiting for Aura Maria to finish up.” Armando taps the desk, and leaves. Aura Maria quickly continues working. Freddy tells her, “now these accounts are now up to speed and quickly my ice cream is melting.” Patricia is putting on more make-up, Armando walks by her and he gives Patricia a dirty look. Armando sees Mario, “ok lets go now.” Mario tells him, “so what’s up with that balance?” Armando tells him, “I convinced her and she’s finishing it up.” Mario asks, “are you sure? So how did you mange to convince her? With what?” Armando tells him, “we just talked honestly and directly.” Mario tells him, “well then I guess you finished it off with a kiss. Then of course you promised trips kids and a family together. The complete package.” Armando tells him, “don’t ask anymore Calderon. The important thing is, is that she will finish that manipulated balance ok.” Mario tells him, “well then its a yes then well lets go then.” Armando grins and both head towards the elevator. Patricia tells Mario, “Mr. Calderon please can we have one moment.” Mario tells him, “oh only one minute.” Patricia tells him, “would you please have the decency to take me to the hotel where the collection launch will be held. I will be sitting in the back, in complete silence. May you please do me this favour.” Armando tells him, “why don’t we put her in the truck.” Mario tells her, “well I guess so.” Patricia annoyed tells him, “well don’t say it so unenthusiastically. With so much love, thank you very much. Armando I really hope that this doesn’t bother you. I’ll be in Mario’s car if it doesn’t bother you.” Armando tells her, “I don’t care even if you go to the land of the muppets. As long as your not in my car.” Mario tells him, “what a dirty filthy man.” Patricia then enters lastly in the elevator.

Over at the fashion show, Hugo is in his element. He has a model with him, “why haven’t anybody helped out this poor beautiful model Lina  Marulanda. Oh my dear Lina you are bombi, without clothes.” Ines tells him, “I will help her dress Don Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “I’m not talking too you. Son if this woman does one little thing, don’t allow it alright understand zzz.” Ines tells him, “fine then I’ll just stand here and watch everyone work.” Hugo tells her, “good that sounds very bombi here sit down here then. Son where is Lena’s outfit, no that’s not it. He gets on his knees near Ines, my dear I just don’t want you to get a heart attack.” Ines tells him, “look I’ll get a heart attack watching you go around you won’t be ready. The collection show won’t start till 11:30pm.” Hugo tells her, “ok then help me out but don’t force yourself alright.” Ines tells him, “well thank you very much.” Marcela arrives, and screams. “Hugo you’ll never guess who’s here.” Maria Beatriz makes a grand entrance. Hugo tells her, “I’m dying I’m dead. Awake me with spoons, oh you are to death come here. They kiss, so what did you do too yourself now?”

Maria Beatriz tells him, “I took some things out and added some in.” Hugo tells her, “oh really.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “yes.” Hugo tells her, “well I see what a bust you got. So what did you take out?” Maria Beatriz tells him, “a little over here some over here. Oh I took out two ribs.” Marcela asks, “oh Maria Beatriz how could you take away two ribs.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “I wasn’t using them.” Marcela tells her, “what do you mean your not using them.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “what is this scandal look the surgeon told me that if I got rid of both. I would be more thin, and just look at my waist.” Marcela tells her, “what atrocity.” Hugo tells her, “don’t tell me you left your ribs in Australia. They might think you are the missing link.” Maria Beatriz hits him, “oh Hugo.” Marcela sees that Ines is there. “Inesita what are you doing here?” Ines tells her, “Don Hugo needed me more than every Dona Marcela.” Marcela tells her, “Inesita.” Ines tells her, “I can’t get sick especially now when there’s a big launch tonight.”

Hugo tells her, “Marcela stop insisting, for she isn’t Inesita she’s Ines the stubborn. There’s nothing to change her mind. Catalina arrives and screams. “Hugo Hugo the guest have arrived.” Hugo tells everyone, “the guest have arrived.” Catalina gives Maria Beatriz a big hug. Catalina tells her, “I thought you would never return.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “of course I would come to this collection launch. Plus go to Marcela’s wedding to attend afterwards. Well then so where’s the groom?” Catalina looks away, Marcela with a fake smile tells her. “Oh he should be here any moment.” Maria Beatriz asks, “now everything is alright? He is very happy, and glad this wedding is occurring. Or what? What is this, what’s with that face? Marcela what’s wrong? Don’t tell me, that there’s no wedding. I bought a dress, just for the ceremony. Did I lose that money or what?” Marcela tells her, “later we will talk.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “oh no no your going to tell me now what’s going on? It must be something very grave. What what’s going on, problems with Armando. Will there be a wedding or not just tell me?” Marcela tells her, “we have a few problems but tonight we will talk.” Maria Beatriz utters, “oh my lord he has a lover. Is there another romance? Did you catch them in the act? What is it?” Marcela very annoyed tells her, “Maria Beatriz we will talk later.” She leaves the room, while Maria Beatriz looks over at Catalina. “Oh dear Catalina Catalina one minute. She grabs her arm, you must tell me everything the whole truth. Does he have a lover or not?” Catalina tells her, “I don’t know I don’t know nothing.” Catalina leaves, and Maria Beatriz just touches her forehead.  Hugo tells her, “what do you think of my newest work?” Maria Beatriz utters, “oh its so very divine.” Hugo tells her, “well I was inspired by Paula Monteja. Oh she’s painted.” Maria Beatriz stops him, “oh no your telling me what is going on?”

Over at Eco Moda, Betty touches Armando’s picture on the screen. She recalls his words, his touch and kisses. She utters, “no I will help him I will help him.” Then she begins working on that manipulated balance.”

Alberto Valdici has been credited with so many telenovelas since 1989.
He played Bertha’s Husband Gordito Gonzalez on YSBLF.

One Hundred and Seven

The girls enter Betty’s office, and Sandra asks. “Betty why aren’t you going to that collection launch.” Betty tells them, “no I have a lot of work too do.” Aura Maria tells her, “working or weren’t you invited isn’t that right dear?” Betty tells him, “well I just can’t and no they didn’t invite me plus I’m just not in the mood to go.” Sandra asks, “well then at what time do you want to remain working here.” Betty tells them, “I’ll be here till 11pm.” Sophia tells her, “what so late why are you so behind in your work? Aren’t you done that balance?” Betty tells her, “oh that balance is done already.” Sophia ask, “well then what else do you have too do?” Betty lying to them tells them, “well I am organizing the folders. Plus I also have to put an additional page from each department that the balance needs. There’s just so many little things too do.” Sophia tells her, “well your going to have company because that wretched Gutierrez. Told Aura Maria, that she had to finish some work here. That its all Bertha’s fault for not coming to work, and there were so many things left behind. We won’t be leaving her alone, with that guy. We won’t leave until she finishes. So if you like we can help you out as well.” Betty tells her, “oh Sophia thank you but no thank you.”  Sophia asks, “well why not?” Betty tells her, “well the thing is I have to put a confidential item for that council meeting.” Sophia looks at the girls and tells her, “Betty well I’m also designated to work on the financial area. Well I don’t see, what could be so confidential.” Betty smiles at her, and tells her. “Oh but its very confidential oh Sophia thank you so very much for your assistantance. I’d prefer to do it by myself.” Sandra tells him, “well Betty if you do need us we are just outside that door hear us.” Betty tells her, “well thank you girls anyway.” The girls smile and utter, “alright bye.” Betty in her head utters, “I am going to do it just because I don’t want to see him in pieces. Above everything, I still love him.” She then gets back to work.

Over at the collection launch, Roberto approaches Marcela. “Marcela where is Armando? Why hasn’t he arrived to the event yet?” Marcela tells him, “look he’s working on tomorrow’s council meeting but he assured me he’s on his way.” Roberto tells her, “I still can’t believe that he’s still working on that council meeting. Its like he didn’t have enough time to finish preparing it. Margarita gives him a drink to calm down. Its like he didn’t know, that its been months that its been scheduled. He better not show up tomorrow, and tell everyone that he doesn’t have the balance ready. That he didn’t have any time.” Marcela tells him, “don’t you worry about it that won’t happen.” Catalina approaches them, “hello everyone.” Roberto tells her, “please Catalina when do we start there’s already so many guests here.” Catalina tells him, “we are just waiting on two important clients. Hugo’s practically finished, what’s wrong? Did you forget how these things worked?” Margarita tells him, “my love don’t get so anxious. You don’t have to worry anymore, this doesn’t depend on you anymore. Plus they know how to do their jobs.” Armando and Mario arrive, and they head straight too them. Marcela moves away and stands next to Margarita. Armando tells them, “good evening.” Mario tells him the same thing. Roberto quite sternly tells him, “just look at the time that you’ve arrived. You should be the first person to be here.” Armando tells him, “dad there was a lot a problems over at the office. I was finishing everything, its just now that I was able to finish.” Margarita just pats Roberto’s tense shoulders. Roberto tells him, “listen here you better have everything ready for that council meeting tomorrow.” Mario tells him, “everything is perfect.” Armando smiling tells him, “oh dad everything is ready. Catalina just stares at him, while Marcela gives him an evil look. Oh just relax, everything will go great. You will see.” When he goes to give him a hug, he moves away. Margarita accepts his hug, and kiss on the cheek. Roberto shakes Mario’s hand, Mario tells him. “Look everything is fine.” Armando tells his mom, “yes everything is great I must say hello to Marcela.” She in turn moves away, Margarita looks his way and Armando just shakes his head.”

Over at Eco Moda, Betty gets a call. “President office of Eco Moda.” Nicholas is in his bathroom getting ready for his date and he tells her. “Oh hi Betty your talking with Nicholas. Hey at what time will you be coming home. Your dad and I were getting quite worried.” Betty tells him, “I’m still working on that meeting for tomorrow.” Nicholas asks, “still but didn’t you finish that balance already?” Betty tells him, “yes.” Nicholas asks, “but Betty what are you doing? Betty Betty its me Nicholas what are you doing?” Betty tells him, “Nicholas the thing is I’ve been talking to Don Armando.” Nicholas asks, “well what then?” Betty tells him, “Nicholas Don Armando needs me. He asked me to manipulate the balance, or else he will go to pieces.” Nicholas tells her, “oh I see so your putting your hand on your heart for that guy. I thought you said, that you weren’t going to continue with that game. What you were going to unmask him in front of the council members.” Betty tells him, “yes Nicholas I just can’t do that too him not in the last moment.” Nicholas tells her, “so that means you feel sorry for him again. When he didn’t have a single one for you. Don’t you remember or what? Your still doing his dirty work. Your still going to be used by that guy.” Betty tells him, “anyway everything finishes tomorrow at Eco Moda for me. Nicholas I need that balance of Terra Moda.”

Nicholas tells her, “its already done boss.” Betty tells him, “well then tomorrow I give them the balance of Terra Moda. The manipulated balance of Eco Moda, the car, the money. Then I will disappear from here.” Nicholas tells her, “Betty let me tell you something. Do you really know what your doing? Your saving that idiot’s life, before leaving him.” Betty tells him, “yes Nicholas I know that Don Armando didn’t act good with me but. I already told him, that I am tired with all this vengeance. I am tired of poisoning my soul Nicholas. I promised him and I intend to go through with that promise. That’s the last thing, that I’m going to do for him.” Nicholas asks, “so what did he do to convince you? Did he give you lots of kisses, and promised you marriage. I image you two like two doves together. Oh stop being so naive Betty. That guy is using you again, that is quite obvious. The love that you feel is making your brain turn to mush.” He laughs at his own joke, Betty tells him. “Yes Nicholas I know but I just have too do this.” Nicholas tells her, “fine do what ever you want. I don’t want to see you coming home, and crying and wetting my shoulder. Me drying your tears, and those glasses.”

Betty tells him, “relax Nicholas I won’t be crying. I know what I’m doing.” Nicholas tells her, “well everything is ready so how late are you going to be working?” Betty tells him, “I’m thinking around 11pm.” Nicholas begins to get worried, and looks at his watch. “What till 11pm? Do you want me to pick you up?” Betty tells him, “yes Nicholas what what’s wrong.” Nicholas tells her, “what’s wrong Betty? Remember its my last night with Patty. Well with Patricia and I, I have to go to her apartment tonight at 10pm. Understand she asked me to dinner.” Betty is stunned and gets out of her chair and asks him.  “She asked you out, but she doesn’t have any money. Not even for herself, what is this that she invited you to dinner.” Nicholas tells her, “love love love.” Betty tells him, “oh yes the same love that Don Armando has for me. Your an idiot.” Nicholas tells her, “Betty but the difference is I enjoy every kiss that she gives me. I am conscience of what she’s doing too me. Understand aware of them, I’m using my conscience. Well then I’ll pick you up around 11pm.” Betty asks, “so what are you going to do with that blond bimbo?” Nicholas tells her, “well then I’ll give her some kisses via the internet then.” Betty tells him, “look that’s fine go out with her have a nice time. But I repeat, don’t give that blond bimbo any money Nicholas Mora.” Nicholas tells her, “really thanks Betty what a great decision. Hey how will you get home? You know since your father was asking and all. That at what time you would be done, and if he could pick you up.” Betty tells him, “don’t you worry about that I’ll fix things. Now don’t turn off your cell phone alright Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “don’t you worry my girlfriend of mine. I love you I love you, thank you Betty talk to you later bye. He looks at himself in the mirror, Nicholas tonight you will finally get some action. Its about time, dolce vita woo hoo.”

Over at the collection launch, Patricia is on the run way and she’s playing model. When Patricia sees her she runs too her. “Marcee Marcee.” Marcela sees her and asks, “what are you doing practicing to walk the run way ha ha ha.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee I want them to start that fashion show right now. Remember I have Nicholas, coming to my apartment at 10pm. I have to prepare him a meal Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “oh no how romantic.” Marcela drinks some more, and Catalina walks by. Patricia tells her, “Catta Catta why hasn’t the show started yet? Why hasn’t the models started walking yet? I need you to start like now.” Catalina tells her, “relax Patricia we will start in 10 minutes.” Catalina looks at the guest and tells Marcela. “Good he arrived, that’s Geno Molinari Ecuador host. I’ll see you later.” Patricia tells her, “Catta please hurry.” Marcela tells her, “if you want go on home.” Patricia tells her, “oh no Marcee what would Don Roberto and Dona Margarita. Nor all the guests say, if I left before the collection started.” Marcela tells her, “oh don’t be so high on yourself you can leave.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee don’t offend me and thanks. Its not my only problem, I need someone to take me to the grocery store tonight. Then drop me off at my apartment.” Marcela laughs and tells her, “oh think about someone else you can forget about me Patricia.” Patricia tells her, “I was thinking about you and don’t get all offended if I do something bad.”

Catalina goes over to Gino and gives him a kiss and a hug. “Well hello Geno thank you so much for coming.” Gino asks, “so where is Hugo?” Catalina tells him, “he’s with the models would you like to go see him.” Gino tells her, “yes indeed I want to give him some press.” Catalina tells him, “oh you came with your crew.” Gino tells her, “I’m always prepared to get some scoop its what you guys deserve.” Catalina tells him, “your going to give him a big surprise.” Gino tells his crew, “go over there and take some shots. We will come back.” Catalina tells him, “sure ok.”

Backstage Hugo is doing his pep talk. “Now ladies I want to see the new woman of the millennium. That smile, those eyes, loving and seducing the world. Ok Lina your first, then you. I want to see in this collection the real woman.” Maria Beatriz interrupts and the girls gather around her. “Now I recommend getting two lipos a year. You just can’t do more than that, its just dangerous. I can give you the number, of my plastic surgeon. Just look at my body.” Hugo screams, “Maria Beatriz leave the models alone. We are getting ready to go on the runway. Hugo goes over to the girls, go and check yourselves in the mirror.” Catalina yells out, “Hugo Hugo guess who’s looking for me.” Gino enters, “hello maestro oh let me give you a big hug.” Hugo gasps, “Gino.” Gino tells him, “oh voila what a nice hug.” Hugo screams, “Ginaso.” Gino tells him, “yes and you like it.” Hugo asks, “how are you?” Gino tells him, “well I’m great.” Hugo tells her, “Catta how could you do this too me. I could literally have an attack. Its been years since I’ve seen this man.” Gino tells her, “since the Miss Ecuador pageant.”

Hugo tells her, “Maria Beatriz let me present too you Gino Molinari. He’s one of my oldest and dearest friend. He’s a star of Ecuadorian television. See sparks come out of his head.” Gino tells them, “well maestro I also see sparks from you.” Maria Beatriz asks, “hey I saw you on the beaches of Kuaike you were staying at the top hotel.” Hugo tells her, “oh and eating those delicious clams.” Maria Beatriz asks, “so how did you meet?” Gino tells them, “oh its simply we were at this event. Where we were both judges, and we talked and Hugo made a suit for me. We were introduced by Fabrizio, is an avant guard designer. I must introduce you, he’s just outetue.” Then they start talking about food. Maria Beatriz tells him, “oh they are delicious.” Hugo tells her, “then we went clubbing oh me acting completely crazy dancing on the tables.” Catalina tells him, “excuse me for interrupting but the show must begin.” Hugo tells her, “oh yes the show has to begin.” Gino tells her, “oh my camera is ready to roll. I wanted to promote your new line.” Hugo tells him, “why don’t we talk after the launch please.” Gino tells him, “but of course.” Hugo tells him, “its delicious seeing you once again.” Gino pats him on the shoulder, “oh yes maestro.” Hugo tells Maria Beatriz, “please make sure you take good care of him please.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “sure no problem we have so much to talk about.” They both leave, Hugo tells them. “Sure no problem bye. Then he goes to Catalina, don’t leave Maria Beatriz with him he’ll get pretty bored.” Catalina tells him, “fine now take some deep breaths.” Hugo calls his models, “ok girls take all take a deep breath.” Then they all chant.

(Gino Molinari is a chef and tv personality of Ecuadorian television.)

Roberto tells Armando, “yes its a miracle this collection turned out very well.” Catalina comes by and tells them. “Now everyone please sit down the collection is going to start.” Armando tells his dad, “ok lets go dad.” Catalina tells him, “oh no you will be welcoming everyone.” Armando makes sure his mom is alright, and heads to the stage. Margarita sees that Marcela continues to drink. “So where have you been hiding?” Marcela tells her, “I’ve been just saying hello to some people.” Margarita tells her, “you haven’t been with Armando one single minute. In fact you didn’t even say hello to one another. You haven’t even said a single word all night. What’s going on Marcela?” Marcela tells her, “we just had a fight don’t you worry about it. Like always its just not that serious.” Armando is onstage, “good evening everyone for me and my company Eco Moda. Its such a pleasure having all of you here with us tonight. Roberto and Margarita are so very proud of their son. Thank you so very much for your presence here, I’d like to mention that this collection. Was designed by the designer Hugo Lombardi. Everyone claps, Hugo our designer has called this show portrait of the woman in the new millennium. He has used some animal prints for his inspiration. He has used various material, and has made various evening wear outfits its especially good for parties for the new year. Now then I just want you to enjoy this event. We will see one another again, at the cocktail party thank you very much.”

The show begins, and the girls begin to walk. Armando tells his dad, “dad your going to love this. Marcela is miserable, and Armando notices she’s drinking way too much. Look dad, I’ll be right back excuse me.” Armando heads towards backstage, and calls Betty on his cell. “President’s office Eco Moda.” Armando asks, “hi Betty how goes it?” Betty tells him, “fine sir I’m working hard on this.” Armando tells her, “no no I’m not referring how goes the balance. I’m asking about you, how are you. How do you feel?” Betty tells him, “I’m fine sir.” Armando asks, “would you like me to bring some food for you? Are you hungry?” Betty tells him, “no thank you sir I just want to finish this.” Armando tells her, “well then at what time will you be done?” Betty tells him, “around 11pm I should be done.” Armando tells her, “Betty I am very very happy truly happy.” Betty tells him, “don’t worry sir everything will be done by tonight.” Armando tells her, “I’ll pick you up around 11pm Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “no sir its not necessary.”

Armando tells her, “for you no but for me yes. Marcela is watching him quite closely, Armando hangs up. Betty just gets to thinking. Marcela returns to her seat. The models have changed and come out once again, Armando asks. So what do you think of the collection so far dad?” Roberto tells him, “excellent arrangement of the design and that wonderful material. Its just marvellous, its quite emotional.” Margarita tells him, “oh its so beautiful congratulations its all divine.” Roberto tells him, “yes bravo bravo.” Marcela goes over to him, “lend me your cell phone.” Armando asks, “my cell but why?” Marcela tells him, “oh I have to make a call .” Armando asks, “what’s wrong with yours?” Marcela tells him, “mine needs charging I need to find out where Daniel is.” Armando tells her, “look forgive me for saying this but. Your drinking way too much, I’ve never seen you drink so much.” She tells him, “well I’m trying hard to understand you are you going to give it too me yes or no.”  He angrily gives it too her, and watches her leave. Mario asks Roberto, “enjoying the collection?” Roberto shakes his hand, “yes its wonderful.”

(That blue and pink jackets are very lovely.)

Marcela gets up and goes backstage and starts looking at the calls made. When she sees the number she utters. “But that’s the number of Eco Moda.” She makes the call, and Betty answers. “President’s office Eco Moda hello hello.” Marcela hangs up, and Daniel arrives.  “Well hello you. They hug and kiss. I thought you weren’t going to come.” Daniel tells her, “you know very well that I don’t care for these events. I just don’t want my family members, to get angry at me later. So where is Maria Beatriz?” Marcela tells him, “I don’t know she’s around here someplace.” A man comes near them, “well hello Daniel Valencia.” Daniel smiles and tells him, “well hello Santiago how are you? They shake hands, oh hello Marcela how are you?” Marcela smiles and tells him, “well hello excuse me.” Daniel asks, “how’s the finance office doing?” Santiago tells him, “fine fine but we did lose 26000.” Daniel pats him on the back and tells him, “but its only 26000 not bad.” Marcela returns to her seat, and gives Armando back his cell. Armando asks, “so did you talk to Daniel?” Marcela tells him, “no didn’t have too he just arrived.”

Armando sarcastically tells her, “oh how pleasant.” Gino is with Maria Beatriz in one corner, “you know Don Gino you really should do more shows regarding plastic surgery.” Gino tells her, “oh yes of course.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “may I confess something.” Gino tells her, “sure go ahead.”  Maria Beatriz tells him, “I’ve had done a lot of plastic surgery.” Gino tells her, “really.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “yes.” Gino tells her, “well you really can’t tell.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “really good.” Gino tells her, “no you look magical.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “I’ve just returned from Australia and those surgeons are fabulous. If you want the number, I’ll give it too you.” Gino tells her, “in a minute.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “I took out two ribs in fact they can even take two more.” Marcela goes to them, “oh I’m sorry Maria Beatriz Daniel arrive and wants to see you. Plus you haven’t even said hello, to Roberto nor Margarita.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “look first let me present to you Gino Molinari the star of Ecuadorian tv. Well this is my sister Marcela Valencia. Marcela shakes his hand, she’s an associate, an investor and very important person at Eco Moda.” Gino tells her, “you are very beautiful.” Marcela tells him, “well thank you sir nice to meet you well we really must go.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “I just feel so embarrassed leaving Gino all by himself here. We were having the most delicious conversation or no.” Gino tells her, “sure but no don’t worry about me go ahead. Continue your talk.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “really ok bye.” Gino tells her, “sure go ahead and be sociable. When she leaves he utters to his camera man, man that woman can talk. First she talks about beauty then plastic surgery. Carlos do a once over overlooking the runway please.”

Over at Eco Moda, Freddy Sophia and Sandra are asleep. While Aura Maria is still working, when Sophia wakes up she looks at her watch. “Oh dear Aura Maria I must go, its pretty late and the kids are all by themselves.” Freddy tells her, “go ahead don’t worry I’ll stay here taking care of my princess. Please just take that one, that girl.” Sophia goes to wake up Sandra, “dear Sandra wake up.” Sandra utters, “my love then she gets up to hug someone. Oh man why did you wake up, I was dreaming I had a boyfriend. He was as tall as me.” Sophia tells her, “were going home Freddy will be taking care of Aura Maria. So are you coming with me yes or no?” Freddy tells her, “you two go together right now at this time its quite dangerous. You go with Sandra, while we scare the attackers.” Sandra tells him, “oh ha ha oh Rio de Janeiro do shut up it seems that Aura Maria will still be stuck with that pervert fellow.” Aura Maria go ask him, see if you can now go home with us.” Sophia tells her, “yes he’s just got to let you go home now.” Aura Maria asks, “oh do you really think so?” Sandra grabs her, “come over here you just do this.” Then she bangs on the door. Aura Maria tells her, “Sandra your going to get me in trouble.” Gutierrez tells her, “who’s banging oh how may I help you?”  Aura Maria asks, “what?” Gutierrez tells her, “yes what would you like?”

Aura Maria tells him, “well the thing is I wanted to ask if I could go now with my friends.” Gutierrez asks, “so have you finished your job yet Aura Maria?” Aura Maria tells him, “no sir I am very tired I can finish all that tomorrow.” Gutierrez tells her, “no no no tomorrow or how about the day after tomorrow. No why don’t you do it next week then.” Aura Maria tells him, “sure if you like.” Gutierrez tells her, “sure just come back in December at the start of the year. No no no you must finish that job tonight.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh yeah me finish everything you put on my desk. I won’t finish that till 5 in the morning.” Gutierrez tells them, “it happens to me all the time. I can’t leave here till you are finished.” Freddy gets up and tells him, “excuse me and forgive me. Careful with those screams, with all due respect. You will respect her sir.” Gutierrez tells him, “what are you talking about? What are you insinuating?” Sandra tells him, “all he’s saying is you have to stop yelling and respect her.” Gutierrez tells her, “this problem isn’t yours.” Sandra tells him, “well its with Aura Maria. If its with her, its with me. Oh and fire me, lets see what type of man you are.” Gutierrez tells her, “I don’t want any problems with you Sandra. Aura Maria you heard me right now you finish now.” Aura Maria in tears tells him, “yes sir. Gutierrez goes inside his office, while Aura Maria sits down. Oh dam it, look girls fresh you go on ahead. I’ll stay with my grasshopper.” Sandra tells him, “now then Freddy it looks like your going to have to stay here. Now remember don’t fall asleep, or that octopus will grab her and take her.” Freddy tells her, “well he’s going to have to take the both of us. Lets see who abuses who.” Sophia tells them, “ok we’ll see one another tomorrow alright. Say goodbye to Betty for us.” Gutierrez sees them leave, and grins happily.

Over at the fashion show, the models are now showing the third part of the collection. Santiago tells Daniel, “when you have a moment we really should meet up at the club. We need to really have a good talk. I need your personal advise, on how to deal with political transaction regarding visas. Santiago sees Patricia watching the show. Hey who is that? Daniel smirks at seeing Patricia. Oh just look at that, good lord.” Daniel asks, “so do you like her?” Santiago tells him, “yes may a man who doesn’t like that may he just fall dead.” Daniel grins and asks, “well I’ll introduce you but be warned she’s very expensive.” Santiago asks, “so do you know here?” Daniel tells him, “yes and very well so do you want to spend a night with her?” Santiago takes a second look at Patricia, “sure of course I’m a man and I’m human. So tell me what do I do?” Daniel tells him, “do you have 6000 in your account?” Santiago tells him, “yes but does she charge a lot.” Daniel tells him, “no but she needs the money. If you want give her 3000 but you’ll end sleeping her for few nights.” Santiago tells him, “I just can’t believe that.” Patricia tells him, “well neither can I.” Daniel tells her, “oh hello Patricia let me introduce you. To my friend Santiago Coral president of financial group.”

Santiago extends his hand, Patricia utters. “Hello.” Then ignores him and stares coldly at a smirking Daniel. Daniel asks, “did you bring the photo?” Patricia tells him, “no.” Daniel tells her, “oh what a shame Santiago is a great candidate. In fact he has at his disposal 3000.” Patricia tells him, ” I already told you that I don’t need them.” Marcela runs to them, “Daniel Daniel Maria Beatriz is with Roberto and Margarita. Come on lets go say hello.” Daniel tells Santiago, “I’ll leave you to discuss business now she only studied for 6 semesters at…” Marcela playfully tells him, “at the San Marino.” Daniel laughing tells him, “yes at the San Marino  well then talk business.” Patricia coldly looks at him, and Santiago eyes her up and down. Santiago asks, “so you studied six semesters at the San Marino.” Patricia tells him, “yes.” Santiago tells her, “if you like we can go someplace to just talk finances.” Patricia tells him, “oh sir I’m sorry but I’m not in the mood. Daniel Valencia is a stupid, imbecile guy.” Santiago tells her, “ok ok calm down you don’t have to get so agitated. If you like we can go someplace talk to talk quietly then.”

Patricia tells him, “no sir look I don’t want to be rude towards you. I’m here with my boyfriend and he’s quite jealous. I don’t want any problems.” Santiago tells her, “you don’t have to invent that. Look Patricia simply its this, I plan this…” Patricia tells him, “my boyfriend is here please.” Santiago repeats, “enough with the story of your boyfriend.” Patricia asks, “so you don’t think that I have a boyfriend here.” Santiago tells her, “no.” Patricia tells him, “he should be around her someplace.” She looks around, and first person she sees is Gino Molinari. “Look my love oh I’ve missed you so very much. Gino simply stares at her, look now your my boyfriend alright?” Gino asks, “I’m your boyfriend.” Patricia tells him, “yes please let me explain you see that guy over there wants to hurt me or something. I already told him, that I had a boyfriend and that he was jealous. That I didn’t want any problems.” Gino asks, “your boyfriend is jealous.” Patricia tells him, “your my boyfriend.” Gino utters, “so I’m the jealous boyfriend.”

Patricia tells him, “please help me out I’m begging you.” Gino looks at the guy, Santiago approaches them. “Well good evening sir, Patricia may I have a word.” Gino shakes his hand, “hello.” Patricia tells him, “I already told you no and he’s my boyfriend.” Gino tells him, “was is it that you want?” Santiago tells him, “nothing I just wanted to talk to her.” Gino asks, “about what?” Santiago tells him, “nothing in particular nice to meet you.” He takes off, Patricia tells him. “Thank you so very much you scared him.” Gino tells her, “I’m scared of tall guys.” Patricia tells him, “but no you were very spectacular.” Gino tells her, “well it was indeed a pleasure.” Patricia tells him, “no no sir please just do this one favour towards me.” Gino asks, “now what another favour?” Patricia tells him, “yes please may I be with you until those two leave. Please please oh look.” Gino then begins to clap with the rest of the guests. Hugo comes out and walks with his models. Everyone begins to cheer, and Hugo gives his hat to Roberto. Roberto takes it and congratulates everyone, then he gives the hat to Maria Beatriz. Catalina tells everyone, “I really hope that you have enjoyed the collection. Bravo Hugo now I will leave you with a new singer from Colombia  singer/dancer/actor. Let me present Carlos Marquez.”

(Apparently this is the only time you see this guy. The Ricky Martin want-a-be.)

Then the guy sings, and everyone watches the show. Hugo dances with his models, then tells them. “Well then we must go. He takes the girls backstage. Ines is very worried, as she sits down in her chair. Ines then watches as the girls enter, and give Hugo a big kiss. Oh everything is so divine, everything turned out quite bombi. I just love the way things turned out. Oh I was wonderful, a pure genius. Its like the best moment of my career. Thank you but everyone should applaud for one another. Ines over here, lets all get a group hug. Come on congratulate me, oh dear what’s wrong Inesita. Ok girls go ahead, and he goes next to her. Ines what’s wrong? Did you get the same thing as before?” Ines tells him, “no don’t worry Hugo I am fine.” Hugo tells her, “oh no you can’t lie to me something is wrong with you. Would you like me to call a doctor?” Ines tells him, “oh no no I told you I’m fine.” Hugo tells her, “well then Ines why don’t you go on home.” Ines tells him, “well that’s the thing I don’t want to go home.” Hugo asks, “what do you mean? Oh do you want to go clubbing? Where are you going to sleep then?” Ines tells him, “I don’t know the thing is I don’t want to go home.”

Hugo tells her, “I now understand you don’t want to go to bed alone. Oh you sly thing, you want me to sleep next to you again. Oh yes we together, where you can hit me with your foot and pinch me.” Ines smiles and tells him, “how about loaning me your cell phone.” Hugo screams, “Carolina my cell phone. Carolina gives it, now then do you need me to work this toy. Or did your era have one of these? Oh your one of those, who just dye using these inventions. Ok I’ll do it, now then where too.” Ines tells him, “my home please.” Hugo tells her, “ who do you think is there and will answer that phone.” Ines lying tells him, “no the thing is this morning the line was damaged. I just want to see if it works now. Let me hear it.” Hugo tells her, “oh its ringing it goes ring ring. Ines takes the cell and hears that it continues ringing. Then he asks the model for kisses, then tells Ines. What do you want me, to answer to the ghost of Inesita.” Ines relieved tells him, “oh its now fixed Don Hugo. Well then I’ll get the clothes fixed up, and then I’m heading home now.”  Hugo tells her, “no no no your not touching one single finger. Girls I need you to help me put all your dresses on the rack nicely. Put all your accessories away, because Inesita is out ok son.” The guy asks, “yes Hugo.” Hugo tells him, “oh what was that you just did.” The guy manly tells him, “yes Don Hugo.” Hugo tells him, “get a car from Eco Moda to take Inesita home do you understand.” The guy tells him, “yes sir.” Hugo tells him, “now I want you to check her home and make sure she’s in her pyjamas before you go.” The guy tells him, “yes Don Hugo.” Hugo tells him, “ok zzz now I’m going to kiss you Ines. You really do deserve this, this was all done because of you. You are so divine, thank you so very much for everything.” Ines tells him, “its because of you.” Hugo tells her, “oh everything turned out divine. Oh did you see all the colours and how everything shone.”

Over at Eco Moda, Freddy has fallen asleep and Aura Maria yawns at she works. Gutierrez comes out singing, and Freddy wakes up with his hands in fists. “Don’t you dare touch her?” Aura Maria goes next to him, Gutierrez tells him. “Oh stop being so stupid don’t be an idiot. Now go too work, take this to Hugo Lombardi at that hotel.” Freddy looks at his watch, “what at this time?” Gutierrez tells him, “yes yes yes its the contracts of those models. Get their signatures so they can get paid.” Freddy tells him, “the fashion show is over let them sign it tomorrow.” Gutierrez tells him, “oh my god so now your the one that makes the orders here. Forget it, go right now right now” Freddy grabs a hold of Aura Maria, “alright we will be right back.” Gutierrez gives him the envelope, “excuse me just one question Aura Maria.” Freddy tells him, “why don’t you just ask her two questions if one turns out false.“ Gutierrez ask, “are you done your job yet?” Aura Maria tells him, “no sir.” Gutierrez tells her, “sorry you will stay until you are done here. You may go now, give that envelope and I’ll see you tomorrow.” Freddy tells him, “what and leave her here all night?” Gutierrez smirks and tells him, “I’ll take good care of her.”

Freddy asks, “and who takes care of her from you.” Gutierrez tells him, “you heard me its an order.” Freddy tells him, “I’m not following your orders. My time of works ends at 6pm.“ Gutierrez tells him, “very good then what are you doing here? Go go go, or else I’ll have you thrown out.” Freddy tells him, “fine then throw me out you are coming with me.” Gutierrez tells him, “if you take her from here she’s immediately fired.” Freddy tells her, “fine you are fired lets go now.” Aura Maria tells her, “but my grasshopper.” Freddy tells her, ” no we’re going.” Betty comes out of the office, and asks. “What’s going on?” Freddy tells her, “nothing you see Mr. Gutierrez here wants to spend the entire night with Aura Maria. I won’t permit it.” Gutierrez tells her, “nobody refuses my orders. I’m not painted on the wall, I don’t care I’m not scared if Miss Pinzon has come out here. To intermediate our conversation here. It doesn’t scare me, nobody in this world scares me. Then his cell phone rings, and Gutierrez jumps. Oh hello my love, I’m on my way home now bye. I swear too you, I’m in the parking lot.” The three laugh, and Betty tells them. “Oh go on home, I’ll see guys tomorrow.” Freddy grabs her jacket, and Aura Maria tells her. “Oh your not afraid to stay here so very late.” Betty just smiles, Freddy tells her. “Who could scare her?” Betty tells him, “don’t worry about me I still have to finish a few things. Nothing will happen to me, I will be fine thank you.” She closes the doors, Aura Maria hits Freddy. “You idiot you shouldn’t have said anything.” Freddy howls in pain and rubs his arm.

Over at the collection launch, the guy still singing. A guy tells the group, “oh excellent collection.” Armando tells him, “yes thank you.” Margarita and Roberto tell him, “thank you so very much.” Armando tells Daniel, “oh say thank you you idiot they are congratulating us.” Daniel looks around for someone, and tells him. “Lets congratulate one another when we see those figures at that council meeting you idiot.” He takes off, and a woman tells them. “Oh and congratulations on your engagement.” Marcela looks over at an annoyed Armando. Margarita tells her, “well we will see you at the exchange at the bridal shower.” Catalina tells them, “oh everyone is very happy about that collection. Congratulations, and lets celebrate.” Roberto tells her, “oh that sounds wonderful news but sincerely I am very tired and that volume is way too high for my poor ears. I think its best I head home to get some rest. I need all my five senses for tomorrow’s council meeting.” Margarita tells him, “well then lets say now goodbye to everyone then.  You all may celebrate.” Catalina tells them, “we will talk tomorrow.” Margarita waves and Roberto hugs Maria Beatriz. When they leave, Marcela tells him. “I have a great idea why don’t we all head to my apartment. We open a champagne bottle, and lets celebrate.”

Armando tells them, “sorry but I can’t.” Marcela’s smile disappears, and asks angrily. “What do you mean you can’t?” Maria Beatriz just stares at her sister. Armando tells her, “I must head back to Eco Moda.” Marcela asks, “to Eco Moda.” Armando tells her, “yes my love permit me Maria Beatriz please give us a moment.” Armando goes next to Marcela, he angrily tells her. “I have to return to Eco Moda, because Beatriz still hasn’t finished that balance. I must go and pressure her Marcela, understand that or no.” Marcela asks, “what you think she won’t give you that balance in your hands.” Armando tells her, “I’m going so I won’t have any doubts.” Marcela tells him, “fine then go.” Armando tells her, “Marcela understand.” Marcela tells him, “just go already.” Armando tells her, “lets do one thing if you want to prove that I’m over there. Call in twenty minutes, or do what ever you prefer.” Then he takes off, Mario watches him leave. Marcela exclaims, “well then he’s not coming well then the party will be another day then.”

She takes off, as Maria Beatriz looks over at Catalina. Maria Beatriz tells her, “Armando has a lover. Catalina takes off, as does Mario. She then goes to the couple, so tell me when’s the big wedding day.” The guy coughs, and she tells her. “We are just planning it.” Maria Beatriz tells them, “if you like I’ll give you a priest the church even the guest. If you like we can go shopping for wedding things for your nuptial. I can give you the entire list in fact.” The girl asks, “and the bridal shower as well.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “my yes of course oh yes your going as well.” Daniel finds Santiago, “oh so how did it go with Patricia?” Santiago tells him, “oh she didn’t even talk to me you set me up in a trap. It was a dirty joke, she just introduced me to her boyfriend lover what ever.” Daniel asks, “you mean Patricia’s boyfriend is here?” Santiago tells him, “oh yes its a short chubby guy he’s pretty funny.” Daniel tells him, “oh that I won’t miss out on.” Then he begins looking around. Santiago shakes his head, and Patricia sees Daniel and grabs Gino as he’s talking to some people. “Oh here comes the most dangerous one.”

Daniel tells him, “well good evening.” Gino tells him, “good evening.” Daniel tells her, “what your not going to introduce us?” Patricia tells him, “my love this here is Daniel Valencia. Daniel this is my boyfriend.” Daniel shakes Gino’s hand. Gino tells him, “my name is Gino Molinari.” Daniel tells him, “its been a while since I’ve wanted to meet you. So how long have you two been dating?” Gino tells him, “three months.” Patricia tells him, “20 days.” Gino tells him, “well its 20 days but it seems like we’ve known one another for three months now.” Daniel asks, “so where did you meet?” Gino looks over at Patricia, then he tells him. “In Keito.” While Patricia tells him, “in Colombia.” Patricia tells him, “oh my love you just don’t remember do you.” Gino tells him, “oh my love its just that I travel so much.” Daniel tells her, “oh yes you two make a nice couple. Oh yes you two should marry, you have so much in common.” Patricia tells him, “we are contemplating that possibility.”

Daniel tells him, “so that means your going to lend her 5000 to get her Mercedes out of the impound lot.” Gino asks, “how much?” Patricia tells him, “Daniel I just don’t think this is a proper topic to discuss at this occasion. Don’t be so bold.” Daniel just laughs and tells her. “So that means you didn’t know, that you were going to end up giving her the money.” Gino tells him, “what ever she needs she will get.” Daniel tells him, “oh very good of you. Now do you need anybody to take you back to your apartment.” Patricia tells him, “well Roberto and Margarita are waiting for me.” Daniel tells her, “yes now remember you have till the day after tomorrow to bring that Mercedes to Eco Moda.” Gino takes Patricia’s hand. “Well then my love come with me, goodbye Mr. Valencia.” Daniel tells him, “yes Mr. Molinatri it was good to meet you.” Gino tells him, “its Molinari lets go my love.” Daniel utters, “yes sir.” As he’s escorting Patricia away he asks, “and how much is 5000?” Patricia tells him, “its only 3000 so will you lend it too me.” Gino tells her, “well no.” Patricia laughing tells him, “oh just forget about it.”

Gino tells her, “now then I have to see Hugo Lombardi and interview him. That’s why I came here to Colombia, have a great time.” Patricia smiles at him, and waves goodbye. When Santiago walks by, Patricia gives him a dirty look. While Daniel says hello to friends. Santiago goes next to him and asks. “So Daniel did you meet that chubby guy?” Daniel tells him, “oh you let yourself be tricked.” Santiago asks, “well then who was he?” Daniel tells him, “who the hell knows.” Gino is backstage, and telling his news. “Hello from Colombia, this is Gino Molinari. I am here with the one and only Colombia designer Hugo Lombardi. Who day by day breaks records, combines history with materials. Plus astrology the divo of a designer Hugo Lombardi.” Hugo is standing around with his models smiling away. “Oh hello Hugo Lombardi how are you this evening. Tell us a bit about your collection. Plus those that are in your mind.” Hugo tells her, “2001 millennium like the collection mentions. Is the door that opens, the new millennium. This new millennium that I found myself in, with the past with our ethnic backgrounds. That origin that we have inside. We must be proud of ourselves, like this we have beautiful sky. Beautiful 80s style, its just revolutionary hitting us at every corner. Plus the most beautiful is space, where in the cosmos were we live. We have chiffon, those elastic that hugs the skin. I want to tell you something Gino. The truth is this millennium, is passed on by us humans. Well the body will discover in us textures. Fragrances and aromas.” Gino just rolls his eyes as Hugo continues.

(On a sad note the model Lina Marulanda passed away in 2010. Apparently it was a suicide.)

Marcela returns to Daniel, giving him a big hug. “Now Daniel see you tomorrow at the council meeting.” Daniel asks, “your not driving right?” Marcela tells him, “don’t worry I already gave me keys away bye.” Daniel tells her, “bye.” Santiago asks, “so you have a meeting tomorrow?” Daniel tells him, “yes and its a pretty hard one. I plan on taking out my stock, and….” Santiago asks, “wait wait what do you mean you are going to sell your shares?” Daniel asks, “and what of it?” Santiago asks, “are you allowed to do so. Considering how much trouble Eco Moda has with the banks. Will you be able to sell them?” Daniel asks, “what problems?” Santiago tells him, “oh come on Daniel everyone knows how much debt Eco Moda owes. It is been hounded everyday, by the banks. Look its the gossip, I don’t want you to put me in any trouble. Or you starting any scandals, my suggestion to you is find out.” Daniel just stares at him.

Carlos Humberto Serrato was born in 1964 in Bogota Colombia. He has been working since 1997, on various telenovelas.

He played Gustavo Olarte on YSBLF.

One Hundred and Eight

Betty is still at work, when Hermes calls her. “Hello Presidency of Eco Moda.” Hermes tells her, “hello young lady and at what time will you be coming home. Or is the young lady, not coming to sleep at her home tonight.” Betty tells him, “yes dad I should be getting home soon. There’s a big council meeting tomorrow, that I have to set up for. I’m almost finished, and I’ll head straight home.” Hermes asks, “I see and how will you get home?” Betty tells him, “I’ll just ask them to get a car for me.” Hermes tells her, “why don’t you get that idiot Nicholas to pick you up. So where is he?” Betty tells him, “oh no he’s doing some last minute business. So did you finish the balance for Terra Moda yet dad?” Hermes tells her, “yes I have that in my hand everything is ready.” Betty asks, “oh alright I just need the balance. All of the bank statements, investments in cash, I also need the cheques.” Hermes tells her, “Nicholas never left me that.” Betty asks, “not even the chequebook?” Hermes tells  her, “no why?” Betty tells him, “oh its nothing dad I’ll see you at home in a few hours ok bye.” Betty hopes Nicholas doesn’t do anything stupid.

Nicholas is driving to Patricia’s apartment, and listening to a new artist on the radio. “Oh this guy is not bad, though he sings kind of funny. His cell phone rings, hello.” Patricia tells him, “hello Nicholas. Patricia gets dinner delivered, oh your dinner is all prepared. Your not going to cancel tonight?” Nicholas tells her, “of course not Patty what’s make you think that. I’m heading there, in fact I’m almost there.” Patricia sweetly tells him, “ok I’ll be waiting.” Nicholas tells her, “well just have patience I’m almost there bye bye. He hangs up, he touches the cheques. Oh they are waiting for us, oh yes they are waiting for us.” Patricia utters, “he better not start with his stories and not bring me that chequebook.” The delivery guy tells her, “its 26  senora.” Patricia is outraged, and asks. “26000?” Patricia tells him, “that not what the chinese restaurant told me where I made the order.” The guy tells her, “its overcharge for the tip?” Patricia tells him, “oh no you don’t get nothing. So you can forget about it chino, in this house nobody gets a tip. All I have is the money, for the food here it is.” The guy tells her, “oh but in your hand you have more.” Patricia tells him, “oh what boldness and how do you think I’m going to work tomorrow walking. I’m not going walking, just too give you a tip. Plus your delivery took too long.” The guy tells her, “it was only 20 minutes senora.” Patricia tells him, “that’s way too much time for me. Look thank you, and I’m sorry and have a nice evening.” The guy goes out slowly and repeats, “your quite cheap lady your quite cheap lady.” Patricia simply closes the door on him. “Can you believe that dirty chino. Oh now I’ll fix this up properly and get my 6000.”

Wilson arrives with Armando at the second floor. “Are you sure you don’t need anything Don Armando?” Armando tells him, “no man I don’t need nothing.” Wilson looks at his watch, and asks. “Well then why are you here at this late in time.” Armando tells him, “what are you a bit uncomfortable that I’m here or what.” Wilson tells him, “no sir its just that its strange.” Armando tells him, “so its quite strange for you? Or does it just give you insomnia, then you can’t go back to sleep like you usually do. I don’t need you, thank you very much now disappear.” Wilson tells him, “if I disappear the burglars will get inside. They might steal the company Don Armando.” Armando tells him, “have you been drinking?” Wilson tells him, “no but you have I can smell it from over here.” Armando tells him, “so I smell of booze.” Wilson tells him, “yes Don Armando your the one that smells like booze.” Armando tells him, “your fired leave.” Wilson tells him, “fine but your the one with the booze smell.” Armando screams, “get out now.” Armando enters his office, and Wilson watches him enter.

Armando heads straight to see Betty. “Oh hi Betty?” Betty asks, “so how did things turn out tonight.” Armando tells her, “fine fine it went great Beatriz. The collection was a complete success. All the people talked about it, there was excellent commentaries we will be able to pay all our debts Beatriz. There’s just so much expectations, people were closing deals Beatriz. We have saved ourselves.” Betty tells him, “yes Eco Moda will go just fine.” Armando tells her, “no Eco Moda won’t go it will go fine for everyone. So did you finish manipulating the balance yet? Betty coldly stares at him once more. Then turns and gives him the balance, he takes a quick look. Dear lord I once again fell life, once again I feel my life thank you thank you Beatriz. He puts down the folder, and then holds her face. Thank you.” Then he kisses her, she accepts one kiss. Then she moves away, “no sir please.” Armando tells her, “sorry Beatriz but I just can’t help myself I love you.” The kissing becomes passionate, when Betty realizes this she tells him. “No sir we must not.” Armando tells her, “why I desire you Beatriz don’t you desire me as well.” Betty tells him, “yes sir so very much.”

Armando asks, “then what are we waiting for? What are we waiting for? What’s wrong?” Betty tells him, “sir nothing is going to happen please just give me a hug. Just one more hug.” When Armando does this, a coldness over comes him. “Beatriz why does this feel like were saying goodbye? You know when one goes to the airport, and says goodbye to the person one loves. When you know, you will ever see that person ever again.” Betty tells him, “yes it does feel like that sir.” The phone rings and Armando curses, “blasted phone.” Betty gets it, “hello president’s office.” Wilson asks, “oh madam you asked for a taxi?” Betty tells him, “yes yes I’m coming right down Wilson thank you.” Armando angrily asks, “what do you mean your going down? Who’s picking you up?” Betty tells him, “a taxi that I asked for.” Armando asks, “a taxi but where are you going?” Betty tells him, “home.” Armando tells her, “no no no Beatriz I will take you to your house. I will take you, I need to be with you now. Beatriz I want us to go someplace. Where we can be alone, I need to spend the entire night with you.” Betty tells him, “sir it will be pretty difficult for you the council meeting will be very difficult. We must all arrive early, to organize everything. You should go home, and get some rest study this. Tomorrow you must be quite lucid sir, please go and study this balance.”

Armando tells her, “forget that don’t bother giving it too me. I just won’t have time to study the context. The only person that can explain that balance tomorrow is you. You know that, where is the real balance.” Betty shows him, “yes its here and I’ll make copies of the manipulated one. To put them in the folder.” She picks up her purse and tells him. “Well sir have a nice night see you tomorrow.” As she’s ready to go, he grabs her and holds her tightly. “No you can’t go until I get one more kiss.” Betty tells him, “you know that I don’t want too especially in the office.” Armando smiles and tells her, “I just love them Beatriz Betty hear what I have to say. I am very happy again, I haven’t been this happy in a long time. Its like I finally see the light in the tunnel. Beatriz with that balance tomorrow we can start fresh, and finish that blasted council meeting. Wit that collection, we’ll be able to pay all our debts. Finally be able to stabilize, the financial situation of Eco Moda. Beatriz everything is going to get better, tomorrow Marcela Valencia will disappear from my life. The road will open up for the two of us. There’s just a few moments left, before we can at last reach this Beatriz.”

Betty sarcastically tells him, “yes right sir well see you tomorrow.” He grabs her once more, “Beatriz please tell me that you love me alright? I need to know that you love me. For me its very important to know it. Do you love me?” Betty tells him, “yes sir I never stop loving you.” Armando gives her a passionate kiss, which she returns. “I love you more than anything, more than my life. Betty then gives him once last look, and she leaves. Armando meanwhile sits in her chair, and utters. Armando Mendoza accept it finally, finally accept it that you are indeed truthfully in love with Beatriz Pinzon Solano. I don’t know dear lord when it happened, but it did I fell in love with her. I’ve fallen in love more than ever.” Betty heads out, and as she reaches the elevators Wilson arrives. “Oh I just came up to get you, the taxi has arrived to pick you up.” Betty tells him, “yes yes yes Wilson I am heading down now.” Wilson tells her, “see you tomorrow madam.” Betty tells him, “yes see you tomorrow. Wilson does his rounds, and Betty utters in her head. Oh what am I doing? Oh what am I doing? That was the last kiss, that we did in our lives Mr. Mendoza.”

Ines arrives at her home, and find the living room empty and she is quite relived. “Oh thank you Juan you can leave those packages on the dining room table.” Juan sees that she’s looking around, “something wrong Dona Inesita?” Ines tells him, “oh no no Juan thank you everything is fine.” Juan tells her, “well then have a nice night.” Ines tells him, “oh yes thank you goodbye.” She locks up and heads upstairs.

Marcela is alone in her office drinking, Maria Beatriz and Hugo arrive overjoyed at what occurred at the collection launch. Marcela screams, “what are you doing here?” Hugo tells her, “what do you mean what are we doing here?” Maria Beatriz tells her, “we came for you now come on come on.” Marcela asks, “and where?” Hugo tells her, “where what ever do you mean. We are going to celebrate, to enjoy ourselves. I am quite the genius, everything turned out bombi.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “I told Hugo that you wanted to celebrate. You left us, come on come one lets go lets go to the carnival. We can dance rock, heavy metal, industrial music.” Marcela shakes her head, “no I told you that the celebrate was cancelled. I am not going anywhere.” Hugo tells her, “oh how can you ruin our party. What your going to stay here all closed up? Like a bitter single woman, I’m going to tell you something. There’s just a few hours left, before you get married. But that face of yours will always have that single bitter old woman’s face oh dear.” Marcela tells him, “if I have that face of a bitter old woman than go the way you came.”

Hugo tells her, “ok fine stop treating us so badly. Yes stay here, in her gold tower. While we are going to celebrate.” Marcela gets up and pours them drink, “before you go have a toast with me than you may go.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “I want a Margarita please.” Hugo tells her, “make that two Margarita’s for two Margarita’s.” Maria Beatriz just laughs, and Marcela asks. “So how did things end over there? So what happened with Inesita?” Hugo tells her, “oh Inesita don’t worry about her. I sent her home with Juan, but she was quite strange. I don’t think she’s well mentally or physically.” Marcela tells him, “oh can you say that? She’s quite lucid, what did she do?” Hugo tells her, “she was insistence that she didn’t want to go home. Instead wanted to go someplace else. Then she asked me for my cell phone to call home.” Marcela asks, “who would answer?” Hugo tells her, “ exactly that’s what one has to ask her craziness. Well she called, and the phone rang and rang. Here she was listening in, like someone would answer. Oh that solitude.” Maria Beatriz touches her heart, Marcela tells them. “Maybe it that barrio, there’s security problems.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “maybe she’s seeing spirits.” Hugo tells her, “ oh my Inesita my Inesita poor thing well salute.” Maria Beatriz tells them, “well then lets continue.” Hugo tells her, “yes lets continue celebrating.”

Ines find Raphael in her bedroom holding a child toy. Raphael tells her,” hello Inesita good evening. The phone rang, but I wasn’t brave to answer it.” Ines tells him, “I thought that you picked up your belongings and left already.” Raphael tells her, “oh Inesita it’s just not that easy this house has many years. It has so many memories, to just pick them up like that. In so little time, in the end I lived so much here than out there. It seems its like a photograph, its what’s in your mind what you noticed the last time you were here. Everything is in tact, like nobody ever touched it what I don’t understand. Why is this doll here?” Ines tells him, “you gave Juliana that doll when she turned nine years old.” Raphael tells her, “yes I know but what I don’t understand is how old was Juliana when she left here?” Ines tells him, “twenty-two years old.” Raphael tells her, “she wasn’t a little girl anymore. This room, still looks like a little girl still lived here. Its as if, she hadn’t have grown.” Ines tells him, “yes she did indeed grown but she never wanted to change this room. Just in case you would one day return. Only till the day she left, she wanted to conserve this room in tact. She was a woman fully grown, in here she was the same girl that you left. She never permitted me, to touch nothing because she said. In here there were a lot of memories from her father. She conserved everything till the last day, she always thought that one day you would walk through those doors. She asked me to not touch nothing, not even that doll that you gave her when she was nine years old. Nor this jewellery box that you gave her, when you went to Cale. She didn’t even want me to throw away, her communion dress. She told me, that you took her by the hand to buy her that dress. Neither these story books, that you would read to her every night. Neither these records, that she would dance too those saturdays and that you taught her how to sing. Neither this necklace, that you said that would protect her. It couldn’t protect her, from your abandoning her.” Raphael crying tells her, “no more no more.” Then he runs to the door.

Nicholas arrives at Patricia’s home, “oh my dear we are at last home my love. Ok Nicholas we must now get very charming. He puts on cologne, I have more security than the police. Only on the outside, cause you might get sick on the inside. Well then how do I look, just divine perfect. Oh and what am I going to do with you. If you enter with me, we are going to lose 5000 and if we don’t go in there together. There’s no kisses for Nicholas Mora, it just can’t be for this is the last night for Nicholas Mora. No no no I can’t be without Patricia Fernandez’s kisses. That’s just impossible, how about we get 11 kisses. We have 6000, divide that with 8 kisses you get 5000 kisses. That’s way too costly, and those caresses. Well its just worth it, yes its well worth it really oh those kisses are quality certified. How about we get instead 10 kisses what’s left is 6 oh that’s also important Nicholas. With all those kisses, the value decreases. Oh Nicholas definitely your going to have to get a lot of kisses. So one doesn’t feel financial regret. Then he remembers Betty’s words. Yes yes Betty, I know don’t scream at me. I can’t enter with this chequebook, I promised Betty’s. First is our friendship, her loyalty plus tomorrow Betty and I will lose our jobs. Tomorrow we will be, two more unemployed people in this country. No I just can’t betray Betty, plus Betty has been my support for my entire life. Without Betty, I don’t know what too do. Well too bad Patty, you are going to remain right here. Patty your going to have to give me your love without it costing me a dime. Only love only love.”

Ines is screaming, “Juliana wanted her room to remain that way. To remind her, that at one point she had a father. The man who forgot her, every time she comes back to Colombia she closes herself in that room. To reach out too you, asking over and over. Why why why?” Raphael crying hits the couch, “no no no.” She continues, “don’t tell me that your not going to come back up to see Jorge’s room. Don’t tell me that your not capable, of seeing what he left behind.” Raphael tells her, “I should have never returned. I should have died, I want to die.” Ines tells him, “well so did I want to die all those years ago but I just couldn’t. Those two kids needed me, I was there right there till they left. Then I was trapped, stuck in here living in this museum. Full of your memories and that of theirs. Where there was a past, when they were happy. Don’t think that it was easy, to support those 20 years to be surrounded by things that just don’t exist.” Raphael tells her, “I’m going to rot in hell.” He runs to the door, she tells him. “Raphael Raphael no your not going like that.” Raphael picks up his things, “no its what I desire I must leave.” Ines tells him, “no don’t leave Raphael your in no condition to leave. You might get something.” Raphael tells her, “who care if something happens to me. In the end I am dead by everyone, I will you all in peace.” Ines tells him, “if you want to leave me in peace at least stay till your better. Let go of that door.” She comes down, he tells her. “I just don’t want to bother you any more.” Ines tells him, “we are too old to play these games. Sit down, sit down I’ll get you something to drink.” Raphael tells her, “no no don’t bother yourself.” Ines screams, “but where are you going its raining outside sit down.” He follows her orders, and she gets something for him to eat.

Patricia is on the phone with her father, “no no dad I’ll be getting out of my problem tonight. Yes they are bringing me the 6000, I had to buy food but I look at it as an investment. No this romance ends tonight, no dad between him and I nothing has happened. No we are just friends nothing else, it finishes tonight. Ok dad have to hang up now, my 6000 has arrived bye bye.” Nicholas arrives and cleans his shoes on his pants. “Hi Patty.” Nicholas enters, and she tells him. “Well hello Nicholas, I’ve been quite anxious waiting for you.” Nicholas tells her, “yes I have also been quite anxious to see you again.” Patricia tells him, “well come on in relax you must be really dead.” She take off his coat , Nicolas tells her. “Oh yes I’ve had quite a busy day lots of work and business meeting.” Patricia moves him closer to her small living room where the food is on the table. “Now then sit down, and get comfortable.” She practically pushes him to the floor. “Oh yes how romantic the setting you and I.” Patricia tells him, “how would you prefer your meal if you like I can have it like this. She snaps her fingers, well its ready or would you like to eat?” Nicholas tells her, “I would be lying if I said I wanted to wait. I can’t wait, for I am quite hungry.” Patricia tells him, “ok and here’s the wine and you can open it.” Nicholas tells her, “you know what yes but I don’t want any wine tonight.” Patricia tells him, “me either.” Nicholas tells her, “oh yes great decision we are really contacted I’d love a juice.” Patricia pretends that she has things in her fridge, “oh I’m sorry I have no juice. I just didn’t have time, to go to the grocery store.” Nicholas tells her, “that’s ok we can eat without drinks. I really think that some drinks makes one fat lets eat ok.” Patricia tells him, “oh I really hope you like it yes that’s true well here is my specialty.” Nicholas asks, “what is it Patty?” Patricia tells him, “well its Chinese food it has all the ingredients.” Nicholas asks, “don’t tell me their’s cat food in here?” Patricia tells him, “oh Nicholas you are so very funny. No I learned that, when I visited Pekan and I saw the wall of china.” Nicholas tells her, “well then it looks good I will now start eating.” Patricia tells him, “oh yes I knew you would like it. I prepared it especially for you.” Nicholas tells her, “its delicious congratulations.” Patricia just watches him eat.

Ines returns with food on a tray and puts it next to him. “Here eat this.” Raphael tells her, “no Inesita I am fine.” Ines tells him, “I told you there was a stew and you didn’t eat it. In fact you didn’t eat a thing.” Raphael tells her, “it would have been the last thing that I did coming here and eating your food. If I had money…”  Ines tells him, “I’m not asking you for any money please Raphael I’m not charging you. I don’t expect you to give me money, or give me any financial retribution just because you returned. I’m not waiting, from nothing from you. Now eat this strew without any worries eat it.” Raphael hungrily eats, and she watches him.

Hugo and Maria Beatriz head to the elevator. “Now we must go, my boyfriend is waiting for us at the Carnival club. Oh how impressive, he’s becoming quite the man and such a flirt.” Maria Beatriz asks, “are you sure you don’t want to come with us?” Marcela tells them, “no thanks I’m serious you two have a great time.” Hugo tells her, “oh Marg come on in this long career of mine. I’ve been helping out several soon to be brides. As I’ve helped them with their dresses, everyone one of them has a face of so much joy. So full of happiness for that day to arrive, your the only bride who has that look of bitterness. What are you pretending? Marg if you marry, that face of bitterness of yours will disappear.” Maria Beatriz tells her, “oh Marcela if Armando does have a lover forget about marrying him. It would be just crazy, why don’t we still have a party that way we don’t lose all that money with the dress and all.” Hugo tells her, “yes that’s true.” Maria Beatriz repeats, “please just don’t marry him alright.” Marcela asks, “so are you leaving now?” Maria Beatriz tells her, “ok that’s fine ok we three are going. Your boyfriend, you and me.” Hugo tells her, “if you want I can invite Byron he has changed his preference again.” Maria Beatriz tells him, “no no thanks I know every one of your friends. None interest me, I know why don’t we call Patricia.” Marcela tells them, “no don’t call her she has an important date tonight.” Hugo laughs and asks, “with who? With what your new boyfriend? Oh poor thing Patsy Pat, we really must put some candles for her. Ask the sacred heart, to find her a husband because oh what a summer. Bye my love, and he kisses her cheek. Get some rest, and stop drinking.” Maria Beatriz does the same, “bye little sister poor thing. Where are we going before Carnival?” Hugo asks, “do you want something to eat first?”

Ines asks, “Raphael how do you live? Where do you sleep? What do you do, what is your job?” Raphael tells her, “well I work at anything in order to survive. Lately nobody give any work, like the old man that I’ve become. I just walk the streets, sometimes I get work other times I don’t. I work with paint?” Ines asks, “so when did you find out you had that ability?” Raphael tells her, “no I don’t mean artist painting no I paint houses.” Ines tells him, “but…” Raphael tells her, “yes I know I never painted in my life. Well I chose that job, because its the only job people want.” Ines tells him, “well when was the last time you worked?” Raphael tells her, “about a month.” Ines tells him, “I see so where have you been sleeping? Where were you going now? Oh now I see, you have no where to go.” Raphael tells her, “no like I told you I lost everything. I love my house, my kids, my nephews, I lost you.” Ines tells him, “yes you lost everything because you wanted to lose them.” Raphael tells her, “Ines I can’t leave here until you hear me.”

Ines tells him, “no no I can’t listen.” Raphael tells her, “no I need to tell you I want to explain I must explain too you. I need you to listen to me.” Ines tells him, “I waited 20 years, and asked myself why? I spent 20 years, thinking, mediating trying to find an explanation. The only one that I found, you abandoned us for a woman. It was for a woman right?” Raphael tells her, “I want to explain I need to explain.” Ines tells him, “its just too late Raphael. Its way too late, and way too painful. No its just not right, not its just not right for you to revive in me. Pain which I already buried, I deserve to die in peace. May god take pity on you Raphael.” She runs up the stairs, Raphael tells her. “Aren’t you even going to give me the opportunity. To get on my knees to ask for your forgiveness.” Ines tells him, “you had over 20 years to do so now leave.” Raphael tells her, “I’m not leaving until you hear me out.” Ines tells him, “weren’t you going to leave.” Raphael tells her, “yes but I was going to come back. Ines I want to be frank with you. I came here to make sure you were alright. To find out if my kids, were alright. As you saw, it wasn’t an easy decision. When I came here, I had the guts to knock on that door. I saw your face, and knew I wouldn’t leave until you didn’t forgive me.” Ines tells him, “I too was very clear with you Raphael. Let god forgive you.” Raphael tells her, “well I will deal with that when I up there. When I die, before that I needed to find out about my children. I wanted to know about you, I wanted to walk amongst my memories. Then of course, leave with your forgiveness.”

Ines tells him, “ok fine you left here you abandoned us for another woman. You came here to walk your old paths, you’ve done that. Now go and follow your path.” Raphael tells her, “if you don’t let me explain I won’t get pardoned by the lord. I won’t be seeing him, I would go straight to hell. I don’t care if I’m going to hell. All I want is your forgiveness.” Ines tells him, “I’m not going to listen to you just leave.” Raphael tells her, “you know that I’m here and I won’t leave until you listen to me. Call our neighbours, call the police I’m not leaving here until you listen to me.” Ines tells him, “no no I’m not going to hear your story. I don’t want to hear about your romance I don’t deserve it. No no I won’t listen to your justification. I never did you nothing, for you to leave me. No I don’t want to hear you anymore. Get out, I don’t want to see you anymore.” She runs up the stairs and heads to her room. Raphael stands by the wall. Ines tells the photo of the lord, “please please tell him to leave my house. I don’t want to hear him anymore, it would just bring me more pain. Please tell him to leave, let him die in peace let me die in peace. Don’t bring back my pain, tell him to leave. Crying she tells him, make him leave make him leave make him leave.” Then she cries on the bed.

Nicholas finishes his meal, and tells her. “It was delicious delicious why don’t you open a Chinese restaurant and I’ll register it. You can get a whole bunch of restaurants, they can be called Patty’s and Nico restaurant.” Patricia laughs and then goes serious and tells him. “I would do so if I had money, I don’t even have 6000 to rescue my mercedes. Oh regarding that Nicholas did you bring me that cheque? Oh do forgive me, but if I don’t ask that. I might forget.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Patty you do take me by surprise.” Patricia goes to him, and asks. “Did you bring me that cheque or not?” Nicholas tells her, “yes but.” Patricia screams with joy, and gives Nicholas a really big hug. “Oh you brought me back to life Nicholas. Then begins to kiss him, then she begins looking in his pocket. Oh yes give it too me now. Nicholas is laughing, and she continues. Well its just that this conversation is over, and we can just be comfortable. We can enjoy our night together.” Nicholas stops her and pushes her away and tells her. “Patty yes yes I brought it.” Angrily she asks, “is it yes or no Nicholas that you brought it or not?” Nicholas tells her, “yes Patty but I left it in the car.”

Patricia pushes him to the door, and tells him. “Sure you go get it, while I clean the table don’t you think so?” Nicholas sadly utters, “ok.” He remembers Betty’s words once more. Patricia seeing that he doesn’t move. Tells him, “Nicholas weren’t you going to get that cheque.” Nicholas tells her, “yes Patty of course.” Nicholas puts on his jacket getting ready to go. Patricia asks, “Nicholas why are you putting on your jacket?” Nicholas tells her, “Patty since I’m going to the car I think its a bit cold right?” Patricia tells him, “Nicholas something is up with you? Your not sure, if you want to give me that money isn’t that right. Do you want me to sign something?” Nicholas tells her, “oh no Patty.” Patricia tells him, “if you don’t want to lend me the money you don’t have too. The important thing for me is your friendship. In her head she utters, this idiot won’t give me that cheque he won’t give me that money. Blasted it seems he wants something in exchange. Something in exchange that bastard. He’s like all the rest, is that what he wants fine. She goes to him, oh Nicholas I am so very embarrassed with you Nicholas. You must think that I brought you here, so I can pressure you to give me that money.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Patty its not that at all. What’s makes you think that, I don’t think up such thoughts.” Patricia takes off his jacket once more, “you make yourself comfortable then later make that cheque. Oh you must be really tired, here come over here and lie down a bit. I want you to just relax, she begins undressing him. Just relax and let yourself be pampered. Oh you just get some rest Nicholas, I want you to feel fine. She takes off his tie, just relax oh Nicholas the truth is I like you. Nicholas laughs, then Patricia begins kissing his neck. I really want you. Oh I really do desire you so very much.” Nicholas asks, “really Patty?” Patricia tells him, “yes so very much Nicholas. Don’t you desire me.” He utters, “yes lots Patty and then he’s the one that grabs her and begins kissing her. So very much.” He lays her down and starts kissing her arm. Patricia tells him, “but Nicholas what about Betty?” Nicholas tells her, “well me no.” Patricia asks, “really.” Nicholas tells her, “oh yes Patty without regrets tonight without regrets. He then starts kissing her neck. “Oh Nicholas don’t do this too me. Oh its way too late for that now Patty.” Then both are grabbing and kissing.

Betty arrives home, and sees her father wearing his blanket. “Well good evening young lady well how did you come home?” Betty tells him, “the company sent a car for me at Eco Moda.” Hermes tells her, “oh yes don’t lie to me Betty. Don’t lie to me, I saw you leaving from a taxi. Why are you lying to me Betty?” Betty tells him, oh dad please I asked for a taxi at Eco Moda. ” Julia simply asks, “what happened and what is this scandal? Hello dear.” Hermes tells her, “no our dear has become a liar Julia. First she tells me, that a company car will bring her home. But in the end she took a taxi home. You know how dangerous things are, the devil is pork don’t you forget it. Why didn’t a company car bring you home. Or for that matter, or maybe your boss who’s brought you home on various occasions.” Betty tells him, “no dad he just couldn’t.” Hermes tells her, “oh yes but he had you working so very late. Especially that yeller Don Armando, look Betty let me tell you something Betty. I won’t let anybody treat you badly, if they won’t respect you. If you don’t get the accommodations that you deserve. No I won’t permit that, I’m going to talk to those people. I’m going to yell at that Armando Mendoza. I am going to tell him point by point, this is a personal protest. If you don’t make people respect you senorita, I will do it for you.” Betty tells him, “no dad its just not necessary to talk to him. It won’t happen again.” Hermes asks, “what do you mean?” Betty tells him, “tomorrow I’m quitting Eco Moda.” Hermes smells her breath, “oh don’t tell me that your drunk? What have you been drinking?” Betty tells him, “nothing the only thing I came up was a decision.” Hermes looks over at Julia, Julia asks. “Dear what are you trying to tell us?” Betty tells them, “why don’t we sit down in the dinning room so we can talk. I’ll tell you everything.” Julia utters, “oh dear lord.” Then both head towards her.

Both are under the covers, Patricia is in a state of shock as is Nicholas. “Oh Nicholas it was like you’ve never had sex in your entire life.” Nicholas tells her, “oh don’t believe it Patty people tell me that all the time.” Patricia tells him, “oh your all fire Nicholas are you really tired? Are you sleepy?” Nicholas tells her, “oh the usual after these things.” Patricia caresses him and tells him, “oh my love but you can’t fall asleep now. Remember you have to go get that cheque. Look why don’t we stay here and sleep together all night. You and I alright?” Nicholas asks, “are you sure that you want me to stay with you here?” Patricia utters, “yes.” Nicholas tells her, “to wake up together?” Patricia tells him, “yes but I want us to be very relaxed you see the talk about this cheque is making me quite nervous. What if some thieves appear and enter your car, and want to steal that radio and then bingo. They will find the cheque, now my love go and come back. Then we can stay together all night, holding one another all night alright.” Nicholas tells her, “ok I’m going.” Then he gets dressed, Patricia tells him. “Now don’t you take very long Nicholas I know that I love you so very much.” Nicholas asks, “really Patty well me too I love you as well. I’ll be right back bye.” Patricia watches him leave, and utters. “Dream on you bastard, you won’t stay here to sleep. The cheque and goodbye friend.”

Diego Vivanca is a writer/actor who has written various tv series.

He only stared as an actor on YSBLF, he played Rolando Hugo Lombardi’s boyfriend.

One Hundred and Nine

The three sit in the dinning room. Julia asks, “dear did something bad happened at Eco Moda?” Betty tells her, “no its just that I feel that I have finished this cycle at Eco Moda. I think its best that I quit.“ Hermes asks again, “have you been drinking again? Look me straight in the eyes.” Julia tells him, “oh Hermes leave her in peace she hasn’t drunk anything.” Hermes asks, “well then what’s this about ending a cycle. Your going to abandoned that company, your going to leave your duties just like that? Have you given your resignation papers yet?” Betty tells him, “no dad tomorrow after the council meeting.” Hermes asks, “so does your boss know that your leaving?” Betty tells him, “no.” Hermes looks at Julia, and tells her. “She’s gone crazy Julia, she’s lost her mind she’s crazy.” Julia tells him, “she’s not crazy she knows what’s she saying.” Hermes tells her, “oh really girl tell me so you leave your post. What will you do next?”

Betty tells him, “I’m going to Miami.” Hermes tells her, “what does this contain and your telling me that she’s not crazy. All that contact with those people, with their strange ways and extravagances. They have damaged her head Julia. She’s gone crazy, our girl went crazy. Or are you giving her something?” Julia tells him, “no Hermes she’s not crazy let her explain.“ Hermes tells her, “well then explain it further. I think she’s gone crazy just crazy.” Julia asks, “maybe your hungry here have something to eat.” Hermes tells her, “forget her hunger let her explain.” Betty tells him, “well I’ve begun thinking about this for a while now. I had to decide what was best for me, I feel I have done a great job at Eco Moda. She looks over at her mom, I began working as an assistant. Then got to handle of all the financial area of Eco Moda. I took care of Don Armando’s other project, which was Terra Moda. I’ve learned so very much. I believe it is very important on my resume, but I feel its best that I leave.” Hermes tells her, “I understand everything you said but. What I don’t understand is why Beatriz Aurora?”

Betty tells him, “dad I don’t get along with the Mendoza’s nor the Valencia’s. Being there has been nothing of unsupportable for me dad. I have so many pressures, so many conflicts. Tomorrow there is a very important meeting at the company. I’m going to give the balance of Eco Moda and have it up to date. Then I will give my resignation papers, it won’t be through the back door but leave with my head up out in the front. I don’t know what type of conditions it will be?” Hermes tells her, “yes and that’s the way things should be.” Julia asks, “and what will Don Armando think about this?” Betty tells her, “it will be for the best for him.” Julia tells her, “I don’t think so dear for your his right hand person. I know that he just adores you.” Betty tells her, “oh mom they only adore you if your useful. The next day he will get another assistant better than me. Then he will forget all about me, don’t mention affections.” Hermes tells her, “now then your gone from that place. What will you do next dear? Will you go and search of work again? The devil is pork, don’t you forget it.”

Betty tells them, “the senora Catalina Angel who does jobs for Eco Moda as the public relations.” Hermes tells her, “oh now an angel showed up.” Betty tells them, “well she has asked me to go to Miami with her. She has asked me to be her assistant, and help out with some of her events out of Bogota.” Hermes tells her, “oh how very lovely now who did you ask permission?” Julia tells her, “ leave her alone dear.” Betty tells him, “dad its been a long time since I’ve taken a vacation. I need to go out, breath some clear air. I need to think about my future, its necessary that I leave. Plus its only going to be for a few days, then I’ll start looking for work once more.” Hermes tells her, “well it the thing is that their treating you badly. If they are putting you down and humiliating you. Well then its fine, fine quit we won’t die. Well then what will happen to Terra Moda?” Betty tells him, “tomorrow I will give it back to Don Armando. It will be up to date, that’s why I asked you both to do that balance. I will give the capital to the banks up to date.” Hermes tells her, “with all the utilities I suppose?” Betty tells him, “yes dad everything and the car is included. I don’t want to have nothing of that company.”

Hermes tells her, “well then dear there’s the balance.” Julia tells her, “Bertica  you know that we will go with anything you said. We will support you, but this situation will be difficult for us. This job was stable for us, if you give up your job. What will your father and Nicholas, do without Terra Moda? We are going to have to be very tight. Plus we have to pay that car still, how will we survive?” Betty tells her, “yes I know mom but we will get by. I will get my last wage, and with that we can use until I get another job.” Hermes tells her, “and here I am still waiting for my pension. I am not an old man, I am not blind and with these two arms of mine I can still work. I want to tell you something, youth is just an attitude in this life. You two senoras, you must be assured that as long as Hermes Pinzon Galarza exists. You won’t go without nothing. Even if the devil is pork, and this is my promise to you two.” Then he heads upstairs to bed. Julia asks, “have you really thought things through dear.” Betty tells her, “yes mom.” Julia tells her, “well I’m going to give you some advise. Now go upstairs, and really think these through. Consult your pillow dear, maybe tomorrow your ideas will be more fresh.” Betty tells her, “no mom tomorrow morning my decision will be the same. I’m going to get everything ready for tomorrow. She goes to the drawer, and with one finger touches Patricia’s photo. Now then here’s the accounting books, the balance, all the paperwork.” Julia asks, “anything missing?” Betty asks, “where’s the chequebook?” Julia tells her, “oh Nicholas took it so just relax.” Julia goes towards the kitchen. Betty thinks of Nicholas.

Nicholas leaves Patricia’s building on cloud nine, “oh my Nicholas you made love to Patricia Fernandez. Its just incredible, I touched the sky I touched the sky. Its so very beautiful beautiful. He thinks about Betty’s words, no but I have to give her the cheque especially right after what we did together. No cheque and she’s going to say, your not sleeping with me again. Once again he hears Betty’s words. He utters sadly, I just can’t do it it seems it won’t happen again goodbye bitter love.” He then drives away, Patricia gets out of bed and heads straight to the phone. “Gabriel its Patricia Fernandez, look my cousin just left here to get something from his car. The thing is he hasn’t returned yet is he still there?” Gabirel tells her, “no senora he left a couple of minutes ago.” Patricia utters, “what what do you mean he left? Are you sure?” Gabriel tells her, “yes of course.” Patricia is left in shock.” While Nicholas as he drives home, utters. “Oh you triumphed Nicholas you triumphed. You are all fire, all fire. The cell phone begins to ring and ring. Sorry Patricia but I can’t answer, I love you you fascinate me but I just can’t I just can’t. First its Betty who’s my friend. No no no goodbye Patricia Fernandez. Woo hoo, and he kisses the phone. There’s just nothing for me to do, absolutely nothing that you can do. Just resign yourself Nicholas, then he asks. Is someone following me?” While Patricia is left all alone, in her bedroom holding the phone.

Betty writes in her diary:

“Tonight ended everything. Goodbye to my illusions, those kisses, my dreams, and of course those nightmares. Tonight Beatriz Pinzon Solano, the girl who fell in love with Armando Mendoza said goodbye to him. Yes once again, I fell under his temptations with those kisses. I just couldn’t support seeing him so weak, I am certain that his works and kisses were only asking me to save him. I fell willingly, I knew it would be the last kiss. The last caresses, the last opportunity my body and heart asked for. I just hoped that with that council meeting everything was cleared. I really wanted to show the real balance. Armando is in his office drinking once again, and staring into Betty’s office. Not doing so I’m still hiding this situation, leaving Eco Moda with a false balance. It just makes me feel really bad, but that is Don Armando’s problem now. I am going and forgetting everything, the company, what we both lived. His betrayal, I will try my best to get him out of me. I am going far away, so I won’t have any news about him and about his wedding. The road will be open for him, and he will be at peace.”

Armando walks around the boardroom, and returns to his office when the phone rings. “Hello?” Marcela utters, “hello?” Armando asks, “Marcela.” Marcela asks, “oh were you expecting another call?” Armando tells her, “oh no I just wasn’t expecting your call. Well since you always call using your cell phone. I didn’t think it was you, well your now calling direct. Oh yeah you were proving that I was here at Eco Moda. Isn’t that right Marcelita?” Marcela tells him, “if your really anxious about it then you know what we will talk another day. You know what, stop answering me with that tone and irony. You are sick of everything that I do, your so offensive to me.” Armando tells her, ” well you know what annoys me is that radar of yours. That’s so insistence.” Marcela tells him, “you call it a radar I call it desire. I desire to know how you are. Where you are and how are you doing. Well the thing is, there are two different ways to look at our relationship. I’m going to marry the man that I love. The one that I need, you are going to marry a radar.”

Armando tells her, “no Marcela its not that at all. Your just going to marry a man, I don’t know. A person that you just don’t trust 24 a day. The one that you watch day and night, is that your way of thinking. Is that your concept of marriage. Is that the person who you are going to marry?” Marcela tells him, “it seems I bore you 24 hours it seems so chaotic. Everything that I say to you, makes you furious. You get bothered just talking too me. That is everything, look this is more than offensive. Its almost humiliating, its as if I’m begging you imploring you to just give me some loving. Its as if I have to implore you, for you to marry me. Its like you are doing me a great favour by marrying me. Why don’t you tell me once and for all Armando? Are you going to marry me, out of compromise or worse for pity?” Armando tells her, “it seems to me that you have continued drinking.” Marcela asks, “I guess that your not drinking either? Who’s by your side, that you feel uncomfortable talking to me.” Armando tells her, “nobody I am completely alone.” Marcela tells him, “and madam Beatriz?” Armando tells her, “Betty left Betty she went home she finished her job. She finished the balance for the council meeting, and then I sent her home.” Marcela tells him, “tell me something I’m not the happy bride counting down the hours till her wedding. To join the man of my life. I’m a woman who’s counting down the hours, who’s forcing a man to be with her. Counting the hours to consummate the biggest error of her life. I am fighting all by myself Armando. I’m forcing something that I don’t want. I don’t want your class of compassion Armando Mendoza. Tell me once and for all, do you want us to continue with this. Do you want me to continue just tell me already?” Armando tells her, “we will talk tomorrow. We will talk tomorrow after the council meeting alright Marcelita.” Marcela screams, “no we won’t talk after the council meeting. Why don’t you have the balls to tell me the truth?” Armando repeats, “I told you we will talk after the council meeting.” Marcela tells him, “fine Armando Mendoza alright. Well then I will prepare myself then, because its quite evident the news you have for me.” She hangs up and throws the phone on the desk. Armando does the same with his phone, and finishes his drink. “Yes prepare yourself Marcela Valencia, what ever happens. I will never marry you never.”

The next morning, over at Betty’s house. Betty is putting everything in a garbage bag. Hermes tells her, “yes Julia this egg is good but it taste like soap. I don’t understand, why you cooked this at 1 in the morning. So dear do you have everything?” Betty tells him, “all that’s missing is Terra Moda’s chequebook.” Hermes tells her, “I think the best thing that’s best in all of this. Is that Nicholas the sponge, isn’t driving around in that car and not carrying that cheque book. He carries that thing up and down the devil is pork.” Someone’s at the door, Julia tells them. “I’ll go get it.” Hermes tells her, “oh yes like I’m suppose too do it.” Nicholas arrives and Julia tells him. “Good morning son, go right in breakfast will be in a minute I’ll serve you.” Nicholas tells her, “hi Dona Julia hi everyone I’m just passing by.” Hermes asks, “hi ostrich what did you come here to feed those bruises or what?” Nicholas asks, “why is everyone looking at me that way? What I can’t eat here for one day or what?” Hermes tells him, “and there will be many a days you sponge if you don’t find work. Betty will be quitting Eco Moda, she will give up Terra Moda so now there will be three unemployed people in this country. You must see what you can do? Prepare that bike of yours, and get back to delivering bread and such for your mom.”

Nicholas tells him, “not a funny joke Don Hermes.” Betty tells him, “oh dad stop talking that way. When I get back from my trip, I will see what were going to do. If you like we can create another company. I need the cheque book Nicholas. Nicholas puts in on the table, now the stamps as well. Nicholas now what were you doing, with the cheque and the stamps?” Nicholas tells her, “nothing Betty nothing if you want you can revise it. I didn’t make out a single cheque, so do you have everything there. I’ll take you, and leave the car over there at Eco Moda. I’ll come back on the bus, and then walk the pavement as usual. Returning being poor is quite sad definitely.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas please oh everyone don’t get so down we will get up from this. Plus the world hasn’t ended.” Hermes tells her, “now tell me later how things went with those people at Eco Moda. I will be on alert oh Julia, just because we are heading once again to the poor house. Doesn’t mean that, this releases you from your obligations. Of mother of this household, where’s my jacket. Oh if we have to line up to look for work, there would be tons of thousands.”

Julia follows Hermes upstairs. Nicholas is quite sadden, and just stares at the table. “Now then I want you to get the car washed and cleaned. When I return it, it must be impeccably cleaned for Don Armando. He will figure out what to do with that car. He can return it to that lot or sell it. I don’t want us to keep anything, that Terra Moda bought. We must return that computer.” Nicholas asks, “do I have to return my cell phone?” Betty asks, “well how will you pay for it?” Nicholas hides his watch, and he asks. “So do I have to also give back my clothes? I won’t have to return them, well at my house I have an iron.” Betty tells him, “no I’m not going to take away your clothing no you can keep those items. The cell phone.” Nicholas plays one last time with it, “woo hoo.” Betty tells him, “no wonder I sometimes can’t reach you you have this off. What did it break?” Nicholas tells her, “its all right all right.” Betty asks, “then why? Is it alright that I turn it on? Once she does, it begins to ring once again. It seems to me that’s its working. Patricia is at Eco Moda, pacing back and forth and dialling redial every few minutes. “Where is this buffoon?” Betty tells him, “don’t tell me that you didn’t end this relationship with that blond bimbo,” Nicholas tells her, “yes I did but she doesn’t know yet.” Betty tells him, “answer it and tell her right now.” Nicholas tells her, “no Betty I don’t want to talk to her anymore.” Nicholas just stares at Patricia’s photo, and Betty just pats his back.

At Eco Moda.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia is still pacing back and forth and continues calling. “Bastard doesn’t want to answer that phone. When the machine picks up, she yells out. Of course I’m going to leave another message. Nicholas Mora what a deception, what at failure of seriousness. What a failure of word, what a failure of a man. At least have the elegance and decency to put a face. I am waiting for your call. She hangs up, he’s dreaming just dreaming. That I slept with him over nothing.” Then she touches her forehead. Sandra and Mariana arrive and she tells her. “Oh Marianita look that blond bimbo she’s sick because she’s here early.” Mariana asks, ‘hey there Sandrita is today pay day? Or something of the sort?” Sandra utters, “no sir.” Patricia angrily gets up, “I am here early because I have been waiting for an important call. You bloody spies.” Sandra tells her, “I’m guessing you didn’t have breakfast either.” Mariana tells her, “that one doesn’t have breakfast.” Patricia angrily turns and stares at the phone.)

Patricia in her head screams. “Call you wretched man call me don’t do this too me. If that miserable man doesn’t give me my money, I’m going to lose my car. Oh no what’s graver, Daniel Valencia. Dear what am I going to do with Daniel Valencia?”

Daniel arrives at his office, and finds Olarte waiting for him. “Olarte tells him, “good morning sir.” Daniel utters, “good morning Olarte.” Olarte asks, “why did you want me to come here to early this morning?” Daniel tells him, “I want you to bring me the newest book of business commerce.” Olarte asks, “anything information in particular sir?” Daniel tells him, “yes I want to confirm an information. The rumour is that Eco Moda was embargoed, they have problems with the banks. I want to know how real those are.” Olarte tells him, “that is particularly delicate sir don’t you worry I’ll do that right away.” Daniel tells him, “I want that information before 11am before that council meeting starts. I want to show up, with that information confirmed and in my hands. I don’t want to make a false step.” Olarte tells him, “correct sir.” Daniel tells him, “Olarte do you have a coffee?” Olarte tells him, “sure.” Daniel tells him, “no now move it.” Olarte stops and tells him, “look let me permit…” Daniel tells him, “Olarte your integrity is in danger.” Olarte tells him, “excuse me sir.”

Back at Eco Moda, Patricia continues to stare at the phone. Mariana tells Sandra, “this one as well.” Sandra and Mariana in unison, tells Marcela as she’s arriving. “Good morning Dona Marcela.” Patricia tells her, “oh hi Marcee.” Marcela goes to her, “so what did you ask for lunch?” Patricia asks, “what lunch?” Marcela tells her, “yes I want to see that menu. Oh don’t tell me that you didn’t arrange nothing for breakfast nor lunch. You knew very well we were going to have a council meeting today.” Patricia tells her, “look I’ll start that right now and please calm yourself down. Here your talking about breakfast, when I haven’t even eaten.” Marcela tells her, “that isn’t my problem I want to see that menu and those servers here now.” Then she storms to her office, the girls just laugh at her. Patricia once again calls Nicholas.

Nicholas has arrived with Betty, Betty tells him, “oh woo hoo hoo man is that blond bimbo ever persistent. Don’t tell me that its just pure love Nicholas. Did you offer her money?” Nicholas tells her, “look Betty wait she wanted 6000 to rescue her car. I promised her, but in the end never gave it too her.” Betty tells him, “at last she finally hung up well how was the goodbye last night.” Nicholas tells her, “Betty I don’t want to talk about that.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas don’t tell me that you fell in love with her. It was the first thing that I warned you about.” Nicholas tells her, “Betty you just don’t understand things that woman for me was like a dream. Plus she gave me caresses, and kisses oh she was good. A very good person, very beautiful between the two of us even I surprised myself I was fire.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas but your going to have to forget starting today. Just like I’m going to forget everything of Don Armando. Yes its true that they are beautiful people, they gave us kisses but they aren’t for us Nicholas. They don’t deserve us, we have to get the idea that once again. We will become ugly and poor Nicholas, our lives will change after today. We are going to have to start from zero, but with our hearts and with our conscience in peace. Wash the car and bring it back.” Nicholas tells her, ‘but Betty its raining.” Betty tells him, “it doesn’t matter just get it done see you later.” Wilson greets Betty with an umbrella, “hello madam.” Betty tells him, “hello how are you today?” Wilson tells her, “just go right in.” Betty tells him, “thank you.” Wilson then waves at Nicholas, Nicholas looks sadly at the Eco Moda sign. “Oh my dear Patty.” Then he drives away.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia utters, “that bastard just doesn’t want to pick up. He’s going to have to answer, and show his face.”)

Betty arrives on the second floor, and tells the girls. “Hello good morning.” The girls in unison tells her, “good morning Betty.” Mariana asks, “so in the end did you finish your job?” Betty tells her, “yes I did.” Sandra asks, “and where is that annoying cell phone? Oh Betty I didn’t know you owed a cell phone?” Betty tells her, “oh its my boyfriends he loaned it too me.” Mariana asks, “well then who’s calling non-stop?” Betty tells them, “oh they hung up.” Patricia quickly hangs up, Mariana tells her. “Oh Betty don’t be an idiot these things mark every call isn’t that right Sandra. Oh call and find out, who’s been calling him.” Betty playfully tells them, “oh yes I will find out who’s the loose woman flirting with my boyfriend.” The girls get back to work, when Marcela shows up. Marcela asks, “Patricia where are the servers?” Patricia tells her, “look I swear to you that they are on their way.” Marcela asks, “so does madam Beatriz have the folders with the balance ready?” Betty tells her, “yes now I will start making those folders.” Patricia tells her, “oh she just arrived Marcee I saw her come out of the elevator just a minute ago.” Marcela still touching her head tells her, “oh how marvellous may I remind you Beatriz that the council meeting starts at 11am. Everyone should arrive any moment now.” Betty tells her, “you don’t have to remind me I already know that. I’m late because last night, I was stuck till late working on that balance for the council meeting.” Marcela sarcastically tells her, “oh man could you please be so ever kind to get those folders ready madam.” Betty just stares at her for a moment, then takes off. Patricia utters, “thank you madam.” Marcela laughing tells her, “Patricia the servers and that menu now and colour your roots.” The girls just burst out laughing. Mariana tells her, “yes you heard my dear get that menu.” Sandra tells him, “I want  chicken with mushrooms.” Mariana tells her, “well I want a blond bimbo cook on the rack but I want one like this.” She snaps her fingers, Patricia ignores her and dials a number. Sandra tells her, “quickly and don’t forget to wear an apron.” Patricia gives them dirty looks.

Betty is now hard at work when Armando arrives. He just grins at her, and they stare at one another for a moment. “Good morning Betty how are you?” Betty tells him, “very well thank you and you.” Armando tells her, “overjoyed profoundly overjoyed Beatriz today will be a marvellous day. So you’ve finished everything for today.” Betty tells him, “I just have to arrange everything for the council meeting then head to the printer.” Armando tells her, “very good so where is the real balance.” Betty tells him, “in here sir.” Armando reassures himself, that its the real one then tells her. “Beatriz make sure for nothing in this world, can this be mixed in with the fake one. Promise me, swear it don’t confuse the two.” Betty tells him, “no sir don’t you worry about it in any case. When the folders are ready, I’ll give you yours before the meeting.” Armando tells her, “perfect now hide it away very good. Beatriz today is very important for the both of us. Especially for you and I, today will be my day. When the council meeting is over, when everything is over we will sit and talk. Lets talk about things that are very important.” Betty tells him, “yes sir that is what I wanted to tell you. We will talk when the meeting is over.” Armando grinning tells her, “fine just finish your job people will be arriving soon. Then we can talk about us.” He closes the door, and Betty just closes her eyes.

Out in the corridors, Marcela is screaming at Patricia. “Where are the servers?” Patricia tells her, “oh come calm yourself down they will arrive soon.” Marcela tells her, “how can I calm down when everyone will be arriving any minute now.” Hugo arrives and asks, “what is all this screaming all about? Oh just take pity on me, take pity on my ears and my head. Oh Marg my neurons are screaming at me. They are still drunk, and bar hopping last night oh boy what a night we went clubbing all night. Oh how is your hangover?” Marcela tells him, “bad bad.” Hugo tells her, “I feel like so hung-over if I didn’t have to show up too this meeting. To  listen to numbers and capitals and such. I would have stayed in bed, happily with my sweet boyfriend spooning.” Marcela tells him, “you know what if you want after the council meeting just head home. Oh how was Inesita today?” Hugo tells her, “no I have no idea I’m guessing that she’s resting. She has nothing to do here, or during this week. Until I ride my inspiration once again. So you can see once again my collection, oh it came out in verse. We must leave Inesita alone. Then he sees Patricia, ha ha ha you painted your roots black.” He then takes off, Patricia looks back at Marcela.

Ines awakens and find Raphael asleep on the couch. Ines coughs to awaken him and he is a bit surprised to find out he slept in his old home. Raphael tells her, “Inesita good morning.” Ines tells him, ” its not a good day because your still here.” She heads downstairs and Raphael tells her. “I know seeing me is like having a bad nightmare. To have me awaken in this home, for me it was the happiest morning of my life. I always dreamed of awakening up in a house, especially in this one. I guess I awoke thinking of waking up here. I truly thought that this dream wouldn’t come true. In fact my dream came true.” Ines tells him, “now that it came true you may leave.” Raphael tells her, “well last night I told you that I wouldn’t leave unless you heard me.” Ines tells him, “Raphael I have to go to work leave please I don’t want to see you ever again.” Raphael tells her, “I gave you options. Call the police.” Ines tells him, “fine I’ll take the alternative.” She picks up the phone.”  Raphael tells her, “go ahead.” Ines tells him, “please Raphael don’t make me do this leave in good terms.” Raphael tells her, “do it if the police take me they are doing me a favour for tonight I will sleep comfortably do it.” Ines makes the call, “hello police I have to… no no no  I just can’t do it. She hangs up and tells him, Raphael please leave I don’t want to find you here when I return.” Raphael just watches her leave, and then utters. “Oh Ines when will you realize that I came here to die next to you.”

(Now many people were confused by this part. Did he come back, thinking Ines was going to die and leave him the house. Or was he actually dying, and came home to die in her arms.)

Daniel is working away, when Olarte nervously enters. Olarte tells him, “excuse me sir.” Daniel asks, “so what did you find out?” Olarte tells him, “effective Mr. Valencia I brought you the bulletin most important.” Daniel asks, “what’s effective?” Olarte tells him, “this is most important there is a debt over Eco Moda.” Daniel asks, “who embargoed it?” Olarte tells him, “it will sound quite familiar to you sir. The company that embargoed Eco Moda, was Terra Moda.” Daniel just utters, “Terra Moda the one that Beatriz Pinzon Solano owns?” Olarte tells him, “you said it its like that.” Daniel asks, “and do they mention how much the embargo was?” Olarte tells him, “you just won’t believe it they got it for 97 000.” Daniel is so in shock he sits back in his seat. Daniel then utters, “that woman embargoed the company.” Olarte simply tells him, “yes sir.”

Over at Eco Moda, Mario comes in quite smugly. Mario tells him, “well good morning Mr. President.” Armando utters, “good morning.” Betty stops her work, and listens to their conversation. Mario tells him, “very good very good so how did we wake up this morning with that balance.” Armando tells him, “Betty is finishing up man.” Mario tells him, “oh very good so what did you do to her last night?” Armando tells him, “be quiet blasted shut up come over here we need to talk.” Mario tells him, “every time we need to talk it just gives me cold chills oh how boring.” The men head over to Mario’s office, Marcela walks by them. “Morning.” Armando tells her, “good morning.” Mario tells him, “oh what a lovely romantic gesture oh your relationship is at its pentacle and that’s how it should be. You two are sounding more alike, tonight is the gift exchanges tomorrow the wedding.” Armando coldly tells him, “there won’t be no gift exchanges nor a wedding to attend Calderon. Nothing of nothing.” Mario asks, “what what are you talking about?” Armando tells him, “lets go in that office so we can talk.” Mario tells him, “I know we would have this discussion. What your doing is wrong?”

Aura Maria is holding onto Gutierrez’s arm. “Please please sir.” Gutierrez tells her, “no no no not a single word no its not a mistake. The memorandum is already done, and sent I’m now going…” Marcela stops him, “what’s going on?” Gutierrez tells her, “what’s going on is this Miss Fuentes has received a complaint for not fulfilling her duties.” Aura Maria tells her, “that’s not true Dona Marcela what happened was he asked me last night. To stay late, which I did to finish off some work. Freddy and I didn’t want too.” Gutierrez tells her, “plus Freddy Contreras has now had one calling attention on his record. You will get your copy as well.” Marcela tells him, “look Gutierrez I am in no mood for this I have an important meeting. First they’re is no servers, no menu, no balance either. To pay attention to your memorandums at this moment.” Gutierrez tells her, “forgive me and excuse me madam but I can’t go over this presidency. It would be like going over my head. It would be like the employees can get away with anything.” Marcela tells him, “perfect Mr. Gutierrez continue to insist tell me what was so very important. That Aura Maria and you, had to stay here very late too do. You two alone, if that meeting doesn’t have no justification. I will use this meeting to get rid of you, in front of the entire council. Well show it too me now.” Gutierrez is silent for a minute, “its not necessary madam yes priority is too that council meeting.” Marcela tells him, “good its very reasonable from your part and you will talk to me in Spanish understand.” Gutierrez tells her, “ok yes yes very good very good. May I now have your permission, to head to the restroom or the bathroom as it is called. I must prepare myself for that meeting excuse me.” Aura Maria tells him, “Mr. Gutierrez that’s the woman’s bathroom.” Gutierrez giggles and then goes to the men’s. Marcela heads to the boardroom, Patricia just follows her but closes the door behind her. Patricia follows her, and enters as well. Sandra goes to see Aura Maria.

Inside the boardroom, Marcela is doing Patricia’s job by clearing out the table. Patricia asks, “Marcee what is this bad mood of yours. What’s wrong, what happened?” Marcela tells her, “look I don’t want to hear nothing from you right now. I can’t believe that I have to come here, to fix this room or else nobody will do it.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee I can also do that and better so calm down and I know that you are very busy. Very stressed out, you know with this council meeting. Oh your exchange of wedding gifts is tonight? Oh Marcee regarding that, I can still go right go to your bridal shower. I’m going to be getting your gift later on of course. I swear to you Marcee, that I’m going to give it too you on the day of your wedding” Marcela utters, “what wedding?” Patricia tells her, “well yours of course oh Marcee is there no wedding?” Marcela sits down, and tells her. “I will find out when Armando Mendoza, tells me after the council meeting is over. Patricia I think that Armando is going to cancel that wedding.” Patricia just gasps, “oh Marcee.”

Over at Mario’s office, he tells Armando. “You are crazy man you are crazy oh why do you want to create such a tragedy. What will the council members do when they find out. That they’re will be no wedding.” Armando tells him, “oh no I’m going to wait after the council meeting. I’ll wait till everyone is gone, before I talk to her.” Mario tells him, “oh yes everything is resolved oh yeah nobody is going to find out. You tell Marcela, she calls your parents then over to Daniel and Maria Beatriz. Then she calls Lombardi, then Patico finds out then the whole world finds out. Its a universal disaster. Then you know what will happen then Daniel. Will take this opportunity to split the company. He will ask that the members of the company official split. At this point, you know that can’t be done. Sorry but who cares, if there’s a fake manipulated balance that’s divine. If the next day Daniel asks the council members, to official disband your association.” Armando tells him, “oh come please my father won’t permit that.” Mario tells him, “of course he won’t permit it that doesn’t matter. Who care what he thinks, he will bring all his arguments.”

Armando tells him, “then what then? What me sacrifice myself for this company? What?” Mario tells him, “this company is your life and that of your families. Its also the lives of the Valencia’s, and of mine and a whole bunch of people. We got ourselves in this mess, and now we have to get ourselves out. No you can’t cancel this wedding, because you just can’t cancel this wedding. Because you can’t cancel this wedding, why because we give ourselves away. Do you want that to happen? What what tell me something, is it that horrible to marry Marcela?” Armando tells him, “yes its terrible its terrible because I don’t love her.” Mario tells him, “but we’ve known that for a very long time. Before you were willing to do so, now tell me what happened?” Armando tells him, “we fight all the time we haven’t had any relations for a long time. She critiques me, she follows me she watches me 24 hours a day Calderon. I don’t want to sacrifice myself, because it would be useless. I just can’t do it, I can’t put Marcela in that situation.”

Mario tells him, “oh please please look no don’t put your hand on you heart for Marcela. Especially at this time, for you’ve never done so. You had everything so very clear, you both new the rules regarding this wedding. Your not telling me anything new. Now tell me tell me why the devil, are you so decided to cancel this wedding right now tell me.” Armando closes his eyes and tells him, “because I love Betty.” Mario just laughs wickedly and tells him, “no no no no. Please well aha ha.” Armando furious at his actions, grabs him by the chest. “Listen here Calderon understand that I love Beatriz Pinzon Solano with every fibre of my being. This game of seduction, those kisses and making love to her. To a woman that loves me, was quite special who treated me so very well. The only thing she did, was making me get caught in my own web. Calderon I now accept it, there is no problem in fact. I am very calm and I’m spending the best time of my life with that woman. We have begun again, she is very special towards me didn’t you notice it damn it.” Mario tells him, “stop stop stop. Armando releases him and sits back down. He coughs and tells him, tell me something. What is your next step of your plan? Your going to cancel Marcela, your going to become Betty’s finance. Your going to tell everyone publicly, for Betty you are cancelling your wedding. Then you will tell everyone, that you had a romantic relationship with your horrible looking assistant.” Armando is ready to punch his lights out.

Fernado Gaitan Salom was born on November 9, 1960. He works as a writer/producer, and has written several telenovelas. He is best known, for bringing to life Betty Pinzon Solano. He has tried on various occasions, to resurrect YSBLF’s magic and hasn’t been able to do so.

One Hundred and Ten

Armando stops himself and tells him, “look I know Calderon yes I know yes I have thought of that. Well what am I going to do after this? I know I will have to wait to finalize this. Plus I can’t keep her hidden for the rest our lives. Oh it would all be so sinister.” Mario tells him, “well then it isn’t the time to do so then. First of your don’t have the right to do this. Second you fell in love with the wrong person. Please please what do you think, the whole world will do when they find out. Who is behind all this tragedy.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mario tells him, “listen here Marcela hates her and loathes her. Daniel can’t stand her, and is disgusted by her. It can’t be the most horrible insult in this world. Its the worst offense Marcela that you change her and pick Betty. No they are going to pulverise us. They are going to tear us to pieces and shred and tear us apart. Is that what you want?”)

Armando asks, “what do you want?” To get married, and sacrifice my entire life Calderon. From what I am as a person for this blasted company. Is that what you want? What about me, don’t  I count?” Mario tells him, “there must be a better option than have to deal with Betty all this time. Why don’t we put everything on a balance board. On this side, you have your life you have Betty and your relationship. What ever you want to call it? On this side you have two points, Eco Moda your presidency, your dignity, your parents, Marcela, Daniel and Maria Beatriz. Me and this huge scandal. Well then… I know what torments you is this wedding. Just think about this for a moment, look it won’t be for the rest of your life. This wedding will only be a civilian one, with the courts not in a big church. Why can’t you just make Marcela happy tell me. If we have Marcela on our side, we have neutralized Daniel Valencia. Just make people happy, be generous there’s nothing bad in that. Then later when the company has no debts, things are so very simple. You talk to Marcela telling her, that this marriage isn’t going anywhere. That its absurd contact those lawyers. Let them deal with things, then you run relaxed towards your beloved and horrible Betty.”

Armando tells him, “listen to me Calderon if you ever insult Betty ever again I will kill you.” Mario tells him, “sorry forgive me your beautiful lovely Betty ok ok. Now are we discussing her aesthetic beauty or something more bigger than that. Then what we have in our hands? Now are we clear that we cannot cancel this wedding.” Armando tells him, “its just so very easy for you so very easy. Yes I will tell her this, I am going to marry. We will wait till all the doubts have disappeared, then we make our relationship official. There will be no problem, just wait for me tell me. Which woman would accept such a thing? Which woman?” Mario tells him, “Betty. Armando is ready to grab him by the throat and Mario tells him. “Ok ok settle down, we do have a way out. Why don’t we send Betty away, on a trip like a small vacation for a small period of time.” Armando asks, “for how long?” Mario tells him, “I don’t know until after your wedding and your honeymoon. She can’t be here to ruin everything, lets say a couple of months maybe three I don’t know. Look we have no another option, are we sure that Betty must go far far away.”

Betty has her paperwork in folders, and is ready to head to the boardroom. Sandra stops her and asks, “Betty Betty are those the folders for the council meeting? Come over here and we can help you organize it.” Mariana tells her, “are you crazy or what Dona Marcela has closed herself in there with that blond bimbo. What if she comes out, and yells at us.” Betty tells her, “no no  no look don’t worry about it. I first have to give two out away. One is Don Armando and one to Don Mario so they can see it.” Mariana tells her, “well those two have been closed in Mario’s office for a while now. Oh no Sandra, where is the samples to show the members.” Sandra tells her, “oh yes we forgot about those.” Mariana tells her, “oh we better hurry Dona Marcela is on the rampage.” They quickly take off, Betty goes to the door to knock when she overhears terrible news. Armando asks, “now then where are we going to send her?” Mario tells him, “I don’t know I just don’t know. A place that’s really far away. How about Africa, we have to send her to a far away place that’s horrible. So she won’t feel left out, she gets on that plane and it must take hours. So then she won’t ruin your wedding. Where ever it is, it must be really far away. Very very far away.” Armando tells him, “oh become serious Calderon where?” Mario tells him, “I’m talking very seriously. This woman is delirious for you, understand you told me that you have won her over again. If you send her some place near by, she will show up to that wedding. Parachuting inside that party.”

Armando asks, “then what? Oh Calderon she won’t accept that she wants to stay here. Calderon understand she thinks, that everything will work itself out. Now what am I suppose to tell her now, that I have to get married. Don’t worry I have to get married, plus she’s going to have to wait for me. But hey she can’t wait for me here, for me to get separated. She has to wait for me somewhere far far away. Far away from here, for definite sake please.” Mario tells him, “look just talk to her. The important part is, that she manipulated that balance. We are going to get out of this, that’s the important part. Later ask her to your office, make sure the door is closed and locked with a key. Then of course turn off the lights, give her those horrible kisses that you always give her. Convince her that she has too leave, its for you and everyone. Just convince her, then take her to a motel or a hotel. Then convince her that she has to leave, are we sure about this.” Armando tells him, “yes yes she will have to leave.” The girls see Betty, so shocked and put out. They watch her leave like a zombie. Inside the room, Armando is miserable, and sits down. Mario quite confident, that he has convinced him not to cancel the wedding smirks. Armando tells him, “look I mean it if you ever insult or make a disgusting remark against her. Listen you cynic, understand you know my true feelings I am going to ask you for a favour. No more commentaries, no more ironies with Beatriz.” Mario tells him, “Mr. President there is no problems please. Now go and convince her otherwise, and yes stop talking about cancelling weddings. Stop digging that inferno hole we’ve put ourselves in alright.” Armando finishes his drink.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Betty stands there holding onto the folders. Sandra and Mariana approach her. Mariana tells her, “Betty Betty dear friend what’s happened? Weren’t you going in there, to give those folders, didn’t you say that they are waiting for them.” Betty tells them, “I overheard them it seems they are quite busy. I preferred not to interrupt them. Oh I have a lot of things to do.” Sandra tells her, “Betty give it here we’ll give it too them.” Betty angrily tells them, “no no.” Then heads to her office. Sandra asks, “and what happened to her?” Mariana tells her, “I don’t know but poor thing. Maybe she’s just stressed out, with all that mess with the meeting.” Sandra tells her, “yes I guess because she’s not like that.” Mariana tells her, “come on we have work to do.”)

Betty arrives at her office, so infuriating with herself so angry that she left herself believe in him again. Hits her face, “no more no more oh I can’t continue supporting this. Those wretched men, and she goes and sits on her chair. Bastards, Beatriz Pinzon Solano. Why did you keep on dreaming, your so very stupid. An idiot they are both bastards and swines.” She puts her hand on her face and cries once more.

Outside by the elevator, Roberto and Margarita arrive. Roberto tells them, “good morning girls.” In unison they say, “good morning Don Roberto and try to give him a hug. But are stopped by Dona Margarita who asks. “Where are Marcela and Don Armando?” Sandra tells them, “well Don Armando is having a meeting with Don Mario. Dona Marcela is in the boardroom.” Roberto tells her, “you go right ahead.” Margarita tells him, “no both of us will go.” Mariana tells them, “well welcome you are always at home.” Marcela is by now crying and telling Patricia. “I’ve given up Patricia I am going crazy and you know what. I’m going to say this one thing, I am going to help my brother Daniel with everything he wants. If he wants to divide the company then let him do it. If he wants to sell his shares, let the Mendoza’s buy our stock.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee I’m wondering is Armando still with that woman. You know with that lover that he had Marcee. Or the one that he still has?” Marcela tells her, “I don’t doubt it I just don’t doubt it.” When Roberto enters, “good morning.” Marcela turns and wipes the tears from her face. Patricia tells them, “well hello Roberto and Margarita.”

Marcela is by now crying and telling Patricia. “I’ve given up Patricia I am going crazy and you know what. I’m going to say this one thing, I am going to help my brother Daniel with everything he wants. If he wants to divide the company then let him do it. If he wants to sell his shares, let the Mendoza’s buy our stock.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee I’m wondering is Armando still with that woman. You know with that lover that he had Marcee. Or the one that he still has?” Marcela tells her, “I don’t doubt it I just don’t doubt it.” When Roberto enters, “good morning.” Marcela turns and wipes the tears from her face. Patricia tells them, “well hello Roberto and Margarita.”

Roberto tells her, “well hello.” When Margarita approaches her, she knows something’s wrong. “Hello dear how are you?” Marcela tells her, “oh I’m fine just fine. She hugs Roberto then moves away. Roberto asks, “where is Armando and Mario? Where are all the members of the council? Where is Hugo and Maria Beatriz?” Marcela tells them, “they are on their way I’ll go get them.” Margarita tells her, “wait one minute let Patricia contact them.” Marcela tells her, “no no don’t worry I’ll go get them.” Margarita tells her, “but Marcela wait what’s wrong?” Margarita tells her, “no don’t lie to me something is wrong? Don’t tell me that you fought with Armando once again? More problems, or is it about the council meeting? Or is it that your worried about the bridal shower tonight? Look everything is fine, the house is just precious. Everything will turned out very well, you just don’t have to worry about nothing.” Marcela tell her, “yes I know but no I think its best we postpone everything. Look just until this council meeting is over.” Margarita asks, “your not talking seriously?” Marcela tells her, “image this Armando is not sure he wants to marry me. Now don’t you worry about things. Don’t you worry, I’ll be right back.” Roberto asks, “where is everyone I would like a coffee where are the servers?” Patricia tells him, “oh Roberto have some water its delicious. The servers aren’t here yet, I’ll get you that coffee excuse me.” Margarita stunned by the news she sits down, Roberto tells her. “Margarita what’s wrong Its quite evident that Marcela had been crying.” Margarita tells him, “it seems that Armando isn’t sure that he wants to marry her.” Roberto asks, “what are you talking about?” Margarita tells him, “she just told me apparently they are going to discuss this after the council meeting.” Roberto asks, “has Armando gone crazy or what? He can’t do this at the last moment, tonight is the bridal shower. In two days, its the wedding ceremony. No he can’t do this to us, what I mean is he can’t do that to Marcela for lords sake.” Margarita tells him, “please just calm down look nothing has happened yet. Look we will wait till this meeting is over then he can talk to Marcela. Do you think that I will permit, that he do this crazy stunt. Nor pull the blanket over us.”

Betty looks at Calderon’s letter once again:

“My esteem President

Here are the instructions to continue the routine of horrors with Betty. Eye you better be careful, Marcela will not leave you alone. Patricia might be following you. If you are caught, Marcela will cancel that matrimony. I know that is what she desires, and you know perfectly well that can’t happen. That wedding must happen, against all the winds and sea.”

“Oh yes he never was going to cancel that wedding never.”

“Well then let me remind you, that these days you must be very special to Betty. You must stay afloat with Eco Moda, you must force her. To manipulate that form, for the council meeting. Brother there she has us in her hands. If she does collaborate, close your eyes. Drink another glass of liquor, think of nice words to tell her. Sleep with her if you have too. I will tell you, there is nothing more happy than an ugly woman after making love.” Betty remembers their time together once more.

“Oh I’m such an idiot, such an idiot. Oh what were you thinking, Beatriz Pinzon. He hasn’t changed on the inside. He just changed his strategy, its here that he has everything. He’s just following step by step the instructions.”

“Well my esteem President, I know that once you read these instruction. Destroy it, now remember think of it this way. This inferno won’t be for the rest of your life. Soon this will be over, and you’ll be the happiest man in the world once again. Surrounded by beautiful women once more, when she returns the company. Have energy my president. Attentative Mario Calderon. ”

“Yes he will be the happiest of men.”

Marcela enters Armando’s office, and goes straight to see Betty. Betty quickly wipes away her tears, “where is Armando?” Betty tells her, “he’s in Don Calderon’s office. Are those the folders,with the balance for the council meeting.” Betty touches them and tells her. “Yes these are the folders, but I haven’t finished setting them up yet.” Marcela tells her, “oh no well what’s left too do?” Betty tells her, “I still have to put some additional figures and photocopying to finish then put them in the folders.” Sarcastically Marcela tells her, “oh yes its absolute that its not missing anything. So when will you madam, be ready hurry?” Betty tells her, “in 10 minutes.” Marcela tells her, “in 10 minutes Beatriz did you know what time this meeting was. It was for 11am, and you know what time it is 11am. In the boardroom, Roberto and Margarita are waiting. The executives have just arrived, the only one’s were waiting for is for Daniel and Maria Beatriz. ”

Betty coldly tells her, “everything will be ready in 10 minutes.” Marcela tells her, “well tell me once and for all so I can tell everyone. That they may leave, because the form isn’t finished yet. There is no balance, and the madam is still not ready. Just return tomorrow, or maybe return in three weeks.” Betty repeats, it will be ready in 10 minutes.” Marcela tells her, “you will never talk to me in that tone. You idiot I am in no mood to put up with your arrogance.” Betty gets up and angrily responds, “well you know what neither am I senora.” Marcela tells her, “well this is all I needed its quite evident neither of us can stand one another. One or the other must leave, and it most certainly won’t be me.” Betty tells her, “don’t worry the one leaving will be me.” Marcela tells her, “oh I’m so scared.” Betty tells her, “I’m not scaring you. After this council meeting, you will never see me again. So leave me in peace, and let me finish what I’m doing. Then both of us can get some rest, and not have to see one another for a very long time.” Marcela tells her, “well I’d prefer you sign something put it on a sheet. I am sure that this is another one of your classical traps. What will you do? Enter that room crying, that I’m pressuring you to get out. Or what you will once again put me against Armando. You know what look I know that you won’t be sincere, and you aren’t going to tell me what’s up with your attitude. Look don’t worry about it. Today I am prepared for everything.” Betty tells her, “don’t prepare for nothing just prepare for my resignation.” Marcela tells her, “I just hope that its for real. I just hope that you have the dignity, to do what your saying Beatriz. I surely hope that I never have to see you ever again. Because after this council meeting, I don’t have to support you. Since you just lost your composure, and give slaps in public I can also lose it. I can throw you out, kick you out of this company. If I don’t do it, if I don’t do it if you return to this company the one leaving will be me.” She then leaves and slams the door, Betty tells her. “Don’t get so anxious relax. Then she quickly prepares everything anew. Blasted letter of resignation. Senores Council members, my esteem sirs.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(The girls are fighting with Patricia once again. Mariana tells her, “what what listen here you blond bimbo. Your stress better go down my dear. Listen here you all by yourself, have to head to that cafeteria to get the drinks and coffees. Plus get that coffee that Don Roberto wants by yourself. Because I won’t be getting it. So don’t think I would.” Patricia tells her, “listen you two both of you have to go in there and serve them. The ones that serve them, are coloured cafe.” Mariana tells her, “oh excuse me.” Patricia tells her, “I’m going in there to tell Roberto that you two don’t want to help out. Plus get both of you fired, your going against the authority.” Sandra tells her, “what and your the authority. Forget it, your also a secretary. Oh Rio de Janeiro.” Patricia tells her, “oh come on I have a higher rank than you two. My dear I am the secretary of Armando Mendoza. Well the secretary of the president. You are just the secretary of Mario Calderon who’s the executive of commerce. Mariana your the secretary of sales commercial. The girls see a very angry Marcela just listening in. Patricia continues, so my posts tops both of yours. Well yours is worse with you, you might be Marcela Valencia’s secretary but she’s a very low executive. I win over that stupid job of point of sales.” Marcela tells her, “what is going on here?”

Patricia turns, “Marcee Marcee were you listening.” Marcela tells her, “yes.” Patricia tells her, “but Marcee these two fools make one say stupid things. They don’t care, I’ve had it up to here with work. With this big council meeting, and all the preparations and everything. Plus Roberto asked, for a coffee and neither of them want to go and serve it.” Marcela asks, “where are the servers?” Patricia tells her, “they haven’t arrived and they are very busy.” Marcela tells her, “listen here Patricia if those servers were here. They would be attending Roberto and Margarita isn’t that right?” Patricia tells her, “yes that’s right.” Marcela tells her, “yes if they aren’t here who’s responsibility is it?” Patricia utters, “me I guess.” Marcela tells her, “exactly then who has to serve those coffees.” Patricia yells out, “those two.” Marcela screams, “no you do it Patricia. You have to do it Patricia Fernandez.” Patricia whinning tells her, oh Marcee so your going to get me to serve coffee.” Marcela tells her, “what you want me to do it?” Patricia tells her, “yeah I would feel embarssed for you.” Marcela screams, “you go and serve Roberto his coffee right not.” Patricia then walks to the elevator, “listen you didn’t have to yell at me Marcela. You could have asked me in a different fashion.” Marcela tells her, “oh yes the stupid executive of point of sales. Will be killing the secretary of the presiden.” Mariana tells her, “hey Patty Patty the cafeteria is over in that direction. Don’t you remember.” Patricia flips her hair and heads towards it. The girls try hard not to laugh, and pretend to get back to work. Marcela looks at them both, “for what I see it seems to me you two have nothing else to do.” They ignore her, and continue working.)

Over at Mario’s office, both men have stopped fight and Armando just sits quietly in Mario’s chair. Armando has a pen in his hand, ready to write another one of those cards. Mario tells him, “I can write the saddest rhymes and verses. Oh yes I can write marvellous things.” Armando angry throws the pen away. “Blasted Calderon I just can’t. I can’t write Betty a card telling her one day, that I love her in the morning and that by the evening I have to marry another. I just can’t do it.” Mario tells him, “look Mr. President today is the day where you must write motivated sensitive everything. I don’t know, but we have the only one chance to convince her brother.” Marcela opens the door and hits Mario. She coldly looks at him, then looks over at Armando. “Excuse me am I interrupting?” Armando tells her, “no.” Marcela tells him, “Roberto and Margarita are already in the boardroom. Why don’t you please join them?” Armando tells her, “we will be there soon.” Marcela tells him, “what well thank you.” She slams the door, Armando touches his face. “I can’t stand her, I just can’t stand her no I can’t stand her.” Mario tells him, “that’s not the way you should talk. About the woman that you are going to marry.” Armando covers his face once more.

Hugo tells a woman, “listen girl did I say the colour mushroom. Oh just look at my eyes, I said silver blue fly fly away. Oh the sun came out.” Marcela screams, “Hugo please the meeting is about to start.” Hugo tells her, “look I’m already here so is my inspiration already here yet. My magic and the colour. I don’t know what use it will be, at this meeting with numbers.” Patricia arrives with one cup of coffee.” Hugo asks, “what Patsy Pat are you the chamber maid of the titanic or what?” Patricia tells her, “Marcee the cafeteria workers didn’t want to bring up any coffee for Roberto.” Marcela tells her, “what did you expect them to tell you. Since you insulted every single one. You told them, that you were repulsed by them. That you didn’t want nobody to touch any one of your cups.” Patricia asks, “hey Marcee and how did you find that out?” Marcela tells her, “everyone knows everything my dear.” Patricia utters, “oh how I hate them and can’t support them.” Hugo tells her, “not only do you need a husband but a small apron. You would look like a British maid you would look very sexy.” Patricia asks, “oh you really think so?” Hugo tells her, “oh yes you can pass by my studio and I’ll design one for you. One where your legs show more.” Patricia tells him, “Hugo can I laugh all at once or in short bursts?” Hugo tells her, “oh what nerve from these servants. Its just incredible.”

In the boardroom, Gutierrez is shaking Roberto’s hand. “Oh its been quite brutal, a really big titanic job that I have done for this company. Everything is going very good, Don Roberto very good Dona Margarita.” Patricia enters and tells him, “here is your coffee Don Roberto.” Roberto asks, “Patricia why are you bringing it? What happened with the girls from the cafeteria?” Patricia tells him, “oh they are very busy and don’t worry. I don’t mind attending too you. You know me, that if people can’t do it I will pick up the slack. Well I don’t mind, and I’m not embarrassed too do so.” Roberto tells her, “well thank you very much?” Margarita asks, “Patricia where are those servers why haven’t they arrived yet?” Patricia tells her, “they should be here any moment.” Margarita tells her, “well then I’d like a cup of tea tell them to help you out at the cafeteria alright.” Patricia tells her, “yes I will inform them.” Gutierrez tells her, “taking this advantage since your heading to the cafeteria anyway. Please I’d like a coffee as well.” Patricia is ready to complain, giving him the coldest of looks.” Marcela tells her, “you heard him Patricia.” Patricia then gives her a dirty look. Hugo tells her, “oh yes girl why don’t you do me a favour and bring me an juice and some biscuits. See if that will help this hangover, and make me support this meeting. Well then fly fly away.” Patricia looks at everyone, “anything else.”

Gutierrez tells her, “no sugar please.” Hugo just starts laughing, Marcela goes to her and asks.  “Patricia did you get the servers yes or no? Did your get our lunch yes or no? Oh dear lord, this should have been ready yesterday.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee yesterday I had a very busy day. I had to help out with that collection launch, then I was stuck dealing with Nicholas at my apartment.” Marcela tells her, “now I understand you left everything for the last minute. Well let alone you asked for anything.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee I swear it I called them.” Marcela tells her, “but not the time that I told you.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee I have problems Nicholas disappeared Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “to me who cares now don’t tell me that you fell in love with him. Look I don’t have to listen to your problems, my problems are lot more grave than yours. Go and beg those people from the cafeteria, to help you with they asked for.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee why don’t you give the order.” Marcela tells her, “no I’m not going to get them to humiliate themselves. Go and get what they asked you for.” She closes the door and return to the others. Roberto asks, “Marcela where is Armando and Mario?” Marcela tells him, “they shouldn’t be long now now. I’m going to call Daniel and Maria Beatriz. To find out where they are.” Roberto then asks, “now then what about Armando’s assistant now what is her name again?” Margarita tells him, “its Betty.” Roberto tells her, “yes Betty where is she? Will she present at this meeting as well.” Marcela tells him, “yes I’m waiting for her as well.” Gutierrez tells him, “yes that’s what were doing.”

Betty reads the letter and signs it. Then she puts all the paper work inside the folders and gets up. “Everything is ready, Don Armando Dona Marcela everything is ready.” Then she goes to make copies. Armando and Mario are walking to the boardroom. Mario tells him, “no man you can’t lose it with Marcela. Especially at the council meeting, she will try to get you to lose your focus. When she starts talking about the wedding, become a samurai. Understand reassure her that the wedding will go on, understand everything is clear.” They see Betty, and stop.  Armando asks, “is that all the folders?” Betty holds it tight to her, and tells him. “I just need to fix a few things.” Armando angrily tells her, “what do you mean your not finished. The council meeting is going to start in a few minutes, they are going to want to see that balance. What’s going on?” Betty tells him, “look sir I know that but I still need to do some photocopying.” Armando looks at his watch and asks. “How long do you need before we can start this?” Betty tells him, “10 minutes sir don’t worry sir we will get out of this soon.” Armando tells her, “well fly with it then.” Mario tells him, “relax be patience in 10 minutes it will begin. Look the balance is already manipulated so don’t worry about anything.”

In the boardroom, Hugo tells them. “Roberto I just wanted to tell you that I’ve been offered a lot of jobs in Miami.” Margarita tells him, “you just can’t do it too us.” Hugo tells her, “then you must take good care me or else they might kidnap me.” They stop laughing, when Armando and Mario enter. Marcela gives him such a look. Hugo tells her, “oh the wolf has arrived.” Armando tells her, “hi mom how are you?” Margarita tells him, “how are you son?” Armando goes over to his dad, and is told. “What is this waiting all about?” Armando tells him, “well in the end Daniel nor Maria Beatriz still hasn’t arrived.” Roberto tells him, “yes but we can at least take a look at that balance.” Margarita tells him, “well yes.” Armando tells her, “Betty is on her way don’t worry everything is perfect.” Marcela tells him, “yes everything is perfect.” Then everyone takes their spots.” Marcela tells them, “yes everything is perfect.” Hugo tells them, “oh my chair went down like an elevator. Oh why is everyone so serious.” Armando takes a hold of Marcela’s hand and tells her, “my love don’t you worry about nothing. Tonight they’re will be a bridal shower. The day after tomorrow, we are going to get married. So take away that worried look upon your face.” Roberto and Margarita are quite relieved a smile appears on Marcela’s face. Margarita tells him, “yes Armando that is the way things should be.” Roberto tells him, “we would have never have forgive you. Hear me never.” Armando fakes a smile and looks at his parents.

By the elevator, Sandra tells Betty. “Betty why are you going back to the photocopy room again? Didn’t you say those folders were already finished?” Betty tells them, “yes but then I realized that there was an error on it. Sandra gasps, plus other things were missing.” Mariana tells her, “Betty girlfriend dear what is going on with you? You were going to give those folders out. With the wrong information on it, now at the last moment your going to change them Betty please.” Betty tells them, “its best that the information is correct than give a bad balance don’t you think.” Sandra tells her, “well that’s true Betty the other thing is if you don’t hurry they will fire you. They’ve been waiting a while now, in that boardroom.” Mariana tells her, “yes Betty please.” Betty tells her, “don’t you worry I’m going to fire myself.” Mariana looks over at Sandra, then the elevator opens. There is Daniel, and he just stares at Betty. “Good morning sir.” Daniel grabs her and stops her from leaving him. “Yes good morning Miss Betty don’t tell me, that your not going to join us for that council meeting.”

Betty tells him, “yes I will be joining you in a few minutes. I just need to fix a few folders.” Daniel stops her again, “I am quite anxious and nervous to read that balance of yours.” Betty quickly moves inside the elevator, “yes I assure you you will enjoy them.” Then she presses the button, and Daniel very uneasy heads to the council meeting. Daniel asks Sandra, “is everyone inside the boardroom.” Sandra tells him, “yes sir the only ones missing were you and Dona Maria Beatriz.” Patricia returns screaming, “you witches from the cafeteria I’m going to make sure everyone of you are fired.” Daniel just shakes his head, and utters. “Tsk tsk tsk.” In her head Patricia utters, “no no no it’s impossible.” Daniel tells her, “oh Patricia now your reduced to getting coffee to everyone. You know will they send a girl here from cafeteria, to take your place here at this desk. Yes I do really think, that this decision was the best you’ve ever made.” Patricia tells him, “well I’m sorry to give you bad news but Daniel its not like that at all. What’s going on is there’s a lot of people here who are useless. I’m stuck having to do each and everyone of their jobs. I have a great ethic of responsibility. Hey you has my phone rang?”

Sandra just ignores her, and she repeats. “What now you just don’t want to answer me?” Daniel stares at her legs again, while Sandra gets off the phone and tells her. “No it hasn’t rung.” Patricia tells her, “well thank you very much.” Daniel asks, “what your boyfriend hasn’t called to report in yet?” Patricia tells him, “don’t mess with nothing that is your business Daniel.” Daniel tells him, “oh yes it interest me tell me did you get your 6000 to save your car.” Patricia tells him, “yes they gave it too me.” Daniel tells her, “oh I’m very happy to hear it. Well looking at you again, I guess you could have gotten more than you needed.” Patricia asks, “and why do you say that?”  Daniel tells her, “well I didn’t know you had the skills of a chamber maid.” Patricia tells him, “I am no chamber maid Daniel this was an accident.” Daniel tells her, “oh it would be such a pity and you would be very successful. Well I guess you can give my friend food and drinks. Plus you are still sexy, well only if you were those erotic outfit from the British maid services. I assure you, your going to get more than 6000.”

Patricia gives him such a evil look, and then tells him. “Please Daniel have the courtesy to open the boardroom doors. So I can take this inside the boardroom.” Patricia enters and starts giving out the coffees. Daniel tells everyone, “well good morning or should I say bad morning too you Armando.” Armando smiles and tells him, “well good morning Danielito. For everyone it will be an excellent day, all except you.” Daniel tells him, “oh are you so assured of that.” Roberto tells them, “now you two calm down I don’t want to hear any more commentaries. I don’t want any more fights today, lets have this meeting in peace. At least say hello.” Daniel tells him, “forgive me Roberto, hello Margarita, Marcela.” Margarita asks, “how are you?” Armando sees Patricia by the door, “Patty where are the servers?” Patricia tells him, “they are coming excuse me.” Armando tells her, “tell me Patty is this a democratic society. Where only certain people are served from this council table. While others no, for example can’t you serve the president. Patty bring me a coffee please, now Mr. Calderon tell me would you care for anything?”

Mario tells him, “thank Mr. Mendoza yes I’d like a coffee.” Patricia just stares at them both, then Armando asks again. “Patty and a antacid for Daniel.” Daniel tells him, “I suggest a sedative for everyone plus a doctor.” Patricia so annoyed tells them, “enough make up your minds. I am really tired, and want to get this done already.” Roberto tells her, “Patty coffee for everyone please.” Margarita tells her, “coffee for everyone and that ends this.” Daniel tells her, “for now.” Hugo tells her, “hey I asked for biscuits what is this. I didn’t want a piece of cake, and exchange this drink.” Gutierrez tells her, “hey Patty I told you no sugar.” Patricia just walks away, and heads to her desk. “Why is this happening today? Is it the 13th? Those blasted servers, why haven’t they arrived yet? First I was stuck serving, the cafeteria people are on strike. The worst thing is that, Daniel had to see me serving drinks. Oh still busy that bastard. She screams, hey has my phone rang at any point?” The girls yell out, “no.” Then they sing a song then they clap hands. Patricia tells them, “your sounding more and more like Freddy every day. Where is that Nicholas, and my money?” She heads towards the cafeteria once more. Nicholas arrives, and parks the car. Nicholas gets out of the car. “Hey you porter do me a favour.” Wilson tells him, “yes sir what may I do for you.” Nicholas tells him, “inform Beatriz Pinzon Solano that Nicholas Mora has come to pick her up.” Wilson tells him, “oh yes the boyfriend give me a moment. I’ll call her using my phone.” Nicholas tells him, “well make it quick.”

At the second floor, Betty has the folders. Mariana tells her, “Betty Betty girl they’ve been waiting for hours now.” Sandra asks, “so that is the folders?” Betty tells them, “yes but I have to get something from my office first.” Sandra tells her, “Betty if you like we will give out the folders. You just get inside the boardroom.” Mariana tells her, “yes we’ll help you.” Betty asks, “so has Maria Beatriz arrived yet?” Mariana tells her, “no she’s the only one missing.” Betty tells them, “well then I have time to go to the office.” Mariana tells her, “oh Sandra Betty is acting pretty weird today oh no.” The phone rings and Sandra picks up. “Vice president of commerce what Betty just passed by going to her office. Oh your saying, that her boyfriend is here to pick her up.” Mariana utters, “what?” Sandra tells her, “just call her office she should be right now ok. She hangs up, and tells her. That’s pretty weird.”

In Betty’s office, she gets the phone. “President’s office of Eco Moda.” Wilson tells her, “hello Dona Betty but your boyfriend is here. Would you like him to go upstairs? What the man in the Mercedes Benz, or do you not know who he is? Or have you finished your romance with your boyfriend.” Betty tells him, “oh Wilson please.” Wilson asks, “would you like me to send him up?” Betty tells him, “no I’ll just talk to him on the phone.” Wilson tells her, “one moment please. Hey young man.” Nicholas asks, “what’s going on?” Wilson tells him, “Dona Betty wants to talk to you.” Nicholas tells him, “its not Dona but madam for you.” Wilson tells him, “your lucky I put Dona for she is only the presidents assistant excuse me.” Nicholas asks, “do you have to put change in the phone?” Wilson tells him, “no its free he leaves and outside the booth utters. Hey this rich guy with the Mercedes benz complaining about a few cents.” Nicholas tells her, “hi Betty.” Betty asks, “hi Nicholas did you wash the car?” Nicholas tells her, “yes yes its like brand new just divine. Now what do I do now?” Betty tells him, “I’d ask you to come in but here is like an boiling pot. Nicholas the meeting is about to begin.” Nicholas tells her, “well relax I don’t want to head upstairs you know who is there remember. Oh has anybody asked for me?” Betty tells him, “they better not Nicholas give the car keys and paperwork to the porter. Then head to my house, please wait for me there. Nicholas I’m going to need you so very much.” Nicholas tells her, “yes Betty do you feel bad?” Betty tells him, “yes Nicholas very bad.” Nicholas tells her, “why what happened?” Betty tells him, “no but something will happen. In any case I’m getting out of all of this. Please wait for me at home please.” Nicholas tells her, “well ok look call home what ever it is. I will come pick you up, even if I have to take a taxi or on a bus it doesn’t matter. Just call me I will be at attention.” Betty tells him, “well yes thank you Nicholas. She hangs up, come on Betty you will finally leave this hell hole.”

Out in the corridors, Patricia brings more drink. Mariana tells Sandra, “you know Sandra I don’t like the way Betty is acting. Its quite strange dear, the strange part is her boyfriend is waiting for her downstairs. No its quite suspicious.” Sandra tells her, “what do you think Nicholas is going to take her home.” Mariana tells her, “how can you think such thoughts. She has to enter that boardroom, for that council meeting. Can you believe that?” Patricia asks, “so Betty’s boyfriend is downstairs?” Sandra asks, “and what of it?” Patricia tells her, “oh its for nothing.” Mariana utters, “unbelievable.” Then the door of the elevator opens, and who’s there but Ines. The girls quickly get up and go to her. Sandra asks, “Inesita what are you doing here?” Ines tells them, “it might seem strange but I’m here to work.” Mariana tells her, “oh no senorita but you have nothing to do here today. What do you think about that?” Ines looks up and tells them, “oh dear something is going to fall.” The girls look up and Ines walks away. She laughs, and the girls follow her.” Patricia puts down her tray, and quickly runs to the elevator doors.

Wilson watches as Nicholas, looks and talks to the car. “Oh my friend Mercedes its going to be sad to see you go. Oh we now are from different worlds. That’s quite distinct, you will be once again in the hands of rich people. I’m returning to public transit like always. Then walk the pavements, its suicide oh how very sad. He kisses the car, and utters. Oh the last kiss is always bitter. Oh yes you and I with Patricia Fernandez. We were a great dynamic trio, oh the nights that we passed together. I will return to the streets, my old friend “ Nicholas hears Patricia screaming, “hey Wilson Wilson. Nicholas quickly moves away, and hides behind Mario’s sports car. Hey Wilson, have you seen Nicholas Mora?” Wilson tells her, “Dona Patricia he was here a minute ago. I don’t know where he went.” Patricia ask, “but he couldn’t have gone very far the car is right there alone.” Wilson tells her, “well he gave me the keys and the paperwork to give to Dona Betty. Maybe he’s giving it too her, just in case she’s going out with the girls again.” Patricia asks, “and he didn’t ask for me?” Wilson asks, “who Dona Betty’s boyfriend? No for nothing why? Did he have to ask for you?” Patricia tells him, “forget about it Wilson.” Then she begins looking for Nicholas, while Nicholas is pretending to be a mannequin in the window. “Blasted idiot with glasses he left.” Then Nicholas gets out, and flags a van. “Oh once again with my change like always. He then get in and utters. Bye Patty.” Patricia in the end enters the building.

The girls are together, Sophia tells Ines. “ Don Hugo only showed up for that council meeting and nothing else.” Mariana tells her, “yes senorita he was quite clear to say. That senora Ines isn’t needed her at Eco Moda today. Until he begins again, with his new collection hear that.” Aura Maria tells her, “yes senorita plus that collection will take quite a long time. No what are you doing here, now go on home senorita. She turns her around, no now go home.” Ines tells them, “if there’s no work I will invent something. What like you see me, I can also invent things like this.” She heads to the studio, and Aura Maria sees Betty coming out. Sophia asks, “Betty would you like some help?” Betty tells her, “no thank you relax I’m heading to the board room now.” Sophia and Aura Maria glance at one another and shrug. Sandra and Mariana head back to their desks. Sandra tells her, “if Inesita wants to come here to work we have no choice but allow it.” Mariana tells her, “yes I guess so.” Sandra tells her, “well I guess she has nothing to do at home just like this. Hey look at that, that blond bimbo left behind her job.” Mariana sarcastically tells her, “oh yes those coffees are going to get their really hot. At the council meeting.” Patricia returns, and picks up her tray. The girls playfully sing about it being hot and cold. Then they start laughing.

(That must been a hot vacation Aura Maria got, she’s burnt really bad.)

Inside that boardroom, everyone is waiting. Marcela is on the phone, while Hugo begins talking about his night. “Oh man what a night Maria Beatriz and I, went clubbing last night. We went to a club called the pink macho, we stayed till four this morning. They give everyone oil to put on, the next thing one knows. I am hallucinating I was out, my boyfriend had to carry me home. He carried me like it was our honeymoon. Oh I was so happy, very happy dancing.” Margarita grins, and laughs at his tale. Daniel is talking with Roberto. Armando is annoyed that Betty hasn’t arrived yet. Oh if some people don’t want to hear my tale, then they are the ones missing out. Its the best spot in town, just you wait and see after party.” Marcela hangs up the phone, “we might as well start for Maria Beatriz just got up.” Hugo tells her, “see I told you she’s probably really hung over today.” Betty enters, and the mood changes. “Good day to all of you.” In unison they utter, “good day.” Roberto asks, “are those the balances?” Betty tells him, “yes Don Roberto.”

Daniel just watches her, and Patricia enters with the cold coffees. Roberto asks, “so will you be staying for the meeting?” Patricia tells him, “oh yes of course.” Armando tells her, “he wasn’t talking too you Patricia. Yes dad Betty will remain here with us. To explain the balance, don’t you worry about it.” Daniel tells her, “yes I’d really like to hear what you will be telling us Miss Beatriz.” Armando has his coffee, and tells her. “Patricia this is cold this coffee is cold.” Patricia tells him, “what Armando you now want me to warm this up?” Armando tells her, “oh I don’t get that luxury. Your Mercedes Patricia, its all I needed. You know what, bring me some ice and I’ll drink it as ice coffee. How about you?” Mario tells him, “this is terrible Patty.” Armando asks again, “where are the servers?’ Patricia tells him, “Armando can you believe that they still haven’t arrived.” Roberto tells Betty, “well dear just start by handing out the folders. Lets start this once and for all. Now I’m going to inform everyone of the rules here today. Betty begins to give everyone their folder. We will go point by point the balance, then we will discuss the observation of the case. Is everything assured at that?” Daniel looks at Betty, “for me there is no inconvenience Roberto. I’m in no hurry, I’m really interested in want to see what they have to say.” Margarita tells them, “one moment please no matter what the outcome. I expect that this doesn’t become, a battle ground between the two of you. If Roberto and I came all this way from London. We didn’t come just for this meeting, but the wedding for Armando and Marcela.” Marcela smiles over at Armando, while Mario looks away while Armando glances at Betty. Well then lets do this, the best possible way. If there’s difference between the two of you. We will deal this like the family that we are. It will be with kindness and pleasantries. Is this clear? We will leave here, and go straight home for the bridal shower.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Roberto tells them, “we won’t permit in any fashion. That the bridal shower, nor the ceremony that’s the day after. Will be tainted by fights and arguements over the company. I ask you all for respect. A wedding should be a happy union between all of us.”)

Elisa Cortes is the second writer of YSBLF.

One Hundred and Eleven

In the boardroom,  Roberto tells Betty. “Please sit down. Armando quickly gets up, and gets another chair and sits her next to him. Roberto tells everyone, well then lets begin.” Hugo playfully tells them, “just love these new folders. Oh what’s this paper for, to pass each other  notes. Yes lets play.” Betty stares forward, waiting for the bomb to explode. Armando opens his folder, and finds Calderon’s letter right at the front. He looks at everyone, but nobody seems to notice. He looks over at Mario, who also has the same letter. Then both look over at Betty, Roberto is the first to speak. “One moment excuse me, what does this first page mean.” Armando tells him, “no it must be a mistake.” Betty tells him, “the first page Don Roberto is the resume of the general balance. Armando grabs Marcela’s copy and check it out. He utters in his head, “this one doesn’t have the letter.” Mario does the same thing, and grabs Gutierrez paperwork. He utters in his head, “this one doesn’t have the letter. It seems it was only in our folders.” Margarita looks at the two, “what’s going on?” Roberto touches his mouth, and asks. “Dear explain this figure, 26 000 15000 what is this?”

Armando touches his forehead, Mario writes something and gives it to Armando. It reads, “Betty gave the real balance.” Armando screams, “one moment this isn’t the balance that I was going to present to the council members. This is an error, Beatriz please take all these folders away.” Betty doesn’t move, and tells him. “No sir.” Armando screams, “NO! Frantically he begins grabbing Marcela’s folder. Mario begins to help as well, no no we are now closing the council meeting.” Daniel screams and puts the paperwork done, “no Armando this council meeting doesn’t end. Here there is no error, Roberto I must inform you. That that 97 000 for almost 15000 is an obligation that Eco Moda. Made with Terra Moda, and not only that but Terra Moda now owns Eco Moda stock.” Margarita asks, “what are you talking about I don’t understand?” Daniel tells her, “what this means Margarita. Is that we no longer own Eco Moda, Terra Moda owns it.” Margarita asks, “what is Terra Moda?” Marcela is shocked and covers her mouth in shock then stares over at Betty. Daniel tells her, “you recall the company of Beatriz Pinzon Solano.” Armando gets up and tells him, “Daniel you don’t know what your talking about.”

Daniel screams, “I know everything now Armando. The lies and games are over, he opens his briefcase. He pulls out the book of commerce. Mario just stares at them in complete shock. This book contains every single company in Colombia. Time is up Armandito show your face, stop telling us lies. Face the reality, what happened to the company that we gave you. Eco Moda is the laughing stock of every single company in this country. Armando we gave you this company, what did you do? What happened with our inheritance? Marcela has tears going down her face. The patronage that your parents, and mine created. Did you lose it? It doesn’t exist Armando.” Armando tells him, “yes it exists its very protected.” Daniel screams, “you stupid its embargoed.” Then Patricia arrives overjoyed, “here are the servers.” Armando screams, “Patricia Fernandez get the hell out of here.” Daniel screams, “get out of here Patricia.” Patricia moves back with the servers, not knowing what’s going on. Marcela crying screams, “get out of here get out with your servers. No one is to come in here, get the hell out.” Roberto tells everyone, “calm yourselves down. Please let us all calm down please.”

Armando tells Daniel, “Daniel your not going to call me stupid ever again in this lifetime. Your not going to call me stupid.” Daniel screams, “of what then pathetic hysterical.” He slaps Armando in the face. Armando is ready to hit him as well, when Roberto holds both men back. He throws the book on the table and screams, “enough please sit down.” Both men sit down, and everyone just looks at the table. Then he touches his heart, Hugo tells them. “Fortunately a real man stop this from continuing. Oh this migraine of mine, you two look like a bunch of duelling merchants at the market fighting.” Armando is in shock and sadness appears on his face. Roberto asks, “Armando what is all this?” Daniel tells Marcela, “oh Marcela Armando will finally reveal the truth too us.” Roberto tells him, “Daniel please I’m now in charge of this meeting. Armando did you lose the company?” Armando tells him, “no dad I didn’t lose the company.” Daniel looks over at Betty, “Miss Beatriz you are a brilliant intelligent efficient woman we are all aware of your skill. One question, if a company gets embargoed for lets say 15000 would you call it loosing the company?” Armando tells him, “Daniel the company is under Beatriz’s name.”

In tears and with pain in her voice Marcela tells him. “Armando what do you mean its under Beatriz’s name? You gave her our company. You gave it too her like a gift. Marcela grabs Betty and tries to shake her Betty doesn’t move. She screams, what did you do too him? What did you do too him? What did you give him?” Roberto tells her, “please Marcela Armando you have to talk.” Armando tells him, “regarding the book of commerce we did it to save Eco Moda. To save us from the banks.” Marcela asks, “what embargo?” Armando tells her, “you knew very well that we failed in the collection Marcela.” Daniel looks over at Hugo, “what do you mean we failed with two collections. Did you know that Hugo? Its new news to me.” Armando screams, “its not new news we failed. When we exchanged the fabrics, in one of the collections.” Daniel tells him, “when we had that meeting to discuss those figures to find out that balance. At first you denied us seeing those figures, you told us that everything would fix itself and that we wouldn’t lose very much.” Armando screams, “yes we did recover Daniel.” Daniel pulls out that sheet, and tells him. “Oh yes that is what we saw. The thing was we didn’t know about that second collection. From that other balance you should us, it seemed it was very successful. Here is that form with that balance, yes tells us Mario what is with that balance? Was it manipulated?”

Roberto asks, “were you lot manipulating the balances?” Daniel tells him, “Roberto forget it they won’t respond to that question. The situation is quite clear, these two Armando Mario and accompanied with his assistant Beatriz Pinzon. They took the opportunity, to lie to the council members. To every one of these associates. Armando in one year, we gave you a very prosperous excellent managed company. You were the one in charged, what do you give us now. A company that’s embargoed, with absolutely no capital congratulations Armando. How very beautiful, who would have thought it.” Marcela gets up and stares at the photos, “not only did you embargoed us. You gave our company to this woman.” Roberto asks, “why did you hide this information from us this council. That was so vital for so long. Armando why did you do this too us?” Margarita tells them, “I think I know when this must have started. Its because of the high figure you won the presidency. Those merits you put, were just too high weren’t they?” Armando looks at everyone, and tells them. “Yes yes yes mom in order to reach my goal. I changed the quality of the materials in both collections.” Hugo tells them, “don’t remind me of those collections it gives me nausea.” Armando tells them, “in order to do my goal I did a lot of crazy things.” He looks over at Betty, Roberto just utters. “We are listening Armando.”

Outside in the corridors, the girls are outside the door. Sandra asks, “do you hear anything Mariana?” Mariana goes back to them and tells them. “Girls I think they have now calmed down.” Sandra asks, “yes well then what are they saying?” Mariana tells them, “I didn’t understand what they were saying. Something must have happened, for them to all calm down.” Sophia tells her, “its now that we need Bertha’s good ears.” Patricia goes next to them, “why are you by that door?” Sandra tells her, “oh you don’t start giving us orders you hear us. You’ve had a pretty bad day today, it might get worse.” Sophia tells her, “well we haven’t heard nothing.” Patricia tells them, “oh yes you were just standing there accidentally. I’m going in there and informing everyone, that you lot were out here listening in.” Sandra goes to her, “oh no don’t you dare.” Patricia tells her, “don’t you dare come any closer or else I’m screaming.” Sandra tells her, “well scream all you want. It would be quite delicious, I’m going to grab you by that hair of yours and pick you up like a chicken and pulls you around.” Patricia tells her, “oh yes. As she’s about to scream, her phone rings. Oh my phone oh my phone, in her head she utters. Oh I do hope its Nicholas Mora.” She crosses her fingers, and runs too get it. Sophia tells them, “we better get back to work before she gets us into trouble again.” Everyone then scatters Patricia answers the phone. “Eco Moda yes you are speaking too her, what is it that you want you lawyer. I know very well that the deadline finishes today, no I still don’t have the money but the day isn’t over yet. Yes I know that I said, that I would pay in the morning. But your going to have to wait till later tonight. What do you mean, the deadline is only till 2pm. No sir, you can’t put nothing on me. The guy hangs up, and she utters. Hello hello hello, you wretched and where is that. Skinny glass eyed wearing idiot Nicholas Mora. Oh how divine, to give his cell phone to Betty. As I recall he left me a card, yes he gave me a card from Terra Moda. Now where did I put it, oh yes my only salvation.” She begins looking through ever item of her desk.

Inside the boardroom, Armando is finishing up informing him of his plan. “Well then, I ordered Betty to create Terra Moda.” Roberto tells him, “its a company out of paper.” Armando tells him, “no dad its real its a real legal company. I even gave them a small capital to begin.” Daniel tells him, “a small capital of 80 000.” Armando tells him, “Daniel please Terra Moda was created to defend Eco Moda. If the banks wouldn’t give us money, we would use Terra Moda. Everything failed, I asked on behalf of Terra Moda to embargo Eco Moda. It was to defend Eco Moda dad.” Roberto asks, “what was the debt at that moment?” Armando tells him, “80 000.” Hugo tells him, “oh no.” Armando tells them, “it was the only option that I had you have to understand. What was the other road to take, to start selling off shares of Eco Moda. I wouldn’t have allowed it, I wouldn’t have permitted it. It would have been a huge hit to all of us, especially to me to sell my company.” Roberto tells him, “well that was the biggest hit you’ve given us Armando. Right now we have no business.” Betty tells him, “but Don Roberto.”

Roberto tells her, “please senorita we will deal with you later. Oh Armando how could you do this? How could you do illegal movements? How could you lie to the banks?” Armando tells him, “dad its not illegal its not a formula to lie its been real so that the banks couldn’t embargoed us.” Roberto tells him, “but its a dirty formula Armando but why did you hide it from us.” Margarita tells him, “the response is the same his goals and the competition with Daniel. He should have had an extraordinary meeting, with the council members. To inform everyone of the situation, and would have had Daniel take over the presidency. But no you couldn’t admit that, isn’t that right Armando?” Hugo tells her, “well let me try to understand this mess. The company of that muskrat, embargoed Eco Moda for over 97 000. That was what Eco Moda was valued right.” Roberto tells him, “yes.” Hugo tells him, “well then your saying that the owner of Eco Moda is her that ugly thing over there.”

Daniel tells him, “legally Armando gave the company over to Beatriz.” Hugo utters, “oh the horror oh the horror no. I am leaving here, oh Ines a valium please something.” Marcela asks, “there is something that I just don’t understand Armando. Why did you give her the company? Why Why Why?” Armando tells her, “Beatriz was already working on Eco Moda finances. She was the best person, that knew and was working alongside the banks. Dealing with the investments, and the buyers. I thought that she would be the one, that would take us out of all of this. That is why I did it.” Marcela tells him, “that doesn’t respond to my question. Why did you so confide in her, you gave away our company to an unknown person. A complete stranger, how could you give away both our inheritances from our families.” Armando tells them, “I trusted her.” Marcela utters, “so you confided in her why didn’t you confide in me?”

Armando utters, “Marcela.” Marcela tells him, “I am your fiancée an investor in this company. You have been saying, that I’m the one that you were going to spend your entire life with. You changed me for her.” Armando asks, “what would have happened? What would you have done, if I had told you everything? If I ordered you, and told you what you needed to do. You wouldn’t have gone through with it right? Or yes?” Marcela tells him, “no I wouldn’t have allowed you to do this stupid thing.” Hugo asks, “I still don’t understand what does Nicholas Mora have to do in all of this.” Betty tells him, “I contracted him to deal with the banks and to deal with the stock market.” Hugo tells her, “well then it means that guy isn’t even rich in vitamins.” Betty tells him, “no he’s not rich.” Hugo tells her, “and every woman here at Eco Moda dying for him. Oh that is quite pathetic, really Nicholas Mora that millionaire.” Armando holds onto that balance and tries to get back control. Nobody is listening. “As you can all see, we have paid all of our interest and a  few our debts.” Roberto asks, “Armando what I don’t understand is if Eco Moda credit is frozen. How have you been able, to pay for the maintenance of this company. The functions of the company.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Hugo asks, “sorry but the man and his Mercedes. Who you claimed to have as a boyfriend. Is he the owner of Terra Moda? All you did was talk about the owner of Terra Moda. Your rich boyfriend.” Daniel tells him, “it was all a ruse a fraud so she wouldn’t look so suspicious. So we wouldn’t know her real intentions. A trick made up by two white roosters, two professional liars.”)

Hugo asks, “what I don’t understand is. What does Nicholas Mora, have to do being here?” Betty tells him, “I contracted him to deal with the banks and to deal with the stock market.” Hugo tells her, “well then it means that guy isn’t even rich in vitamins.” Betty tells him, “no he’s not rich.” Hugo tells her, “and every woman here at Eco Moda dying for him. Oh that is quite pathetic, really Nicholas Mora that millionaire.” Armando holds onto that balance and tries to get back control. Nobody is listening. “As you can all see, we have paid all of our interest and a  few our debts.” Roberto asks, “Armando what I don’t understand is if Eco Moda credit is frozen. How have you been able, to pay for the maintenance of this company. The functions of the company.”

Armando tells him, “well we’ve been using Terra Moda dad for money. Beatriz asked for a loan to the Bank of Montreal. We’ve able to exists these few couple of months.” Daniel tells him, “it only signifies Armando that Eco Moda becomes way indebted to Terra Moda.” Armando yells out, “no Daniel understand Eco Moda has been able to survive and deal with things in front of the whole world.” Daniel tells him, “oh stop being so ridiculous.” Armando tells them, “if you just permit me. As you all know the most recent collection that we’ve done. Has been a great success, in a couple of months we will have equilibrium.” Daniel asks, “what point of equilibrium man we must liquidate Eco Moda. Sell all our shares, and part with anything that is left.” Betty tells them, “if you permit me that isn’t necessary like you can see on page four. You will see that we have been recuperating, plus in these last six months. We will be equal, and all your debt will end up in zeros.” Daniel tells them, “oh only in six months how marvellous. Roberto I need my capital, Marcela I told you I got involved with a business venture. I must take out my shares, put the money to them or else risk losing all the money I’ve already invested.”

Marcela tells him, “oh Daniel don’t you understand. We can’t talk about selling our shares, the company doesn’t exist she owns the company.” Daniel asks, “what are you insinuating that she is the owner of Eco Moda.” Marcela tells him, “you know what they were capable of doing. Why don’t you ask her?” Daniel sits in Armando’s chair, “now then Miss. Beatriz tells us what are your cards?” Betty asks, “I don’t understand you sir.” Daniel tells her, “what is it that we can do to get back our company? What are you aspirations?” Betty tells them, “my only aspiration to make this very clear to all of you. I wanted you all to know, the real state of Eco Moda. Everyone single one of you, has the real value of the company. As you can see, everything is there. A copy of the ownership papers of Eco Moda. The property of Terra Moda, plus you may use a blank cheque that your lawyers may use. So you can cancel the partnership between Terra Moda and Eco Moda. Then you can get back your company, as you can also see the balance of Terra Moda is also there. You will find every single movement of the capital we were given. If you want you may use that capital from this moment. I will shut down the company, in the parking lot there’s the mercedes that was used for errands for Terra Moda. You may do what ever with it. In final you will find, my resignation as assistant of the presidency of Eco Moda. Signed by my hand.” She sits down, Margarita tells her. “Very good.”

Patricia finally finds the card, “here it is Terra Moda Nicholas Mora executive of Terra Moda.” At Betty’s house, Nicholas is packing away the computer. Julia asks, “Nicholas what are you going to do with that computer?” Nicholas tells her, “as you can see I’m returning it it has to be sent back to Eco Moda. Worse is I have to take it by bus, its difficult yes or no. You by chance, don’t have money so I can take a taxi?” Julia just shrugs and tells him. “No son.” Nicholas tells her, “oh I really do miss that Mercedes Dona Julia. I had to return to the hard life, for life just image it when I took the bus I was forced to crutched down. I couldn’t even get by, and without a cell phone. Disconnected to the world, a poor devil.” Julia smiles and asks, “wasn’t Betty going to keep the computer?” Nicholas tells her, “Don Julia no that is the last orders of my ex-boss to take this back to Eco Moda. I don’t want nothing of Terra Moda in my house. Can you believe that, the last orders of my boss. Well this one, he take the picture of Patricia. I’m taking home.” The phone rings, and Julia answers. “Hello? Patricia asks, “Terra Moda?” Julia tells her, “yes Terra Moda.”

Patricia asks, “please a favour may I speak to Nicholas Mora.” Julia tells her, “Mr. Nicholas Mora from whom.” Patricia tells her, “from Patricia Fernandez.” Nicholas asks, “who is it who is it?” Julia tells him, “Patricia Fernandez.” Nicholas jumps up and down, “no no I don’t exist I don’t exist.” Julia tells her, “sorry but Nicholas Mora isn’t here at the moment.” Patricia tells her, “oh so you mean he’s not there. Am I speaking with the secretary?” Julia tells her, “yes.” Patricia tells her, “well inform him that I called and that I’m waiting here at my office. I need a reason, to stop hiding from me. I want to see his face.” Julia tells her, “yes I will tell him.” She hangs up and looks over at Nicholas. Patricia is furious that she hung up, “oh how rude oh that blasted rabbit that skinny glasses wearing fool.” Julia tells him, “unbelievable how bold to call him over here son.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Dona Julia well she probably thought it was my office. She thought she was going to talk to the president of Terra Moda.” Julia tells him, “I see she said for you to call her and to stop hiding. Show your face, what does it all mean Nicholas. What does she want from you?” Nicholas tell her, “oh Dona Julia don’t talk to me that way. Your not the mother in law either?” Julia asks, “why is that woman calling me at my house? What does she want?” Nicholas tells her, “she doesn’t want nothing from me.” Julia tells him, “then why are you hiding from her?” Nicholas stares at the photo, “well the thing is I am really crazy. Understand oh Patricia, we talked and she was fascinated by me. Julia just grins and stares at him. She like fell for me, now I just can’t her off me. Julia simply leaves the room. Oh Patricia understand, just understand what we had is over. You and I never never, I was just a dream for you. Understand we must return to reality, to touch the ground oh the basement of our dreams. If I see you again, yes I will remember but will try to forget and move forward.” He puts the frame in his pocket.

Back at the boardroom, Daniel asks. “Did you really think that after dealing with fraudulent business deals. With Armando and Mario, and doing everything for them. You could just leave, and give us your resignation and and that will be that.” Betty tells them, “I’m not washing my hands of this sir. Its obvious that I have to quit, I have to leave I don’t want to continue working with this company. The balance that I left for Eco Moda is clear, as well as Terra Moda. Like you can see, I didn’t grab absolutely nothing, I also didn’t do any bad moves with the capital. I am also relinquishing the money, that I am owned for working here these past months. That is legally owned too me, as of this moment my post is vacant. Before leaving Don Roberto, I’m sorry thank you for all your confidence that you gave me. I profoundly regret, that I had to lie to you and participated in all of this. To you as well Dona Margarita, I am truly sorry.” Roberto tells her, “we of course accept your resignation senorita. The council meeting isn’t over please sit down. What can I say, regarding all this error. What can I said amongst all this imprudence, what can I say to you Armando. When I trusted you, and gave you a company that had zero debt. Not only have I found out, that this company is terribly in debt but that you have lost all control of. What more can I say?”

Daniel tells him, “Armando what he could say is thank you for giving away a company that was successfully owned. That had thirty years in the making, now then lets contact our lawyers. To begin liquidating Eco Moda.” Armando tells him, “no no no we can’t liquidate Eco Moda.” Daniel tells him, “oh the genius has spoken.” Armando tells them, “Daniel you hear Betty listen to what she said. If we continue this way, and if the capital keeps on getting better. Well we just have to wait for six months. Why liquidate Eco Moda?” Daniel tells him, “now your recommending your lovely genius assistant.” Armando screams, “shut up we can recupe Eco Moda. I don’t want too, I don’t want too.” Daniel coldly tells him, “enough with your temper tantrums breath deeply. Understand this situation, you lost all your rights to run this meeting.” Roberto tells them, “enough gentlemen its quite sufficient. No were not going to liquefy a company, worth 97000 with a debt of 15000. Eco Moda can pay off its debt.” Daniel tells him, “Roberto I want out of this company somebody buy my part I need the capital.” Roberto tells him, “by law the associates may buy your shares of this company. Are there any associates, willing to buy his shares? Marcela?”

Hugo looks over at Gutierrez and laughs. “It seems to me, that we will need outside help in this situation. As of right now, we won’t liquidate this company.” Armando frantically looks at every sheet of paper. “Great dad we can fix this dad, just look at this page.” Roberto takes his hand, “Armando we won’t be discussing our projections. We are now going to discuss you and your presidency. You in this post has been disastrous. Not only from the financial standpoint, well and more so ethical. From me I will never ever forgive you, for what you have done. As of right now, we are taking away your presidency. Now enough you keep quiet, and pointing out solutions to this mess. I don’t want your mother or Marcela. To have any more pain, and those of whom that still care for you. We will now vote, you must do the right thing and make the decision. You must now renounce your presidency, and charge of this company.” Daniel has a smug look on his face. Armando glances over at Betty, Betty stares back at him.

Armando then looks at his father, then Armando gets up. “Everyone of the council members, I Armando Mendoza president of Eco Moda will resign immediately. I just want to ask for your forgiveness, I am sorry for all the information I didn’t give. I am sorry that I lied to everyone, I will write my resignation letter and place it on your desk by this afternoon.” He sits back down, and Daniel tells him. “Oh how very moving your crocodile tears.” Betty has tears in her eyes, then gets up she tells them. “Excuse me once again sorry. ” Marcela stops her, “one moment may you never step foot in this company ever again.” Betty tells her, “I promised you I will follow through.” Daniel tells her, “don’t use Eco Moda on your resume as reference because if they do call. They will find out, what class of woman that you really are and what you are capable of. Your failure of scruples, Beatriz Pinzon you have been the calamity of this company.” Armando tells him, “shut up Daniel Valencia. She did everything, because she was ordered to do so by me enough.” Daniel covers his ear, “now Armandito this is a company not a military compound where every employee doesn’t have to follow the sergeants orders. She manipulated balances, she did turbulent movements. She created an illegal company, to take over Eco Moda. Miss Pinzon were you forced into this, did Armando put a gun by your head. Did he threaten you?” Betty tells him, “no I did it willingly.” Daniel tells them, “it is quite clear and don’t think just because she had your confidence doesn’t get by. Under your responsibility, just because you gave her an order.” Marcela tells him, “she’s not in your confidence either because the woman you most confided in. The woman you so blindly believed in, who you almost gave your life in the end gave you up to this council.” Betty tells them, “Armando Mendoza will explain to you why?” Then she leaves the boardroom.

Betty comes out crying, Sophia and the girls go near her. Sophia asks, “Betty Betty what happened in there?” Betty tells them, “please I don’t want to talk about this I just don’t feel well.” Aura Maria asks, “would you like us to have a 911 or what.” Betty tells them, “no now I am leaving today I quit Eco Moda.” Sophia utters, “what?” Aura Maria asks, “Sophia utters, what what happened in there?” Betty goes towards her office.

Inside Roberto tells them, “we will continue now select the new president of Eco Moda.” Maria Beatriz makes her grand entrance and kisses everyone. “Hello everyone, sorry for the delay. Oh I hope that you have all continued without me. Hi brother, oh what is with the long faces I see. Are you all very angry with me? Here let me see, and I’ll get up too speed. She sits on Betty’s chair, oh what is all these numbers how great. Congratulations Armando, these numbers are spectacular.” Daniel tells her, “enough Beatriz Eco Moda is embargoed. It has debts over 6000?” Maria Beatriz utters, “what no no does this mean I won’t get my annual cheque? No no no I just bought a ring that cost 12000 I used up all my credit cards. Plus I also bought a Versace dress, very lovely.” Daniel tells her, “the situation is quite grave Maria Beatriz thank to Armando over here we are in ruins.” Margarita tells them, “now everyone clam down we will explain to Maria Beatriz what happened to this company. She has to also vote for the new president.” Maria Beatriz asks, “we have to get another president?” Armando grabs his folder, and tells them. “I’ll be right back Calderon your folder.” He takes off, Maria Beatriz utters. “Oh how alarming, what’s going on here?”

Outside in the corridor Sandra asks, “girls why did she quit?”  Sophia tells her, “no Betty she didn’t want to say a word.” Mariana tells them, “oh girls lets leave this stress and go talk to her.”  Sophia tells them, “careful here comes the wolf.” Ines tells her, “excuse me Don Armando but we just found out something that stresses us out very much. Is it correct that Betty quit?”  Armando tells them, “I will not discuss this now Ines. Where is Beatriz?” Aura Maria tells him, “she’s in her office sir.” Aura Maria utters, “oh he’s furious.” Armando enters, and the girl make a fuzz. Betty quickly packs her things, and Armando enters and slams the door then puts the folders on the chair. “Why why Beatriz? Why didn’t you tell me that you found that letter? Why?” Betty tells him, “the question I’m asking is why sir? Why did you do this too me? You knew I was unconditional to you. I played my life beside yours, why this game without compassion. Not even stopping for one instant, in thinking how hurtful you were towards me. Why continue to pretend to romance me. Especially when I told you, my tragic personal affair. Why did you do this too me sir? I heard you with Don Mario, and you were coldly planning to send me far far away. To in fact exile me.”

Armando tells her, “I need you to listen to me please listen to me Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “no sir its too late for that now. I waited all these months, for an explanation or at least for you to stop this sinister plan. That you planned with Mario Calderon, but you sustained it till the very last moment.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz you must understand the plan changed please let me explain. Listen to me please.” Betty yells, “stop lying I heard you this morning. You two were arguing where you were going to send me.” Armando tells her, “I’m not lying Beatriz. What you heard wasn’t like that, we were going to send you away to protect you. Its not what your thinking about.” Betty screams, “oh no well its all planned out on this letter. She picks up the garbage, and her things. I’m going now.” Armando quickly grabs her, telling her frantically. “Don’t leave Beatriz don’t leave me please. Please listen to me my life, please I adore you I love only you.” When the door opens, he releases her. Its Marcela, “what is going on here?” Betty tells them, “I am leaving.” Marcela is shocked to hear, Armando tells her. “No you can’t leave until we talk.” Marcela asks, “and what do you have to talk about? In that boardroom, everyone is waiting for you. They will be announcing the new president.”

Armando doesn’t even look at her, but at Betty. “Marcela this is extremely important.” Margarita arrives, “what is going on with you lot. Return both of you to the boardroom.” Armando doesn’t move, just continues to stare at Betty. Marcela tells her, “he doesn’t want to go.” Margarita tells him, “Armando please what do you pretend now?” Armando tells her, “mom mom look I’m sorry I’ll be right there in the boardroom. He stares at Betty, please wait for me so we can talk.” Margarita just watches the two, Betty tells him. “I’m leaving.” Marcela tells her, “yes leave that’s what I’m waiting for.” Reluctantly he leaves and closes the door. Betty’s phone rings, “hello presidency of Eco Moda.” Its Catalina, “hello Betty its Catalina Angel.” Betty tells her, “oh hello Dona Catalina how are you I’m heading home now.” Catalina tells her, “Betty did you give your resignations papers already?” Betty tells her, “yes in front of the entire council members.” Catalina asks, “how are you?” Betty tells her, “very bad Dona Catalina.” Catalina tells her, “look I’m truly sorry to hear that. Betty look are you still planning on travelling with me?” Betty tells her, “yes yes Dona Catalina.” Catalina tells her, “plans have changed Betty you see I’m no longer going to Miami it has been postponed. But I still need an assistant. Would you please come with me, to the beauty pageant in Cartagena?” Betty asks, “what I don’t understand?” Catalina tells her, “you will have to travel this afternoon. The thing is the person that was suppose to help me out. Well she got sick, I have to personally go myself to take charge of things Betty. I need an assistant. Are you sure you want to travel with me?” Betty tells her, “yes yes Dona Catalina what do I have to do?” Catalina tells her, “look just go home pack a few things. I’ll call you in say one hour, can I count on you Betty?” Betty tells her, “yes of course Dona Catalina I will waiting for your call thank you.” She hangs up, and picks up her things. She takes one last look at her office, and closes the door.

(Betty forgot all her small pictures from the wall.)

Outside the doors the girls are waiting. Sophia tells her, “oh Betty what happened?” Betty tells her, “oh not now girls I don’t want to talk now.” Aura Maria tells her, “what you first quit Eco Moda and you don’t tell us your friends why? You will leave and tell us nothing? Not even a goodbye at least.” Sophia asks, “do you detest us that much? Were we really bad friends of yours?” Betty tells them, “no its not that I really want to leave. Plus they want me to leave.” Aura Maria asks, “we will still see you tonight right just to have a goodbye party?” Betty tells them, “no for I am leaving for a trip.” Sophia tells her, “oh no Betty you can’t leave us like that. No right now you call at 911 in our office.” Aura Maria tells her, “yes yes.” She runs to the phone. Sophia stares at a very sad Betty.

In the boardroom, Roberto tells them. “Well everyone please suggest a name, then we can vote for our new president.” Armando is sitting in a corner. Margarita tells him, “the most logical one is that Daniel become the new president. Even though Armando, didn’t finish his year run at the presidency.” Daniel tells her, “oh how very lovely Margarita and that of the council. I am in charge of a company in ruins, in ashes as I recall that is what I warned all of you. At the beginning of his announcement as president. This is the disaster that Armando has given us. He is giving me a company in ruins, and plus I personally am ruined. If I accept this presidency, I will begin liquidating this company and that’s final.” Roberto tells him, “forget that Daniel that issue is now over and done with.” Marcela tells him, “if you don’t mind I want Roberto to return as president.”

Roberto tells her, “no my life is no longer here. My life is now in London.” Marcela tells him, “its just temporary when we really see clearly the situation her of Eco Moda.” Daniel utters, “what future?” Hugo asks, “if I may put my spoon in. I think its the sanest and lucid part of this whole council meeting. Marcela asks, “so does the council agree?” Maria Beatriz happily utters, “yes yes Roberto I accept.” Roberto tells them, “in this act I want everyone to note that it won’t be permanent its a limited period. We will find out, the road that Eco Moda will take. After we have discussed with the our lawyers, we will deal with two important matters. First is to pay off all the debt, second is to legally get back Eco Moda in our hands. After this matter has been resolved, then we will select once again a new president. Now sirs, now lets see the state the company that Armando left us.” Hugo tells him, “in what state but employable.” Everyone then gets to work.

Seventytwo-Eightyone

August 4, 2010 at 12:22 pm | Posted in betty la fea | Leave a comment
Tags: Yo soy bety la fea

Telenovela:  Yo soy Betty la Fea, or I am Ugly Betty.  Was created  and written by: Fernando Gaitan and Liliana  Hernandez.  This version is the first, it’s from Colombia and aired in 2000. This English translation, was done by me.  For entertainment purposes, no copyright infringement is implied.

Ana María Orozco Aristizábal, was born on July 4 1973. In Bogota Colombia, she is 6′. She comes from a show business family, and has done numerous movies and tv series. She’s been married twice. She was even married, to funny looking Hugo at one point but divorced him. Now she has one daughter, and now lives in Argentina. Ana of course is Betty.

SEVENTY-TWO

Sophia tells the ladies, “I just can’t believe this. He’s completely blind, he didn’t want to accept absolutely nothing. He didn’t even want to plan out, a different avenue with me everything is lost.” Ines tells her, “oh daughter how could you get your hopes up so high with Elfrain. He has never mentioned once reconciliation my dear. Not even an illusion of hope dear.” Bertha tells her, “you know perfectly well. That bandida has him chained up, wrapped up and bewitched. I don’t know, but accept the fact that it’s gone that money is now gone.” Sophia tells them, “no but I just had to give it one last chance. That’s was why, I decided to go to that audience.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Sophie come on fresh look all of us. Will help find you someone, handsome and delicious. Hopefully it will get rid of that cheque from your mind.” Mariana tells her, “yes but of course.” Freddy arrives with Jenny, and they are laughing and singing. Freddy tells them, “it’s a witches meeting good afternoon.” Jenny tells Sophia, “oh Dona Sophia you arrived. I had my cell phone off, I better call my sweet love right away.” Aura Maria tells Freddy, “oh lovely time that you’ve arrived.” Freddy tells the girls, “what did she say?” Sandra angrily tells him, “she said lovely time that you’ve arrived.” Freddy tells them, “excuse me but forgive me. I was doing my duties, the one which the company ordered me to fulfill. Since they confide in me so much. The problem was that my back seat was lovely adorned, filled with this lovely tender morsel. He lovingly looks at Jenny. Now that didn’t interrupt my daily routine of work. This was a lovely distraction, a lovely inspiration, a new way of life. Another part is… ”

Aura Maria interrupts him, “enough with the bull.” Freddy ignores her, Jenny just stares at her. Freddy asks, “what are you locusts talking about?” Sandra angrily goes towards him, “I want you to shut that mouth, and swallow that tongue of your. Shut that record up, shut up, disappear, and die even.” Freddy tells them, “but she never said that.” Sandra tells him, “but it was implied. Now I am telling you why.” She angrily pushes him, with her body Freddy asks.” What, why is all this form of aggression?” The cell phone rings, Jenny tells them. “Oh dear it’s my sweet love, I better answer it. Oh hi my sweet love, now don’t be so angry with me.” She talks and walks away. Sandra and Sophia are held back from strangling her. All of them look towards Freddy, he just utters. “Oh the look of death is upon me.” Freddy then enters the elevator.” He leaves, Sophia tells them. “Oh that wretched, here she is fooling with Freddy. While saying sweet nothings to that idiot Elfrain’s ear no.” Ines tells her, “dear just calm down. If that woman, is just with Elfrain because of his money. If she’s sweet talking Freddy, that woman is creating a domino effect. Sooner or later pow, it will fall. Just calm yourself down, and leave her alone.” Sophia utters crying, “yes Inesita.” Then she gets a hug.

Elfrain angrily tells Jenny, “now where were you. Who gave you the right? Why did you have your cell phone off? Why?” Jenny utters, “oh my sweet love. Calm down my sweet love let me explain. The reason I turned off the cell phone, was because I wanted you to fix your problems with Dona Sophia. I was also so afraid, that you were going to call me. Telling me we were through, my sweet love I just wanted to die. I wanted to disappear from this life. I got the bad impression you were going to leave me. I thought, I would never see you my sweet love.” Elfrain soften and says, “oh my skinny one is that why oh my heart. How could you think such a thought, that I would leave you. I would never do such a thing. That meeting was just uninformed meeting, nothing of importance. I told you that my love, nothing has occurred ok.” Jenny tells him, “oh my love this news makes me so happy. Oh you have lifted this weight over me, now I am so relaxed my sky.” Elfrain tells her, “oh my sweet love, calm down and go back to work alright. I will pick you up tonight.” Jenny tells him, “alright my sweet love I love you so much.” She starts sending him kisses. Hugo comes by, “oh that was disgusting.” Jenny tells him, “sorry Don Hugo. So how are you?” Hugo tells her, “how am I? Happy jumping with euphoria, with lots of exuberant. Screaming through the streets, and you know why I am so happy. I have to give the new collection to the council yesterday. I am behind with them, first part I have no seamstress nor a model. Nor those women over there, they are useless their like earthworms.” Ines arrives and ignores him completely, and gets back to work. He continues ranting away. “What they needed is a very strong man, to put them in their places. That’s why I work alone, enjoy myself alone, and design alone. I am constantly alone, now then what I really need now is my own model. Can you believe this?”

Ines tells him, “oh Don Hugo I am here now just relax.” Hugo tells her, “and how does that help me out. What were going to play domino, have you give me a manicure. Or let’s talk about our boyfriends.” Ines tells him, “look Don Hugo I just left for a little while because Sophia had a problem. I went to see if I could help her out, that’s all now I am here.” Hugo tells her, “well then just because that witch is suffering isn’t my problem. I have tons of problems.” Ines just looks upwards, he continues. “One problem that I have is young and beautiful, the other old and he laughs. Ines angrily looks at him. My it seems both of you, have the same problem her name is Sophia. I have one idea, let’s get an arrangement. Let Eco Moda and Sophia to pay your salary, since you being here with me isn’t working out. They will fix all of Sophia’s problems, and then they could fix all the problems. We have here in this department. Where of course you work in, are you happy now. I now have a migraine. He takes off and tells the girls, never touch this fabric.” He takes it away, and leaves the room. Ines makes a face, while Jenny tells her. “Inesita.” She goes, “what?” Jenny asks, “I was wondering how did things go with Dona Sophia I have been so worried.” Ines tells her, “she’s doing quite well she will properly divorce Elfrain. Oh but, let me tell you something. They have to part their personal affects. I hope that makes you happy.” Ines then gets back to work. Jenny utters, “what do you mean part their personal affects.”

Patricia tells Marcela, “all right everything is set. We now have the car, they will give it too me around 6pm. I go get it, and come back to pick you up. Then we wait outside, till Armando leaves. What what’s wrong, don’t tell you you’ve changed your mind.” Marcela tells her, “no I am just afraid.” Patricia asks, “of what that we get discovered. Oh no Marcee, look I already checked and re-checked every precaution just in case something happens. I have this pill, I take just in case were caught. I take it before he screams, hits me and strangles me.” Marcela tells her, “I am not afraid if he catches us. Something worse, I am afraid of getting to know that woman.”

The phone rings, Sophia doesn’t get it. So Bertha gets it, its Betty’s mom Julia. “Oh hello there, you’re speaking with Bertha De Gonzales. Who are you looking for?” Julia tells her, “well good afternoon my name is Julia Solano Pinzon Betty’s mother. Beatriz Solano Pinzon, the assistant to the president.” Bertha tells her, “oh yes senora but of course oh how are you today.” Julia tells her, “I am well thank you Dona Bertha. Now the reason I’m calling is, since your one of Betica’s friends from the company. You know that Betty’s is having a birthday today. Well her father wants to give her, a small party here at her home. He wants to celebrate with her friends, and work colleagues even the executives if they like to come.” Bertha tells her, “oh thank you Dona Julia so much for the invitation.” Julia tells her, “I am quite embarrassed Bertha. Since you all invited her already, to a night out to celebrate her special day.” Bertha looks confused, “who?” Julia tells her, “well all of you her friends. That’s what she told us, when she called here.” Bertha tells her, “you know Dona Julia I wasn’t aware of any gathering tonight. She looks angrily at Sophia, whose busy working. Well I guess they arranged everything, and forgot to tell me.” Julia tells her, “well the thing is her father doesn’t want her going out tonight. He would like to celebrate here at our home. Would you please inform everyone, I will contact you later this afternoon.” Bertha tells her, “yes of course Dona Julia I will tell everyone well goodbye.”

Bertha is quite curious and angry at the girls, for not informing her. Sophia asks, “what is wrong with you? Come on Bertha, what’s wrong with you?” Bertha sarcastically tells her, “me nothing is going on with me. I just wanted to asks, what is wrong with everyone.” Sophia asks, “who?” Bertha tells her, “everyone you lot of betrayers.” Sophia asks, “what are you talking about. I don’t understand a thing.” Bertha tells her, “oh act like an idiot. She angrily gets up from her chair. I caught the lot of you, it seems all of you have made plans to leave tonight. So you all can celebrate Betty’s birthday without me. Patricia is curious, and watches them. Well you know what, your plan failed for her father won’t allow her to go out tonight. Ha ha ha.” Sophia asks, “and what is that too me. Have you lost it or what? You know what, I don’t think that diet is working. You seem too be gaining more weight, get yourself a snack and calm yourself down.” Bertha grabs her snacks, and utters. “You will respect me, don’t talk about my diet or call me fat. Oh here you go, there yours. Sophia just stares at the snacks, and then turns to look at her. Go and eat it tonight, and have a great time without me.” Patricia tells them, “you two this isn’t a farmers market that you two can start fighting. Stop screaming, you’re interrupting those that were working.” Sandra and Mariana come running towards them. Bertha screams, “you there get back to work and don’t mess with me. Maybe when you have a free time, get yourself a boyfriend. You useless woman.” Mariana and Sandra utter, “what is wrong with this one?” Angrily Bertha looks at them, “all of you are traitors. Don’t you dare talk to me, you there tell them what happened.” Mariana asks Sophia, “what is up with her Sophia. She’s like, gone crazy.” Sophia tells them,  “I don’t have a clue. That’s what I want to know. What is going on?” Bertha tells them, “yes continue being the crazies ones. That you lot are going tonight, to celebrate Betty’s birthday without me. A delicious plan, one in which I wasn’t invited. Thank you yes, I am grateful for the invitation.”

Mariana glances over at Sandra, and utters. “What party is she talking about?” Patricia has gotten closer. Sandra tells her, “where did you get that from. Have you gone crazy?” Mariana utters, “what party?” Bertha tells them, “yes I am crazy I invented everything. Betty’s mom just called me, and told me everything. That her work friends, had invited her out tonight.” Sandra tells her, “well I wasn’t invited.” Mariana tells her, “neither was I. I was blanked out completely.” Patricia leaves and comes back but watches intently. Sophia tells them, “well then it’s all my fault now I was the one that arranged everything. Me going out with Betty, to celebrate her birthday hiding from the lot of you. How beautiful, remember Betty told us that she has plans to go out with her boyfriend tonight. Or did I make this up.” Sandra tells them, “yes we must talk to Betty to find out what’s going on.” Bertha angrily says, “yes that’s a great idea. Call her, advise her tell her that I found out everything. Oh yes, see how they hide everything from Bertha. You know what I have discovered, is that all of you are jealous because I am happily married. With a good husband, that treats me well. That I have to asks for permission, you lot are bitter. Especially this one, that’s just now separated. Now you two both spinsters. Well thank you, I never want to go out with you guys ever again.” Then she acts like a child, and covers her ears and goes towards Gutierrez’s door.

Sophia tells her, “now Bertha you calm down and rest. I will call Betty.” She heads to her phone. Sandra tells her, “what the police has gotten drunk.” Mariana tells her, “oh it’s her indigestion that will now explode. Oh what stress with you.” Sophia yells out, “Betty.” Betty tells her, “what’s wrong Sophia I’m on my way. Out in the corridor, Betty sees them all. What is going on?” Sophia goes over to Bertha, takes her hands off her ears and turns her around. “Now Betty in front of everyone, I would like you to tell us what group of friends invited you out tonight.” Betty asks, “nobody why?” Bertha tells her, “oh nobody keep on denying it relax.” Sophia tells her, “well this one here talked to your mother. Apparently you told her, that you were going to be late tonight because you were going to go out with a group of friends from the office. This dame here, is furious that she wasn’t invited. She thinks were creating this mess, just so we won’t invite her.” Betty asks, “what do you mean my mom called?” Bertha finally talks, she tells her. “Well yes she called to say, you were going to go out with some friends tonight. But you father won’t let you go out, and wants to have a small party at your house instead. But you’re not allowed to go out tonight.” Sandra asks, “Betty weren’t you going out with your boyfriend tonight?” Mariana asks, “so what happened?”

Betty looks very guilty, and tells them. “Oh great this has become quite the mess. You see I told them that, because well they don’t know that I have a boyfriend yet. I’m sorry I should have mentioned it too you all, but I didn’t think my mom would be calling here.” Patricia now has come closer to them. Sophia asks, “so that means you used us as an alibi. She then looks over to Bertha. You who called us all traitors, spinsters and me separated. So do you realize what you did Bertha, you went too far. Your tongue is faster than your thoughts.” Bertha tells her, “yes but you’re the one that called me fat and a pig. They all smile once more, that’s when Sandra notices Patricia by her side. Bertha tells them, look everyone I am sorry I will try to find out before hand. If the gossip I hear, is real before telling you all. Look dear, you have to talk to your father because he won’t let you leave tonight.” Sandra tells Patricia, “and you what are you doing over here. What are you listening at? We here are talking about boyfriends. Well since you don’t have one, well your the odd man out. Now get out, disappear now.” Patricia angrily turns and throws her hair in Sandra’s face. Bertha utters, “so do you forgive me?” Sandra tells her, “man you’re faster than a comet.”

Betty heads back to her office, and quickly makes a call. Betty tells her mom, “hi mom what’s going on at home. Why are you organizing a party for tonight, I already made plans.” Julia tells her,” well that is going to be complicated dear. Well your father found out, you were heading out tonight with your friends. He said no, and now he wants to prepare a party for you here at home.” Betty tells her, “oh mom don’t let him do that. How about this weekend?” Julia tells her, “no dear it’s too late your father already bought everything. He is fixing the house, he’s not letting Nicholas do his job.” Betty utters, “oh mom please.” Julia tells her, “Betica if you like you can try talking to him.” Betty tells her, “look mom just leave everything as it is for now. I know how he gets.” Julia tells her, “why don’t you just come by here tonight. You can have some drinks, you can have some food here, have a small dance.” Nicholas tells her, “I will bring my favourite cds its a party.” Julia tells her, “your father said you can invite everyone. Like Don Armando, and all the executives. We are making the house very nice.” That’s when Nicholas bumps into Hermes, and pops some balloons. Betty just utters, “oh mom I will call you back.” She takes a deep breath and goes to see Armando.

Armando is working, and sees Betty. “What wrong?” Betty tells him, “sir well around what time are we going out tonight.” Armando tells her, “well around 7pm Betty. What is with that face, of doubt and fear what is bothering you. Do tell me?” Betty tells him, “well the thing is my parents are arranging a party for me tonight at my house. They invited everyone here, even you.” Armando tells her, “what you’re going to get me mixed in with the group of uglies. The women who are so gossipy, in the entire company of Eco Moda at your house. To celebrate your birthday, it just bores me even thinking of spending the night with them all. I don’t even celebrate mine, plus I wouldn’t even invite them to my house. Look you have your meeting, then go ahead be with them. Let’s just forget our evening out, just forget about it.” Betty tells him, “oh no sir lets not forget it. You are the first with me, I prefer to go out with you sir.” Armando tells her, “look I already told you that I don’t mind one bit. We can go out another night, don’t you worry about it.” Betty tells him, “sir I will fix everything don’t you worry about it.” Armando just utters, “Betty Betty.”

Betty heads out to see the girls, they are talking about the night. Mariana tells them, “well I like Merengue music and valenato.” Sophia asks, “so did you talk to your mother. Is the party going to be cancelled?” Betty tells them all, “no in fact my father is fixing the house up. I have to go to that party, or else he will be furious.” Bertha tells them, “I told you it won’t stop that party. I’ll be right back I have tons too do.” Betty tells them, “look I am going to asks one special favour. I can’t blow my father off, but I also don’t want to cancel my night with Nicholas. I want to really see him tonight.” Mariana asks, “oh Betty so what do you want us to do?” Betty tells them, “lets make it a small party finish it around 10pm. Does that sound alright?” Sophia tells her, “no I don’t mind.” Mariana tells her, “I don’t mind either.” Sandra utters, “me either.” Then you hear Bertha saying, invite everyone. Sophia tells her, “that one will be bothered.” Betty asks, “why?” Sophia tells them, “well because your mom wanted to invite everyone. That is what she’s doing.” Betty utters, “oh no.” Sophia tells her, “you better stop it.” Betty goes over to Bertha, she telling someone. “Bring your boyfriend, lover husband who ever. Look the party will be for Betty’s, the presidents assistance it will be fabulous. Lots of food, lots of liquors. I promise you, Betty tries to stop her but she keeps talking. No her mother told me to invite everyone, any problems just call me Bertha de Gonzales in Human Resources.” Betty tells her, “Bertha listen to me.” Bertha asks, “wait a minute Betty what’s your address.” Betty asks, “who are you inviting?” Bertha tells her, “I was inviting the girls of the systems, production, and all the secretaries.” Betty tells her, “no you can’t invite all those people. It’s a more discreet party, I want just really close people.” Bertha tells her, “but it’s going to be a few.” Betty tells her, “no no no the only ones going are you girls. Now say goodbye to those people.” Then she heads back to see Armando. Bertha looks at the girls, and asks. “So what kind of party is this? Oh Martica look problem, no party the dad got sick. I guess no celebration today for her birthday today.” The girls just start laughing.

Betty tells Armando, “everything is fixed were going to leave here at 7pm. The party should end around 10pm then we can go out. If you like tell me, where you want to meet.” Armando utters, “well I what well. Betty look it’s not necessary, you don’t have to do all of this. I well yes this is your birthday you’re making me feel bad. The cake will be at your house, no I don’t know.” Betty tells him, “no no no I have already talked to the whole world. I talked to my family and the girls. Everything has been fixed.” Armando is stunned, and just utters. “Alright but I feel pity.” Betty sadly tells him, “well then sir I won’t insist anymore excuse me.” Armando then tells her, “no no look Betty come over here. What time do you want me to pick you up?” Betty tells him, “no sir you don’t have to bother.” Armando repeats, “at what time do you want me to pick you up?” Betty tells him, “around 10pm thank you sir.” Happily she heads to her office, Armando makes a face.

At the house, the party is set. Nicholas wants to sample some of the food Hermes hits him in the hand. Hermes tells them, “well then everything is set. I just hope, that cake you brought from your mom’s bakery is good and fine. Not the same, that you can buy at those grocery stores.” Nicholas tells him, “relax sir I’m heading home and getting fixed up. I want to look elegant, so I can meet Betty’s friends tonight.” Then he laughs, Hermes tells Julia. “Him elegant Julia, him getting elegant now that’s impossible.” Nicholas tells him, “don’t you believe it. My dad left behind some nice British suits, not the transparent outfits you wear.” Hermes tells him, “well what transparent outfit are you talking about. My clothes aren’t transparent. Julia just smiles and fixes the table. You will respect me please.” Nicholas tells him, “well the thing is Dona Julia is always ironing your clothes. You really should go to a gym.” Julia tells them, “well then dear I’ll get your suit. I’ll iron it as well.” Nicholas tells her, “yes the one that makes him look like he’s going to a funeral.” Nicholas tries once more to eat a snack, and gets stopped by Hermes. Nicholas takes his hand, “oh were going to dance tonight.” Hermes tells him, “enough you idiot go home to your mother it’s late.” Nicolas smiling tells them, “see you tonight.” Julia asks, “Nicholas what are we going to do with that picture frame? Betty won’t like that being there, with her friends being here and all.” Nicholas tells her, “oh good that you reminded me. It’s the photo of my love, I’m not leaving you alone my love. He kisses it then puts it in the drawer. You go in here in your bedroom, rest tonight. Don’t catch a cold goodnight, and get some rest. You don’t think that Betty invited her tonight?” Julia just sighs and Nicholas tells them, “no more violence goodbye.”

Patricia heads to see Marcela, now the car is out in front. Marcela asks, “what’s in the bag?” Patricia tells her, “our disguises. Patricia rolls up her hair, and puts on the hat as does Marcela. Nobody will find out who we are.” Marcela tells her, “oh come on we look like a bunch of fools. This pair of glasses, look like the ones Beatriz wears. I won’t put that on.” Patricia tells her, “well find then dear it’s up too you. Go as you are, but nobody will recognize me. If they do, I have a fake name and accent. She does the impression, my name is Lopez I come from Nawada no my dear. So what time are we going?” Marcela tells her, “I have to ask Armando?”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Armando is by the boardroom talking with Mario. “Oh you should have seen how furious Marcela was today. I just went blank thinking, where I was going out too tonight.” Mario tells him, “but didn’t you have a cocktail tonight that you could have mentioned. Or something for tonight.” Armando tells him, “but I had nothing I’m telling you she just showed up today by surprise. She wants to go to Le Nou collections tonight. What could have I said?” Mario tells him, “oh how unprofessional of you. You know this fake relationship with Betty is affecting you so very much.” Armando tells him, “don’t say anymore. I just couldn’t get rid of Betty, I have to go pick her up at her house tonight around 10 pm. Can you believe that? Oh delicious what horror. Mario just laughs, look tell me, help me, what am I…” )

Armando tells Mario, “what the hell am I going to tell Marcela to get rid of her tonight. So she can believe me.” Mario tells him, “tell her the truth that you going to see Betty tonight. The best way to sell a lie, is to to put make-up with a little bit of the truth. Tell her, Betty my assistant is very important to me. I want to thank her for everything, that she does so were going to go out to dinner tonight.” Armando tells him, “oh don’t be stupid come on Marcela isn’t stupid. She’s not going to believe it, or permit it.” Mario tells him, “well then tell him that you intend to go by Betty’s house tonight. Just to say hello, Marcela will understand sometimes she shows a soft side. A humanitarian side, really that’s incredible. That way you’re more relaxed, and you don’t have to lie. I know I know, invite Marcela and both of you go can go to Betty’s house. At least this way, she can’t say you don’t take her anywhere. Armando just shakes his head, and puts it on his shoulder. Come on its round.”

Betty comes out of her office, and Mario tells him. “Well we will talk tomorrow bye.” Armando looks towards Betty, she tells him. “Well sir, I am heading home now at 10pm.” Armando tells her, “yes at 10pm Betty. That’s the time I will be waiting for you, in front of your house. When I arrive, I will call you on my cell phone.” Betty smiling tells him, “well then sir see you later tonight.” Armando glances at her and utters, “see you beautiful.” He winks at her, and Betty smiles and leaves. Armando then puts a face, like oh my god. Out in the corridor, Betty tells them. “Well then let’s go.” Sophia tells her, “wait for a minute Bertha is asking for permission.” Bertha tells gordito, “yes Gordito I should be home around 10pm. Me get home drunk, no when was this. Oh no then you know what. Come and pick me up, no my love don’t be that way. No I don’t have the address, look once I arrive there I will call you with the address. You can pick me up, ok love don’t get me angry love you kiss bye.” Ines comes running towards them, looking back to the studio. Ines tells them, “alright let’s go now I’m ready.” Bertha tells them, “no no no we should head to the washroom. Fix ourselves up, we don’t want to arrive looking like a bunch of crazies.” Hugo comes by, and sees Ines. “Well you young thing, and where are you going?” Ines tells him, “I have done my job and now I am heading home.” Hugo utters, “well look at this woman telling me what’s what. Have you jumped off your wagon or what.” Ines tells him, “no not like you’ve have.” Hugo utters, “what is this you’re going out clubbing? Listen young thing, you have a lot of work to finish up back there.”

Ines tells him, “Don Hugo I have finished my job for today. I have an engagement, and I have to leave. I am going right now right now, look I’m gone.” Hugo asks, “what is so important why aren’t you inviting me where are you going?” Ines tells him, “of course Don Hugo your invited we are all going to Betty’s house to celebrate her birthday. Care to come along.” Hugo just laughs, “one minute let’s see there’s a party over at Betty’s house. All you uglies will be there?” Ines tells him, “why yes.” Hugo tells them, “oh no I would rather go to a congress party. There’s a party that frightens you, but doesn’t scare you. I wouldn’t call that a party either, or a birthday party. I would consider it a Halloween party. A night of fright full of skeletons, witches, all the window all broken. Well then Inesita go, but don’t be hung-over tomorrow. From what I hear every time you lot go out, all of you arrive completely hung over the next day.” All of the utter, “when was this?” Hugo tells them, “well no then have a good time.” Sophia is ready to head out, when she gets grabbed by Hugo. Sophia asks, “what is wrong now?” Hugo tells her, “now then be extra careful with this outfit. It’s an exclusive Lombardi.” Sophia tells him, “look Don Hugo don’t be such a spoils sport. I will take this to the cleaners, and bring it back first thing tomorrow morning. It will smell like roses.” Hugo tells her, “its probably going to smell like wilted flowers.” Ines tells him, “oh enough Sophia don’t pay him any attention he is a spoils sport.” Hugo tells her, “I could be a spoils sport but I look fabulous. Oh a party at Betty’s places yucky.”

Bertha runs over to Sandra and Mariana and says, “come on girls lets fix ourselves up before heading out.” Patricia laughing tells her, “you lot fixing yourselves. You lot fixing yourselves up, what you lot need is a full reconstructive surgery. Who or why are you fixing yourself up for? So you can look good staring at one another. Or do you lot just hate to see yourselves this way.” Sandra tells her, “look chicken legs at least tonight we have a party to go too. Not like some other people, that are stuck shutting themselves up in their apartments. Crying like the abandoned ones.” Then they all laugh.

Patricia tells them, “well then I would rather head out to my apartment alone than be at one of your parties.” Sandra utters, “oh really.” Marcela comes by, and asks. “What is going on here?” Patricia tells her, “well Marcee. These are making fun of me, because we weren’t invited to Betty’s party.” Bertha tells her, “oh yes that’s true we didn’t invite her but you Dona Marcela are invited. Isn’t that right Betty?” Betty utters, “yes Dona Marcela you are invited to my home.” Marcela tells her, “oh no what an emotional invitation so full of joy and happiness. You know what Beatriz, I would rather head home to my home and sleep.” Then she walks towards Armando’s office. Sandra calls Patricia, “you snoop.” Ines tells them, “come on lets get a touch up.”

Marcela finds Armando working away, “well hello.” Armando tells her, “my love good that your here I just wanted to tell you.” Marcela tells her, “you don’t have to say a thing. Don’t worry, you can go to your meeting. You don’t have to force yourself, to tell me where you’re going tonight. Or with whom you’re going out with.” Armando tells her, “well ok look I just wanted to tell you where I’d be. I am going to Betty’s house.” Marcela tells him, “what you’re going to go to that cave.” Armando tells her, “but she’s my assistant love. It’s her birthday, she’s my right hand person. I have too go.” Marcela tells her, “yes of course she’s your right hand, your eyes, your alley, you’re everything.” Armando tells her, “see that’s why I didn’t want to tell you. I knew that would be the reaction you would make, look what are we going to do then. I have to congratulate her. If you like me not to go, then fine then. The problem will fix itself there.” She just laughs, “don’t be so ridiculous please. Look I didn’t come her to argue with you, I just wanted you to relax for I’m not going to disturb you ok.” Armando tells her, “ok.” Marcela tells him, “well see you tomorrow my love I’m going to see Hugo.” She kisses him, and leaves. He tells her, “yes see you tomorrow love. We will talk tomorrow. When she’s gone he utters, what is up with her why is she so loving?”

Betty tells them all, “alright everyone lets go.” Mariana utters, “Betty’s in such a rush.” Bertha tells them, “now don’t push.” Mariana heads to the elevator and finds Aura Maria coming out. They do a dance, and Aura Maria utters. “So are we ready, to going out clubbing tonight?” All of them smile. Betty tells her, “oh Aura Maria don’t tell me you’re also going to fix yourself up. We haven’t been able to leave yet, because they were fixing themselves up.” Aura Maria tells them, “oh no well I don’t bother unless I know there’s a great looking man waiting for me.” Betty laughing tells her, “the only man there will be my father.” Everyone laughs, and Sandra looks disappointedly. Aura Maria asks, “what tonight you won’t introduce us to your boyfriend?” Betty tells them, “well the thing is Nicholas is a very timid man. He will be picking me up later tonight, when he arrives he will honk his horn for me to come out.” Aura Maria takes her aside and asks, “Betty are you ready for tonight to be with your boyfriend?” Betty tells her, “oh Aura Maria.” Aura Maria tells her, “look Betty honey charge your batteries. You can’t be acting all stupid, you have to do something tonight.” Freddy comes by, and tells Jenny. “Follow me my sculptured Greek model. Excuse me Patty, I am going to write down the cinema place. I will be taking you one day alright.” Aura Maria tells Betty, “why don’t you invite Freddy?” Betty tells them, “no but it’s only a party with women.” Aura Maria tells her, “no it’s a meeting of work colleagues. At least he will there, so we can flirt. Mariana looks over at Sandra. Aura Maria asks, come on invite that idiot.” Betty then motions Freddy over, he says. “Tell me. He gives the paper to Jenny and utters, excuse me one second. Well tell me happy birthday to you.” Betty tells him, “well my parents are having a small gathering to celebrate my birthday. Would you care to come along?” Freddy asks, “are all of these prestigious women invited. They all nod, and he utter yes. He runs towards Jenny, my dear Jenny would you like to come to a party full of balloons and streamers. Everyone is shocked, and stares. The party will be at Betty’s Pinzon’s place.” Jenny tells him, “oh Freddy thank you it sounds divine. But I can’t go, my sweet love will be picking me up.  I would love to enjoy a night out with all of you. Especially with you Dona Sophia, well you must understand when one has a relationship. One must give that top priority, well thank you for it anyway. Betty have a great birthday.” Freddy tells them, “excuse me ladies I will press the button elevator.” Betty asks, “and Betty what you’re coming?”

Patricia tells him, “yes Freddy are you going to the party. Don’t be cruel Freddy, you have to go for apparently you’re going to be the only male there. If you don’t go, what man will be there?” Freddy tells her, “excuse me Patricia my presence there will be monumental. To the girls, attendance will be quite the honour. I know everything about food, liquors. My presence there will be to give the party, happiness, and joy. Freddy Contreras, happily accepts the invitation and won’t miss it for the world. Now then Jenny onward, and she walks in the elevator. Freddy then says, well girls all get in.” Aura Maria calls him, “idiot.” Sandra puts her arm around him, ready to strangle him. “Oh yes, your such a kind heart-warming fellow just to remind you. The elevator is for everybody’s use, it’s for all the employees of the company.” Mariana screams in his ear, “yes.” Freddy hits Sandra’s hand, “no sexual harassment ladies.” Sandra releases him, and tells him. “Oh dream on papito.” Freddy tells them, “well then if you’re not going to go in this one. You’re going to all have to wait, for the next one. This one is for my lovely Jenny.” Everyone groans. Betty sees Marcela approaching and tells them. “Come on lets all go once and for all.” They all beat up on Freddy, and he ends up on the floor. He just sings a song, and the elevator doors close.

Marcela looks over to Patricia, Patricia utters. “Oh what a circus. She turns and jumps at seeing Marcela. Oh Marcee, so what did Armando tell you?” Marcela tells her, “you’ll never guess what he told me. Image the meeting that he has, is too go to Beatriz’s birthday party. You saw that lot, and their show.” Patricia tells her, “I just don’t believe you Marcee. Armando Mendoza heading to that idiot assistant birthday party. Oh Marcee so does that mean, were not going to follow him tonight?” Marcela tells her, “on the contrary you idiot. It’s now more important than ever to follow him, going to her place this is all a ruse.” Patricia tells her, “yes senora you’re correct I was thinking the same thing Marcee. So what time is he leaving?” Marcela tells her, “since all the distinguished people are heading out there now. It shouldn’t be that long, for him to leave as well. He will make his pantomime act, towards her place. Come on get ready, where going to go now.” Then both rush to get their belongings.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Armando is lening against a wall, “man the truth is how boring I’m stuck waiting here till 10pm. To wait till I can pick up that woman.” Mario tells him, “oh no don’t wait here.” Armando tells him, “well what else can I do?” Mario tells him, “come come my esteem friend. Lets go together, I am inviting you for some drinks till 10 tonight. Just relax alright.” Armando grabs his jacket, “oh you feel sorry for me?” Mario tells him, “well yes.” Armando tells him, “well at last.” Mario tells him, “I felt tenderness for you.” Armando tells him, “so you have tender feelings for me. Well come on then.” Mario tells him, “don’t you worry have confidence in me.” Armando tells him, “oh too confide in me. Everytime I have confided in you, it has costed me blood and money. Or nights filled with repercussions.” Mario tells him, “well at least comb your hair Mr. President.”)

Outside the girls are standing waiting, Sophia asks Wilson. “Go hail us a taxi, the one we asked for hasn’t arrived yet. Being out here stinks.” Wilson tells her, “immediately.” Aura Maria utters, “that one’s perfume went bad.” Jenny utters, “a taxi to take all of you. It looks like you will have to sit one atop the other.” Ines tells her, “don’t be such a meddler its none of your business.” Freddy tells them, “exactly that’s what I thought. Bertha gets off, and there will be room for anybody.” Bertha utters, “wait one minute you will respect me. The one leaving from that car, is you you messenger.” Freddy tells them, “well don’t exaggerate I am going on my bike.” Jenny tells them, “if you like my sweet love can take some of you to Betty’s house. Everyone is shocked, you know that my sweet love is a very attentive man.” Sophia utters, “are you offering my car?” Jenny tells her, “oh it’s not your car Dona Sophia but my sweet love’s car.” Sophia tells her, “you know what mamita. For now that car still belongs to me, 50% of it anyways. Don’t offer what’s not yours. Don’t be impudence, if you want your own car work like everyone else. Instead of sleeping with other women’s men’s. You woman without shame.” Then every one begins insulting her. Aura Maria calls her, “abuser.” Sandra tells her, ” equalizer.” Mariana tells her, “user.” Bertha tells her, “well you Bertida.” Jenny utters, “all of you are.. Freddy holds her back, and then a car show up. It’s fortunate that he’s here for me, it was starting to get ugly and rude. We will talk tomorrow ok.” Then she walks towards the car. Everyone howls.

In the car, she says “hello my sweet love.” Elfrain tells her, “what were you doing over there talking to Sophia.” Jenny gives him a big kiss and tells him. “Relax love, we were talking about you. Of your separation, that you will part your properties.” Elfrain utters, “what?” Jenny tells him, “so will you give half of your things to her. So does that mean, half the house is yours?” Elfrain asks, “what are you talking about?” Jenny tells him, “the house skinny.” Elfrain tells her, “my love I won’t be taking anything from that woman.” Jenny tells him, “well that is stupid of you dear. She is considering taking away your car. That’s what she was telling me right now.” Elfrain frightened and tells her, “its best we leave from here. Come let’s go.” They take off. Sandra tells Sophia, “Sophia there goes half of your property with that tramp.” Then Sophia starts crying yet again. Wilson tells them, “batteries girls there’s your taxi coming. Come on get ready, and he opens the door. One by one they get in, and Wilson tells her. Well miss Betty, have a nice time at your party. Have a delicious time.” Betty asks, “thank you oh Wilson what time do you get off?” Wilson tells her, “I’m almost done. Freddy please take Wilson, on your bike to my house. He’s invited to my party.” Wilson tells her, “oh thank you your so kind madam you’re lovely. Wilson closes the door, and they leave. Wilson begins to dance, were going to dance the night away.” Freddy asks, “what and you are going like this. Look will go back inside, get fixed up and go to the party.”

Patricia and Marcela head outside, Freddy tells them. “Yes Dona Marcela Patty may the night mantle, cover you up tonight.” Marcela tells him, “yes thank you have a nice evening.” Freddy then sings and dances, and both head inside. After they leave, Marcela asks. “Which car is it?” Patricia tells her, “that one over there. Hurry I don’t want them, to see us getting in that car.” They run and get in, just in time to see Armando and Mario driving out of the parking lot. The cars go around the corner, and Marcela and Patricia watch as they go by. Marcela tells Patricia, “ok hurry up Armando is heading out with Mario. Follow them, tonight will be a very long night for the both of us. Follow them quickly.”

(I think Patricia seems more intelligent with those glasses.)

At Betty’s house, Julia is fixing her dress. Hermes tells her, “oh this is costing me a bundle. Look at you, wasting your money on that hairdo. Besides have some consideration, you look indecent let me tell you.” Julia just fixes her hair, Betty arrives. “Good evening, and all of them enter. Hermes welcomes them inside. Betty tells them, they are my friends from Eco Moda. These are my parents.” The girls say “hello.” Hermes tells them, “yes remember we’ve met before. The time when I had to pick up my drunken daughter, at that discotheque club.” Julia looks at him disapprovingly, Betty smiling utters. “Oh dad.” Julia tells him, “Hermes that has passed. We haven’t introduced ourselves, my name is Julia Solano Pinzon. Welcome all of you.” The girls all smile, and say “hello” to her very politely.  Betty tells them, “this is Inesita de Ramirez. She works alongside Hugo Lombardi, the designer of Eco Moda.” Ines shakes their hands, “oh hello nice to meet you.” Hermes asks, “nice to meet you as well. Excuse me for asking, and your husband where is he?” Betty utters, “dad.” Ines smiling tells him, “you might say I am separated.” Sophia utters, “she was abandon.” Ines tells them, “well anyway at this point in my life the man of the house. I don’t know, if he’s alive or dead.” The girls just laugh, Ines moves to the back Betty tells them. “This is Sophia de Rodriguez, and she the secretary of the finance. Please don’t mention her husband.” Sophia shakes their hands, Sandra utters. “De Rodriguez someone else has him.” Sophia gives her a dirty look. Mariana utters, “oh Sandra.” Sophia heads to the back, and Hermes asks. “She too separated.” Betty tells him, “yes dad.” Hermes asks, “what are all of them separated?” Julia just smiles, as Hermes glares at her.

(Ines’s name gets changed, its written as Ines Pena De Gomez.)

Bertha tells him, “no sir that’s not it I am happily married. Nice to meet you.” Hermes happily shakes her hand, “as does Julia.” Betty tells them, she’s Bertha de Gonzalez she’s the secretary of the head of Human Resources.” Hermes tells her, “well I guess I don’t have to worry about asking about your husband.” Bertha tells them, “oh he’s at home with our kids. Oh he must be furious with me that reminds me, could I use your phone so I can call home.” Betty tells her, “oh Bertha it’s around the corner.” Bertha utters, “excuse me.” Aura Maria asks, “oh see how my baby is doing?” Bertha tells her, “alright.” Hermes tells her, “well then that means you’re not separated. You have a baby that is good.” Betty tells them, “he’s no baby. Aura Maria has a son that’s seven years old. His name is Jimmy, and now is staying at Bertha house. Aura Maria Fuentes, is our receptionist at Eco Moda.” Aura Maria shakes their hands, Hermes asks. “And the father?” Betty tells him, “don’t ask about the father.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh Don Hermes I am a single parent.” Julia just smiles nervously and Hermes utters, “ok.” Then she turns, and Hermes stares at her butt. Mariana tells him, “Don Hermes we two are the last of the group. We are both single girls, of the company.” Sandra tells them, “well were spinsters because some of us have boyfriends. Betty gets nervous. Sandra continues, well the single ones are us three.” Betty tells them, “she is Mariana Valdes the secretary of Dona Marcela Valencia.” She shakes their hands, Betty tells them. “She is Sandra Patino, she’s the secretary of the vice president of commerce.” Sandra shakes his hand firmly. Hermes releases it and utters, “yes nice to meet the two of you.” Julia just smiles, Hermes tells them. “I am not in agreement, with you being spinsters. You are just starting to be… ” Sophia utters, “to be spinsters.”

Hermes tells them, “please senora beginning to live. Sooner or later, you will find someone that will make you happy. Someone that will value you, and respect you.” Sandra tells them, “all we need is a man that values us motioning money. We will be just right, and very happy.” Mariana gives her a look of disapproval. Betty then exclaims, “so we are all called the group of uglies.” All of them laugh, except Julia and Hermes. Hermes asks, “what is this name group of uglies?” Aura Maria tells him, “well when Hugo Lombardi the designer arrived he began calling us that. Ugly dressed, bad manners, and such that in the end. We were told, we were the group of uglies and it stuck.” Hermes asks, “and what kind of man is this man?” Sophia tells him, “well he’s not really a man.” Betty tells them, “well he’s not a human being. He’s a detestable man.” Hermes tells them, “yes from what I’m hearing. Why call you lot, like that no sir.” Julia tells them, “how could he call you that you are all so lovely.” Sandra tells Betty, “oh Betty your parents are adorable.” Mariana tells her, “yes their loveable.” Betty just smiles and laughs. Bertha returns, and says. “My gordito is great and relaxed, Jimmy is playing with my Juan Carlos, they played then fought and had a great time. Oh he’s coming later tonight to pick us up.” Aura Maria tells them, “well then let’s begin the festivities.” Julia tells them, “well then please sit down you are at home.” Everyone thanks them, and they make themselves comfortable. Hermes tells them, “now then what can I offer you. I have juices, cocktails, coffee, and teas.” Aura Maria is shocked and tells Betty. “Oh Betty Is this a party or a piñata party my dear? Don Hermes have anything stronger?”

Ines tells her, “oh Aura Maria.” Hermes asks, “you mean liquors.” Aura Maria tells him, “yes.” He looks over at Betty, “well then what do you all want to drink.” Julia tells them, “oh don’t be a spoils sport Betty head to the table and fix them drinks. Come dear, let’s get something from the kitchen.” She drags Hermes, and he utters. “I have booze, but it’s for the executives that will be coming later on.” Aura Maria tells them, “that’s great it’s for us since nobody else is coming. So the booze is for us.” All burst out laughing, all except Ines. Betty asks, “so what does everyone want.” Aura Maria tells her, “anything since it’s just us girls here.” Ines tells her, “oh dear do behave yourself what will Don Hermes think of us.” Sophia tells them, “oh he doesn’t think. He has it already printed up here.” Betty tells them, “oh don’t worry about him. Just forget about all that.” Sophia tells her, “Betty I really need that drink today was just awful.” Sandra tells them, “we have to celebrate for tonight. I don’t want to, just drink juices all night.” Betty tells them, “not all night but just till 10pm.” Mariana tells her, “yes Betty you fresh. We all know at 10pm, your boyfriend will be coming to pick you up.” Aura Maria tells them, “I’ll fix you guys a cocktail that someone just taught me.”

Jorge Enrique Abello was born February 28, 1968. He’s 42 years old and live in Bogotá Colombia. He’s 5′ 11¾” (1.82 m). He was married to Marcela Salazar Jaramillo, till 2006. They had  1 child. Jorge is a director/producer/writer/actor. He also worked in numerous movies and telenovelas. He plays Armando Mendoza.

SEVENTY-THREE

In the kitchen, Julia tells Hermes. “Oh so annoying. How could you do this, what was that interrogation. What was that meddling how imprudence. Now Betty won’t want to bring her friends back here ever again. That’s why those girls, drink outside their homes.” Hermes tells her, “enough with the complaining Julia. Enough with the complaining. I have told you, and I will repeat that I don’t like those group of girls that Betty’s friends.” Julia in tears asks, “but why Hermes?” Hermes tells her, “why why I’ll tell you why. Didn’t you hear them, three separated, two single, and one with a child and unmarried. The only one that’s married, acts all crazy all over the world and goes out without her husband. Now all of them, are now going to get drunk. Just look at that.” Julia tells him, “fine Hermes then head off to bed. I will take care of them.” Hermes tells her, “forget about that my dear. Forget about that, I am not going to leave the house while they destroy the place. No senora.” Julia tells her, “look Hermes go to the living room attend to them. Don’t bother them or torment them dear.” Hermes fixes his pants and utters, “fine Julia I am only doing this because it’s our daughter’s birthday. That is the only reason, Julia picks up a knife and pretends to stab him. Then he turns she goes back to cutting up food. That hairdo you went and got, it doesn’t look good at all.” Julia looks upwards, “please lord.”

(Hermes should be happy, that Betty now has friends other than Nicholas.)

Aura Maria helps with the drinks, and she tells Betty. “Ok here is Bertha’s drink, and yours and mine.” Betty tells her, “I am not going to be drinking thanks.” Aura Maria tells her, “what do you mean you’re not drinking. What are you saying?” Betty tells her, “I can’t drink at home you met my father that’s how he is.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no I guess but girls Betty just told me she won’t be drinking because her father might kill her.” Everyone starts complaining, Mariana utters. “Oh no.” Sandra repeats, “oh no.” Sophia tells her, “it’s all we needed.” Ines tells her, “very good dear you are completely correct.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Inesita how can that be no. Look you enjoy yourself, I know how to take care of everything. In these glasses, you can’t tell the difference if its juice or booze. Everyone laughs and they sit back down. Aura Maria takes her aside, and tells her. Betty when 10 pm comes around. I want you to be comfortable and not nervous.” Betty asks, “where are you sending me?” Aura Maria tells her, “what do you mean look your boyfriend. Is coming to pick you up around 10pm. You will be wide awake and buzzed, that way you won’t be nervous and timid. Or else you’re going to living like a saint. With this drink, you’ll be able to strip him.” Betty stares at the drink and tells her, “no Aura Maria not even me being drunk. Will be able to take off a man’s clothes.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no Betty drink this up. You can be all nice and relax, and have a great time with your boyfriend. Oh Betty don’t you have some dance music. So we can at least dance. So we can have a hot time.”

Hermes has put on classical tango music, and brings out his hat. Betty tells him, “oh dad.” Hermes tells her, “but what’s the problem where talking about Carlito Carlito Gardel. The best of “Carlitos”, “El Zorzal” (The Song Thrush), “The King of Tango”, “El Mago” (The Magician) and “El Mudo” (The Mute). The music of Medellin.” Betty tells him, “well yes dad but the thing is we were thinking of another type of music.” Hermes asks, “don’t you appreciate this type of quality music. Sandra looks over to Mariana. Look you have to appreciate, and listen to the best tango artists in the world. Gardel and Alfredo Le Pera, what more can you ask for. What more can you ask out of life. You my dear senora, do you appreciate this music?” Ines tells him, “oh yes they’re my favourites they bring back so many memories.” Then she gets up, and they sing a song together.

(I knew Hermes was going to play his tangos. Carlos Gardel was born in 11 December, year disputed, birthplace disputed. He was beloved by all, he was the soul of the tango style and tragedy took his life in an airplane crash on June 24, 1935. Alfredo Le Pera 4 June 1900 – 24 June 1935. He was a man with many talents, Brazilian journalist, dramatist, and lyricist. He was also on that fateful tour, that ended their fruitful collaboration.)

Julia comes back and Betty tells her mom, “please please look at dad. Help me out please, listen to that music that he put.” Julia tells her, “oh no not the tango.” Hermes is still singing, when Julia once again takes him away. Julia asks, “how can you play tango to these girls?” Hermes tells her, “Julia what is your problem with tango. Julia what is it?” Julia tells him, “it’s nothing dear but the girls are young and would rather listen to current hits.” Hermes angrily tells her, “fine later we change the music. Oh dear, when will your boss arrive. You did invite him, is he coming or he doesn’t want to come?” Betty tells him, “well he didn’t say no or yes. You know that he is a busy man.” Hermes tells her, “I bought his whiskey. Plus other fine drinks, he can enjoy.” Then he goes back to sing with Ines. Betty tells her mother, “I have to tell you something mom.” Julia asks, “what’s wrong?” Betty tells her, “mom I really need your help. The thing is Don Armando invited me out tonight.” Julia asks, “tonight?” Betty tells her, “yes for my birthday and all.” Julia looks at her watch. Sandra looks over to Mariana, Sophia glances at Bertha. Bertha watches as Ines sings with Hermes.

(My favourite Carlos Gardel song is  “El Día Que Me Quieras” sung by Luis Miguel it’s from his Segundo Romance cd.)

Over at a club, Armando is with Mario. They arrive and Armando’s like, “what is with this place?” Mario tells him, “this place is called a bar. Well since you have to wait for Betty, you might as well enjoy yourself. Who knows Marcela might pop by?” Armando tells him, “alright it’s a great opportunity. It’s been a while, since I’ve been to a descent place.” Mario tells him, “well welcome then.” Patricia and Marcela arrive as well, and they talk in the car. Patricia tells Marcela, “over there they entered that bar.” Marcela tells her, “oh there’s where those loose women are. There probably waiting for them.” Patricia tells her, “oh who knows what Armando is up too. Plus that idiot wretched Mario.” Patricia parks the car, Marcela tells her. “Well no, it’s like it’s not going to happen. Well then what now?” Marcela asks, “you’re the professional one in all of this. Your the one that thought of this idea, your suppose to be the expert in these operations. Tell me you, what do we do now?” Patricia tells her, “now we get out and find out what’s going on inside.” Marcela tells her, “me get out of this car oh no. I am not going in there, to see Armando kissing another woman. Unless I’m 100% sure, you go since you’re the expert. With that hat and glasses, they won’t recognize you. Isn’t that what you said?” Patricia tells her, “ok fine I’ll go Marcee. But I have to tell you, I have to change my disguise. She puts on make-up and fixes her hair, now then keep your cell phone on. I will keep you informed. Marcela is ready to get out of the car, Patricia asks. “And where are you going?” Marcela tells her, “it’s like a bank heist. The driver is ready to leave just in case, if things turn for the worse. You stay with Armando.” Patricia tells her, “ok if something happens and I’m caught. I’m the one that ends up as the sacrifice.” Marcela tells her, “I’ll find you another job don’t you worry. But you can’t get me another Armando, the only Armando I want is in there.” Patricia tells her, “well thank you very much dear friend. Thank you so much, if something happens in there. Before getting me another job, I am going to end up in the hospital emergency ward.” Marcela tells her, “you know what yes may god be with you and bless you now go.” Patricia tells her, “fine Marcee you keep the car ready.” Then Patricia enters the bar and scans the place. When she sees them, she hides behind a pole.

Mario tells Armando, “well sir I don’t see that you’re so excited about tonight. Think only about Eco Moda, give me Adriana’s photo.” Armando tells him, “oh Adriana Adriana she’s always in my pocket.” He gives it too him, Mario looks at the picture. “My love at 10pm I will be picking you up. I am going to a top delicious restaurant, where we’ll hear fantastic piano music. We will see one another through candle light I will kiss you, smell your perfume then the night will be ours.” Armando takes the photo away then tells him, “no Adrianita then I put you in my car and I will take you home. So you can rest nice and relaxed, and plus be all alone Adriana really. Mario’s very disappointed. The next day, you do your job all day. Eight days will go by, before we are alone once more. Then once again, I will take you home both now will be very happy.” Marcela is outside the car, and jumps when the cell phone rings. “So are they with the women?” Patricia tells her, “for now no they are alone but I get a strange feeling something’s up.” Marcela asks, “what.” Patricia tells her, “well both are talking to a picture.” Marcela utters, “a photo what are they drunk or something? A photo of who, who is it?” Patricia tells her, “from over here I can’t see that clearly. I’m guessing it’s a woman.” Marcela tells her, “yes it’s obvious a woman but who is it.” Patricia tells her, “I will find out who it is.” Marcela tells her, “you be very careful Patricia. Because I don’t want to look for another job, nor an ambulance.” Patricia tells her, “fine ok roger and out bye Marcee.” Marcela just shakes her head.

Armando tells him, “at this moment I could be dating this woman. Or with that one. He points to Patricia, she freaks out and turns. Mario turns and sees another woman. Fine than that one, but no here I am sitting next to you. I’m stuck waiting till Betty, finishes organization her life. So we can have a plan with her. Calderon don’t you realize the dangerous plans, that I am doing every night? I am risking everything, that I have with Marcela. Plus I’m not even going out, with a gorgeous model no sir. I am dating Betty Betty.” Mario tells him, “yes of course that’s correct. Looking at it this way, yes its pathetic brother. No that convinced me, you know what just cancel everything. Just call Betty at home, and cancel everything.” Armando tells him, “but no I just can’t. Only if I could. Oh poor little thing, oh she was so illuminated with going out. How could I do something like that? Well yes it’s very dangerous. Very dangerous, to just leave her alone like that. Plus it’s that idiot Nicholas Mora. He’s been calling non stop all day, so they can go out tonight. I can’t permit that, he doesn’t leave her alone. How can we risk it Calderon. I am beginning to think, that man is quite annoying.”

Over at Betty’s house. Aura Maria gives Betty another drink, “oh Aura Maria enough I am starting to get dizzy.” Aura Maria tells her, “but it’s not about the cocktail. Oh that music, is like so boring that’s playing.” Ines and Hermes are still singing away, Julia glances at her bored guests. The song’s over, they all clap. Julia tells Hermes, who’s ready to put another tango record. “No more dear.” Hermes tells her, “oh the last one.” Betty just smiles, and says. “That’s his favourite one.” He goes over to Betty, “now dear lets dance.” Betty tells him, “oh dad not now.” Everyone goes, “oh go on dance with your father.” Hermes tells him, “Beatriz Aurora Pinzon come on one dance.” Then they dance, when the door rings she leaves her father and gets the door. Its Freddy and Wilson, she welcomes them in. Freddy tells her, “hello no kisses. I gave you them this morning.” He tells everyone, “well good evening every one oh what a festive party. Ladies don’t get up, here comes the life of the party. The carnival will begin.” Betty tells her parents, “this here is Freddy Contreras.” Freddy tells her, “no let me introduce myself to your parents. I control my own image ok.” Betty smiling tells him, “yes ok.”

(Se deci de mi, is the title theme of ysblf sung by Yolanda Rayo)

Freddy tells Hermes, “I would like first to mention my thanks. For having your home so lovely adorned. He sprays his mouth, my name is Freddy Stewart Contreras to serve you. Nice to meet you, Julia smiles while Hermes glances her way. In reality my role in the company is such. I do the correspondence, the delivering of important information, visit important banks and institutions. I am also a facilitator, between the reception areas that this dame is in charge of. I am also as you see me, I deal with a lot of Eco Moda’s important documents. Plus do other jobs at Eco Moda.” Hermes tells him, “so you’re the delivery guy.” All the girls crack up, Freddy utters. “Yes sir, and this gentleman here. Is the man that protects us, during the day at Eco Moda. Salute the people.” Wilson says, “hello nice to meet you I am Wilson Zastoque Meheda. I am at your disposal.” Hermes tells them, “well welcome and sit down.” Aura Maria asks, “so Freddy did you bring music for us to dance too.” He ignores her, and Freddy asks. “So where’s the bar?” Julia tells him, “oh it’s over there.” Wilson asks, “did you bring music?” Freddy tells him, “yes I did I heard her you idiot. Betty is it possible to change this wonderful classic music. To put on something more tropical.” Betty tells him, “yes of course if you can work that stereo go right ahead.” Freddy heads over and Hermes stops him. “What are you going to do? Touch my stereo system.” Julia utters, “Hermes.” Freddy tells him, “well not fully touch that antique but I will touch the other machine. Wilson care to give me the music, some meringue.” Wilson utters, “gladly and they change the music.” Betty asks the girls, “you did mention this will only go to 10pm right?” Freddy utters, “well ladies lets dance. All get up, while Wilson gives Freddy a drink. Its late we better, get started were really behind.” Betty goes next to him, he tells her. “No thanks I don’t dance.” Betty sees them having such a good time. Just disapprovingly looks at her watch.

Over at the club, Armando looks at his watch. “Well look brother at the time, its time for me to head out.” Mario tells him, “before you head out waiter get us two whiskeys.” Patricia tells Marcela, “I really don’t know what’s going on Marcee. But they are just talking and drinking. Marcee you don’t think those two are you know.” Marcela tells her, “oh don’t be so ridiculous.” Patricia tells her, “well seriously just look Mario doesn’t want nothing to do with me. Plus he despises me, now those two are talking having drinks alone. They are still talking to the picture, doesn’t it seem strange to you.” Marcela tells her, “you know whets weird but it’s not them. Armando is up too something, why would he tell me that he was going to Beatriz house. I am going to try something, we need proof. I’ll call you right back.” She then calls Armando. Armando hears the cell and asks, “Marcela brother what do I do now?” Mario tells him, “well answer it.” Armando utters, “are you sure?” Mario tells him, “do it now.” Armando tells her, “oh hi love.” Marcela tells him, “oh hi love how are you. Have you arrived at Beatriz house?” Armando tells her, “well yes I am here at Betty’s house. So where are you?”  Marcela tells him, “I am leaving the Le Nou cocktail. I am heading to my apartment.” Armando tells her, “oh good for you my love.” Marcela tells him, “well my life till tomorrow then.” Armando tells him, “yes we’ll talk tomorrow love dream about me bye.” He hangs up, Marcela curses. “Blasted and damn.” Over and over, then stares at the club. Mario asks, “and what did she say?” Armando tells him, “she told me she’s leaving the cocktail party of Le Nou. She said she was heading to her apartment.” Mario asks, “so will she be waiting for you there.” Armando tells him, “no doesn’t that sound strange.” Mario tells him, “well I don’t live with him but yes that sounds strange. Well the thing is you’re not lying, for your going to Betty’s house. Congratulate her, the way god intended right. Well then god is ready.” They finish their drinks, and both leave the bar. Armando looks at Adriana’s photo, “ok girl do your magic.”

Patricia calls Marcela, “their leaving right now.” The waiter comes around, and asks. “So are you leaving now?” Patricia asks the guy, “yes how much do I owe?” He tells her, “10000.” She then glances over to the men, who are ready to leave. Mario tells Armando, “my dear friend and brother well then total release understand.” Patricia tells the guy, “look I don’t have the money now.” The guy tells her, “look call someone and get that money. Or else you can’t leave here.” Armando and Mario walk past her. Patricia tells him, “I have to go now or else I will be stuck here.” The guy tells her, “no sorry and Patricia tries to run for it. He screams, stop you senorita.” Mario and Armando glance back. Outside Mario tells him, “now dear boy you do a great job. I am heading back inside, good luck man.” Armando starts his car, Marcela utters. “Oh dear lord? Patricia, Patricia Patricia. Where are you Patricia?” Patricia manages to run out of the club, “hurry hurry lets go or else I’m going to be put in jail.” The guy sees them, and screams, “you thief.” Marcela drives and looks back, “what happened what occurred?” Patricia tells her, “I forgot my wallet and I had to run out of the place. So where is Armando?” Marcela tells her, “he’s over there.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee well where is he going?” Marcela tells her, “I just don’t know. I called his cell, and all he told me were lies. He told me he was at Beatriz house.” Patricia tells her, “fine we will finally catch him in the act. He’s out to party Marcee.”

The party is in full swing, Freddy is dancing with Mariana. Wilson is dancing with Aura Maria, Sophia is dancing with Sandra and Bertha. Julia is watching everyone, while Hermes is telling Ines. “Now when my uncle Lasado Pinzon. Arrived in Bogota life was different, it was much better in the olden times isn’t that right Clarita.” Ines tells him, “I’m Inesita.” Hermes tells her, “yes of course Inesita Inesita. Well anyway, people were very distinguished and refined and better dressed.” Julia interrupts, and he goes. “Excuse me for a second, Julia what is it. I am talking to the lady, don’t interrupt me.” Betty goes over to her mother, “I think its time that we break up the party. Don Armando is going to be arriving soon.” Julia tells her, “I don’t want too see everyone is having a great time.” Betty tells her, “don’t worry I will take care of this. You have to convince my dad, that I can go out tonight with Don Armando. Now don’t mention it to anybody. I don’t want them getting the wrong idea, or start gossiping you know how rumours get started. Things might get out of hand.” Julia tells her, “do it now before another song is put on. Look I will talk to your father.” Freddy calls out to Hermes, “sir.” Hermes utters, “its Hermes my dear friend.” Freddy tells him, “well Don Hermes we have run out of booze.” Hermes utters, “really don’t worry and looks at his pocket I’ll get more.” Betty tells him, “no dad they are getting ready to go.” Mariana utters, “yes sir we should be leaving.” Freddy asks, “who leaving,? Wilson and I?” Betty tells them, “everyone.” The girls get their things. Freddy does a dance, and says. “Were at the height of the party, I don’t understand.” Hermes tells them, “well no it’s still early for you all to leave. We still have lots of food and drinks, we haven’t cut the cake or taken the picture. There is still a lot of time left, before her birthday ends. I will be right back, and put the hat on Betty’s head.” She calls out, “oh dad but he’s already out the door.”

(Hermes can be a complainer but get him drunk boy he’s the life of the party. Carolina Sabino las juanas 1997 theme song is played.)

Bertha is drunk and utters, “yes I’m going to call Gordito so he can pick us up. Senora could I use your phone.” Julia just nods, and tells her again where it is. Ines tells them, “oh it’s just a shame that were using poor Berth’s husband to take us home. Why don’t we call a taxi yes?” Sophia utters, “oh just relax Inesita.” Freddy tells them, “I don’t understand Wilson and I will take you home. We will take half, and take you home.” Ines tells him, “well the thing is Betty has a prior engagement.” Freddy tells her, “so my dear Betty with whom are you going out tonight. With me your not.” Sandra tells him, “stop being a snoop fix things so we can get going.” Bertha is on the phone, and asks the direction. Julia goes over at gives it towards her. “Ok my love, girls he will be here in 15 minutes.” Mariana asks, “are you alright?” Bertha slowly heads to another chair, “I am fine.” The phone rings once more, Julia gets it. “Hello?” Armando tells her, “excuse me may I talk to Betty please.” Julia asks, “whom am I speaking too?” Armando tells her, “it’s Armando Mendoza Dona Julia good evening.” Julia tells him, “yes wait one second sir. Betty it’s for you.” Everyone is quiet and the girls are smiling. Betty heads towards the phone, “hello.” Armando tells her, “hello Betty its Armando. I have been going around the house a couple of times now. Are you going to come out?” Betty tells him, “yes sir well the thing is. I had a slight problem, but it should fix itself in 15 minutes.” Armando tells her, “what the group of girls are still there.” Betty utters, “yes yes.” Armando asks, “if you like we can cancel this and see one another tomorrow morning. It will be no problem.” Freddy serves the girls the rest of the food. Betty tells him, “no in 15 min I will be ready.” Armando asks, “Betty have you been drinking?” Betty tells him, “yes just a bit 10 minutes.” Armando tells her, “ok that’s fine fine I will park around the corner by your house. I’ll be waiting, I don’t want anybody to see me.” Betty tells him, “alright we will see one another soon be well.” Betty nervously laughs, the girls just smile at her.

Patricia and Marcela stop the car, and wonder where they are. “OK he parked.” Marcela asks, “why is he waiting for?” Whose house is that?” Patricia tells her, “you don’t think its that woman’s house Betty’s place.” Marcela tells her, “I don’t know where that Garfield lives.” Patricia tells her, “what if he leaves the car. Look it seems he’s just waiting, if that were Garfield’s house he would have already left the car. Look at the house, no lights aren’t on. I don’t think that’s Betty’s house.” Marcela tells her, “what if he’s waiting for someone to come out.” Patricia asks, “what if Marcee if we are here. That means were not talking about Adriana Arboleda. This barrio is kind of poor looking, it’s not the type of woman that he usually chases him. Or am I mistaken? Should I shut up?” Marcela tells her, “look were just going to have to wait for us to find out. Who comes out, and then we can comment alright.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee I just don’t think. That he’s waiting for someone to come out of that house. Maybe he fell asleep.” Marcela tells her, “I don’t know, I don’t know but be quiet.” Patricia tells her, “fine I’ll be quiet.”

Hermes tells him, “and then what are you doing here? I think you’re a bit drunk, it’s best you walk it off. Were celebrating my daughter’s birthday. Your assistant to the president sir, at the house is all herwork colleagues. Plus two other employees from Eco Moda. I have more drinks on reserved, I have the best whiskey that’s imported.” Armando utters, “Don Hermes how can I explain this too you sir. Yes I might be here, in this barrio at this time its just pure accidental.” Hermes tells him, “are you always this stubborn when you drink.” Hermes tells him, “I am not going to leave you here all by yourself. If you fall asleep, you might get attacked. Someone might steal your car, lots of things might happen. Come on sir, open the car door. I will take you there, now they’re waiting for me at the party. What if a crazy guy comes by in the streets? No sir, the important thing is your safety. Yes me too, I get stubborn as well when I have a few drinks. The other day I was with…” Armando tells him, “please Don Hermes get in I’ll take you home.” Hermes tells him, “alright sir thank you that’s what I like to hear open the car door.” Armando does and he gets in.

(I like this scene, oh that Hermes.)

Patricia tells Marcela, “that’s just too weird. Who is that strange man, that’s talking to Armando? Look he’s now getting in. You don’t think that man, is the one that gets Armando women?” Marcela tells her, “I don’t know. You know I’ve seen that man before, but I just can’t remember where.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee that man is strange Armando is acting very strange. You don’t think, or haven’t you seen if he’s a little funny. Look Marcee he waited for that man, and now that man is inside his car. Who knows Marcee, oh look there moving now. Go Marcee.” Hermes tells Armando, “ok sir here we are now get off sir. Oh could you help me out with these bottles.” Armando just tells him, “careful with the car thanks.” Hermes just laughs and closes the door. Patricia and Marcela are parked near by. “Look another house Marcee.”

At the house, Betty tells them. “Well ladies thank you so much for coming. Sorry to be kicking you out, but I have to leave now. Its best you leave now, or else when my dad comes back he won’t let you leave. Thank you once again, and if he does come by tell him you have to go alright.” Everyone agrees, and they say goodbye. Julia tells her, “oh your dad is going to be furious. Oh for you to leave, oh dear.” Betty tells her, “oh mom I have to leave. No matter what, I have to leave.” Hermes returns and starts singing. Everyone moves back to the chairs. “Oh guess who arrived, the party man. I have a surprise for the rest of you. Surprise everyone.” Then who shows carrying two bottles but Armando. Everyone exclaims, “Don Armando.” Hermes tells them, “look at that.”

Armando weakly smiles. “Like the surprise, Betty just stares at him. Apparently he got lost looking for the house.” Armando looks towards Betty, then tells everyone “good evening.” Everyone fixes themselves up and utters, “good evening Don Armando.” Hermes utters, “what is everyone standing around for let the party continue. This man, came all the way here to say hello to my daughter. Not to scare everyone, come on stop putting on that scared face. Oh messenger, now make yourself useful he throws a bottle to Freddy. Serve us at least.” Freddy looks over to the girls, Wilson tells Armando. “I’ll help you sir with those bottles.” Ines tells them, “well we were on our way out.” Hermes tells them, “no no no you can’t leave you can’t do that to your boss. He came all this way, to celebrate his assistant’s birthday and to be with you as well. Oh no lets celebrate. Julia gets the bottle of whiskey out of the fridge. Plus I brought more food.” Julia goes towards them, nods to Armando, gets the bag and heads to the kitchen. Armando tells Hermes, “well sir I really can’t stay that long. You see they have to get up early tomorrow.” Hermes looks at his watch, saying. “No no sir its way too early.” The women utters, “yes he’s right.” Hermes closes the door, Armando glances over at Betty. Hermes tells him, “now who runs the company. Come on who runs the company, and begins pushing Armando. Now sir, you surprised me with your visit. While I have a present to give you sir. Welcome sir to my home, come sit down follow me.” Armando goes past Betty, and just stares at her and then Hermes drags him towards the dinning room. Betty nervously shrugs, Ines tells them. “No it would be in bad taste if we left when Don Armando arrived.” Sophia tells them, “yes you are correct. We’ll stay just a few minutes more.” They all agree and sit back down once more.

Sandra goes towards Betty, “I guess your outing with your boyfriend is over. Your dad, won’t let you leave this house now. You can’t leave your father alone, with Don Armando no you can’t do that.” Mariana tells her, “yes friend that’s correct. Call him up, and explain what occurred. I think he will understand you Betty.” Aura Maria tells her, “no come on calm down lets have a few more cocktail drinks.” Mariana tells her, “yes Betty fresh.” They go to the table, she Aura Maria tells Freddy. “My love I will help you. Freddy leaves her and heads to the girls. Wilson laughs and is drinking, and she tells him. Oh come on idiot, and help me out and do stop drinking.” Betty glances over at Armando.

Outside Patricia tells her, “I think this is a whore house Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “oh no Armando isn’t that kind of man. Women are always after her, he would never visit those places. Now you go look inside, and tell me what you see.” Patricia asks, “look where?” Marcela tells her, “through that window.” Patricia asks, “me?” Marcela tells her, “what’s wrong but you’re the professional.”  Patricia tells her, “but Marcee that could be dangerous. We don’t know what kind of people they are. What if I get caught, and they take me inside and do something to me.” Marcela tells her, “well ask them to get paid since your always complaining that you have no money.” Patricia tells her, “I don’t think that’s very funny.” Marcela tells her, “well I don’t see that’s its funny for us to wait. Who knows how long, not knowing what’s going on inside. Where is your professionalism. If were going to wait here all night, waiting for Don Armando for who knows for how long. Well not knowing, what’s going on inside. I would prefer, that we just cancel everything and go to sleep.” Patricia tells her, “and still be in disguise. Oh no, without knowing no I am staying. Ok I will go see, but if I’m trapped don’t go flying away at least call the cops.” Patricia runs towards the house.

(Why would Marcela call her fiance, Don Armando?”)

Everyone now is once again drinking, and Sophia utters. “Well sir salute.” Armando just raises his glass. Aura Maria takes Betty aside, “come on lets toast or are you not in the mood anymore.” Betty tells her, “no on the contrary I think I need it a lot more now. There’s my dad, showing off the diplomas to Don Armando.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh your dad is annoying salute.” She drinks and Aura Maria makes another toast. Julia happily has food for Armando to munch on, while Hermes tells him. “Eat and be merry. Now here are all my daughters diplomas. She inherited my intelligence and a knack for numbers. Armando wants to leave, and he’s stopped by Hermes. Now sir this is her diploma, from the finest university of finances in Columbia man. That cost me lot, oh I’ll show you her picture from her class picture.” Armando tells him, “no sir I don’t need to see it. Well yes it’s a nice picture.” Hermes tells him, “she’s very photogenic sir. Armando glances over at Betty. Hermes continues, the important things are her diplomas. Here’s another class, that she took in finance. Betty nods towards Armando, and he glances at her. Hermes tells him, yes this is her account degree. Oh she paid for that on her own. At the time she worked for the bank of Montréal. There she was very important, she worked in the international sector. An important distinguished position. All this has cost me so much money, but is well worth it for the world.” Armando wants to leave, but is stopped once again by Hermes. Julia pours him more drink, Armando tells her. “Oh it’s full.” Hermes tells her, “let the man breath. Then Armando heads to a chair, Hermes asks. Why are you carrying that portrait, dear grab it from him.” Armando sees Wilson laughing, and slaps his face. Then they head back to the living room. Bertha tells them, “I think I’m pretty drunk Gordo will kill me. I better look out the window just in case he shows up. She looks out the window, and sees Patricia.” She freaks out and screams, Betty asks. “What’s wrong Bertha?” Bertha tells her, “I am pretty drunk I think I’m seeing hallucinations relax.” Everyone starts laughing. Mariana tells Aura Maria, “don’t give her anymore.”

Patricia is screaming, “Marcee!” she just jumps in her seat. Marcela asks, “what’s up?” Patricia tells her, “Marcee yes that is a whore house. For inside is Bertha, Aura Maria, Sandra and the rest of the girls.” Marcela tells her, “well then that’s Beatriz house.” Patricia tells her, “yes oh Marcee I hope that Bertha didn’t see me or recognize me Marcee. Its best we leave, I think Armando told you the truth.” Marcela asks, “no he didn’t tell me the truth. Then why didn’t he just come by here in the first place. Why park the car, on the other block.” Patricia tells her, “well what if he just got lost. Maybe he just didn’t know, how to get here to her house.” Marcela tells her, “oh no I won’t have any pity. I  know for a fact, that Armando has brought Beatriz home tons of times. They then hear music. What is that?” Nicholas tells a group of men, “now then play nice and loud. You’re playing for my girlfriend, and the mariachi band follows him. Hurry up we must surprise.” Patricia tells her, “oh dear things are getting complicated. Musicians have arrived, so does that mean we should leave.” Marcela tells her, “oh no no no.”

Inside Hermes tells Armando, “eat up sir. Its caviar that’s imported. Now like I was saying. Armando as he’s about to pick one, Hermes tells Julia. Enough with that, go on with that. Julia moves away, and Armando doesn’t eat a thing. Hermes tells him, well I worked with my uncle Lazaro. He was a great distinguished man, he gets up and drops a drink on Armando. So Armando shakes off and closes his eyes, because Hermes is now spitting in his face. Oh that man worked with a lot of money. Listen to me sir, he worked for a grand estate.” Then Hermes almost falls as he sits down. Betty tells Julia, “oh mom he’s going on about uncle Lazado. Please mom stop it.” Julia tells her, “oh he’s just getting warmed up. Oh he has a lot more to listen, oh poor Don Armando. She glances up once more. Betty is anguished, no mom we have to do something.” The doorbell rings, Betty goes to see who it is. Bertha tells them, “oh my gordito arrived.” Betty tells her, “I will go see.” Outside is Nicholas and the mariachi band. Nicholas with flowers is about to go in, when she goes outside and closes the door. Bertha tells them, “oh it’s a serenade.” Nicholas’s smile disappears, “what’s wrong Betty?” Betty tells him, “no you can’t come in.” Nicholas quiets the group, and asks “but why? Remember I am fulfilling something, that you requested as your boyfriend. I am dressed in a nice suit that was my dads. I got flowers and music. So they can see how great a quality of boyfriend you have. Don’t you worry, we took it out of petty cash.” Inside Hermes continues, and then screams. “Who is it dear?” Betty tells him, “Nicholas.” Hermes tells her, “well bring him in then.” Betty tells her, “well he’s on his way.” Nicholas utters, “I’m not going yet Don Hermes I have friends of your here.” The girls get all curious, and smile. Betty tells him, “please I am begging you. Leave its not convenient that you come in. Please understand me, please you can’t come in.” Nicholas asks, “Betty I don’t understand why are you throwing me away. I’m dressed proper, to make you look good. I have flowers, music to work as the best boyfriend of yours.” Betty tells him, “look it’s just not convenient that you have arrived. The thing is you can’t come in, because Don Armando is here.”

Nicholas tells her, “well present me then.” Betty tells him, “I can’t please Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “but Betty well come on it’s a good opportunity for us to meet. I am nicely dressed and wearing my dads suit.” Betty tells him, “Nicholas oh no. You’re the vice president of Terra Moda. My dad is talking to Don Armando, and the girls from work are here. It’s just too dangerous, an information might be leaked please understand.” Nicholas asks, “is Patricia Fernandez inside as well? Well we can take the opportunity, to sing to both of you. Ok guys get ready.” Betty tells him, “no that woman will never set foot in my house. Look she doesn’t even know where I live. Please we will see one another tomorrow. Thank you so much for the flowers and the music.” She takes the flowers. Nicholas asks. “Oh Betty so what do I do with the musicians?” Betty tells him, “get rid of them.” Nicholas tells her, “but they will charge me anyways. Look one serenade or they will , I didn’t gave you a serenade. I have no money, if they leave they might kill me with those strings.” Betty tells him, “use money from petty cash from Terra Moda to pay them.” Nicholas tells her, “what should I write down serenade for the girlfriend or the owner of Terra Moda.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas what ever you want.” Nicholas tells her, “ok but lets not dump the money appreciate it. Let them at least play one song.” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “oh come on when will you get someone to send you a serade again never now come on. Come on boys, the song girlfriend of mine. Its for you Betty.”

(I hate that Nicholas wasn’t allowed in, he’s so sweet. Even though she has a valid point. I bet if Armando hadn’t have shown up, Nicholas would have been allowed in.)

Betty just smiles, Hermes inside is continuing the tale of Lazaro Pinzon.” His biggest business deal, was marrying a wealthy socialite Susana Major. Oh a very distinguished woman from a good family, lots of money he bought a dump of a car and that was his ruin salute. Armando is furious at hearing the serenade. Oh sir that Nicholas, bringing my girl a serenade. For Betty, oh how tender.” Ines tells Freddy, “turn off the music they brought a serenade to Betty.” Freddy goes to turn off the music, Hermes asks. “You’ve meet Nichorats right?” Armando tells him, “no haven’t met him yet I haven’t had the pleasure Don Hermes.” Don Hermes tells him, “oh I will present you. Oh he’s a charming boy, what a good boy he’s almost lives here. He’s like as they say, like the son we never had. Yes but we had a beautiful daughter.” Armando utters, “woof.” Hermes tells her, “the most important truth is. You don’t know, is that Nicholas just adores Betty. He teary-eyed says, he adores her. That for us doesn’t have a price, that’s no price.” The girls are all swaying to the music Bertha screams.  “Oh that divine.” Ines tells them, “oh how marvellous. I haven’t heard one since, I was newly married oh that is so romantic.”

(Hermes can insult Nicholas left and right, but in the end he does care for him as a son. They never mentioned, Nicholas father in the whole series why not.)

Sophia crying tells them, “oh that Elfrain never had the money for a serenade.” Mariana tells her, “oh Sophie.” Sandra pats her shoulder. Mariana tells them, “oh girls where or where are men like Nicholas. Who are so romantic, so divine. Oh he’s so good to Betty.” Sandra tells her, “oh I want one right now that’s gives me a serenade as well. Oh that’s so divine.” Aura Maria tells them, “oh that man is tender, a man that value, not like somebody who never want to talk to you. A man that chases other women. Freddy is scratching his leg. A man that’s truly a man. Not those men that don’t exist.” Freddy tells her, “what now I don’t exist anymore. Wilson gets up and stands by the doorway completely wasted. Freddy tells him, Wilson come on son. Don’t fall asleep, the night isn’t over. He then screams, oh wake up arriving is Don Armando and Daniel Valencia.” Wilson utters, “yes sir Don Armando.” Freddy screams, “yes park my car this instant.” Wilson utters, “yes sir right away sir.” Then presses an imaginary elevator button.  Everyone begins to laugh, Freddy tells him. “No come on sit down, and enjoy the serenade.” Wilson sits down, then precedes to holds him and Freddy hits his hand. “Careful don’t get confused.” Wilson finishes off the bottle. Everyone just laughs once more.

Patricia tells Marcela, “oh that Garfield receiving a serenade.” Marcela asks, “well is that her boyfriend?” Patricia tells her, “do you really think that one of those guys is Betty’s boyfriend.” Marcela tells her, “well that’s what it looks like.” Patricia tells her, “forget that Marcee. Why would a rich man, come all the way down here. To give that woman a serenade? No he’s probably inside, or sent the mariachi to her. I doubt it’s any of those fools over there.” Marcela tells her, “yes your right.”

The song is over, Nicholas tells her. “Well have a happy birthday.” Betty smiling tells him, “thank you.” Nicholas tells her, “no kisses for goodbye. Betty you broke my heart. Betty shakes her head, and enters. Nicholas utters, how about one more song for the road boys.” Betty enters with flowers, and hears Aura Maria calling for her. They are now eating cake, Julia runs towards her and takes the flowers towards the kitchen. Aura Maria asks, “oh Betty where is Nicholas?” Betty tells them, “well he left.”

Natalia Ramírez was born, August 3, 1967 in Bogota Colombia. Good friends with Lorna Paz. They have been working together on four TV series so far.  She began working in 1988, other than being an actress she’s also a singer. She plays Marcela Valencia.
SEVENTY-FOUR

Armando is still fuming. Bertha asks, “and why didn’t he want to come in.” Sandra tells her, “but Betty we wanted to meet him.” Mariana tells her, “you know what you’re arrogant and selfish.” Bertha tells her, “now were more than curious to meet him.” Betty tells them, “well he didn’t want to come in he’s pretty shy guy. Later tonight, we will be getting together.” Hermes asks, “where is Nicholas?” Betty tells him, “he’s gone dad.” Hermes asks, “but why.” Betty tells him, “he just came to say hello.” Hermes utters, “he took away the musician.” Betty tells him, “yes.” Hermes tells him, “what an idiot.” The car honks and Bertha utters, “well that’s gordito. Ok I need gum or perfume or something to take away this smell.” Sophia tells her, “what gum or nothing your wasted.” Bertha tells them, “well fine then I won’t kiss him tonight. All crack up, come on Aura Maria were going ok I will take everyone. You you and you Inesita.” Ines tells her, “thank you Bertha dear.” Bertha continues, “now you two have to get a taxi. I don’t think were all going to be able to get in.” Mariana tells her, “oh you just relax your so fresh.” Sandra tells them, “oh you’re kidding.” Aura Maria tells them, “all you go with Bertha.” Bertha picks her up, “oh no my dear your coming home Jimmy is waiting for you. Come on be a good girl, and don’t go on any more plans.” Mariana utters, “yes yes.” Ines tells her, “yes go with Bertha.” Aura Maria tells them, “but I’m not going yet. Right Freddy you’re taking me home.” She pushes Freddy awake. Freddy tells her, “no no.” Ines tells her, “oh come on Freddy can’t take you. He has to take Wilson home on his bike.” Aura Maria tells them, “oh he can’t take him on the bike he’s completely drunk. What you want to tie him to the bike.” They start laughing again. Gordito honks the car again. Sandra looks outside, and tells them. “Look a taxi arrived come on.” Freddy tells them, “one minute please don’t push my black rag doll.” He pushes Mariana down, Mariana utters. “Oh you what’s up Freddy?” Freddy tells them, “well under the circumstances Wilson is drunk. He won’t be able to go on my bike, so I ask of you two. Take him with you in the taxi that just arrived.”

Both utter, “oh right as if.” Sandra tells him, “oh no look at him he’s completely wasted.” Mariana tells him, “oh what stress.” Freddy tries to wake Wilson up once more. “Wilson isn’t drunk, its not stress its exhaustion. Since he’s the porter, he has a bad time clock. I will leave it up to your conscience. You see he’s awake all day, to take care of all of us. He must be comfortable Inesita, put him in the back of the car. Fine if he comes with me, on the bike and dies.” Mariana tells him, “alright Freddy you’re a wretched for making us feel guilty.” Sandra tells them, “well then help us get him in the car.” Freddy tells her, “well then take him. You can handle it. Sandra stares at him, and then he utters. Fine I will help you. Now upon word of the representative, that knows about infidelity. Everyone starts laughing. Tell her yes, I will take her home to Bertha’s house.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh you’re wonderful Freddy.” Freddy hits Wilson on the head and he gets up. Aura Maria tells him, “thank you Freddy.” Bertha tells them, “well then let’s go.” Ines tells them, “alright say thank you to our guests Betty’s parents.” Bertha tells them, “he’s busy with Don Armando.” Hermes is wasted and continues to talk about his uncle. Julia eats her cake and stares upwards again. Ines goes to him, Armando is asleep. “Sir thank you so much for having us here. Thank you for inviting us to your home.” Armando immediately gets up, and says. “Yes its time for us to go.” Hermes sits him back down, telling him. “Were having a great conversation.” Ines thanks Julia, and everyone thanks her as well. Mariana screams, “thank you Dona Julia Don Hermes.” Armando stares as everyone’s leaving and tells him. “Don Hermes its best that I leave.” Hermes stops him, and screams. “Julia more cake.” Armando stares at Betty, she wink twice. Motioning just a few minutes more.

Patricia and Marcela, watch as everyone begins leaving. “Look Marcee the party is over, everyone is leaving.” They hear Bertha yelling, “thank you for everything.” Patricia tells her, “oh look their all drunk.” Bertha tells her husband, “oh gordo my love.” One by one they get on, and Sandra and Mariana take Wilson home in the taxi. Mariana screams, “bye Betty.” Betty screams, “thank you for coming.” Betty now stands with Aura Maria. “Now since you’re now going to be able, to be with your boyfriend. Don’t leave Don Armando with your father.” Betty tells her, “I think that he’s getting ready to leave.” Aura Maria tells her, “it will go great for the two of us. Oh Freddy I am not going to forgive him tonight. They both have the giggles. You’ll see tonight with all those drink, it will make you really comfortable and buzzed.” Freddy comes out, all ready to go. Aura Maria tells her, “now when your boyfriend returns. Look your best, be very tender and go someplace nice. Then place kisses all over him.” Freddy tells her, now Betty please inform our receptionist that I am ready to go.” Aura Maria tells him, “look I already heard you. Now good luck, really good luck. You better tell me everything tomorrow. Now don’t you dare tell me, it was only small kisses and soft caresses oh no. Good luck and bye.” Freddy starts the motorbike, “thanks Freddy for taking me home. Your divine.” Betty yells once more, “bye and thank you.”

(Yes in telenovelas, the characters can get drunk and drive in their cars. Because there not really drunk, but in real life. One shouldn’t drink and drive drunk, so many people die because of this.)

Patricia tells her, “well it looks everyone left Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “why isn’t Armando leaving as well. Why is he still in there, what is he doing.” Patricia tells her, “what if he stayed there to sleep. Does that bother you?” Marcela utters, “oh ha ha.”

Inside Hermes has Armando by the arm, saying. “Oh my uncle lazado. Betty is with her mother. The piece of cake, that was on Hermes fork goes flying Armando just watches it go. He was a great man, he became interested in politics.” Betty tells Julia, “oh no mom please take dad off too bed. He’s killing Don Armando.” Julia tells her, “I will try to get him upstairs. Hopefully he won’t be that stubborn.” Betty tells her, “well then you take him up to bed. I will go with Don Armando.” Julia asks, “go out with him but its too late.” Betty tells her, “yes mom he came all this way for me. Was stuck here all night, with my dad. I just can’t tell him now, that I can’t go with him.” Julia tells her, “well yes your right but don’t be all night. You take good care of yourself.” Betty tells her, “it won’t be too long.” She takes a deep breath, and gives Betty her blessing. Then they both head to Hermes. Hermes tells Armando, “now the more important thing is. Of the history of old man Lasado Pinzon, it occurred in the last two years before his death sir. Can you believe he won the lottery?” Julia grabs him, “its time for bed dear.” Hermes laughing tells him, “oh can you believe that winning that money. Ha ha ha.”

Julia tells him, “but it’s really late.” Hermes tells her, “oh Julia don’t interrupt me. I am telling the story of old Lasado Pinzon. It’s in the best part, plus Armando here is fascinated. Right sir.” Julia tells him, “come on dear lets go to bed. The man has to leave its late.” Hermes tells her, “just wait one more minutes. I just need two more years, I’m almost done.” Julia tells him, “no enough Hermes your being annoying. Leave the man alone, it will hurt your head.” Hermes tells Armando, “sir one more drink one more story.” Armando tells him, “thank you but it is rather late.” Hermes shakes his hand, “well sir thank you for coming I guess you have to leave. It was indeed a pleasure. You have a great conversation, oh it was great. He spills a piece of cake on Armando’s suit. Hermes hugs him and says, even though we don’t know one another much. I highly hold you with a lot of esteem. From now on, consider yourself now a new Pinzon.” Betty just covers her face in embarrassment. Armando tells him, “thank you Don Hermes.” He waves and Julia takes him away. Betty smiles at him, Armando smiles at Julia then looks at his suit. Hermes tells Julia, “you shouldn’t have interrupted. We were having a serious conversation. Now don’t leave them alone Julia, the devil is pork.” Julia tells him, “oh walk up the stairs and stop being so annoying.”

(If you watch closer Armando is almost losing it, he’s holding himself back from laughing when Hermes tells him goodbye.)

Betty just laughs, “oh sorry sir that story with my dad and my uncle lasador.” Armando tells her, “I couldn’t push your dad away. Well Betty then thank you, for everything it’s late but I better go.” Betty utters, “your going?” Armando tells her, “what you want me to stay here any longer. I was stuck with your father, it was quite the night. Look I had a nice time, with your family and all your friends. Look I fulfilled my part, come by the door with me you naughty girl.” He touches her chin, and Betty is miserable. Armando turns, when she’s not next to him. He sees that she’s about to cry. Betty tells him, “I thought we were going out.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz go out but it’s late now. Everything is closed. Look were both drunk, and look at my suit I am dirty. Go where?” Betty angrily tells him, “I understand sir.” After a few minutes he tells her, “fine fine Betty we’ll go someplace. We will see what’s opened.” Betty’s face lights up and she asks, “really.” Armando tells her, “yes I’ll just get my jacket and we can go.” She kisses him and heads upstairs. While Armando hears Hermes singing once more. He covers his ears, and shuts his eyes. The lights now begin to go out in the house.

Patricia tells her, “Marcee there turning off the lights now. Armando is now sleeping inside that house.” Marcela utters, “oh no it can’t be true oh no it can’t be.” Patricia tells her, “what if he’s so drunk that he just passed out.” Marcela tells him, “Armando oh he’s not one of those men.” Patricia tells her, “oh yes your saying he’s not this or that. He’s not for them, or not with them. So what game is he playing at?” What they don’t know, is that Roman and his gang are coming. One guy sees them, and reports back to Roman. “Did you see that, two women are inside that car?” Roman tells them, “let’s see if they want to go dance. They head closer, and both of them scream. Roman asks, so princesses what are your names?” Marcela screams, “what do you want!” Roman tells them, “to marry you my love.” Marcela tells them, “if you don’t go away I’m calling the cops.” Roman tells them, “you are being quite rude we just want to get to know you.” Marcela tells them, “look were not interested. Leave us in peace.” The men go, “boo fine we will leave you alone.” Then both women scream again, when they enter through the bad door and take a seat. Then Patricia screams, “they are going to rape us.” Then she pepper spays all the men.

Meanwhile Armando and Betty, hear them they stop. Armando asks, “what do you think is going on?” Betty tells him, “it’s just Roman and his gang. Who knows who, their bothering this time? We better go, hurry before they see us.” They get in the car and drive away.

The guys get out of the car, and the gang that was waiting outside for them. Come to their rescue, and hold onto a screaming Roman. “What happened old man?” Patricia and Marcela also leave the car, and one guy screams. “You crazy, what did you do too him.” Patricia tells them, “it was just gas.” Roman screams, “I’m going to be blind.” One guy utters, “get water quick.” The police come by and see them. “Ok what’s going on?” One guy says, “Mr. Martinez thank god your here those two threw something in my friends eye.” The police asks, “what did you use?” Patricia tells them, “just this gas we were just defending ourselves. They were going to rob us.” The guys tells them, “we weren’t going to rob them. Mr. Martinez you know us, check us weren’t not armed. We were just going to talk to them.” Marcela tells them, “to say hello no you lot got in our car.” The police tells them, “fine everyone show your id. The group is put against the wall, and have to show their ids. The police asks, you own this gas.” Patricia tells them, “yes sir.” The police asks, “what kind of gas is this?”

Patricia tells him, “it’s a personal security gas. The ones they sell for defence.” The police looks at it carefully then says, “no this isn’t legal this is considered a weapon. It’s prohibited didn’t you know?” Patricia tells them, “no how am I supposed to know. I am a business woman, not an attacker. Another cop says, I’ve checked them and they are identified. They are unarmed.” Marcela tells him, “but they were going to attack us they went inside our car.” Roman with his eyes covered tells the police, “no sir we were close just to say hello. They said we could go in their car.” Patricia screams, “that’s a lie!” Roman asks his gang, “are we lying?” They all go, “no that blond one then gassed us.” Patricia tells them, “oh no that’s not true.” Marcela tells them, “no that isn’t true sir.” The cop asks, “did they touch you? Where are the scratches? Both women nodding no. Were you threatened?” Patricia tells him, “no but we felt threatened.” The cop tells them, “fine then all have to go to the police station to write a report. Ok men, take the woman here and all these men.” They grab Patricia, she screams. “One moment please.” Marcela tells them,.” but we were just defending ourselves.” The cops tells her, “look senora that gas is prohibited. It’s considered a weapon, you weren’t harmed but they were now everyone get in. You inside please.” Patricia is resisting, “oh no don’t take me you don’t know who we are.” Patricia tells him, “I am Patricia Fernandez. My husband is, Mauricio De Brickman. I attended six months of Finance at San Marino. I work at Eco Moda, she is the owner. Marcee identify yourself, and call Armando so he can help us out. Marcela stares at the house, and notices the car gone. Patricia continues, her fiancée is the owner of the company.  He’s an important man in this country, he knows every single one of the military. When he finds out, you’re going to have to kneel.” Marcela screams, “oh shut up Armando is gone.”

Patricia screams, “it can’t be it can’t be.” The cop tells them, take her right now please.” The guy are grinning Patricia, is screaming and becoming hysterical. “Marcee they can’t take me, oh my god I’m being taken in a cop car, oh what will people think. Sir I have a Mercedes, you don’t know what this means for me to get in this police car.” The guy utters, “yes it’s terrible.” Marcela tells him, “we will do everything but let me just take her in the car.” The guy asks, “so that means you take her and yourself to the police station.” Marcela utters, “yes.” The cop tells her, “senora are you crazy. You can’t take her in your car, you can’t do what ever you want.” Patricia screams, “call someone tell them they are killing me.” Marcela screams, “what do you want me to call him. On my cell and tell him, this occurred because we were following him.” Patricia screams, “oh Marcee. Stop being so proud, the mission failed. Call Armando, so he can help us out Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “we will fix this by ourselves. Relax, I will follow you but I won’t call Armando. Don’t worry I will be coming.” The doors shut, Patricia is screaming and crying. “Marcee Marcee Marcee.” Marcela screams, “I will follow you I will follow you.” She runs a bit after the truck, and then returns to her car.

(Great acting by Lorna Paz, but I did feel sorry for her character. Even though, they shouldn’t have followed Armando in the first place.)

Betty is following Aura Maria’s advice, and begins kissing Armando while he’s driving. He tells her, “my you drank a bit didn’t you. Oh you naughty girl.” Betty laughs and says, “just a little sir.” Betty tells him, “oh sir I am overjoyed to be with you. As of now, it’s been the best birthday of my life.” Armando tells her, “yes Betty but we can’t continue celebrating all night. We can’t celebrate all night your birthday, all the restaurants will be closing.” Betty asks, “why are you hungry sir?” Armando tells him, “well no Betty your meal at your house was delicious thank you very much.” Betty tells him, “well then why a restaurant?” Armando stares at her and asks, “so what place were you thinking about going?” Betty tells him, “how about we go dancing.” Armando utters, “dancing.” Betty tells him, “yes sir dancing. She moves away, and tells him. Well if I am taking away your time, then you don’t want to be with me. If you are already bored of me, then if you want to go back. To Dona Marcela’s apartment, fine I understand.” Armando tells her, “no no no Betty  that’s not what I meant. What happening is, how can I explain this. Well it’s just getting a bit late.” Betty just utter, “ahh.” Armando tells her, “fine we will do one thing. Don’t get sad, my naughty girl. Fine let’s go someplace , where we can dance and talk.” Betty tells him, “so you also had a few drinks.” Armando laughing tells her, “yes a bit and I’ll continue later I guess.” Betty rests her head on his shoulder.

Freddy takes Aura Maria to Bertha’s house. Aura Maria asks, “what are we doing here. Why are you dropping me off at Bertha’s house?” Freddy tells her, “instead of talking to her he just rives up the motor-bike. What are you never, going to talk to me ever again? Did the rats eat your tongue? Or did that vamp, take it from you. If you like, I will tell her to give it back. It seems you want to be lustful for her, that’s how you’re behaving lately. I remember all those tantrums of jealousy, that you would do for me. Was it all fake, or was it all a game to you? Why haven’t you said anything, look Freddy if everything. That I’ve said to you is a lie. Just take me to any place you want. No it’s not late yet, it’s still pretty early yet.” Freddy in the end takes her someplace else.

(Come on Aura Maria, let that boy go. He can find love with someone else.)

Armando stops the car by a club, and she doesn’t stop kissing him. He has to pull her away from him. “Betty Betty were here.” Betty tells him, “with you I feel like I am floating on the clouds.” Armando utters, “yes me too.” She begins to kiss him once more, when she stops. He tells her, “come on Betty lets go in.” Betty tells him, “oh how shameful of me I am so embarrassed.” Armando gets out of the car quickly, he goes to open the door to Betty. Once out she just holds him. Armando looks around, and she asks. “Are you looking for someone sir?” Armando tells her, “no I just get this paranoid feeling about Marcela.” Betty asks, “where is Dona Marcela?” Armando tells her, “I don’t know she told me. She went to a cocktail party, but after that I don’t know. Look you head in, I will call her now ok.” Betty stops and waits, while he calls Marcela. All he gets is the answering message. Armando tells Betty, “she’s not in the apartment.” Betty tells him, “well then call her cell.” Armando tells her, “well what am I suppose to tell her. Look lets just enter.”

At the police station, Patricia and Marcela sit while Roman’s gang start complaining. Patricia is screaming, and tells him. “They are lying we never invited them inside the car. They went in all by themselves.” The detective screams, “be quiet all of you. When there quiet, he asks. There is something I don’t understand. Was the car stationed, and parked. Or was it ready to go?” Patricia tells him, “sir we were stationed and parked on the street.” The detective asks, “so you were stationed well were the windows down.” Marcela and Patricia nods. “So what were you doing there?” Roman grabs them, and utters. “They were looking for action.” Patricia pushes him away, screaming. “What plan!” The detective tells him, “everyone behave yourselves.” Marcela tells Patricia, “calm down. Then tells the detective, sir we were not looking for action.” The detective tells her, “well the truth is you attacked them with the gas. You claim they were going to rob you, but they are not armed.” The group utters, “no we weren’t not.” The detective tells them, “I see that you lot were harmed by that gas. Now they can make a legal case, because of their injures.” Patricia gets up angrily, “oh so that means were the guilty ones.” Marcela tries to get her to sit down. “Just because, we were protecting ourselves from these bastards.” The detective tells her, “senora please calm down.” Patricia tells him, “I am not going to calm down it’s an injustice. These people are delinquents.” She begins to hit all of them.

The detective screams, “one minute silence please. This one is going to be put in a cell.” Patricia and Marcela scream, “what!” The group scream, “with you!” Smiling Marcela tells him, “sir we don’t have to go to those extremes sir.” Roman screams, “oh yes we do.” The detective tells her, “it doesn’t matter if this senora calms down or not. She’s the one that spray these men, it was in her possession. That is why she is going to be detained, take her please.” Patricia looks over at Marcela. Marcela asks, “for how long?” The detective tells her, “for one or five days.” Patricia tells him, “oh no I am going to lose my job. You can’t do this.” Marcela tells him, “please detective.” The detective tells her, “I am sorry for this but she won’t be allowed to leave until this issue is resolved. Take her please, get a doctor to fix the wounded.” Crying Patricia screams, “Marcee don’t let them do this. She grabs her hand. Marcee get a lawyer, call the general of the police. Call the minister of the state, use all your influences Marcee. No you can let them put your best friend  in a jail cell.” Marcela crying tells her, “I can’t contact anybody to tell them what happened. It’s between the two of us.” Patricia goes to the window, “Marcee I might have to eat out of a can like the uglies do at the Correntazo. Or I have to wear those strips pyjamas. Or be attacked in here, or raped. Do something Marcee.” Then they take a hysterical Patricia inside.

At the club, Betty holds Armando tightly as they dance. Armando looks up at the lights once more. When she almost strangles him, he has to pull her away. He smiles and she holds him once more. As he starts to relax, he closes his eyes. Then he opens it, and there by the stairs is Marcela. Shock is on his face, she goes to them. “So Armando Mendoza, so Beatriz Solano Pinzon is your lover. You’re a bastard!” She slaps his face, Armando stops dancing and jumps. Betty asks, “what’s wrong Don Armando?” Armando tells her, “I think I had a hallucination.” Betty asks, “sir are you feeling alright?” Armando tells her, as he looks around. “I think its best we sit down.” Betty asks, “sir what is wrong with you. Are you not alright, did the drink make you feel bad?” Armando takes a drink, and tells her. “No yes I…” Betty laughs a bit, “we both have had a lot of drink and it’s now getting to us. Were now a little crazy. I will make sure I take away, that feeling that you have.” Armando asks, “how.” She begins to caresses his shoulder, and brings her close to her. “With my kisses.” Then they kiss, the shadow of Marcela is watching them. Armando glances at her, and stops kissing Betty. Armando pulls away, and tells her. “You are passionate tonight.” Betty still holding him asks, “why sir aren’t you passionate about me?” Armando pauses and says, “well yes of course.” Betty brings him closer to her, “oh this anxiousness, this need to hug you, to be with you is so great. Kissing you, hugging you, oh sir I need you so much. So very much, do you feel the same way about me?”

(The image of Marcela, does it represent his guilt for betraying Marcela. Or does it represent, that this was his last chance to stop the seduction.)

Armando utters, “what.. I… me.. Yes he looks around again. Then he says, I need you so much.” Betty begins kissing him once more. When she stops, he just stares at her. Betty asks, “what’s wrong sir. Don’t you want to spend more time with me? Armando shakes his head, and she continues. Sir do I bother you, do I annoy you. Am I bothering you?” Armando tells her, “no no Beatriz it’s not that. I am just paranoid and nervous. Everywhere I look, I see Marcela. I think its best, I take you home.” Betty looks around, then asks. “Where sir, or don’t you want to continue wanting to be with me sir. Well we just got here.” Armando tells her, “well yes but let’s go someplace else.” Betty holding him even tighter tells him. “Sir lets go somewhere, where we will be all alone and relaxed. She winks at him, in peace let’s go.” Armando kisses her, and she grabs him and kisses him very passionately. He pulls her away, gets up then takes her back to the car. She is still holding onto him. When the door is open, he tells her. “Get in. Betty grabs him, and kisses him once more.  He pulls her away from him, and tells her again. Get in, and she does. I am going to make a call, I’ll be right back. He gets on the cell, and calls Mario. Mario is still at the bar, and is flirting with a woman. He answers it, Armando tells him. Brother its true what we imaged, what we were thinking is coming true. She wants me to take her to a place, to do you know what. What do I do?” Mario tells him, “well then take her to a place.” Armando tells him, “no I am calling you to asks for your help. I have to get out of this you idiot.” Mario tells him, “brother you have two choices. To do it, or not do it. If you do it, then were fine if you don’t we are in a lot of trouble.” Armando tells him, “oh brother please don’t do this too me. I don’t think, I can go through with this. The truth is, I just don’t feel nothing. I don’t want to touch her, or do anything to her. Oh she’s like gum on me.”

Mario tells him, “relax relax yes I understand. Look the situation, is really complicated don’t get desperate. Take the bull from the horns, and get it over with. Look what Betty is doing is asking for oil, she is seeing how much do you love her. Yes brother.” Armando tells him, “fine ok but where do I take her.” Mario tells him, “your apartment.” Armando tells him, “oh no not my apartment. With her, are you crazy? Tomorrow, how will I get rid of her no dad.” Mario tells him, “fine take her to this place. Have a paper and pen, write this address down.” Armando tells him, “be careful I am not going to a dive motel you take your women.” Mario tells him, “no this is a classy hotel more of your tastes.” Armando tells him, “I will memorize it don’t worry about it. Look Marcela, hasn’t arrived at her apartment yet. I am very paranoid, I don’t know where she is. I don’t know, what is going to happen. Brother please, help me out please. I see Marcela in everywhere.” Mario tells him, “relax don’t get all anguished. Everything will go alright. Look this place, is your satisfactions or your money. Have three drinks, and we will get this over with.” Armando almost crying tells him, “the drinks aren’t working anymore. Well then we’ll talk later I better go bye. He gets in the car, and says. Well Betty lets go, now were off.”

(Mario tells him, “we will get out of this.” At this point, he still thinks it’s all a fun game doesn’t he realize that his best friend is slowly falling in his own trap.)

At another club, Freddy and Aura Maria show up. “Isn’t this a great place. What you’re not going to talk to me all night or what?” The waiter tells them, “welcome what would you like?” Freddy tells the waiter. “Get what ever the girl wants.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh Freddy I don’t know what do you want us to get. She touches his hand, and he’s very cold towards her. He releases it, and she goes. Sir just asks him, what he wants. Maybe a bottle, or half of any drink.” Freddy repeats, “get what ever the girl wants. Well the truth is, she has never cared what I think anyway.” She tells him, “fine then that’s great give me a double whiskey. Bring me the most expensive one.” The guy asks, “and you sir.” Freddy tells him, “how about a small shot of rum on the rocks.” The guy takes off, and Aura Maria tells him. “Oh look how happy this plan turned out. You bringing me here, so then were both quiet. You know what Freddy, if you won’t talk to me all night. I will continue drinking, and you’re going to pay dearly for this.”

Armando arrives at a fancy hotel. Betty is still kissing his neck. He utters, “were here.” Betty looks around, “what is this?” Armando tells her, “it’s a hotel. Betty it’s a hotel, you told me you wanted me to take you someplace. Where we can be alone, together, quiet so nobody can bother us. So I thought, the most appropriate place is this hotel. Well if you don’t think it’s the right place, then I’ll take you home so we can sleep.” Betty tells him, “no no no. No sir, the thing is sir I was thinking of a similar place like this.” Betty kisses him, then Armando tells her. “Yes telepathy does exist.” Then Betty kisses him, he responds then stops. “Betty Betty why don’t we enter the hotel.” He laughs and she releases him, and he opens the door for her. He looks around scoping out the place. Then he laughs and Betty just holds onto him. They enter the hotel, the clerk tells them. “Good evening.” Armando whispers to the clerk, “good evening I need a room. She looks at both of them, and asks again. Armando tells her, yes we would like a room. Betty holds him dearly, and laughs when the woman gives him a paper to sign. Betty kisses his neck once more, and tells her. Betty come on, I am filling this out.” The woman looks at the paper, “please escort Alberto Mauravia and his wife to their room.” The bellhop asks, “so where are your luggage?” Armando nods, “no.” The woman utters, “well then no luggage how will you be paying for this?” Armando tells her, “cash.” The lady tells Raphael, “just take them to their room. Enjoy your nights stay.” The woman puts them in their computer, and we see Betty just smiling away. While Armando is jumpy, they reach the bedroom. The guy shows them around, “senora now there’s the bathroom, and the bed is over there. The bar is around the corner, have a nice night.” Armando pays the man and utters, “thank you.” When he leaves, Betty sits on the bed he sits next to her. Both look at one another, and Betty excuses herself and goes to the bathroom. Betty is quite nervous.

(I hear a baby crying, does anybody hear that.)

Mario is still at the bar, telling a woman. “Really you know we should risk things in life, or else why not live it. Don’t you think so? Again my friend.” Armando calls Mario, “I don’t think I can do this brother.” Mario asks, “where are you?” Armando tells him, “at a hotel.” Mario asks, “but where in the hotel. In the parking lot, in reception where?” Armando tells him, “I’m in the bedroom. What you couldn’t do it? Brother call for aphrodisiacs, or get a pill to help you out.” Armando tells him, “it’s not that look I am going to be more explicated. I just can’t do it.” Mario asks, “where is Betty?” Armando has a drink and tells him, “she’s in the bathroom. In the bathroom, I am waiting for her to come out. I want to leave, to fly away from here.” Mario tells him, “look Armando. You don’t seem to understand, your playing with fire. You have to understand, be serious. You can’t bring her to a hotel, then escape. Its way too late for that, just get it over with.” Armando tells him, “but I can’t I can’t. I just can’t do this to Betty. I can’t go through with this, I’ve had two bottles of whiskeys. I am still not convinced. I am not convinced, that I should do this to Betty.” Mario tells him, “look look look. Before she comes out from that bathroom. Turn off the lights, close the curtains, and make sure everything is dark. Think about Adriana Arboleda, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Sharon Stone. Use anybody but think, understand you will not leave that room. Don’t you dare leave that room.” Armando tells him, “yes I understand. Thank you very much.” He then hangs up.

(At least he didn’t take her, to some dump motel like Mario did to Aura Maria.)

Armando makes the place dark, and takes a deep breath and sits on the bed. Betty comes out, and he asks. “Betty would you like something to drink?” Betty tells him, “no no sir I have drunk enough tonight.” He goes next to her, and she sits back down. Then Betty is the one, that makes the first move but stops and sits down. Then she kisses him, Armando begins kissing her back he stops and pulls back. Betty is saddened and sees his face. She asks, “sir what’s wrong sir?” He opens his eyes, and utters. “What look Beatriz, I just can’t go through with this. I’m sorry truly sorry.” Betty asks, “is it because of Dona Marcela right.” Armando tells her, “no no no it’s not because of you.” He gets up and sits in another chair. Betty sadly tells him, “no sir don’t you worry about it sir. I understand.” Armando tells her, “thank you thank you Betty.” Betty tells him, “I just knew this wasn’t going to come true. It was the start of a dream, but without a conclusion. She laughs, sir I have aspired so much with you sir. I guess it was enough, for you to just look my way. For you to go out with me, for you to kiss me. This is something very great for me sir. From what I have achieved with you sir. Until now is so great, and big that I waited that you desired me as well.” She laughs softly, and he tells her. “No, Betty no no. You are misinterpreting what I’ve said. It’s not like that at all.” Betty tells him, “no no no you don’t have to explain things. Look you don’t have to, feel any attraction towards me. That desire well you’re not the exception. Look I know this relationship, has been very beautiful. The truth is sir I do love you sir, I don’t want to say. That you’re obligated to fulfill your part, in making love to me.” He takes off his glasses, and puts it on the table.

Betty is crying at this point. Armando tells her, “no Beatriz. Come her my love, and he takes her hand. Please don’t say those things, don’t say those words no.” Betty tells him, “sir I’m sorry I am truly sorry I pressured you into this. I have been so bad tonight, I am so very sorry sir. I am just an idiot, I’m sorry and she covers her face with shame. Please do forgive me.” Armando tells her, “please don’t say those things. Please Beatriz, yes I do desire you.” He begins to kiss her, she’s the one that stops it. “No sir no sir, and she gets up. She sits where he just sat. No sir, you don’t have to do this. No don’t do this for compassion. Nor for engagement.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz I’m not doing this because of all the things that you’ve said.” Betty asks, “then why why don’t you want to do it.” Armando gets up tells her, “I want to because I am in love with you. I really do love you Betty.” He takes her hand, she gets up and he brings her close and they kiss. Slowly they move to the bed, and the kissing continues. Betty is the one that turns off the lights.

(The mission completed, knowing what’s too come I feel so sorry for Betty. People online, have been debating whether this was the turning point in their relationship. Was it after this, that he realized that he indeed had falling in love with Betty.)

Lorna Maria Cepeda Jimenez, was born on November 18, 1970. She’s 39 years old. She majored in Psychology, from the University of North Barranquilla in Colombia. She is married to Eduardo Paz, manager of artists. She has 3 children with him: Daniela, Nathaniel and Mariano.  Her sister is also an actress, and her name is Angie Cepeda. Who stared in Las Juanas. In Barranquilla at the age of 16. Lorna Paz started modeling at the Diana de Biasse’s academy. By 1997 she began studying to become an actress. She has done several telenovelas, worked in movies and theatre. She has done several commercials: Sprite drinks, Chiclets Adams, Limonada Postobon, Oster girl in two years 2001-2002, Alpina, Cel Caribe Barranquilla 2001-2002. Lorna is best known for her work on this series. She played Patricia Fernandez.

SEVENTY-FIVE

Time passes, Marcela is still at the police station. She tries to call Armando, and can’t reach him. Marcela curses and utters, “he’s not at the apartment. When Roman and his gang come out, she asks. So what did the medic tell you?” Roman tells her, “this was very grave heard me. You hurt us.” Marcela tells him, “oh really tell me one thing. What do you want, money?” Roman tells her, “you’re offending me.” Marcela tells him, “no no no you guys were looking for something. You went near the car, entered the car, because you were looking for something. What do you want, let’s just finish this once and for all. Leave us in peace. Let’s find a solution to this problem, tell me.” Roman tells her, “fine I will tell you what we wanted. The same thing I told you in the barrio, we wanted to get to know you. Give us your phone numbers, and that’s that. We didn’t want to attack you, not everyone that isn’t in your economic class or from your barrio. Approaches you to rob you, if you would have given up your name we would have invited you for a drink. We would have paid, with our own money. Or taking you to eat, good fine food. With money, that I haven’t robbed. We don’t want nothing from you.” Marcela tells him, “but you scared us.” Roman tells him, “but you attacked us. Plus you accused us as assaulters.” Marcela tells him, “fine we all made a mistake. Which is very true, but we shouldn’t continue with this problem. Look we won’t insist on the assault, and you say don’t insist on that attack.” Roman tells her, “well what then forget about it.” Marcela tells him, “fine what do you want.” Roman tells her, “fine why don’t we go out dancing.” Marcela utters, “out dancing.”

(Sometimes being cool and calm, does fix things. How exactly does Roman, make a living?)

Freddy and Aura Maria are still at the bar, she’s drinking away. “Waiter please get me another double whiskey, quickly I am thirsty.” She tells Freddy, “with this one it’s now seven drinks. Why don’t you take me dancing, so we can sweat the whiskeys? Freddy the more we sit, the more I will order.” A guy comes by, and asks. “Care to dance? She glances over to Freddy, he doesn’t do anything. The guy tells her, you seem bored.” Aura Maria tells him, “no thanks I am just tired thank you. You know what I am sick, and tired of you idiot. The waiter returns, with another drink. Thank you she says, now asks this man if he wants anything to do with me.” The waiter looks at Freddy, “this senorita would like to dance.” Freddy finally talks and tells him, “garcon tell her I am very tired but I would willingly dance the next song with her.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh what a miracle thank you. Oh you’re such a gentleman. It’s better than me, constantly ordering more whiskeys.” While Freddy tells him, “tell this woman to get to the dance floor. I will show her some fine dancing.” Then they dance, but he pretends not to dance with her and makes a fool out of himself. Aura Maria smiles for a bit then tells him. “Freddy I’m over here.” He just continues to dance.

(Aura Maria just doesn’t get the hint, he’s still angry over being dumped by her over and over again.)

At the police station, Patricia is released she looks horrible but calm. Patricia asks, the detective. “Well then are you going to sentence me now?” The detective tells her, “please sit down senora.” Patricia tells him, “if you plan to put me back. I would like to be transported to another station.” Marcela tells her, “be quiet and listen.” Patricia tells her, “oh yeah be quiet and sit down.” Patricia tells her, “easy for you to say. You weren’t in there for a few hours. You didn’t have to complain, that they were touching you and trying to take off your clothes. I demand to be taken to another facility. One were there is, fine dignified people. You know the ones who are white color criminals, that if they do financial frauds they get put in there. I went to 6 months of finance at the San Marino, I am not any old person.” Marcela grabs her, and sits her back down. “Calm down, be quiet and listen to the detective.” The detective then tells her, “fine then this lady here. Has told me that an agreement, has been reached between the two parties. So that means no legal action will take place. I have very good news, you can go.” Patricia is happy, and she screams. “Oh Marcee! Thank you Marcee, the group behind her also cheers. Ramon goes for a hug, and she pushes him aside. You bold insolent, oh Marcee I just can’t believe this. I was in there for so long, and now I am free.” The detective tells her, “now I want you to sign this and promise me. You will never have a weapon, like this in your possession.” Patricia utters, “yes sir fine ok. She grabs the sheet goes over and says, yes as long as those wretches don’t come near me.” Marcela pushes her away from them, and makes her sign quickly. Patricia signs, but mouths you wretches. The detective smiles and Patricia smiles at Marcela. Then they hug, and everyone is smiling. Roman utters, “yes Marcee.”

Then they leave the station. Marcela tells her, “let’s get out of here.” Roman is hugging both of them. “So princesses, when are we going out dancing.” Patricia asks, “what is he saying?” Marcela tells her, “leave them be when ever he wants just call us.” Patricia is shocked and stares at Marcela with disbelief. Patricia brings her near and asks, “what is it? Why are you going out with them?” Marcela tells her, “that was the deal for you to get out of there.” Patricia tells her, “are you crazy. I am not going with them. I am not going out, with these dead beats. I would rather die, or stay put in that jail cell.” Marcela tells her, “enough stop saying that you want to return to that jail cell. Let’s get the hell out of here.” Patricia stops her, and says. “No Marcee don’t be scared. I we, will fix all this with the lawyers of Eco Moda.” Marcela gasps, Ramon tells her. “So you work at Eco Moda with Betty.” Marcela tells Patricia, “no let’s go right now.” Ramon asks again, “so you two work at Eco Moda?” Patricia tells him, “yes so what is it too you.” Ramon asks, “you work alongside Betty?” Patricia asks, “how do you know her?” Marcela tells her, “let’s go.” Ramon tells her, “we’ve known her for years. Were her neighbours, she was ugly since then.” Patricia tells him, “we don’t work with her. We are top executives at Eco Moda. She’s just a simply employee.” Ramon tells her, “oh yes just an employee but with a rich boyfriend she landed. He has a great looking car, and fine clothes he looks like a millionaire. What are you jealous of her, yes or no.” Patricia asks curiously, “so you know her boyfriend?” Marcela tells her, “let’s go right now immediately.” She drags Patricia out of there. Ramon screams, “we might not be as rich as Betty’s boyfriend but. We can afford to take you anywhere.” One guy screams at Patricia, “oh your legs are fantastic.”

Patricia outside asks, “what if they call we have to go out with them?” Marcela tells her, “I gave them a fake number. But then, you had to open your small mouth. Telling them, you worked at Eco Moda and knew Beatriz. Now they are going to talk to Betty, and mention this whole incident. Why because, you had to open your big mouth.” Patricia tells her, “sorry sorry. Look did you hear, that they know who is Betty’s boyfriend.” Marcela asks, “so what?” Patricia tells her, “I just wanted them to describe him.” Marcela tells her, “oh you’re so unsupportable. Come let get out of here.” Patricia asks, “so where are we going? Because we don’t know, where Armando ended up going. Are we going to your apartment?” Marcela tells her, “no where going to Armando’s apartment.” Patricia asks, “what ever for.” Marcela tells her, “I called and he hasn’t gotten home yet.” Patricia tells her, “what do you mean he hasn’t arrived yet. He left hours ago, from Betty’s house.” Marcela tells her, “I know that.” Patricia asks, “did you call his cell.” Marcela tells her, “it’s off.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee where can Armando be. Everything is closed. Well not every place, like those hotels.” Marcela tells her, “why don’t we just go to Armando’s apartment.” Patricia yells, “fine what you’re catching is Armando’s screaming at people. Now both of you, are yelling at me.”

(The fake number reminds me, of that episode in Seinfeld. Where Elaine, gave her number at the booking office.)

At the hotel, both are sleeping like babies. Betty gets up and just stares at Armando, she puts on her glasses and caresses his back. When he gets up, he looks at her. Then stares, then asks. “What time is it?” Betty tells him, “12am sir its best we go sir.” Betty gets up and heads to the bathroom, Armando gets up and utters regretfully. “Oh what did I do, lord what did I do. What did I do?” Betty now is dressed, and just stares at the mirror. She just can’t help but smile, she utters. “He was divine, he was divine.” Armando now is dressed, she comes out and goes to him. He asks, “are you ready Beatriz?” Betty just nods, and then he says. “Well then let’s go.” Betty tells him, “it was very beautiful sir. It was beautiful.” She goes next to him, and gives him a big hug. He tells her, “Beatriz its best that we go. Or else they will kill you at home.” Betty just nods and leaves his side. When they get to reception, Betty holds him once more. Armando pays the lady, plus the tips. Betty holds him lovely. The clerk just thanks him, and watches them leave then just shakes her head in disgust. When they get to the car, Betty puts her head on his shoulder. He asks, “what are you doing Betty?” Betty tells him, “I want to continue dreaming.” Armando then takes her home.

Aura Maria gets taken home once again by Freddy. Angrily she gets off, and tells him. “Well we had a delicious time. We talked, we made joke. We danced, we kissed. I don’t even what to know, all about all those whiskey drinks I drank. The truth Freddy, even though you don’t believe me. Your probably had a terrible night, but I did enjoy being with you. I know that you didn’t like being with me. Well anyway thank you. She kisses his cheek, and then kisses him further on the lips. She stops and continues. We will talk tomorrow then, we will see one another tomorrow. Then she enters, fresh look tomorrow. I will give you back your jacket, and gives back the helmet.” Freddy stares at her, then leaves.

Armando arrives at Betty’s house, Betty has fallen asleep. Armando stops the car, and looks over towards her and utters. “Betty Betty, we’ve arrived at your house. Wake up.” Betty slowly gets up, then says softly. “Sir thank you for everything. This was the best birthday of my life.” Armando tells her, “yes Betty that makes me very happy.” Betty tells him, “it’s more than a good birthday it’s been the best night of my life. The best moment of my life, I know that for you. It might be just another night. I know that you’ve had, a lot of nights with other women.” Armando tells her, “no no this night it was a very special night very special.” Betty smiles and laughs, “it was special night right. You’ve never been, with a woman like me.” She laughs some more. Armando tells her, “no Betty this night was very special for me. You will never image how much. Her smile disappears, and she stares at him. Armando tells her, we will talk tomorrow ok.” Betty asks, “are you now going to Dona Marcela’s house?” Armando tells her, “no I am heading to my apartment. As she is ready to leave the car he stops her. Betty I need to ask, one question from you. I have this inside, I better ask you now.” Betty asks, “what question sir ask me?” Armando tells her, “well this night. What we did you and me. The truth well, I always thought. That this was your first time, in your life that this happened. Well I didn’t image, that you had already made love before with someone.” Betty asks, “so does that affect you? Does that change your image of me sir? Will you stop loving me?” Armando tells her, “no no no, it was just pure curiosity Beatriz. Beatriz who were you with before? Betty’s demeanour changes, and she is silent and sad. There was another man in your life.” Betty just nods, “yes sir yes someone. I had a relationship before.” Armando asks, “Nicholas Mora?” Betty tells him, “no another person but I don’t like to talk about that.” Armando tells her, “well I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable. Let’s not talk about that anymore. You know what, enter and rest. Tomorrow we will see one another, at the office alright.” Betty nods and kisses him, then gets out of the car. Armando stares at her, and watches her leave. He utters, “what did I do lord. What did I do.” He watches as she enters, then he turns and  heads to his apartment.

Betty gets in her room, she is bursting with happiness and runs to her bed. She takes out her diary and Julia enters. “Oh what happened dear. You had me really worried, look at the time. Did something happen?” Betty tells her, “no mom I am fine. Did my father see, that I’m home at this hour?” Julia tells her, “no don’t even think about it. You wouldn’t even be alive. He didn’t notice that you left.” Betty breaths a sign of relief, “you told me you would go eat and return.” Betty tells her, “oh yes mom Don Armando. Took me to a fancy restaurant, we ate and talked till they closed the place down. Then we got in the car, and talked and talked. Time passed and we didn’t even notice.” Julia asks, ‘what did you talk about?” Betty tells her, “of economics of the company were always talking about that.” Julia asks, “is that all that you talked about?” Betty smiling asks, “what more could we have done.” She laughs, and Julia tells her. “At least you arrived safe and sound, I was so worried. There was a huge scandal outside our doors, something big happened with a car.” Betty tells her, “oh yes when Armando and I were leaving we saw Roman’s gang. They were bothering someone in a car. The doors were open, we heard screams but I couldn’t see clearly what occurred. Plus I didn’t want to get involved.” Julia tells her, “oh it was quite the scandal. The police arrived, they took all of them inside the squad car. They also took two women, oh mamita it was quite the scandal. Oh dear lord.” Betty tells her, “oh I wonder what happened.” Julia tells her, “oh dear look at the time. Soon you have to get up, she kisses her cheek and gives her a big hug. See you tomorrow, may the lord protect you.” Betty tells her, “thank you mom.”

She leaves and Betty writes:

“Tonight I was his, completely his it was the best night of my life. At last love has shown me something so beautiful, it was a side so sincere. Away all those disasters of the past, that I had in that first experience. I was his, and he was mine. At first he had doubts, he didn’t want to at first. Armando arrives at his house and plays with his dog. I was very anxious, I thought he didn’t desire me. But he cleared everything, with words he told me for the first time. That he loved me, he showed me by showing me. Armando is at peace and pensive. In that darkness of the bedroom, he confirmed to me and I felt that he did love me.”

(I didn’t know Armando had a dog, he never mentioned it and who takes care of it.)

Armando’s mood changes, when lying on his bed is Marcela. Armando asks, “what are you doing here love.” Marcela tells him, “why what am I disturbing you am I bothering you. Or making you uncomfortable, then why did you give me the keys to the apartment.” Armando tells her, “look love it doesn’t make me uncomfortable or bother me. It just surprises me.” Marcela tells him, “what does surprise me. Is what time you arrive at your apartment.” Armando throws down his keys, “Marcela don’t start with me now.  No don’t start this. You knew perfectly well where I was. I was at Betty’s house celebrating her birthday. Everyone at the office was there. The porter Wilson, Freddy, the uglies were there as well. You can ask them tomorrow.” Marcela asks, “so you were there all night. Especially at this time of night, yes it’s very easy to find out. What time the party started, and what time it ended.” Armando tells her, “no I wasn’t at her place till now. After the party, I headed to Mario Calderon’s place.” Marcela tells him, “go to Mario Calderon’s apartment. To do what for what. Look you don’t have to tell me, because your response could kill me.” Armando grabs her arm, she turns. “Look don’t start that plan. I went there, to have a few drinks with Mario. Nothing else was happening, for your information there were no women there.” Marcela asks, “then why did you turn off you cell phone.” Armando asks, “turn off my cell phone. When we talked, you said we would talk tomorrow. I turned it off, because I didn’t suspect that you would try calling me again.” Marcela asks, “what if something. Would have happened to me?” Armando tells her, “but you’re fine.”

Marcela tells him, “but what if something did happen to you. You didn’t answer you cell phone, you weren’t at your apartment. That’s why, I came here to wait for you.” Armando sits on the bed, “look as you can see. My life, I am perfectly in good condition.” Marcela tells him, “perfect well then can I go now.” Armando tells her, “Marcela look we are going to have to finalize a few points. I just don’t understand you. First you say, we will talk tomorrow. Second you said, I could do things perfectly without worry. Then I arrive, and you’re incriminating me. Where was I, who was I with? Why did you go, or not go. Why was the cell phone off? Marcela if you said, we talk tomorrow we would talk tomorrow. Don’t start this plan, its embarrassing.” Marcela tells him, “what a coincidence I said lets talk tomorrow and you disappear.” Armando tells her, “we are going to do one thing yes we will do one thing. Never say, we will talk tomorrow. I will never turn off the cell phone. I will leave it on, 24 hours for you. I will report to you every 5 minutes. Where I am, with who I am. What I’m doing, if I go out or stay in. What ever. You can control, every movement like I were a child. If you want, I can tell you who I am. What am I.” Marcela goes to him, realizing that she went too far. She tries to caress him, he pushes her away. “Forgive me, I was worried for you. You didn’t answer your cell phone. You weren’t in your apartment that is all. I thought something, had happened to you. Rest my life, you look tired.” Armando tells her, “yes I am tired. Look what I am going to do, is go to that bathroom take a shower and go to bed.” Marcela hugs him, and begins kissing him but he doesn’t even want her near him. Armando tells her, “Marcela please.” Marcela tells him, “I don’t care what you look like please. She begins to undress him, and Armando stares at her very coldly. She stops and asks. What’s the matter? What you don’t want to be with me? What you want me to leave?” Armando stares at her then says, “I am tried.” Marcela tells him, “that has never stopped us before for us to make love.” Armando tells her, “well now it is. Yes that is an impediment. Look don’t worry, relax for tomorrow will be another day.” Marcela angrily gets up, “fine then I won’t worry then.” Armando looks away then both stare at one another.

Betty turns in her bed, “oh I love Don Armando I love him.”

The next morning, Betty arrives at Eco Moda. The day is new, and the sun is shining. She can’t help smiling, and sees Wilson drinking coffee. “Hi Wilson, how are you this morning. How is your hang-over?” Wilson tells her, “it’s bad I was going to ask for a day off but knew they wouldn’t give it to me. Well thank you, so much for last’s night invitation. Last night was delicious, a great party.” Betty just smiles, she then sees Armando arriving and watches. Her smile disappears, when she sees Marcela coming out of the passenger seat. Armando walks behind her, and Marcela tells them. “Good morning.” Armando sees her and tells her, “yes good morning.” Betty tells them, “yes good morning how are you this morning.” Marcela tells her, “you know what Beatriz very well.” Marcela glances over at Armando, and then enters the company. Betty glances at Armando, he tells her. “We need to talk now.” She nods he tells Wilson, “park my car.” He throws the keys at Wilson, it falls to the floor. Wilson gets them, and utters. “Yes sir.” Armando asks, “what’s wrong with you Wilson.” Wilson tells him, “well nothing sir.” Armando asks, “take off those glasses he repeats it. He does, and Wilson’s eyes are bloodshot. Armando tells him, look at those eyes oh how embarrassing. Look at that hangover that you have. Betty looks at him and laughs. Oh Wilson, you were wasted last night. At Betty’s moms house no less. Doesn’t that embarrassed you, I should hit you. You were so drunk, they had to carry you last night. I am going to continue talking, yes or no.” Wilson tells him, “yes sir you can continue. Not only did I get drunk, but I was sleepy. You know the motto for me, never to sleep on the job Armando.” Armando tells him, “yes of course yes you’re a man that’s always awake and alert. You can sleep at home Wilson, or anywhere. It was incredible last night, my dear Wilson will you be able to park my car. Or does your leg tingle.” Wilson tells him, “immediately I will park your car. I’ll put it in the garage.” Armando tells him, “you better not fall asleep. Well then let’s head upstairs.” Betty smiles at him, and then they stop. Aura Maria comes running in, “Betty Betty wait. Oh hello and good morning Don Armando.” Armando asks, “how are you?” Aura Maria tells him, “fine thank you.” Armando smiles at Betty and utters, “we will see one another in my office.”

Aura Maria asks, “so do tell how did things go with your boyfriend last night?” Betty tells her, “we can’t talk out here.” Aura Maria asks, “oh come on how was it?” Betty tells her, “he was divine.” Aura Maria just squeals with delight. “Oh that’s fantastic.” Betty smiling asks, “so how was your night?” Aura Maria tells him, “not to good. Don’t even asks, I bombed last night with Freddy. It was like I went out, with a robot last night.” Freddy comes out, and pretends he’s a robot. “So good morning. Freddy ignores Aura Maria, and looks towards Betty. Then he tells her, good morning my dear Betty. My what a beautiful morning it is today. Oh what a beautiful day, birds are singing, dogs are barking. Oh my what is that weird brilliance, in your foggy eyes? Oh my morning spring day has arrived.” He sings and goes towards his bike, waiting for Jenny to get out of Elfrain’s car. Aura Maria tells her, “he was ridiculous last night. Come on lets go inside, I will tell you everything.” Betty just smiles and enters the company.

Elfrain tells Jenny, “no no no forget about it. I will not do it, I will not take away my children’s. Or Sophia’s house, its their’s.” Jenny tells him, “but my sweet love I am not asking you to take away their house. Just take out 50%, that is what you are owned.” Elfrain tells her, “oh dear heart. Put it in your head, that house is her inheritance from her parents. I didn’t pay a single penny.” Jenny tells him, “yes I know but you must have a piece of paper. That states that her family, did indeed give her a document. That states that they, gave her that property?” Elfrain tells her, “no why?” Jenny tells him, “so that means Dona Sophia is very bad my sweet love. Before getting married, you should have dealt with this issue right away. So that means, you’re officially entitled to that money my sweet love. The law is the law.” Elfrain asks, “how do you know about legal issues?” Jenny tells him, “that’s strange you didn’t know. You know very well, I’m not a stupid woman I researched it. Its common sense, that’s all.” Elfrain tells her, “ok you are right but I am not going. To ask for half of that house, it’s not mine.” Jenny tells him, “that’s why your the way your are. You’re an idiot, you deserve half of that property Elfrain. You have been together for a long time, you shared that house. Protected those kids, but you were stuck dealing with her all these years. What is your prize for all that? Look I’m sorry, but you must wake up. You deserve half of that house Elfrain, you just don’t want to take care of yourself. Just look at yourself, look at those clothes.” Elfrain looks at himself, and then says. “Oh my love, you can’t ask me do that. I love you, he blows kisses towards her. She looks away angrily. Elfrain asks, what is wrong with you love.” Jenny tells him, “nothing nothing look we will talk later.” Elfrain tells her, “oh my life my heart.” Jenny tells him, “we will talk later. Look you better go to work, or else you won’t have any money for this month.” Elfrain leaves, and Jenny walks by still pretty angry. Freddy asks, “oh how is my lovely red flamingo? What is wrong my beautiful morning?” Jenny tells him, “I am sad and depressed. I need someone, who will cheer me up.” Freddy pretends to answer an imaginary phone. “Yes this is Freddy Contreras, yes I take away depression is speaking. Jenny just smiles, I also cheer people up. Contact me at this number.” Jenny tells him, “I will be calling you.” She enters Freddy utters, “I am good.” He dances and sings and then gets on his bike.

Betty gets on the second floor, she’s still smiling away. Mariana and Sandra comes by her, talking about sales figures. Mariana turns and says, “oh look at you.” Sandra asks, “so how did things go last night.” Mariana asks, “so what happened? Were you able to be, with your boyfriend or no.” Betty smiling tells them, “later we can talk.” Mariana tells her, “oh come on Betty do tell.” Betty smile fades, when she sees Marcela coming closer. She screams, “tell them why don’t you tell them. Tell them, what you did last night. You have a shameful face, to come to my company. My company, my space, my place. Like nothing would have happened. You are shameless, how could you say hello to me and look at me in the face. When last night, you were with my man. Had sex with Armando, you slut.” Betty tells her, “no Dona Marcela it wasn’t like that. No don’t say it like that, it wasn’t like that.” Marcela tells her, “that is the right terms Beatriz. Because I am Armando’s woman, and your just his lover. A man makes love to his woman, he has sex with is lover. I am going to tell you one thing, last night when you released him. He came back to me, and made love to me. He could be playing with you, or the both of us. In the end image, who will he end up with. When it’s all said and done.” Sandra wakes up Betty, from her fantasy. “Betty Betty.” Mariana tells her, “wake up Betty girl are you just going to stand there like an idiot. Or will you tell us everything, that happened with your boyfriend last night.” Betty smiling again, tells them. “I will tell you later, we will talk then.” Mariana tells her, “never will she tell us.” Sandra utters, “she’s always so private.” Marcela comes by, and says. “Mariana please come, to my office for a minute please.” Mariana tells her, “yes of course Dona Marcela I’ll be right there.” She glances at Sandra.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mariana tells her, “man Dona Marcela is in a terrible mood. Heads are liabel to roll today at Eco Moda.”)

Betty goes to the office, and shyly smiles at Armando. “So you said, you wanted to talk to me sir.” Armando tells her, “yes Beatriz I needed to talk about Marcela. Last night, I promised you that I would go to my house. To sleep alone, then today you saw Marcela and I coming in together. I don’t want you to think…” Betty tells him, “no sir I told you last night I respected your relationship. I understood it.” Armando tells her, “look I know what you told me. Beatriz but wait one minute, yes you understand the relationship but it wasn’t what you think. Please let me explain, after taking you home after we did what we did together. I didn’t go to Marcela’s place.” Betty tells him, “don’t worry about it sir really.” Armando tells her, “please let me explain things. I need to explain this, the thing was I arrived last night. She was waiting for me, in my apartment understand. See since she couldn’t find me last night, she went to my place and was waiting for me. She thought I had disappeared, so like a crazy woman she went to my apartment. She was waiting for me, to reappeared and wait for me. But I swear to you, I swear to you that nothing else happened ok.” Betty tells him, “relax sir.” Then she smiles slightly, she looks at him with so much love in her eyes. The she heads towards her office, and closes the door. Armando is confused and unsettled, and watches her leave. When Betty enters her office, she stares at his silhouette. She takes a deep breath, and utters. “Oh he’s mine, just mine.”

At Marcela’s office she asks Mariana. “Mariana what I am going to ask. I want it to stay, between you and I. In the end you are my secretary, I would like to confide in you.” Mariana tells her, “but of course Dona Marcela truly.” Marcela asks, “Armando was there with all of you at the party at Betty’s party last night.” Mariana tells her, “yes senora.” Mariana asks, “while Armando was there. Did he receive a call on his cell phone at any time?” Mariana tells her, “no not at all Dona Marcela.” Marcela asks, “are you sure?” Mariana tells her, “I am sure.” Marcela asks, “do you swear it?” Marinna tells her, “yes on your honour I am sure of it.” Marcela asks, “you guys left before Armando right.” Mariana tells her, “yes senora.” Marcela asks, “then why did he stay in so long.” Mariana laughs and tells her, “oh Dona Marcela you don’t know it was funny. Betty’s dad wouldn’t let him leave. Oh he’s quite the character, oh it was hilarious. What can I tell you?” Marcela asks, “tell me did Armando ever mention where he was going after the party.” Mariana tells her, “you know he didn’t Dona Marcela why.” Marcela tells her, “now you may leave Mariana thank you.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mariana sees the new photo, and asks. Oh Dona Marcela this is new oh how lovely and its divine. Excuse me if you need me for anything, I’ll be out front.” Marcela completely ignores her. When she leaves she angrily stares at the door.)

At the office, Mario arrives with a sly grin on his face. Armando is working, and glances up. “I haven’t been able to sleep all night, wondering what occurred between the two of you. I have been waiting for this moment. I want to know everything, everything.” He rubs his hands together, Armando tells him.” Be quiet, she’s in there. We will talk later.” Mario tells him, “what do you mean we will talk later Mr. Mendoza. He sits down, do you think I am made out of stone. Just give me one tiny bit of advance? Did you leave, or did you do the horror?” Armando tells him, “fine you gossipy woman lets walk.” They head to the boardroom. Mario tells him, “oh don’t treat me bad.” Armando closes the doors.

Mario tells him, “you did the deed or else you wouldn’t have closed those doors.” Armando sits down and tells him, “yes so I did it so what.” Mario squeals and jumps up, he laughs like a clown. Armando tells him, “enough it wasn’t a joke.” Mario tells him, “ok Calderon calm down. Fine why don’t we start by parts? First of, was it horrible.” Armando seriously tells him, “no it wasn’t horrible. It was very romantic.” Mario laughs, and tells him. “But of course, it was romantic for you.” He continues to laugh, Armando tells him. “No the only person, it was like I was watching myself but it wasn’t me. There was another drama unfolded, I will tell you something. Don’t make fun, because it’s not funny. It was very difficult.” Mario tells him, “nobody said it was going to be easy. I image the force of concentration, and imagination on your part. That was ready to explode, to jump into an empty wasteland. I am going to tell you honestly. Brother you’re my hero, you are my hero.”

(God this guy is such a pig!)

Armando seriously tells him, “you wanted to know. If I did it, or not I told you. So this conversation is over.” Mario tells him, “oh no one more minute. Wait wait wait, what did I do to you. Relax I want to know, how much did it affect you.” Armando gets up and tells him quite seriously. “Calderon last night, I just didn’t sleep with a woman. I didn’t make love to a model, or any of my models. Or another woman in my address book. Or an occasional woman, no sir I did it with my assistant. With my right hand person, the only woman in this life that is willing to save me. Last night I went to bed, with a woman who is so in love with me. A real woman that’s in love, that doesn’t deserve to be laughed at. Don’t pretend that I don’t feel anything, of course it affected me. It affected me, I am not made of steal.” Mario tells him, “wait one minute. Are you telling me, that you are starting to feel something for Betty? Armando tells him, “regret that is all regret.” Aura Maria comes by Betty’s office, and closes the door behind her. She runs and sits down, “Betty now you better tell me every little detail. Tell me everything dear.” Betty tells her, “on no Aura Maria I really don’t want to talk about that.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh come on dear Betty you can tell me we are allies. So what did you do with your boyfriend last night? Did you do things?” Betty smiles and nods, Aura Maria squeals. “So did he finally went after you? Betty just nods. Oh no dear, tell me everything how did things go?”

(This reminds me of Grease, the song “tell me more.” When Danny and Sandy, talk about their summer.)

Armando tells him, “when we talked last night. I began to relax, I closed the curtains and I drank another whiskey. Then I was really relaxed, then she came out of the bathroom. Mario gets him a glass of water and tells him. When she came out. She was very nervous, and timid uncomfortable. I just looked at her, really looked at her. I just couldn’t make love to her. She realized this, and she began to cry. She cried a lot, and she told me something very terrible that I had never heard before. She told me, that she understood. She understood, that she wasn’t a desirable woman for no man on this planet. You know what, that’s it that broke my heart. It broke my heart, so I approached her. I kissed her, I caressed her and included in this. I told her I desired her.” Mario listens intently, then he tells him. “I don’t want to bother you but, I think from here on out things are perfectly straightened out. Very well, so second act.” Armando tells him, “later I made love to her.” Mario tells him, “what did you use to inspire yourself. Sharon Stone, Michelle Pfeiffer. Did you get a chance, to look at the photo of Adriana Arboleda.” Armando tells him, “nothing no inspiration used last night. I made love to Beatriz Pinzon Solano.” Mario is ready to laugh, and then stops himself. He coughs and utters, “no inspiration?” Armando nods, “no.” Mario tells him, “there is something I just don’t understand. What did you discover, under the Halloween clothes of Betty? Well let me say this, what was under those clothes. What woman did you discover?”

Armando shakes his head, he’s very confused. “I don’t know, I don’t know I don’t know.” Mario tells him, “but you said you didn’t turn off that light.” Armando tells him, “but she turned off those lights.” Mario tells him, “so she turned off the lights. So the deed was done, in total blackness. In total darkness.” Armando grins a bit then tells him, “yes.” Mario tells him, “did you image it like brail. With a touch you can discover things, you can visually describe it with your hands.” Armando touches his forehead, and shakes his head. “Zero chorography.” Mario has gotten bored of this conversation, “ok enough Armando. Don’t play tell me, how did you do it? Tell me how.” Armando tells him, “I just don’t know. Don’t you understand, I don’t know. It was strange, it was an impulse. I really don’t know, how it happened. I don’t know what occurred, can’t you understand that no.” Mario tells him, “well then that impulse what’s got you worried. That strange impulse, maybe you are starting to feel things.” Armando tells him, “feel what? Don’t say stupid things. Armando screams, no I can’t do this my conscience is killing me. I have a conscience not like you. Last night, I made love to a woman that is profoundly in love with me. I felt it more than anything.”

Luis Mesa was born November 9, 1968 in Medellin Colombia.  He’s an actor/producer. He’s done numerous telenovelas, and hosted several tv documentaries. He played Daniel Valencia.

SEVENTY-SIX

Betty so full of love, tells Aura Maria. “He told me he loved me. It the first time, anybody has told me that.” Aura Maria tells her, “but dear its one thing to say it the other to feel it.” Betty tells her, “no Aura Maria I felt it last night. That he loves me, it was so special. I never imaged him, to be that way.” Aura Maria grinning from ear to ear, “please tell me more. How did things go, do tell me.” Mario tells him, “well tell me. So was she adored, was she passionate. Did she drive you crazy?” Armando shakes his head, “no nothing of that.” Mario asks, “well then how was it?” Armando tells him, and smiles as he remembers. “It was sweet.” Mario has disgust on his face, and he utters. “What sweet? Look at me in the eyes, was it sweet?” Armando stops smiling, then tells him. “Calderon that woman, is so in love with me. How did you think it would be? It was sweet ok, it was sweet.” Mario tells him, “man I understand that she was so in love with you but were you sweet with her.” Armando just stares at him. Betty tells Aura Maria, “he was so sweet. I never image, that it would be like that. That’s why, I am telling you that he does indeed love me.” Aura Maria is overjoyed, Betty holds her hands close to her chest and look away shyly. Mario tells Armando, “so it was very sweet for the two of you. Armando you are starting to worry me brother, tell me something happened tell me.” Armando bites his lip, and then tells him. “I don’t know, I have to think about this. I have to declare things. I want to explicitly inform you I did. I mean, lets separate things. Yes one thing is, Betty is ugly. True the other thing is, that I can’t stand Betty. I don’t hate Betty, on the contrary I really do care for her. I respect her, she’s a very important in my life.” Mario asks, “you care for her?” Armando tells him, “yes of course. Yes I love her, like you like Sandra your secretary. Like my father, who liked Susana his secretary.” I think in the end, “one does love a lot of people. The relationship that Betty and I, have established is a relationship like friends.”

(Roberto’s secretary’s name is Carmelita not Susana.)

Mario is grinning, but listens intently. “We are friends, we love each other in that way. Brother I think about things. Betty has always been, an unconditional person with me. She has always been there, every time I have needed her. A person who has saved my life, and risked her life for me every single day. I really do care about her, tell me why shouldn’t I feel that. Why shouldn’t I feel love for her?” Mario tells him, “yes that’s true but why not. The thing is, this is the first time. I have heard you say, that care for her.” Armando tells him, “its just I’ve never realized it. It’s like now, that it’s in front of me. Calderon, caring for Betty isn’t a crime brother. Mario just nods, Armando continues. Well in exchange what is a crime, is what we did to her. What were doing to that poor woman, she breaths for me 24 hours a day. That woman loves me, and has shown me that she’s been by my side. Man yes that’s a crime. That is what’s killing me, on the inside.” Mario tells him, “if you were killing her it would have repulsed you. But you did it, with such tenderness sweetly sweaty-pie.” Armando tells him, “well then how was I going to do it. She’s in love with me, how was I suppose to do it.” Mario tells him, “Marcela is also in love with you. From what I hear, her love making isn’t so sweet.” Armando tells him, “don’t talk to me about Marcela now. Oh brother let’s not talk, about that woman let’s change the subject. Last night when I got home, she was waiting for me.” Mario tells him, “no.”

Marcela tells Patricia, “he arrived at 3 in the morning.” Patricia tells her, “at 3am Marcee. That is impudence, so where was he. Where did he go, after he went to see Betty?” Marcela tells her, “that’s the grand mystery. He told me, he went to Mario’s place. At the time, how am I going to make sure of it?” Patricia tells him, “excuse me again Marcee. That isn’t very difficult, did you check his clothes and intimate apparel.” Marcela utters disgustingly, “no.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee what kind of woman are you? When a woman find out, that her man is cheating on her. The first thing she does, is check his clothes. What didn’t you know that?” Marcela tells her, “no I didn’t have to check it. I knew he was with her, I knew they slept together.” Patricia tells her, “what that wretched Armando personally told you himself.” Marcela tells her, “no.” Patricia tells her, “well then how did you torture him. How did you make him confess?” Marcela tells him, “after we fought I wanted to make love he didn’t.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee well that’s normal. I remember, when I was married to Mauricio Brickman. When we fought, he would take me out of the room. It would be weeks, before he wanted to touch me again. I would say, Mauricio my love. He would screams, don’t you dare come near me Patricia Fernandez. Don’t you dare Patricia Fernandez, that is normal Marcee?” Marcela tells her, “but with Armando it’s not like that. On the contrary all the fights, we’ve had we ended up making up by making love. No he’s not like that. Last night he was cold, he was very strange.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee do you think he acted that way because he slept with his lover last night. Marcela just nods, “how could you know? What every time he comes, from being with another woman. Does he tell you, that he’s tired? Then acts all strange? You say, that you know him well no.” Marcela tells her, “I know him quite well but I knew. That he’s going out with another woman, but when he would arrive home. He would be so hungry, so anxious to make love to me. I just thought it was a whim, or something he was just starting. Last night he showed me, that he had slept with her but something worse.” Patricia asks, “what?” Crying Marcela tells her, “she is starting to take him away from me Patricia.” Marcela lays her head on the table, Patricia tries to comfort her. “Oh Marcee” and touches her hair.

(Oh Marcela, the truth was you never really had him in the first place. It would be awful, to be in a loveless marriage.)

Aura Maria tells her, “no dear you got him. Congratulations Betty. Betty just giggles, and then Aura Maria tells her. Betty now is not the time, to let your guard down and go to sleep. Just because he made love to you, and that will be the end no senora. Now you must work it, use a lot of discipline. You can’t let the relationship cool down. You have to keep him on your side, you have to make sure of it.” Betty tells her, “that we will have to wait and see. You know how much restrictions, I have in my house. Plus I have ton of work to do.” Aura Maria gets angry at her, “oh Betty come on don’t start this. Armando comes in, and overhears her. You must now keep tight Nicholas. Betty tries to shush her, she doesn’t get the message. You have to now seduce him, no I am talking too you. Don’t tell me to shush, now seduce him at your house when your parents aren’t home. Then in his car. Armando is now standing next to her, Betty closes her eyes. Even in the bathroom girl.” Aura Maria just laughs, Armando asks. “Am I interrupting you Aura Maria?” Aura Maria moves towards the door, “oh sir do forgive me I was just going.” Armando tells her “why go continue, sit down, and relax sit down. I’ll get you two some coffee. Aura Maria just follows his orders, I will give you a few more minutes so you can continue talking. Oh what a hot topic, oh Betty when you have the time. Please I need the bank statements please so I can know how its going.” Betty tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “thank you Betty. Aura Maria, I am now going to leave. You can continue your conversation very relaxed.” He leaves and closes the floors, Betty and Aura Maria cover their mouths. Aura Maria asks, “do you think he heard me?” Betty tells her, “of course he was just standing there.” Aura Maria tells her, “I better go before he comes back oh how could you make me go on. But congratulations again, for your great night. Now you know, what you were missing bye.” Betty smiles and utters, “bye.”

Aura Maria tells Armando, “excuse me sir.” Armando tells her, “no you can go just relax.” Betty comes out, and gives him the folder. “Here you go sir.” Armando tells her, “thank you. She’s ready to go, and he tells her Beatriz. I guess Aura Maria, gives you a lot of good advice right?” Betty laughing tells him, “oh you know her.” Armando tells her, “oh you don’t need to explain nothing. Don’t you worry, I know that deals with your intimate life. What ever you do with Nicholas Mora.” Betty tells him, “sir you just don’t understand.” Armando tells her, “but I do I understand everything that I heard. Don’t you worry Betty, I need some time to look this over. I am quite in a hurry.” Betty is a bit confused, and tells him. “Reminder sir, you told me to tell the girls that I was seeing Nicholas Mora. So they won’t get suspicious, about our relationship. Aura Maria was just trying to give me some advice. Telling me what to do, to keep my relationship with Nicholas.” She laughs, he tells her. “Oh really, I see but what were you telling her. To make her tell you all that advice. Betty what were you telling her?” Betty tells him, “nothing sir and she laughs. You just don’t know her, she’s always making those comments.” Coldly Armando goes near her. “Look Beatriz, what happened between the two of us. It should remain, between the two of us reserved. It can’t leave here, understand.” Betty nods, “but of course sir. I would never tell anybody what occurred.”

Hugo comes by, and tells Armando. “Armani I have to tell you the collection is now complete. Its is truly bombi, rombombi. You can go see it, when ever you want.” Armando tells him, “Hugo when you come to my office. Before coming in, I want you to please knock on the door.” Hugo goes out closes it, and knocks before coming in. “Was I interrupting anything? Betty fixes her glasses Armando looks away. What were you two doing? Did I interrupt, were you two doing something weird?” Armando tells him, “yes of course we were doing something weird  that we just love. It was too talk badly about you, I am going to tell you one more thing. That door is the frontier, that connects my office to the corridor. Nobody enters my office, just like that. You have to knock on that door.” Hugo tells him, “excuse me oh my highness I retract everything that I’ve said. Like they said, the lights haven’t illuminated this room. My magic didn’t caress your insides. What should I just disappear, poof I will disappear. There were no words, I said nothing fine there won’t be a collection. This place wasn’t decorated by my presence. I didn’t see anybody, didn’t say anything bye.” He closes the door and leaves. Armando tells her, “Betty urgently contact all the members of the committee. Mario Calderon, Marcela Valencia, Catalina, that annoying Lombardi, and Gutierrez. I am going to need a list of all their department numbers. Contact Calderon, saying. We three have to have a meeting. To finalize the latest collection. Oh that collection, came upon me so fast so very fast.” Betty tells him, “yes sir.” Betty then leaves.

Mariana tells them all, “no no I can’t say a single word of what occurred. Don’t you understand.” Sandra tells them, “girls forget about it this one won’t say a word.” Mariana tells them, “I made a promise to Dona Marcela that I wouldn’t say a single thing. I wouldn’t say anything, especially to you guys.” Everyone groans, Bertha asks. “Are you more of Dona Marcela’s friend, than you are of us? Oh thank you very much, that gossip is huge and you will keep it inside. My dear that will end up in an ulcer.” Mario comes out of his office, “Sandra I will be with the president.” Sandra tells him, “yes sir.” Mariana tells them, “look go back to work I won’t tell you anything. If Dona Marcela comes out, and sees you here all together. In this meeting, she will become suspicious. Go on, I won’t say anything.” Bertha tells her, “I would like to take this opportunity to tell you all since your here. Very clearly if this woman doesn’t tell us, what occurred in there. I will stop being her friend, come on.” She takes Sophia and they leave. Mariana tells her, “oh Bertha Sandra do something.” Sandra is angry too, and goes to her desk. Mariana utters, “what is wrong with you people?” Mario goes to see Armando, “so what’s up?” Armando tells him, “Hugo Lombardi has the next collection ready.” Mario tells him, “isn’t that great news no.” Armando tells him, “no it’s not good Calderon. Not good at all, Betty Betty.” Betty comes out of her office, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “sit down please. We are going to talk.” Mario utters, “hello Betty.” Armando tells them, “we have two major problems with the new collection. First we will have to invite Daniel Valencia. So he can approve the designs of Hugo. Second which is the most grave of everything. My parents, are going to have to come for the launch of that new collection. They will find out, what’s occurring here.” Mario tells him, “the problem isn’t that they come. They will also be at the council meeting, that is what is going to be the problem.” Armando tells him, “exactly I won’t be able to make the same excuse as before. That were not ready, that were not prepared. No they will find out everything understand.” Betty tells him, “no that will be a very delicate situation sir. Yes the company has recuperated, but our deficit is really high sir.”

Armando tells her, “yes I haven’t forgotten that it’s too high. That is why, were going to have that small meeting so we can look at the numbers. We will analyze them, study them, so we can figure out what were going to do.” Mario tells him, “the truth is we can’t show the real numbers to the council.” Armando tells him, “of course not Calderon. That’s why Betty, I want you to be on charge of fixing the numbers once again to the council.” Betty tells him, “but now are we going to show them the real form. The real state, of what the company is going through.” Armando tells her, “no not yet we can’t do it yet Beatriz. If we were to show it, the real numbers to the council. They will realize, that we no longer own Eco Moda. That Terra Moda now owns it, it will be complete chaos. Beatriz what we have to do, at this very moment. We have to once again, fake the numbers and give the council fake numbers. Your the only one that can do this good, please forget about moral ethics. I am telling you, don’t have reservations. This is the only road, we can take understand. Betty doesn’t want to do this, but agrees to do it. Yes sir, what ever you said. Now then, can I go for lunch?” Armando tells her, “fine relax you may go we will see one another later.” Betty smiles and says, “excuse me.” Mario tells her, “go ahead Betty.” Armando sits back down, Mario tells him. “At least you are making her happy. If she is happy, you’re happy. Her friends are happy, everyone is happy. Especially now that the council meeting will soon commence.” Armando then closes his eyes, and touches his head.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia is by the phone talking to her dad. “No dad let me tell you this. I can’t get the money that I need. If your interested, I have no friends nor work collegues that will lend me the money. Dad I am completely alone on this. Even my ex-husband Maurico Brickman is my worst enemy. Eco Moda won’t help me out, neither you dad will give me a hand. My enemies tell me, just sell the car, the apartment, the jewels the one’s my mom left me. Well no, can you image the day that they take away my car? They are going to take Patricia Fernandez. I will be dead and nicely perfumed and in that trunk. The group walk by her and Patricia angrily stares at her. Look I have to go, I don’t want to ventilate my problems to the world. My drama of being poor to extreme.”)

Ines tells the girls, “ok girls lets go daughters. Come on girls I am in a hurry.” Betty asks, “where is Bertha?” Mariana tells her, “I just saw her go inside the bathroom.” Ines tells them, “well get her to hurry today I have my minutes crunched to eat.” Sandra tells her, “don’t worry I will go get her.” Sophia asks, “what’s the rush?” Mariana tells her, “it doesn’t matter if she doesn’t come besides she hardly eats with us anymore.” Sophia tells them, “have you noticed that that money for the lipo is now gone. Everyone agrees. That diet isn’t working, she looks like she’s gaining weight again. It seems even if she doesn’t eat, she’s gaining weight.” Ines tells her, “yes truly.” Mariana tells her, “yes that’s correct.” Betty tells them, “it’s might be a physiological fatness.” Everyone laughs, Bertha is in the stall eating. Sandra tells her, “Bertha come out Bertha.” Bertha tells her, “I am coming out.” Sandra fixes her hair and glasses, “oh come on everyone is by the elevator and we soon will have the committee. Look we will wait for you over there.” Bertha finishes her chips and says, “I am on my way. Oh these girls, won’t let me finish my dinner. Oh I guess I am going to have to wait till later.” She puts her food away, and makes sure she doesn’t have any crumbs on her face. Then she leaves the bathroom, Ines tells her. “Oh come on Bertha, what was taking you so long?” Patricia tells them, “now you better stay out all afternoon. We have a committee meeting later today.” Sandra tells her, “you snoops stop meddling in our business. It doesn’t concern you.” Sophia tells her, “the reason is she has no money to eat.” Bertha tells them, “she gets full from giving it to her Mercedes.” Everyone laughs once again. Sandra tells her, “you never have gasoline.” Mariana tells her, “soon that will end my love.” They all head inside the elevator, Sophia tells her. “You’re going to have to do Berthas diet soon. You have to think, that you have a boyfriend. Think you have money, think that you eat every day.” Everyone laughs, the elevator closes Patricia screams. “Well you empanadas of poor people…”

Jenny is outside, and telling Elfrain over the cell phone. “No don’t come for me my sweet love. No no my sweet love, I don’t want to eat with you. I am still depressed, I am going somewhere to eat by myself. I need time to cool down, and really think about things. I don’t want nobody to bother me goodbye ok.” Freddy comes by and says. “Hello my beautiful Jenny. How is my angry woman today, my nature’s creature? How goes your depression?” Jenny tells him, “terrible Freddy I am terrible.” Wilson watches and eats.  Freddy tells her, “well then enjoy my company. Why don’t we have a Manhattan drinks, you and I talk. Everything will be very sweet. You depression will melt away.” Jenny tells him, “you know what yes Freddy I like that a lot. Let’s go from here.” Freddy runs to the bike, “so my life. Are you going to turn off your cell phone, my lovely toro?” Jenny tells him, “yes I am going to turn off my sweet love. You my sweet love, are now out.” Freddy hands her the jacket and helmet. The girls come out, and they see Jenny going away with Freddy. Sophia crosses her arms in disgust, “look at that disgrace.” Ines asks, “what?” Sandra goes, “what oh look call Elfrain. Tell him what’s going on, between the two of them.” Sophia tells her, “what for that won’t work. He believes he’s married to, Mother Theresa of Calcutta. My bet is after a while, she will dump him for Freddy.” Aura Maria tells her, “no girls that is something I won’t permit. You really think that woman, will take us idiot Freddy.” Sandra tells her, “they will take away your Freddy girl. Aren’t you scared that in the end, that she will take him away from you?” Mariana asks, “so nothing is working to reconcile?” Aura Maria tells her, “no that idiot is constantly ignoring me.” Mariana goes, “oh what a naughty boy.” Sandra utters, “oh really.”

Bertha tells them, “well he will have to work fast. For that one is faster than lighting. You better think of something, or else that money is gone.” Mariana tells her, “yes indeed.” Sandra tells them, “let’s do one thing. At lunch today, why don’t we think of a really good plan?” Sophia tells them, “oh one minute with me leave me out. I will not give out any ideas, or do anything for that idiot to drop Freddy no way. That won’t happen.” Sandra tells them, “what you need is an idea. To get the cheque out of her hands. She doesn’t even want to think, how to get that one away from Freddy.” Sophia gets angry, Mariana tells her. “Now Sophia fresh calm down, fresh lets now go eat come on Bertha.” She grabs her hand, Bertha screams. “Let go of my hand. Don’t you dare talk to me, or touch me ever again. Let me make that very clear. Ines glances over at a hurt Mariana. Bad friend, if you won’t tell us what you discussed with Dona Marcela. My love, don’t you dare talk to me. Wilson has now moved over next to Aura Maria. I just want to say, I am very upset with you. If you don’t spill, our friendship is over.” Mariana smiles, Sandra stares at her, while Ines waits. Mariana tells her, “well no no no I can’t say anything. If that’s the problem, then that’s that.” Bertha tells them, “see that she won’t spill a word. Well she won’t talk, so that means she painted. As of this moment, there’s now a census against Mariana. No one is too talk to her from now on. If she wants to eat, she can eat all by herself.” Wilson goes back, and stands next to Sandra. Ines looks at her disproving, Mariana is stunned. Bertha tells her, “no the gossip could be tiny but he must be told. Now then in the evening, if she wants to leave she can go by herself. She can go away in the darkness.”

Ines laughs Mariana utters, “what is this?” Bertha tells them, “let’s put it to a vote, and raise your hands.” Bertha raises her hand as does, Sophia, Aura Maria, Sandra and a reluctantly Betty. Ines tells her, “oh for Pete’s sake Bertha. Darling, if she promised Dona Marcela. That she wasn’t going to tell us, she has to keep her word. We cannot force her.” Mariana tells them, “that’s correct.” Bertha tells them, “there are 5 votes he doesn’t count. Come on lets go.” Mariana then tells them, “fine well enough with the stress. What is this, look I will spill. The truth is it isn’t a grand gossip.” Bertha tells them, “at least were going to be able to sleep tonight.” Mariana smiling tells them, “fine fine girls enough with the stress. Bertha gets closer, and tells her. Now then Dona Marcela, was asking me about the party at Betty’s place. She asked, me if Don Armando received any calls from his cell phone during the night. Plus why did he stick around. Later she asked, where did Don Armando go after the party.” Everyone gasps and looks over at Betty. Bertha tells them, “wait on minute. One minute, one minute please. What do you mean, where did he go?” Mariana tells her, “you idiot she’s asking because she knew that we left before he did. And that he went someplace else, after we all left.” Bertha utters, “oh dear oh Betty did you know anything?” Betty tells them, “how am I supposed to know.” Sandra asks, “so what time did he leave your house?” Betty tells them, “he left after you did. I don’t know where he went.” Mariana tells them, “well the thing is Dona Marcela is very anxious about the whole incident. She is furious, I think she knows that Don Armando has a lover. Everyone gasps, Betty is shocked. Look this is just the start of the fighting, you know how she gets. She won’t stop, until she finds out who this woman is. Well then, gossip is told meal will be paid for.”

Inside Eco Moda, Patricia sees Marcela coming her way. “So did you make all the necessary calls?” Marcela tells her, “yes I called the whole world and you know what nobody knows where he is nobody saw them. How can nobody see them, and give me a name or a description of this woman. Nobody knows nothing, look this is serious. Now your job will be, to stay on top of Armando’s calls.” Patricia tells her, “well how am I supposed to do that. Look he hasn’t even gone to lunch yet.” Marcela turns and sees Mario arriving. Mario nods at them, “princess good afternoon.” Then he goes towards his office. Patricia tells her, “they have been together all morning in the president’s room. I guess there together, to talk about the committee meeting.” Marcela tells her, “what there doing is covering their backs. Armando knows, that he has to take care of himself. Because he knows that I know, that he has another woman. They must be planning a strategy.”

Mario goes to Armando’s office, and shows him the card. “Here you go, latest gift and card. It’s very nice, and sweet.” Armando asks, “what does it say?” Mario takes the card away, and tells him. “It’s a thank you, for a beautiful night of love that’s all.” Armando reads it, “Calderon this what this says, more words little words. This means, I want to spend another night with her. Really no more, really no more no. I can’t continue doing this to Betty. I don’t want this night to repeat.” Mario tells him, “what are you crazy or what?” Are you going to tell her, that you didn’t like it? That you’re not going to do it again. Why because your depressed, and full of regret. No sir, let me remind you that you’re in a relationship. After you make love, you’re going to have to do it over and over again. She will think, it was just a one night adventure night. Then the relationship will end. Look now more than ever, you must continue the routine. The cards and gifts now are not enough. Even the chocolate no sir won’t work, look even the occasional night outs that doesn’t work now. Now every time you’re together, you must make love to her.”

Armando tells him, “what Calderon. I get the impression, that all this is giving you great joy and diversion. Is it true?” Mario tells him, “look look I swear I am not making fun. My heart bleeds for you really, I know how hard this is for you. Look two things, first of this is a strong reaction. This is a relationship about adults, formal grown up. That is very important. Second in a couple of days, we will have our most important council meeting ever. It will be hard, and you know it will be very difficult for us. Your family will see the real state, of the company through those documents. Daniel Valencia wants to take our eyes out. Brother, nobody is going to find out the truth. That this company, is no longer in our hands. The only person, let me remind you that can save us or drown us is Beatriz Pinzon Solano. Aka your lover.” Betty returns and tells them, “ok girls talk to you later bye.” Aura Maria tells Ines, “that idiot Freddy still hasn’t arrived yet. I will go with you Inesita, to Don Hugo’s studio to see if Jenny has returned.” Sophia tells Bertha, “we have to have every form for that committee ready.” Bertha tells her, “ok but I have to go to the bathroom.” Sophia tells her, “again.” Bertha tells her, “what do you mean again. Patricia watches curiously. What are you now going to count, how many times I go in there or what.” Sophia tells her, “well you know what that diet is making you very sick. You are getting a very bad temper.” Bertha tells her, “it will pass soon. Hurry up then, I want to refresh myself may I go then.” Sophia tells her, “well then go on in.” Bertha tells her, “thank you senora.” She enters, goes straight to her hiding spot. Gets her snacks, and goes in the stall and eats her chips.

Armando and Mario, are looking at contracts when Betty arrives. Betty asks, “sir you didn’t eat?” Armando utters, “no I’m not hungry Betty. We stayed to revise, the paper work that we needed for the committee.” Betty asks, “would you like me to order something?” Armando tells her, “no thanks I’m not hungry.” Armando tells her, “well get ready the meeting will soon begin.” Betty goes to her office, Armando tells Mario. “I think that these should be enough Brother. Mario gives him the folder, and utters. Well good luck.” Armando looks at him, and sits down. Betty gets to her desk, and sees the letter. She reads, “many nights, I slept with lots of bodies, with one night with a real woman. With one night, with my love. To be with you, it was a confirmation that my body needed. Now we are united, in one dimension, faithful in my feelings, I am now waiting for another marvellous opportunity. To be with you once again. I am waiting, for that night to fall when we are once again. Be able to make love.” Betty is on cloud nine, her eyes shine with so much love. Her heart full of love, she utters. “Oh he’s divine so divine.” She re-reads the card once more.

Hugo is on the phone, “no sir that Jenny still hasn’t arrived yet. I do not know, where she is or where she goes. Do me a favour sir, stop calling my phone number. From what I know, you brought her a cell phone use that. Ooops I am hanging up sorry.” Ines comes in with Aura Maria, she tells her. “She’s not in here either.” Hugo asks, “Inesita where were you? You know that soon, we will have to present the new collection. To the top executives, at this company or what.” Ines tells him, “yes sir but I am returning from my lunch break.” Hugo tells her, “can anybody tell me. Where the sweet love, Jenny went off too?” Ines tells her, “that I don’t know. Where she is sir, but she’s bound to show up soon. Relax relax.” Hugo tells her, “relax no. I am not, the only one that isn’t relaxed. That cheque hasn’t stopped calling over and over again. On my phone no less. He is driving me crazy. You lot stop climbing everywhere. He is calling me on my phone, every minute. Yes men do call here, that I accept. But married men, separated men, or broken ones never call me. Not even that old spectre named cheque, that is so horrible in this life. That man, oh you two why am I carrying these clothes. Oh yes, here each grab one.” Ines glances over to Aura Maria. “See Inesita, apparently this Jenny has stopped answering his calls. She doesn’t even want to see him, I told you she was the devil. Hugo puts hair foam on his head. Now talking about the devil, why is this girl here?” Aura Maria tells him, “fresh Don Hugo I am just leaving.” Hugo tells her, “now let the bull leave here.” Aura Maria tells her, “bye Inesita.” Hugo tells her, “this isn’t her house.” Ines tells the models, “well then what are you lot doing. Just dancing about, get back to work.” Hugo tells her, “they’ve been doing that none stop.” Ines tells him, “now let Don Hugo lets us be.” Hugo tells her, “oh you sing so wonderfully.” Ines gives them their clothes. She says, “oh but I saw them.”

Jenny is still with Freddy at the cafe. Jenny tells him, “well it’s these moments in life that one gets confused. One doesn’t know what to do, where to go, you don’t know what you want. You don’t know what you desire, has that happened to you before Freddy.” Freddy tells her, “my life 24 hours a day 30 days in a month, 365 days in a year. When there’s a leap day, I have one more day.” Jenny tells him, “really well the thing is this makes me almost blind. It fills me up, and I have a great depression. It fills my chest, I want something to get rid of this.” Freddy tells her, “now then since were talking chest to chest. If you permit me, I will see how I can get rid of this depression.” Jenny tells him, “no Freddy I am serious.” Freddy tells her, “I am also serious.” Jenny tells him, “don’t play with me look I am so susceptible.” Freddy tells her, “I am also susceptible. I am susceptible, in seeing how strong your chest is. I hate seeing any pressure on that chest.” Jenny asks, “yes so what do I make you feel?” Freddy tells her, “I just want to shower you with love. To flirt and be tender to you.” Jenny tells him, “yes Freddy this is the moment when one needs to be made feel affection. A beautiful friendship, you just want to feel a big warm hug around you.” Freddy asks, “would you like me too.” Freddy tells her, “it’s what I desperately want Freddy. Then Freddy holds her, Jenny smiles. Freddy utters, do you feel better?” Jenny asks, “a little why.” Freddy tells her, “well I am almost dying.” Jenny tells him, “don’t say that I am very vulnerable.” Freddy tells her, “but this is true. Its true.” Jenny tells him, “I can’t support any more truths Freddy. Then to his surprise she begins to kiss him. Then she pushes him away, she screams. “Freddy!” Freddy utters, “what happened? Was their an attack on the government? Or was there, a good party? Or what it was good.” Jenny tells him, “oh dear look at the time they are going to fire us.” Freddy goes, “oh my god, the rosters are singing. The newspapers have finished their run. Oh time has flied by. The afternoon has gone away, why don’t we save those kisses for another moment.” Jenny tells him, “no more kisses for you Freddy. I am exhibiting myself, I am making a mistake.” Freddy asks, “but why?” Jenny tells him, “I must get this depression away with. Or else I will do something crazy.” Freddy asks, “with me right?” Jenny tells him, “yes with you Freddy.” Then she gets up and heads to the bike. Freddy utters, “really oh thank god please keep her in this digressional state. If not the one depressed will be me. I am coming my passionate flower.” He pays and leaves.

Aura Maria tells Mariana, “that witch has her cell phone off. Nobody knows, where she is with that idiot Freddy. Sandra glances over to Mariana. Look both of them, in the end will get fired.” Patricia is overhearing their conversation. Mariana tells her, “oh leave that stress.” Patricia tells them, “hey you should you be in reception. Why are you with all this intrigue? Or are you waiting for Mario Calderon?” Aura Maria tells her, “oh you blond bimbo don’t suffer. I wasn’t the one drooling after him. Nor have I been crying over Mario Calderon. Just so he can pay any attention to me. You beggar of men.” Patricia just laughs, Sandra tells her. “Shouldn’t you be combing your hair because you’re always on the phone.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Sandra continues, “oh hello please yes, please don’t take away my car. Please lend me 5000, oh they took away all my services. They took away all my credit cards.”)

“Marcee please take compassion, over your poor friend. Please get me a rich boyfriend.” Patricia continues to laugh, “this issue about my physical appearance. Can be taken care of, in about 5 minutes. Other problems last a lifetime, some people are horrible their entire lives.” Then she leaves and goes to the bathroom. Aura Maria high fives the two and they laugh.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Sandra tells them, “see that hurt her a lot.”)

Patricia overhears paper crimpling, and looks around. Bertha utters, “oh come to mother you sweet potato chip. Come here, I will eat you.” Patricia goes to the next stall, and goes a top of the toilet seat and looks over. Then she quietly gets down and leaves the bathroom on tiptoe. She goes to the girls, and whispers. “Girls girls come quickly, Bertha is doing her special diet. Go in and be quiet, she is in one of the stalls.” Sandra tells her, “you blond bimbo leave us alone we are quite concentrated in making fun of you.” Patricia tells her, “ok ok don’t believe me then. Enter and you will learn, why the cow hasn’t lost weight.” Mariana asks, “what?” Sandra tells them, “well I don’t know about you guys but my curiosity is killing me.” Mariana tells them, “me either.” Aura Maria tells them,” well then let’s go.” Patricia grabs Mariana’s hand. Sandra tells her, “this better not be a joke. They enter quietly, Patricia tells them. “Go to the next stall and look in.” Sandra does and she screams, “Bertha de Gonzales. Bertha looks up and screams. Girls open that door, you with your hands up.” Mariana utters, “oh Bertha.” Sandra takes away her chips. Mariana grabs the other bag, containing different sorts of chips. Aura Maria is shocked, “Bertha.” Patricia is overjoyed. Bertha tells them, “it’s not what it looks like. I’m innocent. ”

Mariana tells her, “you’re so tricky. You’ve been lying to us all this time, that’s why you were constantly going to the bathroom.” Patricia tells her, “yes good for you Bertha. Love that diet of yours.” She laughs and leaves, Aura Maria tells her. “You’re a big fat liar, I’m telling you there must be a ton of food around here.” Mariana tells her, “oh Bertha don’t tell me you’re hiding it in our small bar.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no don’t tell me your hiding food in here. We are going to look. They go straight in the hiding spot, Bertha screams and fights to get her stuff back. Oh how could you unfortunate fool you? No wonder you didn’t lose anymore weight. You little fat piggy.” Sandra tells her, “you traitor.” Mariana tells her, “you waste of lipo.” Bertha just starts to cry. Catalina arrives, and says “hello” to Patricia. Patricia tells her, “oh Catta how are you?” Catalina tells her, “I was called for a committee meeting.” Patricia tells her, “I will announce you. The girls are now out by the bathroom. Mariana tells her, “if you think now girl were going to let you in there by yourself your mistaken. No we are going to watch you like a hawk, you will have to punch a clock. So you can learn.” Bertha asks, “what are you going to do with my food.” Sandra tells her, “were going to eat it.” Mariana tells her, “yes that’s right.” Sophia comes over and shhs them, “what is going on?” Aura Maria tells her, “we caught Bertha with her hands in the cookie jar. Our chubby friend eats in the bathroom.” Sophia grins and tells her, “I knew she didn’t have all that willpower. I knew that’s was why, she was gaining all that weight.” Mariana tells her, “look look at all this food in the bathroom.” Sophia tells them, “oh no there’s probably more in her archive cabinet.” Bertha utters, “no don’t look in there.” They all run towards the desk. Patricia tells Catalina, “oh Catta sorry you have to see such a show. These employees, always do these spectacular shows. Oh they kill one another for food.” Sandra tells her, “there are more awful spectaculars ones. You Mercedes without gas, you blond bimbo who can’t afford to pay off her credit cards. A woman, who just doesn’t have any money. That is horrible.” They then go to their desks. Mariana utters, “oh yes what stress how horrible.”

Jenny and Freddy finally arrive, he tells her. “Go ahead my lovely flower. The sky under the cattle’s.” Aura Maria grabs him and tells him, “come here you idiot you lovely flower. You’re going to get fired.” Jenny asks, “but why?” Aura Maria tells her, “because he’s a dog on a leash after a skirt. You dirty dog.” Freddy tells her, “I am not ashamed of being a dog following that beautiful skirt.” Aura Maria calls him, “idiot” and enters the elevator. Jenny tells him, “oh Freddy how can you put up with people without class.” Freddy tells her, “relax look at you you’re a beautiful stress to your feet to your head.” Jenny goes next to Freddy and caresses him. Catalina tells Patricia, “well this place is hot.” Patricia tells her, “Catta you know in these companies. You live day to day with the dramas, the employees live with so many conflicts. You and I, never live through this.” Catalina simply stares at Patricia. As Patricia plays with her hair. Sophia has all Bertha’s goodies, from the cabinet. “Oh no these are now off limits. Don’t touch me, leave me be.” Bertha utters, “please don’t hurt them. Give me just one more. Don’t do this it’s humane, give me my food Sophia. I am hungry Sophia.” Jenny walks by, with Freddy. Sophia tells her, “no senora.” Jenny tells her, “oh Dona Sophia don’t steal Dona Bertha’s food. I know that your situation isn’t good, but you shouldn’t take away her food. You should, already be used to it.” Sophia angrily tells her, “you idiot unfortunate wretched woman. You shouldn’t get involved in anybody’s business. You know something, when that unfortunate idiot doesn’t pay his children. It’s like taking away, the food out of my kid’s mouth. Then we will talk.” Gutierrez comes out, and tells her again. “Doing scandals Sophia.”

Jenny starts crying, and grabs Freddy’s hand. “Oh Dona Sophia, don’t be so aggressive towards me.” Sophia tells him, “that one is meddling in my personal affairs again Mr. Gutierrez.” Jenny releases Freddy, “no sir Dona Sophia is taking away Dona Bertha’s food. Oh look at her, poor thing. See I am not meddling in Dona Sophia’s life.” Gutierrez tells her, “no that’s correct Sophia. Are you taking away Bertha’s food?” Sophia tells him, “no sir she’s on a diet we are helping her out. So she won’t eat so much junk food.” Gutierrez asks, “Bertha are you allowing this to occur?” Bertha tells him, “just a little all I want is one bag.” Sophia has had enough, and tells her. “Here take it all.” Bertha is overjoyed, and takes her chips to her desk. Gutierrez tells them, “enough with this scandalous behaviour you two. Now I will be, in the committee meeting. Bertha give me the information, that I need. I get this bag.” He leaves, Bertha tells him. “Thank you sir.” Freddy tells Jenny, “my dear Jenny your good deed of the day is finished. Now it’s best, you go back to work. Over there in the show room.”

Armando comes out and says, “Freddy he holds back Jenny. Armando asks, where were you?” Freddy utters, “me sir?” Armando tells him, “you are Freddy Contreras the messenger delivery personnel. Of this administration, and the company of Eco Moda.” Freddy tells him, “yes the same one that sings and dances.” Armando tells him, “perfect that is why I’m asking the right person. Where have you been idiot?” Freddy tells him, “yes sir I now understand your question. I was so full of duties, that of course you are its owner.” Armando tells him, “I understand the owner of the fish. Tell me where are my bank statements, my fabrics, the Catalogues of Color Inn samples that we have to use for our meeting. Where are they, where are they Freddy?” Freddy tells him, “don’t talk this way. Scream at me more, this is making me very nervous. I will now bring you, everything you required.” Armando tells him, “it seems you weren’t doing your job. Instead you were in the arms of the sweet love.” Jenny bows and leaves. Freddy watches her leave, and then stares at Armando. “Freddy If I, don’t get my things in promptly on my desk before the committee. Then you will be, the messenger of your sweet love. Not the messenger of Eco Moda, do you understand.” Freddy tells him, “yes sir understood excuse me. He’s about to leave, and goes the other way towards Jenny. Armando stops him, tell me one thing where is the elevator?” Freddy tells him, “over there.” Armando tells him, “yes over there right.” Freddy utters, “yes.” Armando tells him, “well then well then. You get going very quickly, and stop bothering Jenny. Is that clear.” Freddy tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells him, “march go” Freddy tells him, “in the boardroom.” Armando screams, “go march march right now!” Freddy then runs off. Armando enters, and calls. “Beatriz Beatriz.” Betty comes out with her things, “no everyone is inside in the board room. Let’s hurry.” He leaves, Betty tells him. “Yes sir.” She leaves a card for him on his desk that reads. To Armando Mendoza city.

Julián Arango was born on October 6, 1968 in Columbia. He’s now 42, is divorced from Ana Maria Orozco. Julian began working in telenovelas, in 1995.

He is best known for his role as, Hugo Lombardi on this series.

SEVENTY-SEVEN

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Hugo tells a model, “oh you look good good to kill.” Then slaps the model on the ass, and looks over at Jenny. “Jenny you can’t show up here any time that you want. This isn’t your house, this is where you work. Plus you better be careful, a lot of people here at this company want you fired. Well I am not in that glamourous list. Well my ethical and esthetic, will permit me to agree with that group of uglies. Any way if I must lose your services Jenny. Well then zzz, I will lose it.”)

Hugo tells Jenny, “do me a favour and call the cheque. Calm him down, he is driving me crazy. Tell him to stop calling my phone.” Jenny asks, “has my sweet love been calling all day.” Hugo tells her, “yes extremely so constantly, exasperatingly so. I want to know girl, what are you giving that man. No don’t talk back to me or respond. Inesita dress this skeleton, of the cheque over here. Have the girls ready, at any moment. We will have to show that collection. Ines just nods. Hugo tells her, oh it’s so late I have a committee bye bye.” Ines tells him, “oh sir don’t you worry sir my dear keep on losing yourself. Maybe then you will find yourself.” Jenny is thrilled and goes to her cell phone.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mario gives Catalina a big kiss. “Oh Catta my life when will you have something with me?” Catalina asks, “have you read the bible?” Mario tells her, “yes every night before I go to sleep.” Catalina tells him, “I image have you heard about the apocalypse?” Mario tells her, “well yes.” Catalina tells him, “well then after the apocalypse has finished. Then you may call me.” Mario tells her, “well from what I heard that there won’t be that many people here.” Catalina tells him, “well then when all the sinners have died. Well then after that, then probably why not Marionito.” Mario tells her, “oh I’m holding that too you.” Betty tells her, “well good afternoon Dona Catalina.” Catalina tells her, “well hello Betty oh so who’s missing. She sees Gutierrez and tells him, “well hello.” Gutierrez tells her, “well good afternoon.”

Hugo goes towards Catalina giving her a kiss. “Oh my lovely and divine Catta, I guess you are here to see my great designs.” Catalina tells him, “well yes its quite obvious.” Hugo tells her, “my designs are quite regal. Well then what are we waiting for to start this petite committee?” Armando tells him, “Marcela.” Hugo looks over at Betty, “hey muskrat call her. Armando also glances his way, and Hugo tells them. Why are you all looking at me? Does a high executive have to go looking for her? Will it be Catta or me? Will it be the creation, the spontaneity that has to go get her?” Armando tells him, “look Hugo.” Betty gets up, “look I’ll go find her.” Once Betty leaves, Catalina tells him. “You know what the only thing, you have in common with a man is that your still cruel to women.” Hugo tells her, “yes to those women like her. With you I am a flower.” Mario tells him, “you my begonia are a flower.” Gutierrez burst out laughing. Armando glances at him, and he stops laughing.)

Marcela tells Patricia, “I have official finished my calls.” Patricia asks, “and what did the people have to say?” Betty is by the door, and hears their conversation. Marcela tells him, “yes it’s true they saw him with a woman. Guess who it is?” Patricia asks, “who is it?” Marcela tells her, “they saw him with none other than Beatriz Pinzon Solano.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee really but Beatriz is a woman. Or I think she is.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Marcela laughs and tells her, “oh come on the person with Armando is someone I don’t even want to define.” Patricia tells her, “look a romance clandestine is one or two things. 1) He has a romance with Betty. 2)They haven’t seen him dating another woman. So it might mean he’s dating a man. Nobody has ever noticed.”)

Marcela just starts laughing, and tells her. “A romance with Beatriz come on. First they would think that Armando is gay. Second Armando would fall for a guy rather than ugly one. Or else he would fall, for an ugly man like Popeye. They start laughing, and head to the door. When they come out, they stop. Marcela sees Betty and asks, what are you doing in here?” Betty tells her, “they are waiting for you inside the boardroom Dona Marcela.” Marcela tells her, “I was on my way.” She walks away, Patricia asks. “Oh Marcee, do you think she heard us?” Marcela tells her, “well so what. If she did, we aren’t telling lies. That’s what she gets, for eavesdropping.” They laugh once more.

Gutierrez continues flirting with Catalina and offering her chips. Gutierrez asks, “do you need milk and sugar.” Catalina tells him, “nothing thanks.” Gutierrez tells her, “yes very good keeping our waste line. Gutierrez then stops the cafeteria worker from leaving, Oh Catalina care for cookies and crackers?” Catalina tells him, “no thanks everything is fine.” Armando glances at him, giving him the cold stare. Hugo tells him, “goody good stop flirting at Catalina it doesn’t suit you.” Armando is looking over numbers with Betty. Gutierrez  tells him, “I am not flirting with Dona Catta. Please Mr. Lombardi, I am just being pleasant with her.” Hugo tells him, “you’re not kind you’re a flirt. Gutierrez continues eating his chips. Catalina tells him, “love relax.” Mario is reading his notes. Hugo tells her, “you don’t know who were surrounded by. These two men, are considered to be two fine pedigree dogs. There two English dogs, from a big manor. They find there pray, and hid it so nobody can discover them. Gutierrez here is a husky common dog, he barks at anybody that passes. They don’t know, whose  barking at them. Whether it’s a Muppet or a dog. Gutierrez laughs, you have to be careful he has his tricks. They have an excuse with a toy and cookie, and a woman falls at their feet. These woman in the end dance to a song nobody has ever heard of.” Mario looks over at Armando, who then looks over to Betty.

Marcela enters and touches Catalina saying. “Do forgive me, I was making some last minute calls.” Catalina tells her, “oh don’t you worry.” Catalina tells her, “oh we were being entertained by Hugo. He was telling me, how men are here at Eco Moda.” Armando looks over to Betty, and they look over numbers once more. Hugo tells her, “we were talking about dogs. These two are fox terriers, that one is a husk terrier.” Gutierrez laughs once more. Armando glances over again, while Marcela tells him. “That’s a good topic, but I don’t agree Hugo. Here aren’t pedigree dogs, for they are very obedient and stay at home. All we have our common variety dogs, from the street. The ones that dig through the garbage, then they go bananas when they see a girl dog. Betty looks at at Marcela then over to Armando. Gutierrez can’t stop laughing. They then get home satisfied, just to sleep.” Armando stares angrily at her, Mario looks away. Hugo laughs, and utters. “Oh to sleep.” Catalina tells her, “oh it was a bad day to come to Eco Moda.” Hugo tells her, “no yes oh relax oh Marg. If you wanted to make a direct hit, at these two gorgeous men you got both of them between their eyes. So where did the bruises go, let me see. How are your eyes?”

Mario gives Hugo the finger, Hugo continues ranting. Armando tells him, “enough lets get down to business. You be quiet.” Hugo tells him, “fine.” Armando then goes, “be quiet woof. Well thank you, we will soon see the new collection. Which is very important, to this company. We will try to get another success like the last one.” Hugo tells him, “thank you very much you wonderful public. It was a total maximum effort.” Armando tells him, “Hugo fine you need a big great applause. Hugo claps, just like Marcela with her work with the sales figures. Mario with his strategy with commerce Hugo claps. Gutierrez  for his administration, Hugo claps. Beatriz as well needs a big applause. For her financial no how, to financial afford this collection. Hugo is silent, then claps for Catalina. Armando continues, Catalina for her marketing so our brand can go really far. Away from our country with your designs Hugo. Hugo claps also there are our workers, that have worked extremely hard. Who have done, a great sacrifice for a good job. So everything is ready, so we can be very successful.”

“Betty tell me how many employees do we have? Betty thinks and tells him, “we have 725 in production. 280 temporary workers.” Armando makes some calculations, “so that means we have 1005. Plus 45 at adminstration, we get the full total 1050. Now then every one of them, gets a big applause to do their job.” Hugo goes “bravo.” Marcela tells him, “oh stop being ridiculous Armando.” Armando tells her, “well I had to stop this patting of ones back. For there were tons of people, who made this collection and worked on this.” Hugo claps and utters “bravo once more, don’t say anything woof woof.” Armando tells her, “can we continue this committee. Dear Hugo, without any interruptions and commentary.” Hugo tells him, “fine no problem well look who’s talking your the star. Go ahead first voice.” Armando tells him, “thank you lucerito very much. Like I was saying, these facts are fundamental to our company. We are going to recouped, everything we lost in that last collection. That completely didn’t go well.” Hugo tells him, “it was a complete disaster. What was I involved in that crash, my designs were bombis. Mario rolls his yes again, Betty moves her mouth. Armando looks down, then Hugo continues. The ones that destroyed the company, were the top executives and your beautiful intelligence. That is why it failed.” Armando tells him, “fefe you only bark so be quiet.” Hugo utters, “woof woof.” Marcela tells Hugo, “enough Hugo.” Armando tells her, “yes thank you for your interruptions. Now as I was saying, the collection is very parallel. The council meeting, will be the most important of the entire year. My parents will be coming, Marcela’s family as well. Plus our associates. We are going to have to be prepared.”

Hugo tells him, “yes but you haven’t mentioned that best part. The most important of everything, not only will the family reunite. Very distinguished personnel, will be seeing my work. The collection plus our great meeting, but they will be meeting for something really important. There’s going to be a wedding.” Catalina smiles and asks, “a marriage with whom to who?” Hugo tells her, “who else? Here is the beauty and the beast. Betty looks at her notes, Armando stares at her. It’s in every one of the magazines.” Catalina tells them, “I completely forgot so how did things go. Is it simultaneously. Like the collection one day, the wedding the next day. Man did everything, get pushed together.” Betty then stares at them. Hugo tells her, “you don’t image the party when they got engaged. They are invited everyone, they will blow the entire house down. Marcela smiles, and looks towards Catalina. Balloons, streamers, the works money will down the drain. Armando gets really uncomfortable. I am telling you, that arrangement will be most tiring than that of the collection.” Catalina tells Marcela, “yes but of course. Yes Hugo has every reason, what happened to all the preparations I haven’t heard a thing Marcela.” Betty goes back to her notes. Marcela tells her, “yes love tell them all about our preparations.” Armando tells her, “that I haven’t a clue. You see Maria Beatriz was in charge, but she now lives in Australia.” Catalina asks, “well then what?” Armando tells her, “well then can we at least continue with this meeting. Or talk about the committee, collection, or Hugo what?” Gutierrez  tells them, “if you have any problems regarding the party. I would like to get someone, from personnel of the company. To take care of all the details for this wondrous event.” Armando tells him, “Mr. Gutierrez sorry for the interruption. My wedding isn’t a party, of this committee meeting.” Gutierrez  utters, “yes sir.” Marcela tells him, “yes this isn’t a topic here, or at the office, or at home. Mario just plays with his pen. Nor on the street, nor in a restaurant, his disinterest in this event is humungous. You can’t even tell there is a wedding. Yes there will be a council meeting, a launch, lets be frank yes.” She glances over towards Betty. Betty feels very uncomfortable. Armando tells her, “we will discuss this later. In private Marcela, if you please.” Marcela tells him sarcastically, “talk in private oh thank you.” Armando tells them, “fine then before we go see Hugo’s designs. We first have to go by points, they are important regarding this collection.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(At Betty’s house, Julia comes out with a glass of juice for Nicholas. Julia tells him, “oh here’s your juice.” Nicholas tells her, “Dona Julia what’s this orange juice what happened with my name sake? Mora. Where’s my blackberry juice?” Julia simply utters, “oh this boy.”)

Nicholas asks, “Dona Julia what time is it?” Julia tells him, “its 3:30.” Nicholas tells her, “I’ve been calling Betty and can’t reach her. Do you think, she went to lunch already?” Julia asks, “no why do you need to talk to her son?” Nicholas tells her, “well she wanted some latest information urgently. So it’s all ready to be sent it to her, but I need to talk to her first.” Julia tells him, “well then just leave a message.” Nicholas tells her, “I can’t call her.” Julia asks, “and then what are you going to do.” Nicholas tells her, “no choice oranges oranges Dona Julia maybe you can try contacting her. I have here numbers for the president’s office.” Nicholas looks over at her, and shows her a list of numbers. Julia asks, “why are you looking at me this way? What are you thinking about Nicholas?” Nicholas tells her, “I need a favour but it has to be done right. We are putting my image, and that of your daughter at stake.”

Patricia is on the phone, complaining yet again about her late payments. “Excuse me sir, what are you trying to tell me? You want me to take my car, and my jewellery to a pawn shop. How much will I be getting? When will I get my things back? Patricia glances over, to Sandra and Mariana. No no no, understand one thing. My jewellery is an inheritance, from my mother it is very sacred to me. Forget about that, you know what do what ever you want. Continue with the process, I have lawyers as well you don’t scare me. She angrily hangs up the phone, she utters. Oh I am so scared, so very scared they will tear me to shreds. Later the phone rings, its Julia pretending to be Nicholas’s secretary. Patricia tells her, hello this is Eco Moda.”

Julia tells her, “good afternoon excuse me I need to speak to Beatriz Pinzon Solano.” Patricia asks, “who?” Julia repeats, “Beatriz Pinzon Solano.” Patricia tells her, “she has her own phone and I don’t understand why you don’t call there.” Julia tells her, “sorry but we have been calling for a while and cannot reach her. We had this one, and that’s why were calling. We need to urgently speak to her.” Patricia tells her, “she is in an important committee meeting with Mr. Armando Mendoza I cannot interrupt her. Who needs her?” Julia tells her, “a Mr. Nicholas Mora of Terra Moda.” A smile goes on Patricia’s face. “Oh Mr. Nicholas Mora would he like to leave a message?” Julia tells her, “excuse me Mr. Mora Mr. Mora.” Nicholas goes to the door and screams, “what’s up Julia what’s up. Have you been able to communicate with Betty?” Julia tells him, “I’m sorry sir but Miss Betty is in an important meeting. Would you like to leave a message, a secretary answered the phone.” Nicholas tells her, “get her to call me at my office number. Wait put her on line 1,2, no 4, look all the calls are full I will just answer it.” Julia just stares at Nicholas, “oh that sounds like that awful secretary.” Nicholas gives her a look, and then answers the phone. “At least respect her, please don’t talk bad about her at least in my presence. Hello, who am I speaking too?” Patricia tells him, “Patricia Fernandez.” Julia repeats, “Patricia Fernandez?” Nicholas sends her away, she just shakes her head and then goes to the kitchen.

Nicholas tells her, “oh hi Patricia you’re talking to Nicholas Mora.” Patricia tells him, “oh hi Nicholas how are you.” Nicholas tells her, “I am quite well thank you Patricia.” Sandra and Mariana, stop what there doing and watch and listen. Nicholas asks, “so what up with Betty. I don’t know, where she is.” Patricia tells him, “she’s in a committee meeting with Armando.” Nichols asks, “with Armando?” Patricia tells him, “he’s the president of Eco Moda.” Nicholas tells her, “yes in the financial world everyone knows who he is.”  Patricia tells him, “I just wanted to clear things with you. I wanted to clear things, the thing is your secretary told you. That I was a secretary, and that’s not true.” Nicholas tells her, “well that’s what I was told you’re the secretary to the president or no.” Patricia tells him, “no no no let me explain. I don’t want confusions in the air.” Sandra tells Mariana, “I heard perfectly she said Nicholas Mora.” Mariana tells her, “oh Sandrita is it the same Nicholas. That were both thinking of, Betty’s Nicholas?” Sandra tells her, “I sure hope not but we really should make sure its not.” Mariana tells her, “let’s get closer.” Patricia tells him, “the truth is I am close friend of Armando. Of his family, Marcela’s family of the Valencia’s. I agreed to this post of secretary, because Armando needed someone urgently with my profile. I have to tell you, I went to 6 semesters of finances at San Marino.” Nicholas tells her, “San Marino oh yes that place good university.” Nicholas thinks about the place, he’s never heard of. Patricia tells him, “yes of course I am in charge of fixing Armando’s image. I organize the cocktail parties, breakfast. I am in charge of his important clients, talk to the investors. I don’t know if Betty told you?”

Nicholas tell her, “well I must mention something about Betty. We really don’t talk about Eco Moda much. In fact we hardly talk, if we do it’s just about business matters and stock issues etc.” Patricia asks, “what is that, what two dating people discuss.” Nicholas tells her, “oh come on the whole company knows your Betty’s boyfriend. Or is she lying?” Nicholas is freaked out, his eyes bulge out he thinks now what his next move is. Nicholas tells her, “no no no yes its true that were dating but we’re just starting out.” Patricia tells him, “oh really I thought it was a more serious more formal relationship.” Sandra and Mariana are closer, with a magazine between them listening intently. I thought you were dating, for a long time. I thought you were so in love with her.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no no no like I said we are just starting to date. You know how things are at the beginning.” Patricia tells him, “oh how shameful of me. I am so embarrassed Nicholas. Here I am getting myself, involved in your personal affairs.” Nicholas tell her, “oh relax relax you don’t have to worry about that. If you want you can asks me anything, we are getting to know one another even if by telephone right.” He just laughs, Patricia tells him. “That isn’t going to stay that way. We really need to meet together, personally Nicholas. He starts getting nervous and anxious, he takes a sip of his juice. Sandra is even closer to Patricia. Patricia asks, oh Nicholas are you still there?”

Nicholas tells her, “yes of course I’m just signing some cheques. Oh Julia, take these cheques immediately. Julia is nearby and hears him screaming. Hurry and move it right away.” Julia then asks, “Nicholas what is going on?” Nicholas stops and holds the mouthpiece. He shhs her, and prays for her to keep quiet. Julia just looks upwards yet again. “I told you stop spying on me, when I’m on the phone. Julia then shakes her head and leaves. Sorry Patricia, but I have an older secretary that likes to snoop. She’s also quite the gossiper. I already told her, to let me talk to you alone and for her to have more respect.” Julia has had enough, “Nicholas hang up that phone.” He tries to tell her to leave, she just stands there. Patricia tells him, “oh Nicholas I really do think your secretary is very rude and annoying. Haven’t you thought of changing your secretary?” Nicholas tell her, “fine yes I will get one maybe one that looks like a model. We need to fix the team.” Julia once again takes off. Sandra and Mariana, now are sitting down on the chairs. Patricia tells him, “well why don’t contract me as your assistant. Wouldn’t you like it? Nicholas is left cold, the game has gotten too far. Patricia then laughs and tells him, silly I was only joking. I can’t quit, Armando will be furious with me and he would kill me. Plus I really, make good money here. The job is delicious.” Nicholas tells her, “I will think about it. Have a long conversation, maybe make you an offer think about it.” Nicholas gets twitchy once more. Patricia tells him, “that sounds great. When will you be coming by?” Nicholas tells her, “I would love to come by but I am quite busy lately. Lots of travelling, and meetings you understand. You know the life of an executive, sorry but I live a very hectic lifestyle.”

Patricia tells him, “yes I can image it. If you like, I can come by your offices. If you like, invite me for a cafe, we can talk.” Nicholas utters nervously, “come over here.” Julia then goes right next to him, “what hang up that woman. She will not come into my home.” Nicholas tells her, “yes that sounds nice Patricia.” Julia says loudly, “Mr. Mora you are needed for a meeting.” Nicholas tells her, “look I have a meeting to go too. Sorry but I have to leave you.” Patricia tells him, “well then I will wait for your call so we can meet up someplace. Don’t say, that one day we will talk then we won’t see one another.” Sandra and Mariana start going back to their desks. Nicholas tell her, “don’t worry that won’t happen. I am a serious man, Julia put it on my appointment book. That I have to contact Patricia Fernandez, for a get together soon. Julia shakes her head, Nicholas tells her. Well then we will talk soon. It was a pleasure talking to you.” Patricia tells him, “yes like wise Nicholas. I will wait for your call.” Nicholas tells her, “well then goodbye then bye.” Patricia smiles and says “bye.” Then with a bold stance, she glances over to the girls. They pretend to be working.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Nicholas gives Julia a big hug and tells her. “Oh do relax Dona Julia the game is over.” Julia tells him, ” how could you use me for that game. To talk to that woman, that woman is Betty’s worst enemy.” Nicholas lying and looking at his computer tells her. “How was I too know that that woman was going to be answering the phones Dona Julia.” Julia tells him, “look Nicholas you knew. What was all that flirting going on.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no she was the flirt. You know full well when people start flirting at me, my real personality comes out.” Julia tells him, “yeah right?”)

Julia tells him, “what is this business. That you are going to go out with her, and bring her here to this house.” Nicholas tells her, “she invited herself.” Julia tells him, “yes she invited herself but you’re the one that brought it up. In fact you were confirming the invitation.” Nicholas tells her, “let me explain something Dona Julia. In the world of business, there’s word call diplomacy. See you invite a lot of people, and then say we will meet up and never do. It’s not important, I suggest you don’t mention this to Betty please.” Julia tells him, “look Nicholas son don’t give yourself illusions. You are lying to her over the phone, that woman is a shrew its best you never meet her son.” She then leaves, he happily stares at her photo. Then kisses it, “you are flirting with me flirting with me indeed.”

Back inside the board room, Armando tells them. “I want forms from each one of your departments, I want it done properly and actualized. Give it to Betty please, now we will now head to the showroom. To see the new collection, designed by Hugo. If we like them, oh Betty makes a cost evaluation. On the new collection, as soon as possible.” Hugo tells him, “what do you mean we will see if they are approved. You will end up on your rears, as soon as you see it. I will wait for you all in the show room.” Marcela tells them, “one moment please. You forgot something, every time Hugo has shown the collection to us. In the absence of Roberto and Margarita, now Maria Beatriz. We always invite Daniel Valencia.” Armando tells her, “my love you know love that isn’t very necessary. Truly every time he does come by, it’s like a bad dream. I don’t think it’s really necessary, to invite that annoying brother of yours. Since he doesn’t approve, the designs we do. Don’t you think?” Marcela tells him, “but it’s a tradition not an obligation. It might be a bad dream, when he finds out he wasn’t invited.” Armando tells him, “ok fine call him.” Marcela then gets up, and leaves the board room. “Thank you very much.” Catalina tells them, “yes definitely it’s not a good day to come to Eco Moda. Armando I know, that you are very worried about your company. You must make it, top priority for your wedding. I know that you are anxious to get married. Betty looks very angry. Catalina tells Hugo, invite me for a coffee or tea.” Hugo tells her, “yes of course or a good nerve tea.” She just laughs, and they leave. Armando glances over at Betty, as does Mario. Sadness over comes Betty, she tells Armando. “I will be in my office, excuse me.” Armando utters, “yes yes of course go ahead Betty.”

Armando angrily closes the door once more. “Damn it, damn it Calderon. Why did that stupid, have to talk about my wedding. In front of Beatriz why?” Mario tells him, “that was a huge death blow. Did you see her face, did you see how depressed she was during that meeting. My dear president, we are going to have to strategize. That woman will feel herself, being pushed aside. She will be hurt, and who knows what she might do. What might happen to us?” Armando tells him, “Calderon what am I going to do next then. Not marry Marcela, not get married. Do you know, what might happen?” Mario tells him, “what do you think Betty will do? Do you really think, she will allow you to marry Marcela? Then leave her, to remain your mistress and act like nothing has happened. No sir, it seems you have to leave her now.” Armando angrily turns, “what are you crazy. Dump Betty, no if I dump her I will kill her.” Mario tells him, “well one or other has to leave. One has to be sacrificed, you must decide. Which one, will end up being sacrificed.” Sadness engulfs him, he stares away.

(By this point, just the thought of losing Betty makes Armando very depressed.)

Sandra tells the girls, “we heard her clearly say she wants to meet Nicholas Mora at his office.” Sophia tells her, “how could that blond bimbo do such a thing.” Aura Maria tells them, “I will put an end to this. That idiot isn’t going to get away from this, nor get close to Betty’s boyfriend.” Ines tells her, “dear that is none of your business. That issue has to be fixed, by Betty alone she will fix things.” Everyone agrees. Aura Maria tells them, “but we can’t do that we can’t leave Betty all by herself. You know what an idiot, she is in these matters. Fighting with that viper, she will lose him. Girls we have to protect that boyfriend.” Mariana tells them, “Betty’s boyfriend it’s like he’s our boyfriend and must be taken care of.” Bertha tells them, “girls you know what is happening.” Everyone goes “no.” Mariana tells her, “oh no you’re punished. You’re now not allowed, to be involved in any more gossip meetings. You go back to work, and relax and be quiet.” Bertha sadly tells them, “what you’re  doing is wrong. That you don’t do, to a single human being. Ines just laughs. How could you do such a thing. I would have been such a dear person, very much loved by you. I will never forget this, make this clear nor forgive you all.” Everyone just groans. Sandra tells them, “well then who is going to tell her?” Aura Maria tells them, “well all of us will do it.” Betty is putting away files, and is taken out into the corridor.

Aura Maria tells them, “Betty we must tell you something very serious my dear.” Betty asks, “what is wrong?” Bertha tells her, “Betty come here for a minute. I must tell you something. She whispers, please tell me what they say. They won’t tell me, what’s going on.” Everyone screams, “no Bertha!” Aura Maria brings Betty back to them, “now you fly away. Now Betty listen very carefully ok. Open your eyes dear, they are looking at your boyfriend. Someone wants to steal him.” Betty asks,” what do you mean?” Sandra tells her, “you will lose him. Someone plans to steal him away Betty.” Mariana tells her, “yes thats right.” Betty asks, “my boyfriend Nicholas?” Sophia tells her, “who else Betty. Or do you have more boyfriends?” Betty asks, “no so who is after him?” Mariana tells her, “dear none other than that witch Patricia Fernandez image it.” Betty tells them, “that blond bimbo. Oh no you see they talked, once over the phone. Remember when we were late, she answered the call and they talked.” Mariana tells her, “dear don’t be an idiot were not talking about that call. But no it happened today, a few minutes ago we heard a conversation today and don’t know how it happened. Before we knew it, they were having a long conversation. I don’t know, what they were talking about.” Sandra tells her, “that blond bimbo even asked about your relationship. She was very flirty, she even asked him for a job. Plus that she wanted to meet him, we also heard right Mariana. Isn’t that right Mariana they are planning on getting together.”

Bertha utters, “oh how shameless.” Betty utters, “with Nicholas?” Sandra tells her, “yes Nicholas dear we have to stop this right now. You take care of Nicholas, we will take of that blond bimbo.” Mariana tells her, “yes of course.” Betty asks, “what will you do to her?” Sandra tells her, “high-jinks  will be ensued.” Betty tells them, “I would like to personally take care of this myself.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no you don’t. We won’t leave you alone, you won’t win if you’re up against that blond bimbo. You alone won’t win.” Sandra tells them, “we all will take care of this problem.” One says, “we will strangle her, the other hit her.” Bertha tells them, “grab my scarf we’ll hang her.” Betty tells them all, “please girls. I have to deal with this, on my own alright.” Ines tells them, “well you have heard Betty. I told you, she will take care of this matter on her own. Leave her alone, heard me.” Hugo comes out of the studio, “oh no look who we have here Ines the spy, the co-conspirator. Yes as if we don’t have, a lot of work ahead of us in the studio no.” Ines tells him,” sir Don Hugo I am on my way. Besides everything is already anyway.” Hugo tells her, “fine then find me the material Marg brought for her wedding. We have to start doing that right away, come on fly fly flew.” Sadness overcomes Betty once more. Ines tells him, “no don’t worry I have that saved away. I better go before she becomes hysterical.” Bertha tells her, “oh girls I heard about that fabric for Dona Marcela’s wedding dress. The wedding is just around the corner.”

Sophia asks, “and who is talking to you Bertha? Now dear it pains me, you’re not talking to me. The other is talking about, the latest gossip but Don Hugo brought it out in a public place. I have full disclosure to discuss this right oh no.” Sandra tells her, “no Bertha you being punished. You’re not allowed to gossip, make commentaries, no snacks either. Now shoo, fly away.” Aura Maria tells her, “chaio chaio.” Mariana then asks, “Betty when is the wedding?” Bertha tells them, “its in September you idiot remember. It showed up, in all the magazines.” Betty tells them, “yes Bertha is right the wedding will be in September. It will coincide with the new collection. When Don Robert and Dona Margarita arrive. The rest of the family, should be coming as well.” Aura Maria tells them, “girls don’t you think it’s strange that the preparations haven’t even begun yet.” Sophia tells her, “maybe that relationship is going downhill my dears.” Mariana tells them, “from what I know that relationship isn’t going well at all.” Betty looks away, Sandra asks. “Betty what do you think might happen?” Betty tells them, “well I just think that the wedding will be realized. They have a long standing relationship, a very serious relationship. Well I have to go, thank you so much for the information.” Aura Maria stops her, “come here Betty do me a favour my dear. Contact Nicholas take full reigns of the situation. He will not end up like a dog oh no.” Betty closes the door. Bertha goes next to Aura Maria, Sophia tells them. “Didn’t it look like Betty, was pretty depressed?” Aura Maria tells her, “yes of course poor thing look at the news we just gave her.” Sophia asks Bertha, “who called her?” Bertha laughing tells them, “no ha ha I already heard. I already heard all the news.” Bertha happily sits down, the girls complain and head back to their posts. Inside Betty’s office she sits down, she utters. “He will get married, he will get married.”

Armando in the boardroom tells Mario, “can you just image do you know all the problems. I would have with my family, if I don’t marry Marcela. Not even all the problems, I will have with her family. The thing is worse, the problem I have with Marcela. I can’t cancel this marriage Calderon. I promised my family, and Marcela.” Mario tells him, “well then what have you imaged. When Betty finds out, you’re going to marry Marcela. Do you really think, she will continue with this romance? Brother you know her more than I, what am I saying more than I. Armando looks over coldly at him, Mario tells him. Calm down, do you think she will end things now. Or will she want to continue? Or after the wedding with Marcela, will she want to continue dating you?” Armando tells him, “no she won’t accept it. I know her quite well, inside her the doubts will emerge in her.” Mario tells him, “in other words if you cancel that wedding. You will lose the company, in exchange if you marry Marcela you will lose the company.” Armando puts his hands up, “if I don’t marry Marcela. I will have the worse enemy inside my company.” Mario tells him, “look ok ok who do you want to sacrifice. In doing so, you’re going to have to calm both of them down.” Armando asks, “how Calderon how?” Mario tells him, “ask Marcela for an extension.”

Back at Betty’s house, the phone rings Nicholas runs to get it. “Relax everyone I’ll go get it. Hello Terra Moda offices.” Betty tells him, “what games are we playing at Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “oh hi Betty its you. Look I called earlier to tell you, that I sent an email to you. The balance of Terra Moda.” Betty asks, “were you calling me or Patricia Fernandez?” Nicholas tells him, “you of course Betty how can you image things. I called you, you didn’t answer. So I tried another number, and Patricia Fernandez de Mora answered.” Betty tells him, “enough Nicholas stop this game with Patricia Fernandez. I have told you a million times, leave her alone please. Or you will get me in trouble.” Nicholas asks, “but what did I do. Why are you so angry at me?” Betty tells him, “don’t pretend you idiot Nicholas. I know, that you were talking over the phone. Armando is furious, and Mario overhears Betty’s conversation. You were flirting with one another, you even wanted to arrange a meeting.” Nicholas asks, “what did she say we were gong to go out?” Betty tells him, “we don’t talk together unless it’s to insult one another. No she didn’t say a thing.” Nicholas tells her, “oh what intelligence you have there at that company. Do you have your phones wired? Is the one here, at your place wired as well?” Betty tells him, “it’s an old one that’s quite affected. I will not tell you, how I found out.” Nicholas tells her, “don’t worry don’t tell me those women are gossipy. Betty it was a diplomatic call, it was an exchange of thoughts and opinions you might not understand. Well it’s like, nice to talk to you. We will talk soon, see you soon.” Betty tells him, “yes and offer her a job?”

Nicholas tells her, “what that too they told you. What an intelligence spy ring you have. Superior like the Gestapo, it’s your fault Betty. Why did you tell people, you have an attractive boyfriend that’s prosperous. That woman is fascinated with me, don’t worry I won’t give her a job.” Betty tells him, “you don’t have to tell me. First you will go, second close the company, or bury me alive.” Nicholas tells her, “I will choose the last one. I will bring you flowers.” He laughs, Betty tells him. “I am in no mood for jokes Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “fine fine boss relax. Leave the bad mood, don’t yell at me. Ok yell at me if you like. Since I am being paid, to be your boyfriend. You have the right to yell at me, well then give me a raise instead. Being your boyfriend, is a lot more difficult than being an executive at Terra Moda.” Betty tells him, “you are doing a bad job out of it because you can’t even be a good boyfriend. If you did, you wouldn’t know your playing with fire. Mario sits down and glances at Armando. Contacting Patricia, now I look like a complete moron in front of everyone. While you go flirting around with Patricia Fernandez, everyone thinks that she will be taking away my boyfriend. Please Nicholas don’t make me look ridiculous.” Nicholas tells her, “relax relax my relationship with Patricia Fernandez is over. He just rolls his yes at saying this. Understand finish, relax relax there is nothing more to talk about. The conversation is now over.” Betty sarcastically tells him, “well thank you very much.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Betty enough stop being so angry at me. You might bore your boyfriend, you can’t lose that jewel. This boyfriend feels trapped and without air, in this relationship understand goodbye.” Betty nods and hangs up. Nicholas utters, “oh Betty you are ugly and now very angry. You can’t be both, its joke it’s being used. He sits back down by his desk, and stares at Patricia’s photo. Patricia my love, I know that we feel something for the two of us. This love is impossible, everyone is against us everyone. He gets teary eyed, relax you will always be near me by the desk. Very inspirational to me, for me to do my finance job. My beautiful inspiration.”

Armando is furious, “I don’t understand any of that. What is that conversation all about?” Mario tells him, “not to alarm you that conversation is all about complaints. That was a conversation about jealousy.” Armando tells him, “of jealously why is Beatriz playing with me and Nicholas why?”  Mario tells him, “you have no right to complain. That she is playing both of you. For you are anxious, and let me remind you that Nicholas is her second option.” Armando tells him, “no it’s a nightmare that guy the night of her birthday. He went to her place, with a musicians with a serenade. He sings the song, that girlfriend of mine. She went out there, to accept that serenade.” Mario tells him, “well ok calm down. What you have to do is, work her more brother. So you can stop suffering.” Armando tells him, “what is she referring about no what I don’t understand Calderon. What I have never seen is her attitude, it makes me anxious.” Betty comes out, “sir here is the balance of Terra Moda. I want you to revise them.” He takes it, she heads to her office he says. “Thank you Beatriz, tells me something is something wrong?” Betty tells him, “I had a problem at home excuse me.” Armando angrily throws the paper on the table. Mario tells him, “I’ve never seen her that way I wonder what is going on. I don’t know, I just don’t know.” He pats Armando on the shoulder. Armando pushes him aside, Marcela comes by and asks them. “Am I interrupting something? Don’t be so anguished, I just wanted to inform you Daniel is on his way.” Mario tells him, “fine then I will go to the showroom see you then.”

Armando tries to stop him, but he leaves. Marcela tells him, “Armando I don’t want you to be tense because of this wedding. Don’t look at this as an obligation. Betty is in her office, and overhears everything. If you desire it, if you want we can cancel it.” Armando tells her, “no my love I just think we should discuss it in another time and place. Is that at all possible?” Marcela tells him, “yes here there any place do you want to discuss this at any moment. Don’t you worry about it love, now you don’t have to worry about this topic any more. You know what, our marriage is now cancelled.” Armando stops her, “ah my love enough stop this right now. I just want to discuss this at home, where it’s more private. The office isn’t the right place, to discuss such matters. Don’t you think so Marcee?” Marcela asks, “why does it so bother you. That were discussing this here. Your doing all this, because of Beatriz.” Betty covers her mouth in shock. Armando asks, “oh what are you talking about Marcela?” Marcela tells him, “I am talking about Beatriz is her alley.” Armando tells her, “what alley to who who is this.” Marcela tells him, “your lover the one that you sleep with.” Armando looks at Marcela, then back towards Betty’s office. He tells her, “I do not have another woman. I have told you a million times.” Marcela tells him loudly, “and then it won’t matter if Beatriz hears this then. Then she can inform that woman, that our relationship is over. That now you won’t get married.” Armando goes to her and whispers, “Marcela I am telling you that we should discuss this matter. At the apartment tonight, not here in this office. It isn’t the appropriate place, understand that please yes.”

Marcela tells him, “you know what Armando. Daniel arrives, and hides by the door. Look Armando I know that, when one talks about marriage it doesn’t get argued. We have been engaged for many years, its either white or black but yes I do understand you. I know that you are confused, that she has you very confused.” Daniel enters, “don’t tell me you’re confused Armando. Well you’re always confused.” Marcela kisses him and gives him a hug, she tells him. “Oh hello Daniel don’t bother with him. You don’t know what were talking about.” Daniel tells him, “perfectly but of course he’s starting to doubt getting married again. That other woman, has him confused. It’s not a difficult conversation to escape from.” Armando stares coldly towards Daniel. Marcela tells him, “let’s go to the show room yes.” Betty is staring sadly at Armando’s photo. Armando enters her office, and she changes the screen and doesn’t look at him. He tells her, “hello Daniel just arrived. I will be in the show room, care to see Hugo’s designs.” Betty tells him, “no thanks sir I have lots of work to do. Plus I wouldn’t be able, to give my opinion regarding that collection.” Armando is left quite sadden, and closes the door and heads to the showroom. Betty sadly looks then at the door.

Hugo is with Catalina, “no oh don’t asks about my boyfriend. He and I we’re having a huge fight. We don’t talk, the communication doesn’t flow. We don’t sit down, and have a delicious conversation like before. I don’t know what is happening. Last night, I had to send him downstairs to sleep on the sofa.” Catalina tells him, “you’re stressed your always this way. When there’s a new collection to show. Your boyfriend always ends up paying for it.” Hugo tells her, “yes what I need is a good massage. A good massage, like a therapy do you think later you can give me one. Tell me when, and I’ll come by your apartment. You can relax, because with me you’re in no danger. You know that.”

Catalina tells him, “oh really what do you mean I’m not in danger. You once took away one of my boyfriends remember Lombardi.” Both say “Federico.” Hugo tells her, “he was divine.” Catalina tells him, “yes he was.” Hugo tells her, “well look who is here. Marcela and Daniel come by, Daniel the troublemaker, Daniel boon.” Daniel smiling kisses Catalina on the cheek. She says “hello.” Daniel tells her, “Catta how are you?” Catalina tells him, “I’m well.” Daniel tells her, “let me look at those eyes.” Catalina tells him, “don’t start.” Daniel tells her, “you know what I think. You’re a woman with so much inner peace, with that strong spirit. You probably have great sex. You must become a fierce lover, when you have a man near by or am I mistaken.” Catalina tells him, “oh on the contrary when I’m with a man I am terrible. I suffer depressed, I have jealous feelings and I suffer. In general men aren’t the ones, that aren’t appropriate to live with a woman. Yes you’re necessary, but not appropriate they haven’t created a good one.” Daniel tells her, “yes I guess you’re correct.” Catalina tells him, “you know why God made Adam first because he needed an eraser to create the perfect woman.” Daniel doesn’t care much for her joke, and looks away bored. “Well when do we start.” Marcela laughs, as does Catalina then Daniel tells her. “Well then, when do we start?”

Hugo asks a model, “tell me what is your problem now?” The model tells him, “this seems not so tight.” Ines helps out another model. Hugo tells her, “oh you’re so cheeky, don’t make threads.” The phone rings, and Ines gets it. “Hello yes one moment please, Jenny phone call for you.” Jenny is changing, “alright I’m coming Inesita.” Ines tells him, “she’s on her way wait one minute please.” Hugo asks, “who is it?” Ines tells him, “it’s Elfrain the cheque.” Hugo tells her, “oh I see didn’t that man understand. When I told him, to stop calling my phone.” Jenny comes by, “girl I need to ask you one question. What happened to that cell phone he gave you?” Jenny tells him, “it’s off Don Hugo.” Ines tells him, “sir Don Hugo you better get her to answer this because this man. Has been calling all day like crazy.” Hugo tells her, “I am giving you 30 seconds.” Then he begins the countdown. Elfrain tells her, “oh my skinny life where have you been? Why did you shut off, your cell phone my love? Why haven’t you called me?” Jenny tells him, “Elfrain I told you not to bother me. The cell phone would be disconnected. Remember I also told you, that I need to think and wanted to be by myself.” Elfrain asks, “what you’re still sick?” Jenny tells him, “yes lots. I have to hang up, we have a show to do. I will call you later bye.” Elfrain tells her, “please wait. Don’t hang up my love, I have important news to tell you. I am going to do, what you asked me too do. I will ask for half of Sophia’s house.” Jenny tells him, “really my love. My sweet love, but that is your decision. I didn’t pressure you, I was just trying to give you a hand. I’ve just been a bit depressed, oh it will pass my sweet love. Oh I’m sending you, a big fat kiss my sweet love kiss.” She then hangs up, as Hugo screams. “Hang up, man what am I going to do with you. Now ladies, where is Marcela Carrillo.” One model whispers, “Hugeto she’s in the bathroom.” Hugo tells her, “she’s always there when its time to try on the clothes.” The model show up and she say, “I was in there.” Hugo tells her, “in there now then hurry up get dressed quickly.”

Mario finds Armando pacing then asks, “come on are you ready. What happened?”  Armando tells him, “we almost didn’t have a wedding.” Mario asks, “really but you stopped it right?” Armando tells him, “it wasn’t easy she’s not making it easy. I will see how I can fix this. The only problem is Daniel Valencia overheard, and took notice.” Mario utters, “oh no.” Then they head to the showcase. Marcela comes out, and tells them. “Well then the show is ready to begin. Hugo did an excellent job and you will be quite surprised. I know everyone will like it. Well that’s what I’m hoping for.” Armando and Mario take their places, Daniel sits next to Armando. He asks, “so she has you very confused?” Armando asks, “who is this?” Daniel tells him, “the other. Look I am in accordance, with you Armando.” Armando utters, “really.” Daniel tells him, “don’t marry my sister. Do us all a favour yes.” Armando tells him, “that isn’t your affair Danielito.” Daniel tells him, “oh really it’s not my problem. You who is marrying my sister. Yes you are very confused with her, because of her Armando. Let me clear your view, my sister is the most important thing in this world. I wish her the best, and that is if you leave her in peace. This also has an implication, in accordance between the Valencia’s and the Mendoza’s.” Armando asks, “what implication what type of accordance?” Daniel tells him, “to divide the company. It would be best for everyone. You leave in peace Marcela, my family and me, and we would stop the fighting with who’s president and the running of the company. Everyone gets a cut, and then everyone does what ever they want with their share.” Armando just stares at him.

Ricardo Velez was born in London England in 1963. He’s considered an international actor. He has acted in, several theatre productions in London England. He has performed as well in Paris, doing street theatre. He has worked on radio, done several movies and worked on some telenovelas. He of course is Mario Calderon.

SEVENTY-EIGHT

Armando tells him, “forget that Daniel forget that completely. I won’t permit that, my father will never permit that either.” Daniel tells him, “fine well if you don’t marry. In the next council meeting, I will announce the distribution of shares.” Armando looks away, while Catalina tells Marcela. “Those two will never fix that relationship.” Marcela tells her, “no on the contrary the more time passes the more they get worse. I don’t even know, if I’m going to marry Armando. Oh Catta I am so sorry, for what you witness today. There are so many personal problems.” Catalina tells her, “oh don’t worry about that. Not to meddle in your affairs but. Aren’t you rushing things, with this wedding.” Marcela tells her, “rushing things. Do you know, how long Armando and I have been engaged. The press already knows about it, it happens in September.” Catalina tells her, “but its still seems rushed.” Marcela asks, “you mean the preparations?” Catalina tells her, “that’s not what I’m referring too. You can take 1 year or 2, no matter the time. It seems to me, you two aren’t ready.” Marcela tells her, “yes it looks that way but I want Armando to be my husband. He’s the one that doubting things, I am going to tell you something Catta. If we don’t get married today, or we never will be.”

Hugo comes out, “now everyone things are now ready. You two stop gossiping, and the light has arrived. Ladies 1,2,3,4. One by one the models come out, I have called this collection Africa me. I have been working with, green, caramel colours, oranges, maroons, not forgetting the desert. Some people think, it’s a dry and desolate area for me it’s full of life. Lights and colours. Black oranges, plus those beautiful sunsets. It makes us just want to give ourselves to love. How will this love, be able to stand. With texture, with strength, with dynamite. With this beautiful figures, the women of 2000 is very urban. She can be a very sensual woman and savage at the same time. Well then I wait for a caress, fill your insides thank you. Everyone stay divine.” He bows its now over. The girls are watching the collection utter. “Oh I like that one, oh I don’t like that.” Patricia goes over towards them, “girls what are you all looking at.” Sophia tells her, “what do you mean what were looking at. It’s the new collection, watching the new collection.” Patricia tells them, “well then let’s stop all the production to watch a single collection. Yes let the whole world watch the collection.” Mariana tells her, “no no no stop the stress and the blabbering. We are just watching the fashion show, stop being so ridiculous Patricia.” Patricia tells her, “well then let’s tell Armando and Hugo,. That this collection was made for your group. Because you guys dress very well, and she giggles. We should have a charity collection, so you guys can buy clothes.” Sophia asks, “and you think you dress well? We already have seen your outfits. Oh have you forgotten, what Bertha did to you.” Patricia tells her, “I might not have a great wardrobe. Betty comes out and stands next to her. One of my dresses, cost more and can dress all of you put together.”

Betty goes by Patricia and glares at her. Betty goes to the other girls, Sophia tells her. “Oh look instead of having the secretary to the president. We now have Princess of Monaco. What are you a diva or what?” Patricia tells her, “well no you know what. When I see all of you, I feel like royalty. When I am depressed, when I don’t feel so good. All I have to do, is look over at you guys. I become very happy, I am grateful for what life has given me. You know, thank you very much.” Sophia utters, “your welcome.” Sandra tells her, “you also steal woman’s boyfriends.” Mariana goes, “a ha.” Sandra tells her, “don’t believe so much in you. Just because you have clothes you’re a blond bimbo. You have those long legs, that have men falling at your feet. Don’t think, you can take away anybody’s boyfriend.” Mariana tells her, “yes correct.” Patricia asks, “what you are talking about you resentful giraffe?” Sandra gets closer to her and tells her. “Oh nothing, nobody goes around answering everyone’s phone calls. Then tries to steal somebody’s boyfriend. Making Betty’s boyfriend fall in your hands?” Betty tries to shut her up, but gets nowhere. Patricia tells her, “talk clearer. What are you trying to tell me?” Sandra tells her, “very simple dear don’t play around and try to steal Betty’s boyfriend. Betty isn’t alone, so don’t dream about it.” Patricia laughing tells her, “what are you saying? That I want to take away, this one’s boyfriend. What has the planet and its men, come to an end.” Mariana tells her, “no no no my dear don’t play the idiot with us. Or make jokes, we heard you talking and flirting with Betty’s boyfriend over the phone. How’s your eye?”

Sandra tells her, “oh making arrangements, asking for a job. Oh missy don’t play flighty with us. Betty isn’t alone, first you would have to go over the groups cadavers. Before taking away her boyfriend dear.” Patricia utters, “oh stop suffering of Betty’s beau, I am not interested in Betty’s boyfriend. He doesn’t interest me.” Sophia tells her, “he might not interest you as a boyfriend but. He interests you because of his money.” Patricia tells her, “oh Sophia. There are tons of rich men, all over the place. Listen to me Betty, if I wanted to steal him away. I wouldn’t be hiding from you. I would steal him, right in front of you. Just like that, she naps her fingers. He’s captured. Betty smiles and looks at the girls. Your man doesn’t interest me, you know that he wouldn’t even signify nothing. Me taking away your man, I do have an image to maintain.” Betty coughs, and says. “What image, your or mine? Then they would say, that you are now smart.” The girls start laughing, and she joins them. Patricia tells her, “yes dear be very confident. The intelligence of a woman is an aphrodisiac to a man. Yes continue believing that. You know what the first thing, men look at in a woman. Legs, the waist, chest, hair, ass. The last thing is the intelligence.” Betty tells her, “yes and that’s when they lose all interest in you.” Sophia burst out laughing. Patricia moves closer to them, “you know what Betty. Don’t you dare push me, excuse me. I am going someplace, where you lot aren’t permitted to enter.” She shakes her hair, and takes off to the fashion show.

Bertha hugs Betty and Sophia, she tells them. “Oh friends love that gossip.” Sophia pushes her aside, Betty just shrugs Mariana stares at Bertha. Sandra tells her, “Bertha were not talking to you so leave.” Bertha tells them, “fine don’t talk to me then. I have that gossip, so clear in my mind. It is fantastic, oh it’s out and finally because I was getting indigestion.” She laughs once more, Betty all serious again asks Sophia. “Now then Sophia, I need the files that mention the buyers who is left to pay. Plus the information finished, what I asked for this morning.” Sophia tells her, “yes of course no problem.” Sandra watches her leave, and tells them. “Oh poor Betty, this is a black day that she’s having.” Mariana tells her, “what do you mean all black that she’s having.” Sandra tells her, no let’s say gray then.” Mariana tells her, “oh you.” Then all go back to looking at the fashion show. Bertha tells them, “friends we must be very careful with that blond bimbo. That girl is very sad, if Betty loses her beau oh dear it will be worse. Everyone gives her the cold shoulder. Look I am not talking to you lot, I am just making small commentaries about this issue to myself. It is quite delectable. Well then, move it I have to go to the bathroom.” Mariana tells her, “oh you better not be eating anything gordita in there.” Bertha tells them, “what you guys didn’t leave me nothing.” Sandra tells her, “oh you.” Sophia tells them, “I better get those folders.” Mariana tells Sandra, “oh look at that one.” Sandra tells her, “I want that jacket.”

The models show off the clothes again, and Hugo comes out again. “Alright everyone, I hope that you have enjoyed the show. From my heart I say, that I really hope that I have touched your heart and your insides. When I mean your insides, I talk about yours because those guys there don’t have one. Armando and Mario just rolls their eyes, while Daniel touches his head. Catalina is the first to clap, Hugo tells her. Oh Catta thank you.” Catalina tells him, “I loved it.” Hugo tells her, “as long as you like it that’s good enough for me.” Marcela tells him, “I loved it as well.” She blows kisses, Armando asks Mario. “What do you think?” Mario tells him, “it does look good it almost as the same style that London has. But we have to reduce costs.” Hugo tells them, “Mario did I hear right if you will once again cut costs. Or try to fool around again, like the last time. Like you executives always do, then you know what. Cancel everything right now, as of this moment.” Patricia goes on stage, and goes to one of the models. Hugo continues, “look we are still pretty early in this. We can still cancel everything, cancel everything.” Armando angrily tells him, “enough Hugo enough with the hysteria, I was just asking for an opinion.  If you don’t care of course.” Patricia tells them, “I am in accordance with Hugeto. Excuse me, this collection is spectacular and I don’t think it matters how much the materials cost.” Armando asks, “what are you doing up there?” What you look like a chimpanzee. Who invited you?” Patricia tells him, “Armando excuse me. You can say I’m everything, but you can’t deny that I have great taste in getting dressed.” Hugo laughs, the models look her up and down. Daniel tells her, “yes I agree Patricia dresses quite well but she takes off her clothes better.” Patricia smile disappears, and everyone stares at her. Mario is shocked, and glances at Armando. Who just utters, “oh boy oooh.” Marcela is shocked, and stares at her brother. Catalina is also shocked, and just stares at everyone. Patricia is so embarrassed, that she runs off the platform and hides in the bathroom. Marcela then stares as she runs off.

(Why do this, I just don’t get why he would this. I know that he’s angry at Armando, for hurting his sister but he went too far. Poor Patricia, and she didn’t want anybody to know that she had a fling with Daniel. Later on you never once see. Marcela asking how Patricia is doing. Or her asking, when she was with her brother.)

Armando tells Daniel. “Well then, after that scene that you caused. Do you have more to give, more of your opinion regarding the collection.” Daniel tells him, “yes this will be the last collection that Eco Moda completes.” Marcela asks, “what are you talking about?” Daniel tells her, “good that you’re asking. Armando and I, are going to break up the company. Since you two won’t be getting married. I believe it’s the best solution, to divide the company. That way, the two families are finally separated to start their own businesses. We will figure out later, who gets what of Eco Moda.” Hugo tells them, “oh wow the rice has cooked now. Alright ladies, back to the studio fly fly. All of them then leave, now then you didn’t hear nothing.” Armando tells Marcela, “we weren’t talking about that. It was Daniel, that started talking about that plan.” Marcela looks over at Catalina and tells him, “we should discuss this in another place.” Daniel asks, “what about your marriage. I’m not the one, the published the wedding to every magazine. Informing everyone, about your engagement. He’s the one, that told the public everything.” Marcela tells him, “look this conversation is something that Armando and I have to discuss.” Daniel tells her, “perfect well then we will discuss this at our next council meeting. Well then Armando, don’t start making excuses. That you don’t have the real statements of the company. Now more than ever, we need to know the real state Eco Moda is facing. Then we can start separating, all of ours capital in this venture. Good afternoon.” Hugo goes to her, “look if you’re not getting married to this savage here. I think it’s the best decision that’s bombi, please inform me so I can stop designing a wedding dress that won’t be worn. Or be eaten by moths.” Catalina is shocked by this whole affair. Marcela takes off, Catalina shakes her head at him. Hugo asks, “what did I do something wrong?” Catalina tells him, “oh you won’t be fixed.” Hugo tells her, “oh I’ve said worse things.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mario tells Armando, “calm down that’s his poker face.”)

When Daniel heads to the elevator, Patricia tells Daniel. “I didn’t care for that joke of yours.” Daniel tells her, “that was no joke. That you look better, taken off your clothes than putting it back on. I remember how I had to hold back my laughter, as you clumsy striped for me.” Patricia tells him, “what exactly are you looking for Daniel.” Daniel tells her, “nothing. So tell me, did you find the money. That you were looking for?” Patricia tells him, “no.” Daniel tells her, “remember you look better taking off your clothes than putting them on.” He leaves, Patricia stares angrily at him.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Marcela comes by, and Patricia tells her. “Listen hear Marcela, the next time your idiot brother comes by. He better not make those stupid jokes ever again. Or I swear I am going to slap him senseless. I don’t care if he’s your favorite brother, or the biggest associate of this company. He better respect me, I am not like other women. Plus I have never given him, any confidence to mention that type of commentary.” Marcela angrily tells her, “do what ever you want with my brother. Me you leave me in peace.” Patricia quickly calms down, and asks. “Wait Marcee what’s wrong? Did I miss something?” Marcela screams, “leave me in peace.” She takes off her to her office, and Patricia utters. “Yes this whole company has gone crazy.”)

Evening has fallen, and Hugo is leaving with his models. Hugo tells them “well no matter where they put it the papya always gives fruit.” Freddy approaches and tells him. “Excuse Don Hugo, good evening ladies. First I would like to say, that I’ve heard that you have finished. The collection for this fine company. It is exquisite, like a sucker. Permit me to  congratulate you, on your great fabulous delicate designs. Now ladies don’t get anxious, I also have some nice things to say about you as well.” Hugo tells him, “well no.” Freddy continues, “well Don Hugo something is troubling me though. I haven’t heard about the male line, you know I am a great client of your work.” Hugo tells him, “well then Freddy Kruger. If you like we can do, business between the two of us.” Freddy tells him, “not in your apartment nor alone.” The girls laugh, Hugo tells him. “Freddy I will give you, a monthly salary if you never fly caress or touch. Nor put on, any of my designs come on girls. They grab his arm, and they leave. That boy, has a lot of bla bla bla.”

Freddy overhears and just laughs, he turns his attention to Jenny. “Hello, my exuberate Jenny how are you? Here is your, Freddy Stewart Contreras. My beautiful motor-bike, is waiting to take you home.” Jenny tells him, “I am sorry Freddy but we need to talk. I am sorry, but we have to cool things down alright.” Freddy tells her, “but why we were almost going to get together.” Jenny tells him, “yes exactly. I have to stop this from getting stronger.” Freddy gets near her, she moves back. “My dear excuse me, and forgive me. This intrigues me, but please clear things. Did I do something, from my part that affected this decision. What thread came apart? Was one of my phrases inappropriate? Jenny just shakes her head no. Or was my stare, too unsettling?” Jenny tells him, “no Freddy none of that. You Freddy, were the perfect gentleman. Always with me, you have always been so wonderful to me. Now more than ever, I must take care of my relationship with my sweet love. I am really worried, that Dona Sophia might take him away from me. Or any of them, might try to put my sweet love against me.” You see the girls fixing their desks, and get ready to leave. Freddy tells her, “but our relationship that is so full of promise. So symphonic, but its going so well. It just can’t end just like that.” Jenny tells him, “Freddy our relationship is more than an attraction. We have always been the best of friends. I do love you that way, and don’t want to lose you. She grabs his hands, he stares lovingly in her eyes. I feel this so much Freddy.” Then she walks towards the elevator. Freddy utters, “goodbye those beautiful curves, goodbye that beautiful chest of yours.  Goodbye those beautiful legs, that take me to my fantasy. Then Dona Marcela comes by, and his tone changes. Oh goodbye Dona Marcela, ah have a nice evening good night.”

Mario, Betty and Armando are looking over the last of the numbers. Mario tells Betty, “here are the last of the files and the losses for this coming months. Revise them please.” Betty is a bit distance, and just accepts them. Marcela enters and puts down her paperwork. “Here are the numbers and reports, from the sale figures you asked for. She is ready to leave, when Armando tells her. “Marcela.” Marcela angrily turns, and says coldly says. “What!” Armando then utters, “nothing I just wanted to ask where were you going?” Marcela tells him, “where else my apartment.” She leaves, and closes the door behind her. Betty gets up, and goes to her office. Armando asks, “Betty.” She angrily shouts, “what sir!” Armando tells Mario, “fine then everyone hit me now. I have two fierce lions, at my side in my office.” Betty tells him, “sorry sir I am bit tense.” Armando tells her, “yes that I have noticed. Look do me this favour, put these in the achieves. Put them away good, contact Inesita we have to talk to her tomorrow. Set up a meeting, so we can discuss costs for the new collection. Please and thank you.” Betty checks the paperwork, and goes to her office.

Armando just stops and touches his head. Mario tells him, “come here I will tell you one thing. Brother you can’t continue living like this. It’s almost to the point, that they’re going to kill you. Look at how they have you.” Armando tells him, “yes I am now surrounded by a group of witches. They will lynch me soon.” Mario tells him, “yes you must marry Marcela.” Armando tells him, “yes I know I must marry Marcela you heard Daniel’s threat. What company are we going to cut up, when we don’t have a company to divide.” Mario tells him, “yes and if do marry Marcela that means Betty could go against everything.” Armando tells him, “in conclusion I can’t divide the company. So I have to marry Marcela, or else the company will be split in two. Now I have to find a way, nobody notices that I no longer own the company. I have to continue being Betty’s lover. Is that right?” Mario tells him, “yes correct.” Armando angrily hits his fists, “I can’t do both.” Mario tells him, “yes it can be done.” Armando asks, “how.” Mario tells him, “you must risk it all. Look I have here another photo, of Adriana Arboleda. This is your passport to heaven, I will put it right in here. My general Mendoza you are all ready to go.” He puts in his his pocket, Armando could care less. Mario then pats his shoulder.

Betty is in her office, and stares at the screen then turns it off. She gathers her belongings, and Armando enters. Armando asks, “so are you going home now.” Betty tells him, “yes sir tomorrow. I will be finishing up, the analysis and the rest of the figures from the other departments.” Armando asks, “if you like I can take you home?” Betty tells him, “no please no more problems.” Armando asks, “what are we not going to be able to talk now?” Betty tells him, “everything is now clear sir. Our relationship is now over, you are going to get married.” Armando tells her, “no and gets closer. Beatriz no, don’t say that. We need to talk, but I can’t talk here. We can go someplace else, I need to talk privately with you. Please Betty please.” Betty tells him, “fine sir lets go.” She goes pasts him, and he utters. “Thank you.” He then slams the door.

Patricia sees Mario, and he stares at her. Patricia asks, “so Mario do you have any plans? Mario counts his fingers, and utters. “Yes lots.” Patricia tells him, “you don’t have to behave like that with me Mario. You’re always shutting me down.” Mario tells her, “no of course not. You a woman that is very elegant, that dresses well. But you look better, taking off your clothes.” Patricia tells him, “Mario I can’t believe you would believe. Anything that Daniel Valencia has to say to you. Those ugly commentaries, that are sickening.” Mario tells her, “of course not Patty how could you think that.” Patricia tells him, “Mario you know me pretty well that you shouldn’t pay him any attention.” Mario tells her, “oh woo.” Patricia sees Betty leaving with Armando. Armando asks, “Patricia so tell me something Marcela left right.” Patricia tells him, “yes.” Armando then asks, “what are you staring at?” Patricia tells him, “nothing.” Armando tells her, “for you information. I know that you just love this information. I am going to take Betty home, is that a problem.” Patricia stares at him, and says. “I am not saying a word.” The elevator shows up, and Armando tells her. “Don’t say anything then.” The three then get inside the elevator.

Patricia immediately contacts Marcela, telling her. “I just witness Armando Mendoza, leaving with that Garfield. He told me, in my face that he was going to take her to her house. First though, he asked if you had left.” Marcela is lying on her couch drinking and tells her. “What do you want me to do?” Patricia tells her, “Marcee he is going to do it again tonight. He is going to leave that Garfield at home, and then go who knows where. Tomorrow he will start, telling you tall tales. Saying he took Betty home, and that’s why he’s late. With no energy, Marcela tells her. “Let him do what ever he wants.” Patricia is shocked, and asks. “Oh Marcee, don’t you want to follow him for a little while. Or do anything?” Marcela tells her, “no.” Patricia asks, “Marcee are you going to just let him get away with everything? Are you just going, to release him as a gift. So close to your wedding.” Marcela tells her, “there is no longer a wedding.” Patricia shockingly screams, “what!” Marcela tells her, “there will be no wedding.” Then she hangs up, Patricia screams. “Marcee hello, Marcee hello. Don’t leave me like this. Now how am I going to sleep, with this big gossip without being resolved.”

In the car, Betty and Armando are quiet. Armando tells her, “Beatriz I need you must confide in me. Like you have always done so. Look Betty what I am going to asks you, it’s just very difficult but important. I need you, to believe in me please.” Betty tells him, “please sir I would like to ask you that you don’t worry about me. When we first met, I knew that you were engaged to Dona Marcela. I knew that you were, going to marry Dona Marcela. No you don’t have to, give me any explanations. Simply what occurred between the two of us, shouldn’t have occurred. That is why I am asking you, please don’t cancel your wedding because of me.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz well I won’t be cancelling my wedding. Look Beatriz I just can’t cancel the wedding. ” Betty asks, “are you asking me to be.. You are going to marry Dona Marcela, and keep me as…. No..” Armando tells her, “no wait one minute Beatriz. No one more minute, understand me. Today, Daniel Valencia gave me an ultimatum. If I don’t marry Marcela, at the next committee meeting. The company will be split in two, you and I both know there is no longer a company to split up.” Betty tells him, “I will return the company to you.” Armando tells her, “no you can’t do that in this very moment Beatriz. If you do, the creditors and the banks, all the investors will go after us. They will argue, that we give back their money. They will take away Eco Moda. They will take everything, that we have worked for. Beatriz I want you, to continue keeping the company. Just a few more months, look just until we can pay off our debts. That will take awhile, you know that.” Betty tells him, “well then you must then marry Dona Marcela. To calm everyone down.”

Armando tells her, “yes I will continue doing the final preparations for that wedding. I will continue to do so, we will wait till the meeting is concluded. Wait till the collection has launched. When everyone is calm, then at that moment I will talk to Marcela. I will make her understand, that we can’t get married.” He stares at Betty, she tells him. “But sir, what are you talking about? Have you gone crazy?” Armando tells her, “yes crazy for you.” Betty tells him, “oh sir be serious.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz please we can’t break up.” He stares once again at her. Betty tells him, “sir but we both knew this wouldn’t last long. Your marriage was at stake, with Dona Marcela. I don’t know what occurred, it’s like we both forgot that you were getting married.” Armando tells her, “yes I know that we were getting crazy Beatriz but we didn’t calculate what occurred. I didn’t know, that this would grow every single day. I mean that is what, happened to me.” Betty just stares at him sadly, she tells him. “Me too sir, it seems that every day I love you even more.” Armando tells her, “Betty we can’t separate.” Betty tells him, “but sir we can’t…” Armando touches her chin, then pulls her closer. Armando tells her, “no we can’t break up. She kisses him, but he doesn’t want to stop. He tells her, no we can’t break up.” Betty tells him, “oh sir this is just crazy. You can’t continue with the preparations. Then break up with Dona Marcela. At the very last moment.”

Armando tells her, “I just don’t have a choice. Betty I have to convince Marcela, I have to make her understand. That marriage, will not do both of us any good. Our relationship is awful, there isn’t enough love to continue and marry. All we have to do is wait, till the council meeting. Then the launch of the new collection, please understand Betty.” Betty tells him, “sir I do understand but it will be really difficult for me.” Armando tells her, “for me as well. Very difficult Beatriz, but I need you to be by my side. I need you to tell me, with your eyes that this exists. Betty I need you please. I need you more than ever, when this is all over. I will make sure, there will be time for us.” Betty tells him, “sir what you are trying to tell me is that. That our relationship could, and would materialize as reality.” Armando tells her, “well I haven’t thought that through yet but yes I would like it if we reached that point. For now I need you Beatriz, I need you more than ever. You must confide in me, Beatriz please stay by my side. Please….” Betty lovingly stares at him, “sir you can count on me always always.” Then he brings her close, he utters. “Thank you, and starts kissing her. He then looks at his watch, and tells her. It’s best that we leave.” Betty snuggles against him, and smiles. He kisses her forehead. They reach the house, Betty tells him. “Well then, goodbye sir.” Armando tells her, “yes Beatriz till tomorrow. Believe me, I am very happy. I am happy that you didn’t leave me. I was very anxious with that.” Betty tells him, “sir I just don’t know. How I am going to confront this, but I am going to be with you sir. I will wait till next week, so we can see one another again.” She smiles, he smiles and stares at her as she heads inside. She blows him a kiss, he calls Mario over on his cell then leaves.

Mario answer, “hello so tell me everything did Betty dump you?” Armando tells him, “no she accepted.” Mario tells him, “great so she accepted that story about you breaking up the wedding for her. That after the meeting, and the collection you two would end up together.” Armando tells him, “yes she believed everything. Now the only problem with her Calderon, is that I am trapped with her up with her to the neck. Look this is what occurred, I had to promise her that. After I cancelled the wedding with Marcela. That we would inform everyone about our relationship.” Mario asks, “why would you say something like that. If you didn’t marry Marcela, you would be hanging yourself by the neck. Or do you really want to cancel, that wedding once and for all?” Armando tells him, “I don’t know I don’t know. I am just not sure, I just don’t know, what I am going to do with Betty. When my marriage is around the corner.” Mario tells him, “look she accepted that the preparations must continue. Then she has to understand, that there will be a wedding. Or no, plus she is crazy for you. Then of course your romance continues, look she can’t live without you. That is already set, or do you still have doubts that she is crazy for you.” Armando tells him, “no she has shown me that she will do anything for me because she loves me. She is doing that, because she feels so much for me.” Mario tells him, “well then lots of kisses.” Armando angrily responds, “yes Calderon. There were a lot kisses, so what. Stop bothering me.” Mario asks, “so did you use Adriana’s photo as inspiration?” Armando utters, “what photo of Adriana? What photo?” Mario tells him, “brother the one that’s in your pocket. Didn’t you use it? Armando closes his eyes and doesn’t answer. Mario asks again, Mendoza I am asking you a question. Did you kiss Betty, without the use of that photo of Adriana.” Armando tells him, “look I forgot look I didn’t even realize I had the photo. Oh wait here it is, I completely forgot I had the photo.” He kisses it, and puts it back in his pocket. Mario asks, “what do you mean? Look how much did you drink, before you kissed her?” Armando tells him, “none oh wait, only the glass I had at the office.” Mario tells him, “that isn’t what is in accordance with the job. Or what are you enjoying, being kissed by her.” Armando tells him, “Calderon enough look this isn’t easy for me. You know what brother, we will talk tomorrow.”

Betty writes in her diary:

“Today was the worse day. To hear that he, was going to marry Dona Marcela. It turned my life around, in a second. A confirmation that is marvellous, he told me that he was going to cancel his wedding for me. It’s a crazy plan, but he has to cancel it at the very last moment. I understand that it must be that way. All day I felt so anxious, knowing that I was going to lose him. I just didn’t want to accept, that he was going to get married. That we wouldn’t be able to continue our romance. In the evening, he told me everything. Revealing his plans, and life returned to my body. No I can’t let him go, our love isn’t going to end. On the contrary, soon everyone will know. Still though, I can’t help but feel guilty that Dona Marcela’s wedding will be cancelled. You see Marcela in bed drinking again. I am certain of two things, I don’t have to feel guilty about her. Ever since I arrived at Eco Moda, she became my worst enemy. She has always dreamed of kicking me out. There hasn’t been one moment, where she hasn’t stopped attacking me. Or insulting me, or offending me. But beyond that. Armando arrives home. I don’t regret, that Don Armando is going to cancel that wedding. I know that he wants to cancel it for me, but for him as well. He knows that by marrying her, he would be condemned to be with her forever. He knows that he will never be happy, with Dona Marcela.”

Armando stops, takes a deep breath and enters the bedroom. Marcela asks, “what are you doing here?” Armando tells her, “I came here so I can talk to you.” Marcela tells him, “I told you at the office the conversation of marriage. Doesn’t get argued, we marry or we don’t marry. I won’t even admit, an extension. If that is why you came here, you can leave relaxed.” Armando tells her, “simply I came here to tell you. Yes I am getting married to you. On the date, that we settled on. After the council meeting, after the launch of the new collection we get married.” Marcela is quite surprised and asks, “but why? What you talked to your parents, are they forcing you?” Armando tells her, “no my love I didn’t talk to my parents.” Marcela tells him, “let me guess it’s because of that threat. From Daniel about splitting the company. That made you running here, to me. Is that why? I think it’s hard for you to admit that, because you have a humongous ego. You prefer to sacrifice yourself at the altar, to sacrifice your ego as the president.” Armando angrily hits the door, “yes that is true. That is why, I asked you to marry me so I can have your vote at that council meeting. So then I can be named president of Eco Moda. Yes you are right on everything, my love. The only thing that I have done, right in all this time is use you. Use you, you know what it was pointless in coming here. The problem isn’t me, the problem is that you think that. Look rest up my love.”

Marcela tells him, “fine then come near me.” Armando reluctantly moves closer to her, then takes off his suit. Then gets on the bed, and stares at her. Marcela tells him, “fine I will believe in you. Because inside, I need to believe in you. Because I need you to love me, I need to continue feeling that you are mine. I want you to really want to get married. If you really are going too, I ask you one thing. Do it, because you feel it inside. I want you to tell me, that you want to do it with your heart. I don’t want you to play with my emotions, and for what I feel for you. Because if it’s not for that, I don’t want you to fraud me. Because after this, it would be the worst news of my life. Than the news, about the death of my parents.” Armando tells her, “no don’t worry my love you don’t have to worry about that. I will never trick you.” Marcela tells him, “I will return believing in you. Then she kisses him, but he just stares at her. What’s wrong?” Armando tells her, “no nothing my dear nothing.” Then as she continues to kiss him, Armando looks away very guiltily.

Betty writes:

“I am so secured of Don Armando’s feelings for her. I never feel jealous, when I know that they are together. When I know that he spends the night with her.”

Marcela is still kissing Armando, but he just looks away and turns in the bed. He just can’t continue, Marcela tells him. “It’s best that your rest.” Armando tells her, “yes your right my love. Today I had a very difficult day, I don’t know what is happening to me.”

Betty writes:

“I have a sensation that I have in him. A mark on him, after we made love. A mark that Dona Marcela can’t erase.”

Armando takes off his glasses, and tries to sleep. Marcela stares at him, with so much doubt. She waits till he’s asleep, and goes inside his jacket. He finds the photo of Adriana Arboleda.

Betty continues to write:

“More than ever I am worried, over the women who enable Don Armando.”

Marcela utters, “Adriana Arboleda.”

The next morning at Eco Moda.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Armando arrives with Marcela. He sees Patricia, and tells her. Oh what a surprise?” Patricia tells him, “oh hello Armando.” Armando tells her, “oh if it isn’t the sleeping beauty Patricia Fernandez. She’s on time, and wearing her mini-skirts to school. Oh I am on my knees.”)

Patricia tells Marcela, “Marcee last night I hardly slept because of my debts.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia continues complaining. “You see us poor people have to wake up early so we can make a living. We don’t have pleasant dreams, like the rich do.” Armando utters, “oh these poor Mercedes Benz tsk tsk.” Mario shows up and tells him. “Oh Armando we must talk we have to check costs. Oh hello Marcee.” He kisses her check, and Armando tells him. “Yes lets head to my office alright.” Mario tells him, “yes but of course.” Both men glance at Patricia and take off. Marcela smiling looks over at Patricia. “Yes lets every day see you poor, that you arrive very morning on time to the office.” Patricia tells her, “what Marcee you want to make me even poorer.” Marcela tells her, “but you know that poorness makes you come early.”)

Patricia tells her, “look Marcee those debts hardly made me sleep. But the worst that caused my insomnia. I was worried over what you told me. That gossip, that you weren’t going to marry Armando.” Marcela smiling tells her, “change of plans. Yes I am going to get married.” Patricia’s eyes bulge out, and she tells her. Patricia tells her, “what Marcee what is going on. Is it a yes, or a no.” Marcela just nods, and smiles. Patricia tells her, “Marcee I am not going to leave you in peace. You tell me the gossip completely, to get rid of Patricia Fernandez from going on top of you.” Marcela drags her to her office.

Armando tells him, “don’t believe it Calderon. Oh it was difficult, trying to convince her last night. That yes I wanted to marry her.” Mario tells him, “yes considering that face you put on every time their a mention of the wedding.” Armando asks, “well then what face did you want me to put. It just wasn’t easy. It wasn’t easy, telling her.” Betty comes out of her office, smiling. “Hello sir, good morning.” Armando smiles, and utters. “Hi Betty, tell me will we be able to work on the cost of materials today for the new collection.” Betty tells him, “well Inesita hasn’t arrived yet. She called to say, she wasn’t feeling good. I will see if you has arrived yet. Mario stares at her, and notices how happy she is. Betty turns and says, oh hi Don Mario.” She laughs, he says. “How are you Betty?” Betty just laughs and closes the door.

Armando is beaming with happiness himself, the smile is still on his face. Mario tells him, “well look at you look at that smile. Yes she’s ugly still but, she seems optimistic with lots of energy. That energy that seems to transform, when it comes out of love. Today we have tons of details. He takes out a B chain, oh look at this. Armando just nods, Mario continues. Plus here is her card, I will put it in her cave.” Armando tells him, “stop one minute what does the card say?” Mario tells him, “you are going to die when you read it. It’s a text, that talks about your future together. The panorama that awaits you two, that she makes you sure of yourself. The patience and calm, she brings you. Oh your writing is getting really good.” Armando tells him, “yes I know that because of the results.” Mario asks, “why don’t you give one of these too Marcela?” Armando ask, “what a card?” Mario tells him, “yes one that states how happy you are that you are going to marry her. In fact I could write it for you. I guarantee that you will have a docile Marcela.” Armando tells him, “that won’t be so easy. Marcela doesn’t believe in me, she thinks that I am only marrying her because of that threat of Daniels. Of him dividing the company, in any case I convinced her. I surpassed all the doubts she had. Mario puts the chain on the card. In the end, she told me that she once again believes in me.”

Marcela tells Patricia, “I have to believe in him. I have no choice, I have to believe in him Patricia. Yesterday I saw that he was so indecisive. My pride won over, I even threatened to cancel it all. Last night when he got home, he told me that he was ready. My pride fell to the floor, that is what I needed Patricia. To hold onto something.” Patricia tells her, “but you have a doubt. That he is doing this, because of the company. What can you tell me, about this other woman Marcee?” Marcela tells him, “he deny her.” Patricia tells her, “of course he wouldn’t accept it. You believe because you want to believe.” Marcela tells her, “I am going to tell you something Patricia. For my pride, I almost threw everything out the window. I have fought for Armando, for three long years. I finally got him, to accept that we get engaged. Why do I have to throw that away. Something that I have fought so much for. Why do I have to, throw away my dreams. Why do I have to give full passage, for that other one to take him away from me. No Patricia I will fight, I will indeed fight that woman.”

Mario Duarte was born in 1965 in Barranquilla. He’s is a talented guy, he’s a singer/actor/writer. The song he sang on YSBLF, is on his cd Golpe de ala 2001. He plays loveable Nicholas Mora.

SEVENTY-NINE

Hugo is working in his studio, telling one model. “You stop pulling those clothes higher your not a designer. Oh stop touching that, this is so divine. I just love these glasses. Their spectacular, look at me zzzz.” Betty enters the studio, “excuse me Don Hugo Don Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “you can’t be forgiven on this earth. No I don’t forgive you, fly away look you’re gone.” Betty tells him, “I came to see if Inesita had arrived. She is needed in presidency.” Hugo looks at a blouse, and tells her. “Inesita arrived, but she is very busy at the moment.” Betty tells him, “Don Armando is needed so we can fix the costs of the new collection.” Ines comes out, and says. “Don Hugo, here is the wedding material for Dona Marcela.” Betty stares at the material. Everyone ohhs and ahh, Hugo utters. “Oh its beautiful.” The models touch it, and then let go. When both Hugo and Ines complain. One of the models helps out Ines. Hugo asks for more needles, thread and scissors.” Betty tells her, “Dona Inesita Don Armando and Don Mario. Need you in the president’s office. To figure out the cost of materials, for the new collection. Bring everything you might need, so we can get started.” Ines tells her, “yes alright give me a moment.” Hugo asks, “when did you start ordering Inesita? Why are you going over me?”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(“What do you have wax in your ears. That your not hearing me?” Betty tells him, “look all I’m doing is giving you a message from the president.” Hugo tells her, “this area is a place of displays the presidency has nothing to do with it. Look the orders come from me, girls stop moving around.” Betty tells them, “fine then Don Armando, Don Mario and I. Will do the costs and figure who will give us the materials.” Hugo freaks out, “grab her grab her don’t let the dirt go.” Ines tells her, “please.” Hugo tells her, “look Inesita want you to make sure those people. Don’t touch a single material. I am trusting you on this, fight for the good stuff.”)

Ines tells him, “don’t worry I will get everything.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Hugo puts the material on the mannequin, “oh Marg will look very bombi. Hugo tries to figure how to start the dress. What Alex Llanes, Tom Ford, John Galleano, Rodrigues. Maybe it could be like this?”)

Betty simply stares at it, sadness engulfs her. Hugo then sees Betty still standing there, why are you looking at my designs? You’re going to get them dirty. You’re taking out all the colour, your going to get moths on it. Turn around girl, Betty does. Hugo tells the models, it will go like this. You will only see her face, she will look pure. Angelical a real woman. A woman that gives herself up to a man like Marg is a virgin.” The models just laugh, Betty looks at it again then turns away.

Armando tells Mario, “Marcela doesn’t believe me. She doesn’t believe that I don’t have another woman.” Mario asks,” but you did deny it till you die right. Armando shrugs, Mario continues. I don’t understand, why she insists that their’s another woman in your life. You haven’t given out any signals, its just Marcela’s intuitions.” Armando tells him, “yes and no. Look Calderon, how can I tell you this. I haven’t been able, to make love to Marcela. It should be enough, having her there but I can’t. That’s what’s making her think, I have another woman. That is a very strong assumption on her part. She thinks that relationship is quite strong.” Mario is very shocked and asks, “brother so last night you didn’t. Armando just nods no. What is going on then?” Armando tells him, “no it’s just that I came from kissing Betty in the car.” Mario tells him, “but you didn’t even look at Adriana’s photo.” Armando tells him, “well when I got home she was happy. Thinking something would happen, and it didn’t.” Mario tells him, “wait this happened before. Before when you kissed Betty, you went running to Marcela’s bed. You did the deed, without no problem. Out went all the suspicions.” Armando tells him, “yes that was before I made love to Betty.” Mario tells him, “excuse me for interrupting. If memory serves me well, you have slept with a lot of women in your day. You never once stop, doing your duties as an engaged man. That was never the issue, brother I am very worried. Yesterday you kissed Betty, without any inspirations. Now when you are with Betty, you can’t make love to Marcela. What is going on?” Armando tells him, “I don’t know I don’t know Calderon. Maybe its just guilt, yes a lot of resentment. For what I am doing to Beatriz. I also feel guilty, for lying to Marcela but if you ask me. What is going on with me, I don’t know. I don’t know.” He then just sits on the sofa.

Patricia tells Marcela, “so that means it’s really official. You are just putting up with Armando, and let him fall asleep like a saint.” Marcela tells Patricia, “I told you I am fighting for him. She is wining him over, because she’s in his heart and in the bed.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee if it’s not in a bed. That means were talking about a tigress, she has to be a diva to take away Armando. That’s who you’re competing against.” Patricia asks, “any clues as of yet who this vamp is?” Marcela tells Patricia, “I pushed this woman out many months ago. But last night I found a photo, this time it was in his jacket.” Patricia tells Marcela, “Adriana Arboleda.” Marcela tells her, “yes I think it might be her. Or why does he have that photo, in his coat pocket.” Over at the studio, Ines asks. “Hugo here’s the scissors you wanted.” He tells her, “no of course not. Or else I will rip of the entire material.” Betty is still standing there, waiting for Ines. Ines tells him, “but you asked for it.” Hugo tells her, “then forget about it then.” Then the phone rings and she gets it. Hugo tells her, “oh that phone, is driving me crazy.” Ines tells the person, “yes this is Hugo Lombardi’s studio one minute please. Ines tells Hugo, the phone is for you.” Hugo tells her, “can’t you see that I’m busy. What do I look like I am at a resort? Am I drinking Hawaiian punch or what?” Ines tells the person, “hello I’m sorry but whom am I speaking too. The person answer, Ines smiles and says. Wait one minute please. Don Hugo its Adriana Arboleda.”

Happily Hugo gets it, Betty is stunned and shocked she takes two steps closer. “Oh hi Adrie, where have you been hiding yourself. Why abandoned me for so horribly long, you had me wondering?” Its then, Ines grabs Betty. “We better go, they will be at it for hours.” Hugo tells Adriana, “that is no excuse. Betty just stares at Hugo, and slowly leaves the studio. No don’t you believe it, I know that you’re calling for some reason. I know you are going, to introduce me to an Argentina guy? Yes I already have one and he laughs. A party?” Adriana Arboleda tells him, “I want to invite you to a party. You will have to work for me.” Hugo asks, “what are you proposing an indecent proposal Adrie?” Adriana tells him, “no we are organizing a new collection. In which I am in charge of, with new choreography and new models.” Hugo tells her, “my love you are talking to a very busy person on this planet. I am also showing a new collection.” Adriana tells him, “what aren’t you done designing it yet?” Hugo tells her, “it is so outetue.” Adriana tells him, “so then you have the time then.” Hugo tells her, “let me tell you how things will work. My time is paid for by this company, when this panther of a president. If he finds out, that I’m organizing another event that macho will fire me. You know about our president.” Adriana asks, “no who is it?” Hugo tells her, “yes since you girl are travelling all over the world. Since you haven’t wanted to model for us, of course not you don’t know him. His name is Armando Mendoza. Relax your not missing out on anything.” Adriana tells him, “Armando Mendoza. Oh yes, I have seen him in magazines. Oh Hugo, just ask for permission.  I won’t be taking too much of your time.” Hugo tells her, “look my love. Look I don’t have the instrument, or the ability to convince Armando Mendoza. But with you and your beauty. With your charm, with that ability. That you have you will be able, to seduce him and change his mind. So I can do your event, you have to asks for me permission.  Yes like a child, oh you so funny.” Adriana tells him, ‘look I will be inviting every single executive to this event. It would be great to have Eco Moda at our event or no.” Hugo tells her, “fine do it that way. Come here, and just talk to him.” Adriana tells him, “look I have a ton to do. Do you think that he can see me right away?” Hugo tells him, “of course he will attend to you right away. If he wanted to, he would marry you. He’s a veleta.”

(Veleta is sung by my favourite Mexican performer Lucero.)

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mario extends his hand. “Now please give me the photo of Adriana Arboleda.” Armando is washing his hands, “hey why do you need it for?” Mario tells him, “but you don’t need it anymore. If they find you carrying that photo, in that pocket you know what is going to happen to you.” Armando tells him, “Calderon I am going to tell you one thing. Last night I didn’t perform, because of the discussion that we had. The tension that I was feeling, but I still need Adrianita.” Mario utters, “oh too make you hot.”)

Mario tells Armando, “oh my dear president. You are kissing Betty without any inspirations. That is pretty bad, look give me back that photo. It’s just a tragedy, your not looking at it. How could you change her, for Betty dear me.” Armando tells him, “I haven’t changed her brother.” Mario tells him, “well then say goodbye then.” Armando looks at the photo, “Adriana Arboleda. Betty enters, and sees him with the photo. Adrianita I do love you. I love you a lot.” He kisses the photo, Mario just shakes his head. “I can’t watch this.” Betty is angry and hurt, and doesn’t say a word. Armando almost drops it, when he hears. “Sir?” Mario grabs the photo, and puts it in his pocket. “Sir Inesita, is in the board room waiting for you.” Armando claps, look very guilty and says. “Yes well then let’s go.” Both men utter together, “yes let’s go.” Betty tells him, “I will just get my calculator and the Catalogue.” Then she heads to her office. Armando is furious, and jumps up angrily. Mario tells him, “you really do have to be more careful with your imaginary romances let me tell you.” Armando curses, then both head to the boardroom. Betty finds the card on her desk, and reads it. “When the heart chooses a woman that he loves. He also chooses the person’s skin. It transmits feeling, throughout the entire body. The heart also beats and it chooses, the friend and the companion. It has everything, in the woman I love. I count on your solidarity, your understanding. Always waiting, with your arms wide open. I feel like the most secure of men, that is in this planet. Armando.” Betty utters, I am dying just dying oh I just love him.” She holds the card close to her chest.

Inside the board room, Ines tells them. “Now then, I would like to ask. That you not change the materials, Don Hugo has asked for. Yes I know, that it’s very expensive. Remember in the last collection, you didn’t change it and look how well it went.” Armando tells her, “oh Inesita don’t you worry we won’t be changing the materials. We promise you, don’t you worry you can just relax. I would like to ask one question. You seem tired, and fragile are you alright?” Ines tells him, “no Don Armando I am just tired. It’s just physically exhaustion.” Armando asks, “but Inesita you already have your pension. You have worked very hard for us, and rest these long years. You should be at home relaxing. Taking good care of yourself, being in your home. Yes we will miss you but.” Mario tells him, “yes and that will kill Hugo.” Armando tells him, “yes but you must consider Inesita’s health. Not everything must be work right.” Ines tells him, “look Don Armando I can’t enjoy my pension. For two reasons, first of well the pension it’s just not enough. Armando looks back at Mario. Second of, think about it what will happen to me. Me being at home, the entire day. 24 hours at home, doing nothing and alone. No Don Armando, I enjoy my work because it’s the reason that I live.” Armando tells her, “well Inesita in any case we here are very happy having you here.” Mario tells her, “regarding the vacation were still at launch mode.” Armando tells her, “after this collection is over. I am ordering you, to go on vacation. Eco Moda will take you away, so you can enjoy yourself.” Ines tells him, “thank you very much Don Armando.” A happy smiling Betty returns, and tells them. “Well then, let’s start then.” She winks at Armando, he grins then winks back. Mario grins as well, knowing that Betty found the card. Armando is overjoyed, and smiles at Ines.

Aura Maria is on the phone, “no dear here I am going from house to house staying at friends houses. You idiot, if I had money I would already be in an apartment. It’s either pay the apartment or Jimmy’s school. There is no choice, my son won’t go without going to school. No parties either, you don’t have any plans for tonight. I have depression, oh no then I am going to be stuck going home to sleep. In a borrowed house, it’s so annoying. What boyfriend? No boyfriend, nobody has shown up yet. Nobody in the panorama, that’s when you see Freddy arriving. Aura Maria beaming, lies to who ever is on the phone. Yes I have great plans tonight. We are going to have a great time dancing tonight. No I am going to die, truly. Yes of course I am going. Yes guys lately are so boring, yes do me a favour and tells them. I am single and not seeing anyone. Freddy angrily puts down the paperwork on the counter. She gives him some to put away, he doesn’t want to receive it. No here nobody, pays any attention to me. Yes your right, we never get the chance to date who we want. You just get stuck, with who ever is near. Oh that guy is simply gorgeous. Well then, I’ll see you tonight bye. You why are you just standing there. Here is the correspondence, and deliver it if you want then deliver it by two. What you have something to tell me or what? Tell me, spill it right now. Stop standing there, like a tree and leave.”

(They must have gotten this line, from Back to the Future.)

Adriana Arboleda arrives, “well good day to you.” Aura Maria tells her, “yes hello.” Freddy is in shock, and then says. “Well hello, how may I assist you.” He gives back all the paperwork Aura Maria gave him.  Adriana tells her, “I came to see Hugo Lombardi.” Aura Maria asks, “who is asking?” Adriana tells her, “Adriana Arboleda.” Aura Maria tells her, “wait one minute I will announce you.” Freddy tells her, “Adriana Arboleda now then why don’t you follow me to the elevator. While we wait, for the employee to announce you. Girl don’t announce her, I will take her personally. Two girls leave the elevator, Freddy tells them lets the cactus out and the let the flower bloom. Then Freddy praying, thanks god for bringing her. So your Adriana Arboleda, my name is Freddy Stewart Contreras. To serve you, but you may call me Freddy. So how are you?” The elevator door closes, angrily Aura Maria hangs up the phone. “Oh look at that idiot.” They arrive at the second floor, Patricia Sandra and Mariana are working. Patricia stops and watches, Freddy tells her. “Follow me Adriana Arboleda, this is the administration floor. That monkey over there is the president’s secretary. That one is the secretary of sales figures, and the tall one is the secretary of the vice president of commerce. Now then together, 123.” They say, “hello good morning.” Adriana tells them, “hello.” Freddy tells her, “now I must confess that with an arboleda I would grow big and tall.” Patricia quickly runs to see Marcela. Sandra utters, “Adriana Arboleda.” Mariana tells Sandra, “oh Sandra dear Adriana Arboleda is a lot pretty than Cindy Crawford.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Freddy walks by Bertha’s desk. “Over here is the secretaries of Human Resources and Finance. Now girls say hello. Oh come on Bertha your desk is a mess. This isn’t the impression we want to make girl. Oh Sophia wearing the same dress please. Now then these are the studiios of Eco Moda.” Bertha goes next to Sophia, Sophia asks. “Wasn’t that Adriana Arboleda?” Bertha tells her, “the same one that sings and dances.”)

Freddy arrives at the studio, as Hugo is working on the dress. “This of course is the designer’s studio. Hugo Hugo Hugo, you are needed.” Hugo utters, “what? He turns and smiles, well well Adriana please come over here. They hug, and Hugo kisses her. Oh its must be ages, since we’ve seen one another. Oh look we can kiss all day, so how have you’ve been. Oh you are so divine, divine.” Adriana tells him, “thank you very much.” Hugo tells her, “we must fumigate something in my studio. He heads to Freddy, look you were you ordering me about Hugo Lombardi.” Freddy tells him, “let me explain something Hugo. First when Adriana Arboleda arrived, we call you and I took the liberty of bringing her personally over here. Yes that outfit is quite outetue. Now then you are Adriana he is Hugo, Hugo this is Adriana and I am Freddy.” Adriana just smiles, Hugo tells him. “Well thank you for introducing her, and thank you for fooling around with me. Oh these employees, never learn.” Freddy tells her, “now then Adriana I do hope that you come very often that I will once again. Have the pleasure, of escorting you once more. Oh here’s my card.” Hugo takes the card, and tells him. ‘No you are red carded now expelled from here. You breakfast clown, goodbye fly fly you’re gone. Come on my dear, ignore him.” Adriana tells him, “oh he’s quite a personal.” Hugo tells her, “oh there’s a bat, seals, wolves, fat cattle, we have everything. It’s like this place is a circus. Now then my dear, now love tell me something. What kind of man, is that is filled with you you look divine.” Adriana tells him, “I will tell you when you present to me. The president of this company.” Hugo tells her, “but of course. In five minute, we will talk to that savage to get a meeting. He grabs the phones and dials, you will be talking to him in a flash.” Adriana takes off the glasses, “oh this is gorgeous.” Hugo tells her, “I got my eyes fixed.” Adriana asks, “when?” Hugo tells her, “last month the skin left over I made a purse.” Both start laughing.

Patricia heads straight to Marcela, she utters. “What she is here!” Patricia tells her, “on this floor.” Marcela asks, “are you sure?” Patricia tells her, “I just watched her pass me with these two eyes. I heard her name being announced, by these two ears of mine. I ran here, with these two legs to tell you.” Marcela asks, “did she ask for Armando?” Patricia tells her, “no she went to see Hugo. Armando is with the Garfield in the boardroom, with Mario and Inesita. They are discussing the cost of the collection. Marcela closes her eyes, and takes a deep breath. Patricia asks, what are you waiting for sitting there. Wafting for that vampire, she’s going to steal Armando away.” Marcela tells her, “but you just said that she asked for Hugo. Not for Armando.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee that is just an excuse. Don’t be such an idiot, its obvious she just won’t come here just to see Hugo. Just so she can ask for Armando, I am sure of one thing. She will go into the president’s office, who knows where she will take him. I know where, but I don’t want to tell you. Look I don’t want to torment you, further you just stay there very relaxed.” Marcela asks, “and what do you want me to do?” Patricia tells her, “Marcee let’s go to Hugo’s studio and drag her out of here. Grab her by the hair, it’s not as nice like she has it in the commercials. Or in the photos, Marcee I am telling you.  You confront her, you complain, tell her you know everything. How dare she, come here Eco Moda. Tell her this is your territory, and you have it marked.”

Marcela tells her, “yes here I go and create a huge scandal. Why because, I found a photo of her in Armando’s pocket.” Patricia asks her, “well isn’t that concrete proof. A real evidence, that you were looking for?” Marcela tells her, “no its not.” Patricia tells her, “fine you don’t suspect of Adriana Arboleda?”  Marcela tells her, “I am not saying that. I am not saying, that I don’t suspect her. It just that I don’t have real proof, that I will go and create a scandal.” Patricia tells her, “ok fine stay right there sitting down. Continue working, let her walks around Eco Moda. Let her walk around your company. Let her in to your boyfriend, let them laugh it up at your expense.” Marcela tells her, “look I am not saying that I am just going to let it go. I just can’t create a scandal, over at Hugo’s studio. Look you go back to your desk, and watch the president’s office. If she goes close to it, you call me right away.” Patricia tells her, “fine you can count on me Marcee. I won’t let her get away from this.” Marcela is left in doubt.

Back inside the boardroom, Ines tells them. “Now with this dress, all it needs is a broach and a metallic strap.” Betty makes some calculations, and finds out yes they can afford it. If they go with a different brand. Armando tells Ines, “now then calculate how many we need for the collection. I just don’t want to have a problem with Hugo. The phone rings, Beatriz answer the phone. I am not here, for anybody.” Betty gets the phone, its Hugo. “I need to talk to Armando.” Betty tells him, “no he is busy at the moment.” Hugo tells her, “look that’s not my problem or yours. Get him now.” Betty tells him, “Don Armando gave me orders. Stating that he’s not to be disturbed. He can’t talk to anybody, or deal with anybody at this moment.” Hugo tells her, “ha ha I am not nobody. I am Hugo Lombardi, for you information. I am the designer of Eco Moda. I am the aesthetic and the light the flower of this company. I am not going to argue with you, I am now furious.” Adriana gives him a kiss to calm down. Adriana tells him, “you never change.” Hugo tells Betty, “look girl follow my orders. You are not here, to question my orders but to follow them.” Betty tells him, “I am following an order by Don Armando. No order is superior than that.” Armando asks, “what is going on Beatriz?” Betty tells him, “its Hugo Lombardi and he insist on talking to you. I told him, you couldn’t be interrupted but he continues to insist.” Armando tells him, “Beatriz I gave strict orders that I didn’t want to talk to nobody. Especially with him.” Betty tells him, “yes sir and then goes back to Hugo. Don Hugo, Don Armando has told me he can’t speak with anybody. Especially with you.” Hugo utters, “nobody eh. Not even, Adriana Arboleda?” Betty is left cold once more. She recalls the conversation, between Armando and Mario. When Armando is kissing the photo, and saying how much he loves Adriana Arboleda. “Tell that lion, that she is by my side and she wants to meet him. They have much to discuss, let’s see if he can resist that.”

Then Betty recalls, the conversation she heard between them regarding Adriana Arboleda. If she would you come by, he would drop everything and marry her on the spot. Hugo screams, “tell him right now. Or do I have to go there personally.” Betty is just standing there, Armando asks. “What is wrong Betty? Tell him to hang up, you tell him or shall I. Betty continues to stand there, what is wrong Betty?” Betty takes a deep breath, and tells him. “Don Hugo wants to know, if you can meet up with Adriana Arboleda. I did tell him, you were really busy sir.” Armando is stunned as is Mario. Armando utters, “who?” Betty repeats, “Adriana Arboleda.” Armando asks, “where is she?” Betty tells him slowly, “she at Don Hugo’s studio. If you want, I will see her and tell her to come back another time.” Armando tells her, “oh no Beatriz no no no. We can’t do that to poor Adriana. We can’t do that, we will have to attend to her. I will attend to her.” Betty tells him, “but sir we still have a lot of work to finish up.” Armando tells her, “but were almost finished right Inesita. Inesita just nods yes. Look you can finish up the last amounts, with Mario here. Its no problem, I must attend to Adriana. I will go to the president’s office, tell them to send her too me. Thank you very much.” He pats Mario on the shoulder and takes off. Mario utters, “yes thank you friend.” Betty tells Hugo, “hello Don Hugo. Please send senora Adriana Arboleda, to the president’s office. Don Armando is going to attend her.” Hugo tells her, “look snot you have no right to talk to me that way. You shouldn’t know, what critique is important or not to Armando. Oops my phone is hanging up. Ooops and look how much, I wanted to talk to you.” He then laughs, Adriana asks. “Who is she?” Hugo tells her, “oh she is the most horrendous in the world. Now that your going to be in Armando’s office. She is so scary, now before entering. Breathe quickly and calm down, because it calms the nerves. Oh she’s horrendous, a muskrat. Oh look at that oh its divine.” Adriana puts on a jacket once more. Betty is feeling quite anxious, Ines asks. “Should we continue? Betty nods, Mario glances at the door. Betty then sadly looks at her notes. Ines tells them, well then lets continue with this design we use this gold. The belt has to be long and silver.” Mario sees that Betty is quite upset.

Hugo takes Adriana towards the office, “oh it’s going to look quite bombi when you see it. Look for me, women don’t do nothing for me. But looking at you, I feel a cous cous that’s strange. Adriana just laughs, let’s see how the beast is today.” Adriana asks, “is he pretty mean?” Hugo tells her, “no don’t you worry. Yes he gets angry, when he doesn’t get to see someone very beautiful. Be careful, he thinks he’s god’s gift to women. Oh Mr. playboy, that can get any women to fall at his feet. Then take her off to bed, he laughs. Now then you will now meet him, you will enter. He will begin flirting with you like crazy. The girls arrive, and listen in. Now be careful, oh look you two shoo. The girls take off, now then the man your meeting is engaged. He is going to get married, he will lie through his teeth. He will say it lie, it’s a joke, yes he will be getting married. I am designing Marg’s wedding dress, his woman.” Adriana tells him, “oh you’re talking as if I am going to flirt and do what ever with him. I am happily married right now, relax fresh.” Hugo tells her, “yes I know that you’re happily married. Since you didn’t invited me to the wedding. I am not angry at you, I am just getting you ready now let’s go.” Patricia goes running over to see Marcela. Armando turns in his chair, when the door opens. “Armani, I have brought you fresh meat for you my lion. She is Adriana Arboleda.” Armando with a huge grin on his face, tells them. “Yes that I can tell.” He goes towards her, Adriana tells him. “Well hello.” They shake hands. “It’s a pleasure meeting you, Armando Mendoza it’s indeed a pleasure.” Hugo tells him, “oh look at that smile. He takes that out, once a year. If only I brought my camera, to take a picture. He looks so divine.” Armando tells him, “Adriana please have a seat please.” Hugo tells her, “well then I will leave you now. My love what ever happens, if this brute does anything to offend you. Simply scream, I will run and rescue you. Then both of us, will scratch him up. You zzzzz, and kisses her cheek well bye.” He leaves, Armando can’t help staring at her. “Tell me, what gives us this marvellous opportunity for us to meet.” Adriana tells him, “it might not be that marvellous. For I have something to tell you.” Armando smiling tells her, “I am all ears.”

Marcela asks, “what is going on?” Patricia tells her, “you don’t want to guess. Just like I told you, they are now together in the president’s office.” Marcela tells her, “oh really well then she asked for it.”

Inside the board room, Ines is still talking materials. “Now we’ve decided to use transparent material in this outfit. Now with this design, were going to use lycro.” Mario asks, “what do you think?” Betty isn’t paying any attention. “Inesita would you repeat that once again.” Ines asks, “what do you mean repeat it. You’re the one, that’s asking me repeat it.” Betty tells her, “I am truly sorry Inesita. I guess I got a little distracted for a minute.” She laughs, Ines tells her, “that’s ok.” Mario glances her way. Ines tells her, “I think we are just a bit tired. Why don’t we take a recess.” Betty tells her, “yes that’s fine perfect with me. Sir I just need, to get something from my office.” Mario glances at the door. Armando tells Adriana, “you want me to lend you Hugo Lombardi Adriana.” Adriana tells him, “please Armando don’t be so bad. I just need his help, with the choreography. Plus help with dressing the models, I promise you that I won’t take up all his time.” Armando tells her, “oh Adrie you are enchanting but. Betty opens the doors, and stares at them both. He utters, well hello Betty.” Betty tells him, “sorry sir but I needed to get something from my office.” She smiles towards Adriana, Adriana nods and looks back to Armando. Armando utters, “yes I guess I should introduce you. Yes she is Beatriz Pinzon Solano my assistant. Betty this here is Adriana.” Adriana tells her, “nice to meet you.” Betty just smiles, and says. “Nice to meet you as well.” Then stares at her body, Armando asks.

“Betty Betty, why don’t you offer Adriana here something to drink.” Betty tells her, “yes of course.” Adriana tells her, “a glass of water is fine thank you.” Betty ask, “and you sir? Armando is still spellbound and doesn’t answer her. Betty repeats, sir?” Armando then asks, “what?” Betty asks, “what would you like to drink? A.. well.. a coffee will do for me.” Betty tells him, “fine I will bring it.” Armando tells her, “no Betty I have told you your not suppose to do that. Call the cafeteria, to bring us both coffees.” Betty tells him, “no no I personally want to fix it for you. I will bring it right now.” Then she trips and leaves, angrily Betty leaves.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Inside Adriana asks, “so what is your answer Armando?” Armando tells Adriana, “you are spectacular. I know that you need Hugo, but tell me more important reasons that you need him.”)

She meets up with Marcela by the elevators she asks. ” Beatriz where is Armando? Is he in his office, or in the boardroom?” Angrily Betty tells her, “no he is in the president’s office.” Marcela asks “with whom?” Betty tells her, “with Adriana Arboleda your friend.” Betty asks, “my friend?” Marcela just laughs, “don’t tell me that now you don’t know who she is.” Betty tells her, “I just met the woman today.” Marcela tells her, “oh really. Well what are they, both doing in there?” Betty tells her, “well talking.” Marcela tells her, “of what?” Betty tells her, “I don’t know.” She then takes off.

Adriana gives Armando a box, and tells him. “The reason I am here, is for this. I would like to invite you to this event.” Armando tells her, “this is a trick. He opens the box, and finds a rose. He tells her, yes this is a trick. He takes the rose, and smell it its divine.” He places the rose on his lips. Marcela enters and asks, “am I interrupting something?” Armando gets up, and tells her. “No no so how are you love? Marcela asks, “fine and you?” Armando tells her, “I am divine it’s good that you entered. I’d like to introduce you, to Adriana Adriana Arboleda. Adriana Arboleda I’d like to present to you, Marcela Valencia. He coughs, my girlfriend.” Marcela tells him, “oh thanks for the credit. She goes closer and shakes her hand. Hello nice to meet you.” Adriana tells her, “yes like wise nice to meet you Marcela.” Marcela looks over at Armando, “beautiful flower.” Armando tells her, “yes Adriana gave it too me.”

Marcela tells him, “yes it’s very lovely.” Armando tells her, “oh what a detail.” Armando tells her, “not a detail it’s an invitation. Ha Ha ha look let me explain. You see Adriana is organizing an event, it’s the launch of a product. This is the invitation, it’s true.” He smiles over to Adriana. Marcela tells him, “oh how marvellous. Since you just love these types of events. Oh Adriana for you information. Armando spends every night, at these events. He just loves these types of things, for your consideration. Thank you for the invitation to this event.” Adriana tells her, “but Marcela your also invited. I would just love it, if you were invited for sure.” Marcela asks, “oh you would love it. So you would like it, oh thank you very much Adriana. I really would like to thank you, but I just don’t want to interrupt things. Adriana looks over at Armando, a bit puzzled. Marcela tells her, oh it’s not necessary. You don’t have to force your invitation on me.” Armando asks, “love what is wrong with you.” Marcela tells him, “we three know exactly what is going on with you. Armando apologetically, glances over at Adriana. I didn’t want to talk about that, or too interrupt things. Tell me I just want to know, if you are ready with the cost of the next collection.” Armando tells her, “at this very moment in the boardroom. Betty, Mario and Inesita are finishing up the cost of the collection.” Sarcastically she says, “well thank you very much. I really do appreciate it, oh how embarrassed I am. Yes I am so embarrassed, that I interrupted the two of you. If you both excuse me.” She leaves, Armando tells her. “Marcela Marcela.” She just closes the door behind her, she sees Sophia and Bertha working on numbers. They stop, Sophia asks. “Yes Dona Marcela.” Marcela doesn’t say anything, she just heads back to her office. Bertha tells her, “she is jealous.” Sophia tells her, “of course she’s jealous with her future husband. Is closed up, in that office with that model.”

Both just gasp, Betty arrives with a small tray. Marcela asks, “what are you doing with that tray.” Betty tells her, “it’s for Don Armando and that senora that he’s with.” Marcela tells her, “yes attend to them yes good attend to them. Be a good little servant.” Patricia comes running towards her, “Marcee Marcee is she dead. Do you need help getting rid of the body?” Marcela tells her, “that was my intention but I just didn’t know how to do. Sandra and Mariana watch and listen. They are a pair of cynics.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee if you like I will take charge of her.” Then she follows Marcela to her office.

Adriana asks, “is Marcela always that way.” Armando tells her, “no no yes she’s really not that poisonous. Look I guess, I do understand her a little she is a bit jealous. She has every reason.” Then he just smiles, Betty enters. “Oh Beatriz come on in.” Betty smiles, and goes closer with her tray. “Excuse me” she says. Armando tells her, “over here.” Betty puts it on the table, and Armando thanks her. Adriana gets her water, while Armando takes a sip of his coffee. Betty smiling tells him, “sir I have to take some things from the office.” Armando tells her, “oh go ahead Betty. He drinks his coffee, and continues smiling at Adriana. Armando tells Adriana, like I was saying.” Betty tells him, “excuse me.” Armando tells her, “go right ahead Betty.” Betty tells them, “yes thank you.”

Armando tells her, “what I want to say is not to have a bad impression regarding Marcela. She’s just acting that way, because that is her nature.” Adriana tells her, “well she has every right to take care of you. You will be getting married soon.” Betty is in her office, she overhears the conversation. Hugo tells me, that he is designing the wedding dress.” Armando tells her, “oh so he told you that. He looks at Betty’s door, oh that Hugo and his gossip.” Adriana asks, “so how long have you been seeing one another?” Armando tells her, “I guess around three years.” Betty is putting things in a box very angrily. Adriana asks, “so when do you get married?” Armando whispers, “I guess in a month. After the collection is already been launch, and another one is finished.” Adriana tells him, “I guess it will be a grand party.” Armando tells her, “yes a party he glances again to the door. A big party, lots of guests. If you like you are invited Adriana. Betty drops the box, and it falls loudly on the floor. Armando screams, Beatriz what is going on in there?” Betty tells him, “oh I dropped some folders.” Armando tells her, “then picks them up.” Adriana tells him, “well then its time for me to go.” Armando tells her, “Adriana why so soon. What’s the rush?” Betty angrily stairs at the door. “No Armando, I really do have to leave. You have to work, your girlfriend is really jealous. I have to finalize the event with Hugo. Well then what’s the verdict.” Armando crosses his arms, and tells her. “Adriana just because, you are a gorgeous looking woman. That I have to accept your request.” Adriana tells him, “well that is what Hugo told me.” Armando tells her, “Hugo has ever right to say what he says.” Betty stares at them both. Adriana tells him, “well then you will lend him to me.”

Armando tells her, “I give you him as a gift.” Adriana with a smiles, tells him. “Thank you very much.” Armando sees Betty just standing there and asks. “Betty what do you want?” Betty tells him, “I can’t find certain catalogues. I think they might be, in your desk cabinets. If you excuse me, I will search for them.” She goes by Armando, and begins bumping into him. Armando tells her, “they are not here.” Adriana tells her, “well I would love it if you can make it. I would love to see you again.” Armando tells her, “yes I will do what ever it takes to be there. Betty bumps into him, he screams. Beatriz! We are talking, haven’t you noticed. Stop interrupting.” Betty tells him, “excuse me and forgive me.” When she passes him, she steps on his foot. Armando utters, “she stepped on my foot.” Adriana looks to him, and back at the door. Betty fights back the tears. Adriana ask, “why do you treat her so bad?” Armando tells her, “I am sorry but she kind of drives me crazy this woman.” Mario finds Betty just standing by the door. “Betty we really need to get back to work.” Betty takes a deep breath and says, “in 10 minutes sir.” Mario asks, “is Armando still with Adriana? Betty just nods, and he says. Well then, it’s best I don’t enter. So I won’t interrupt, Betty are you alright?” Betty just nods again, then says. “It’s nothing sir, nothing.” Mario just utters, “aha” he stops and stares once more. Then goes back to the boardroom, while Betty takes a deep breath. Bertha tells them, “oh Dona Marcela was so furious when she left that office.” Mariana tells them, “we saw her when she left that room as well. She was so furious, she almost hit Betty.” Bertha utters, “oh no.” Sophia utters, “really?” Then they see Betty standing by the bathroom, and looking towards the office. Sophia tells her, “oh there’s Betty she was in the president’s office.” Bertha tells her, “Betty Betty we need to talk to you.” Betty tells them, “not now.” Then she enters he bathroom, everyone is shocked. Bertha tells them. “Oh look at that, come on lets go in and find out what’s she’s hiding.” They all run in, and find Betty just staring at herself in the mirror.

(Does Mario really feel pity for her or just now curiosity?)

Sandra asks, “so tell us everything.” Betty fixes her hair, “what do you want me to tell?” Bertha asks, “what did you see in that office? What are Armando, and that woman doing in there?” Mariana asks, “was he flirting with her?” Sandra asks, “were they kissing?” Sophia asks, “was he massaging her?” Betty tells them, “no no no none of that.” Sandra asks, “then what did you hear Betty?” Bertha utters, “yes.” Betty tells them, “why would I stick around listening to them.” Bertha tells her, “Betty stop being a hypocrite. I saw you going in there with coffee, and water. I know that trick well, I used to do it with my boss all the time. Now come on, do tell this juicy gossip. So what were they talking about, what did you hear tell us?” Betty asks, “where do you get these things?” Mariana tells her, “I just think it’s just strange. From what I know, Marcela came out of there so furious. That means one thing, something strange was going on my dear.” Betty continues fixing her hair.

Patricia sits at Marcela’s desk, and tells her. “So she brought him flowers.” Marcela tells her, “yes it was with an invitation to an event. That occurs next week.” Patricia tells her, “oh how brazen of her. Now things are getting mixed up, with these events nowadays.” Marcela tells her, “that’s when I precisely entered that office. I yelled at them, and almost lost it. She said so sweetly, oh Marcela. Oh you’re also invited, oh I just would love it if you could be with us.” Patricia asks, “and you left her there alive. Didn’t you hit her, or slap her, or punch her oh Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “but it seemed all so normal. Like this was all staged, like any old model coming for a visit. Just like our models of Eco Moda. Oh she was so pleasant, with that sweet smile of hers.”

Patricia tells her, “oh I would have disfigured her.” Marcela tells her, “everything seemed so natural. Except one thing, Armando was very nervous.” Patricia tells her, “so he almost gave himself away. Oh how lovely, and you didn’t say a word.” Marcela tells her, “Patricia aren’t you listening to me. How could I say anything, everything seemed so natural. It would have been a scandal, don’t you understand that.” Patricia tells him, “oh that Garfield the one that clandestine put there. There she was bringing them coffee, and water. Like a common servant, since she’s the one that does it for those two.” Marcela tells her, “apparently she doesn’t even know her.” Patricia tells her, “and you believed that. I think someone, should know her more Marcee.” Marcela asks, “who?” Patricia tells her, “Hugo Lombardi. She came her, asking for him. He’s the one that took her to the president’s room.” Marcela tells her, “he took her there. What is wrong with that idiot? So that wretched fool, knows what’s going on between the two of them.” Patricia tells her, “no Marcee we can’t stand still for this. Adriana Arboleda doesn’t get out of her alive.”

Bertha tells them, “no wonder Dona Marcela is so jealous. That woman is very beautiful.” Mariana tells her, “yes divine.” Sophia tells them, “I don’t think she’s that pretty. Who knows she might be able to take him away from Dona Marcela. Lately Don Armando is like a dog in heat.” Sandra tells her, “no dear she is very lovely. A lot, in fact that’s the type Don Armando usually dates. Yes or no, right Betty?” Betty tells her, “yes.” Sandra tells them, “Don Armando can get any woman he wants a super model in fact.” Bertha tells her, “I was thinking of Dona Marcela’s attitude. You don’t think that she’s the one, that’s taking away Don Armando?” Everyone’s mouth is open in shock. Sophia asks, “are you sure Bertha?” Betty tells them, “how am I supposed to know.” Bertha asks, “Betty look you know something is up.” Betty tells them, “I don’t know nothing. I must return to work. I will see you guys later.” Bertha tells her, “oh Betty.” Everyone follows suit, then Sophia tells them. “She always looks hurt, when she tells us serious gossip.” Bertha tells them, “she is acting kind of strange.” Mariana asks, “I wonder what’s up with Betty she’s acting strange.” Bertha tells them, “that I don’t know.”

Betty comes out, and watches the door then moves away. She sees Marcela and Patricia, and stops. Betty has a fantasy, Marcela tells her. “Beatriz that woman is stealing Armando away from us.” Betty tells her, “yes Dona Marcela I know that. You’re not the only one, that is suffering.” Marcela tells her, “now more than ever we must be really united. We both are rivals, but we must work together on this. Soon it will us three.” Patricia is shocked and watches them both. Betty tells her, “yes no it’s not fair. I am with you.” Marcela goes over and hugs her, “oh Beatriz.” Betty tells her, “between the two of us we will take him away from her.” Fantasy is now over, Marcela screams. “Beatriz Beatriz! What are you staring at? What is wrong with you?” Betty tells her, “sorry Dona Marcela.” Patricia tells her, “it’s the face of treason that you’re carrying.”

Adriana comes out of the office, Armando is with her and smiling. Adriana tells him, “oh Armando thank you very much. We will see one another soon.” She kisses his cheek, Armando tells her. “Yes it was lovely too meet you.” Adriana tells her, “like wise so I will see you at the event.” Armando tells her, “yes I will be there.” Adriana tells him, “well bye and be well.” Armando watches her go, and says. “Yes bye and take care.” She heads to see Hugo. Smiling Armando, returns to the boardroom. The three are watching together, then Marcela looks over at Betty. Patricia tells Marcela, “let’s go right now for her.” Then she grabs her and they heads straight to the studio. Betty watches them leave, then heads back inside.

Armando sits down, and asks. ‘So how are we doing?” Mario tells him, “fine fine fine.” Armando looks around, and asks. “So where is Betty?” Mario tells him, “she asked for a recess. Mr. Mendoza I need to tell you something.” Armando gets up and he says. “Inesita I’ll be right back.” Ines is busy looking at the Catalogue, she tells them. “Go right ahead.” Mario asks, “what did you do to Betty?” Armando ask, “why.” Mario tells him, “she left the president’s office destroyed.” Armando tells him, “destroyed. Mario tells him, “yes.” Armando tells him, “well I kind of yelled at her.” Mario tells him, “oh great work. Once again, yelling and screaming at her. Don’t you understand more than ever, we are in her hands.” Armando tells him, “but you weren’t there. You didn’t see what she did, she just wouldn’t let me talk to Adriana.” Mario tells him, “didn’t you think that maybe she would be jealous. As soon as you left, and closed yourself with Adriana at the president’s office. This girl, she fell apart. Then when I saw her, she looks like she was really suffering.” Armando tells him, “dear lord well then what should I do now.” Mario tells him, “I don’t know but you have to convince her go out with you tonight. Tonight has to be marvellous.” Betty comes back, and tells them. “Well then, let’s continue.” Mario tells him, “great.” Armando asks Betty, “Beatriz a word for a minute.” Betty tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “look I just wanted to apologize.” Betty tells him coldly, “I don’t want to talk about that sir. We really should get back to work.” Then she leaves him, and sits back down. While he’s miserable once more.

Kepa Amuchastegui has been in the industry for many years. He’s an actor/producer. He played Roberto Mendoza.

EIGHTY

Hugo tells Adriana, “so that means they delegated and gave me permission.” Adriana gives him a hug, “isn’t it just marvellous Hugo. We get to work together once more.” Hugo tells her, “yes I’ve been saying it for years. You have support, class, elegance, the distinction. Lovely long legs, that are bombi and that royal face. It’s just marvellous for this company, oh look who is here. Patsy Pat and Marg, have you met Adriana Arboleda?” Marcela quite rude tells him, “yes we’ve had the pleasure.” Patricia tells him, “don’t even both presenting her to me Hugo.” Hugo tells them, “well what are we going to do. What is with this attitude? Oh why don’t we just give you two raw meat. These two panthers of Eco Moda.” Marcela tells him, “may we speak for a moment?” Hugo tells Adriana, “please don’t leave just yet.” Marcela and Hugo are in a corner, while Patricia annoyed moves her hair around. Marcela asks, “what is that woman doing here?” Hugo tells her, “she wants to work with me.” Marcela asks, “so does that mean she wants to take you away from here.” Hugo tells her, “Marg she wants my help with the chorography and dress for one of her events. She won’t steal me away. Don’t suffer over that, I am not like other people. I will never leave you alone, heard me Marg.” Marcela tells him, “I don’t want to see her here.” Hugo asks, “what are you talking about Marcela?”

Marcela tells him, “she is using you that woman what she wants. Is to find a way to get into Eco Moda.” Hugo asks, “what ever for?” Marcela tells him, “what you don’t know. You don’t know, that Armando has something to do with that woman.” Hugo tells her, “no what?” Marcela tells him, “Hugo you and I are friends.” Hugo tells her, “more girl friends than friends.” Marcela tells her, “that woman is Armando’s lover.” Hugo just utters, “Adriana Arboleda?” Adriana turns around, when she hears her name. Marcela whispers and tells him, “the one and only.” Hugo asks, “how long have they been lovers?” Marcela tells him, “about two months Hugo. Hugo just laughs, Marcela just tells him. Please Hugo.” Hugo just grabs her hand, and drags her over to Adriana. “Come over here.” Marcela utters, “no no no Hugo.” Hugo asks Adriana, “may I ask you three questions?”  Adriana tells him, “yes. ” Hugo asks, “how long have you been in the country?” Adriana tells him, “about 5 days.” Hugo asks, “where were you?” Adriana tells him, “I was in Spain why?” Hugo tells him, “oh no reason. So who were you with?” Adriana tells him, “oh what questions Hugo I was with my husband.” Hugo tells her, “ah her husband.” Adriana tells him, “what is going on? What are all these questions about?” Hugo tells Marcela, “well the floor is yours.”

Marcela tells him, “oh dear me Adriana I am truly sorry I was so rude to you. I am so sorry.”  Patricia tells her, “Marcee what is this? First she takes away your fiancée, and you’re now asking her for forgiveness.” Adriana utters, “what?” Marcela tells her, “oh do be quiet.” Patricia tells her, “look Marcee if you want to be the idiot. That she takes away your fiancée, that she cleans the floor with your hair. Now you’re asking her, for forgiveness. I won’t, and you know why. I am your friend, if you don’t want to do anything. I will show her some respect, I’ll do it for you. Look Adriana, leave the game alone. We know everything.” Marcela screams, “Patricia..” Patricia screams, “what?” Marcela tells her, “she just arrived in town she’s been here for only five days. She arrived with her husband.” Patricia asks, “what Marcee and you believed that story. I don’t.” Marcela grabs Patricia, she screams. “Come with me right now.” Patricia tells her, “look Marcee that is an old trick. I know that very well, who cares if she is married so what.” Patricia motions to Adriana, while Marcela drags her away. “Come with me now.” Hugo is so embarrassed, while Adriana is shocked. “What is going on Hugo? What were they talking about?” Hugo tells her, “I am truly sorry Adriana. Like my boyfriend always says, kelombo you with your elegance. Your presence, every woman just falls apart. They are so very jealous, yes if that woman is Marcela Valencia. My Marg…” Adriana just touches her face.

Over at the boardroom, Ines is finishing her list. “That now concludes this collection.” Armando tells her, “thank you so very much Inesita.” Ines tells her, “no problem sir now Betty I recommend you look over this catalogue. Please excuse me.” Betty tells her, “sure go right ahead.” Armando asks, “Beatriz when will you have the numbers worked out. For this collection.” Betty tells him, “around 6 pm excuse me.” She gathers her things, and goes to her office. Armando just watches her leave, and Mario tells him. “Man she’s very angry, and very affected.” Armando tells him, “yes I see that. I just have to wait, till her anger cools down. Before I talk to her, so she can listen to me.” Mario tells him, “and if she doesn’t want to listen to you. Your only way, is for you to get on your knees.”

Patricia and Marcela are by the elevators. Patricia tells her, “well Marcee if you really believed that story that Adriana told you. That she isn’t his lover, then you should be more relaxed.” Marcela tells her, “no why should I?”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia tells her, “well you have discarded that possiblity. Your lucky that she’s not her, because if you have to take away that vampirette. It won’t be that easy.” Marcela tells her, “yes I know that.” Marcela tells her, “well I am not relaxed.”)

“I’m not relaxed I just can’t. At this point, I just don’t know who it could be. At the beginning of this, I knew who I was fighting with. But now I’m in limbo, I don’t know what this woman wants. What is she looking for? Absolutely nothing.” Catalina arrives, and looks at them both. “Good morning.” Marcela smiles and tells her, “good morning.” Catalina tells her, “hi Patricia.” Patricia smiling tells her, “hi Catta.” Catalina tells her, “I am arranging something very special for the employees of Eco Moda. Tonight at the National Museum, there will be an exhibit on Picasso. Can I count on you two?” Patricia tells her, “oh no an exhibition. Oh Catta don’t you have something else, like a cocktail party or a meal. Marcela gives her a dirty look. Patricia tells her, now Catta let me explain to you. I just find it fascinating, just fascinating every exhibition that relates with art and painting and everything of that sort. In fact, I write poetry in my free time. Catta its really good poetry, I am very sensible. When I studied finance at the San Marino, I would go to a lot of exhibitions. I went to one that was really good, he really famous. Now what was his name again, I just don’t know why you two don’t know him.” Marcela tells Catalina, “Catta we really have a lot of work to do. Plus tonight, I have to go to a dinner. I am really sorry.” Catalina tells her, “no problem you can go another night then. Now I brought with me, everything that you would need for the new collection. Would you like to see them?” Marcela tells her, “oh no just give it to that Garfield. The assistant of Armando.” Catalina utters, “I didn’t know that Garfield was her nickname?” Catalina takes off to the office, while Patricia sits down. Marcela continues pacing. Patricia tells her, “Marcee you really should find a better name for Betty.” Marcela ask, “why?” Patricia tells her, “you’re like going back to the start. She is the only one, that can give you that person’s name. The only one, that can give you a clue on who is Armando’s lover.

Betty is working in her office, when Catalina enters. “Hi Betty how are you?” Betty smiles, and tells her. “Well good morning to you Dona Catalina. How are you?” Catalina tells her, “I’m fine now then I’ve brought you everything we are going to need. For the collection launch.” Betty smiles and tells her, “well thank you very much.” Catalina asks, “Betty are you alright?” Betty tells her, “well yes but I am a bit stressed out because of all this work load. I also have to do, a form regarding costs.” Catalina asks, “would you like to go to an exhibition?” Betty asks, “me?” Catalina tells her, “yes you Betty. I’ve arranged something very special for tonight, it’s for the employees of Eco Moda. I would love it if you could go. Don’t you like going to exhibitions?” Betty shyly nods, Catta tells her. Well it would be a darn shame, if the only person. Who has a different profile, more so than the others. Who’s so very prepared in life, would miss this showing.” Betty tells her, “I would just love it but I don’t think that Don Armando would love to go. The thing is, I have a lot of work too do. He is going to kill me, if I don’t finish this tonight. But if I have time free, I will stop by.” Catalina tells her, “oh Betty if he ever killed you he would have to kill himself. He wouldn’t want to continue living. Well here is you invitation. I’ll be waiting for you.” Betty beaming tells her, “thank you so very much for this invitation.” Catalina just waves, and leaves her office.

Armando comes out of the boardroom, and sees Catalina. “Oh hi Catta how are you?” Catalina tells him, “oh hello Armando I’m well thank you. I just gave Betty a sheet with the expected places, where we can have the event for the new collection. I’ve figured a cost for a 200 people, we will have food and liquors. We will have special guests, the works.” Armando tells her, “yes that’s perfect perfect. At this moment, Betty is doing the cost for the launch. When we have the right amount, we will know how much we can spend on this. Catalina’s attention is to the wrapped box, she goes to touch it. Armando hits it. Oh no Catta.” Catalina with a grin, asks. “When did you start accepting roses?” Armando tells her, “they weren’t sent they were presented to me by Adriana Arboleda. It’s an invitation for an event, it’s for next week.” Catalina looks disapprovingly at him, “I suppose you’re going to go right. Armando just smiles, Catalina tells him. “So to a model’s show you will go, but to a art exhibition to a museum. Doesn’t even go in your head.” Armando utters, “Oh Catta I am a very busy man.” Catalina tells him, “yes yes I know all your excuses. I just hope that you don’t mind that I invite all your employees.” Armando asks, “and why would that bother me. ” Catalina tells him, “well I am going to take every one. I have organized a very special evening, you decide whether you’re going or not. I know that you will find something, that will interest you catch your attention.” Armando tells her, “oh really well I do think it’s quite interesting.” Catalina tells her, “to welcome you in there’s going to be two lovely models. If you want, they can escort you all over the museum.” Armando asks, “is there another incentive to make me really want to go.” Catalina tells him, “for now nothing. Now then I really need to know exactly, the place you’re going to want this collection to be held.” Armando tells her, “how about I call you first thing tomorrow.” Catalina tells him, “bye.” Armando utters, “bye.” Then Armando looks over to Betty’s door.

Catalina heads over to see Sophia and Bertha. “Hello now which one of you then, if you please. Would give this out to every employee in this company. It’s for an art exhibit at the national museum.” Bertha asks, “now what is this event for?” Sophia tells her, “oh girl come on it’s for car repairs.” Bertha asks, “really?” Sophia tells her, “oh please Bertha it’s for an art museum. We will see paintings of art etc, at the national museum. This lady so graciously is inviting all of us.” Bertha tells her, “oh yes of course I will make sure all these are distributed.” Hugo comes by, “hi Catta how are you?” Catalina tells him, “hey hello.” Hugo tells her, “have you met Adriana Arboleda?” Catalina smiles and gives her a kiss, “oh how are you?” Adriana tells her, “I’m fine thank you.” Catalina tells Hugo, “I’m expecting you at the museum tonight. Everyone from Eco Moda has been invited.” Hugo looks over at the girls, “what are they being exhibited. I can just see it now, ladies and gentlemen don’t miss the bats of Eco Moda. Introducing, small Betty. He looks over at Catalina, how could you mix me in with these ugly people. Especially going to a art museum, looking at painting of Picasso. Can you just picture it, what if Picasso was alive right now. What paintings he would create, if he had come to Eco Moda. There are so many deformities, that are here.” Adriana and Catalina just shake their heads, while Sophia and Bertha roll their eyes. Catalina tells him, “I will be expecting you tonight and don’t you dare leave me hanging. Remember, I hold your image and reputation on the line with the new collection. I have you in my hands. Hugo tells her, “it sounds like a threat to me.” Catalina tells her, “yes it’s a threat bye Adriana say hello to your husband for me.” She then heads to the elevator. Hugo tells Adriana, “just look at the plans I have for tonight. Just imaging myself mixing in with these ruffians. Ugly women and art, its like eating sausages and whiskey. Or eating hot disgusting caviar. Then he laughs, and escort Adriana to the elevator. Bertha asks, “who is this Picasso?” Sophia tells her, “he’s a big Spanish painter. Just read his bio, on this invitation.”

Downstairs in the lobby, Sandra is with Aura Maria. “I don’t know what I’m going to do, but I will do something tonight. I don’t care if I go all by myself, nothing good came about me lying  on that phone call.” Sandra tells her, “one moment please. Freddy overheard that you were going to go out with a guy tonight. Wasn’t he the least bit affected, when you told him or what?” Aura Maria tells her, “well yes he was a bit angry at first. Then nothing happened, in fact he hasn’t even talked to me all day. I just want to go out with a guy that I like. The worst part, that man doesn’t even exist.” Freddy tells Wilson, “well since you have a night free why don’t we get together. I have in my hand, a list of easy women. Lets see, who we can ask out for tonight. Oops I only brought, half the list A-M.” Wilson tells him, “well make sure these women are full busted those are the one’s I like. The thing is you really have bad taste.” Freddy tells him, “oh come on Wilson you are hurting my personal tastes. You are depressing the beautiful ladies, that are jealously on this list. They are quite divine, now tell me which one. I will make sure she’s the woman of your dreams.”

That’s when Adriana comes down, and Wilson tells him. “I want that beautiful doll face.” Freddy sprays his mouth, and both men approach her. Freddy tells her, “oh you be quiet oh Adriana dear how are you. How did things go?” Adriana tells them, “it went well thank you bye everyone.” Freddy stops her, and asks. “Excuse me but what are you going to do tonight?” Adriana asks, “why are you asking?” Freddy tells her, “well I have noticed that that mole you have has lost its shine. I am worried about your health, I think you should go home and get some rest.” Adriana tells him, “oh don’t worry I had planned on going straight to bed bye.” The girls tells her, “bye.” Freddy smiles and utters, “bye. When she leaves, he tells Wilson. “Well if she was available we would have invited her brother.” Wilson tells him, “well I think on that list you might have one that looks like her.” Freddy tells him, “I have many but the exact one like Adriana Arboleda well that might be tricky. Though I do have some that are a bit like her. Some walk like her, but I know there is one that’s better than her. As they say, I have a lot of Adriana’s but they are very few and poor.”

Freddy tells Catalina, when she comes down. “Now Catalina, are you leaving us now?” Catalina tells them, “I expect all of you at the art exhibit at the national museum. They will be displaying Picassos works. Upstairs are the invitations.” Catalina asks, “what you all can’t make it.” Freddy tells her, “but of course I’ll be going but other people. Might not want to go, since they enjoy going clubbing every night. There’s the art of clubbing, and the art of important painters like picasso.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Dona Catalina the thing is some people. Just enjoy spending their nights, with a model like Adriana Arboleda. Or go out bar hopping, or chasing loose women around. Than going out to a nice museum.” Catalina smiles and then asks, “so should I wait for you or what?” Aura Maria tells her, “well I’ll be going for a moment. You see afterwards, I have special plans. I will go spend some time with you, and then head out.” Freddy tells her, “yes I too have plans as well. I also have made plans for the evening. So I can enjoy life as well, first though I will make my presence known at that cultured event. Wilson and I will be attending.” Catalina continues smiling and tells them, “well thank you very much for going. I’ll be waiting for you there bye.” Wilson tells him, “now then brother call the girls right now. So they will be available for tonight. I don’t want to spend my entire night, looking at culture.” Freddy tells him, “first we will brighten up our spirit. Then we leave there, and give our body its meals. Now then practice this dance move for tonight. Wilson does a dance, and then Freddy tells him. Well then why don’t you just head outside and practice.” Wilson tells him, “yes sir.” He goes outside, while Freddy heads upstairs. Aura Maria tells Sandra, “see he doesn’t care about nothing.” Sandra tells her, “oh you fresh at least he’s going to that museum. Why don’t you think of something artistic so you can trap him. Stop blowing in the air, or else you’ll get another job blowing bubbles.”

Upstairs Mario goes to see Armando. Mario asks, “is the monster still not talking too you?”  Armando tells him, “no she’s still inside and she’s still furious. Now man don’t you worry really. Don’t you worry, “if it doesn’t pass today it will tomorrow. The thing is I’m in no hurry.” Mario tells him, “hey I don’t think you can let too many days pass.” Marcela enters and tells them, “excuse me.” Mario simply utters, “hello.” Marcela stares coldly his way, “now then I just got a call from Palm Beach. We are going to get that location tomorrow.” Armando asks, “tomorrow?” Marcela tells him, “well that was the arrangement that we agreed upon when we made that deal. Why would it surprise you so much?” Armando tells her, “the thing is it just slipped my mind. It’s not in my computer mind.” Marcela tells him, “oh really your forgot well I have to tell you. We need to pay for that location before we can get it.” Armando get up, and asks. “What? Betty Betty?” Betty comes out of her office. “Yes sir.” Armando asks, “oh excuse me but do you remember. That tomorrow, we get that Palm Beach location?” Betty tells him, “yes sir plus we have to pay 626 for making that deal.” Armando asks, “tell me do we have that amount in our projections of the month Beatriz.”

Betty coldly responses, “yes sir. Now then I’d like to remind you all. That we can’t go over our target sales. That location has cost us a lot of money, and its now time we get it working. Plus it’s a good time, to arrive at Palm Beach with that new collection ready to be produced.” Marcela is ready to make her point, when Mario stops her. “Yes we will have to go today, to finalize that deal.” Marcela tells her, “you just do your job. Make three reservations, we will all head to Miami.” Mario notices the coldness Betty is showing Armando. He begins giving Armando the signal while Marcela talks. We will need two rooms, we three will travel.” Armando utters, “tomorrow.” Marcela annoyed tells him, “yes tomorrow tomorrow tomorrow. What do you have other plans?” Armando glances over towards Betty, she tells him. “You have a meeting with the buyers tomorrow. Plus you have some issues to resolve with the banks.” Armando tells her, “Marcela I have a lot of work to do. Way too much.”  Marcela tells him furiously, “oh really why can’t Beatriz take charge of this matter. It wouldn’t be that strange, since every time we travel she’s in charge. Why don’t you just ask her for permission. Tell her that he will be with me, we are going to the states for a couple of days. See if there’s any problems with that.” Armando tells him, “enough Marcela this is work nothing more. Its simply work.” Betty simply replies, “I will make the reservations.” Betty returns to her office, while Marcela tells him. “Look call her and ask for permission. For I do not want to travel with a bitter man.” Marcela then takes off, Mario just stares at him and then looks back at Armando. Mario tells him, “it seems sir you will have to travel with us.”

Ines tells the girls, “ok ladies its best we head off now. Its going to get pretty late for us.” Bertha tells her, “yes of course.” Sophia tells her, “Inesita were almost ready, the only one that didn’t confirm is Betty. That brute has her still working.” Ines tells them, “look my dear why don’t you call her right now. If she’s not ready, then we can just meet her over at the museum.” Bertha tells her, “I will mark the number.” Betty gets her phone, “hello oh hi Sophia. No no no wait for me, I finished this form. No I just don’t want to stay a moment longer here. Even if I have to go over Don Armando’s cadaver, I am going. Betty then gathers her paperwork. While outside Mario and Armando talk. Betty comes out, here is the form you wanted sir.” Armando tells her, “thank you Beatriz. Armando looks at the folder, and asks. In resume how much will this collection cost us?” Betty tells him, “7000.” Armando is shocked and asks, “what Beatriz what how did the figures rise so much. What occurred in production? How can things rise so much from one collection to the next?”

Betty tells him, “well the cost of materials rose 12.5%. While the amount for the production rose 6.2%. Plus we have to take into account, that Eco Moda still has to pay high interest rates. So that of course, raises the cost of this collection.” Mario asks, “7657 Betty and where are we going to get that money?” Betty tells him, “well first we must consult the buyers who were buying the materials from. We then head to the bank to figure out the new credit, but it can’t be that high. Since were still paying off the last amount, for the last collection.” Armando asks, “and what about the other part of the money?” Betty tells him, “well since Eco Moda has every bank closed for us. Well the only thing we can do, is have Terra Moda get another load from the bank of Montreal. Then of course, that in turn can pay off Eco Moda. If you excuse me, I have people waiting for me.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz wait one minute please. Now you have to notice, that all the loans that Eco Moda has been getting from Terra Moda. They can’t be mentioned in our balances. Then of course the council will notice, that we are no longer owners of Eco Moda. Beatriz I am asking you, to manipulate those numbers for the council meeting. You’re the only one, that can do that. change those forms.”  Betty annoyed tells them, “like I said I have people waiting for me. Excuse me, we will talk tomorrow.”

Armando just watches her leave, Mario asks. “Are you really going to let her go? We are going to travel tomorrow. Make peace with her any way you can. At any cost go ahead.” Betty gathers her belongings, Armando enters the office. “Beatriz please permit me to take you home please.” Betty tells him, “no thank you like I said they are waiting for me.” Armando asks, “who?” Betty tells him, “the group of ladies.” Betty tells him, “we are going to an art exhibit that we were invited too. Sir here is the form, any doubts we can discuss this tomorrow.” Armando stops her from leaving, “what we need to discuss has nothing to do with this form.” Betty tells him, “look sir if you want to discuss the issue with the form. I will do it later.” Armando tells her, “I want to talk about you and me. I want to talk about what occurred with me and Adriana Arboleda.” Betty tells him, “don’t you worry sir I understand. See you tomorrow.” Then she steps on his foot once more and takes off. Armando angrily screams, “Beatriz you stepped on my foot again.” Betty sees Mario, “have a nice evening.” Armando screams, “Betty Betty. I am talking to you.” That’s when Marcela enters the office, “what is it with all the screaming?” Armando tells her, “it’s nothing we just have a few problems.” Betty tells her, “Dona Marcela the reservations have been set for tomorrow excuse me.” Betty takes off, Armando is furious.

Marcela asks, “what is going on?” Armando tells her, “well the cost for the new production has gone sky high Marcela.” Marcela tells him, “don’t tell me you’re going to change the materials again.” Armando tells her, “no I won’t be touching that. Look do me a favour,  I am a bit tense and nervous. I have to talk about these matters with Mario. Permit me to talk to him, later on tonight I will be arriving at your apartment. We can talk there.” Marcela asks, “and what time will you be there?” Armando tells her, “I don’t know what time I’ll be there.” Marcela tells him, “I would just like to know since we have to travel tomorrow. You probably are very busy tonight, since you have to say goodbye.” Armando tells her, “oh come on Marcela. Please I’ll head to the apartment and we can talk alright.” Marcela tells him, “fine I’ll see you there.” Angrily she closes the door, and Mario looks at Armando. “Oh how could you arrange to meet up with Marcela. Go over to her apartment tonight.” Armando franticly asks, “what do I do what do I do. Why?” Mario tells him, “you’re going tomorrow to Palm Beach. You can’t leave Betty all furious and hurt with you.”

Armando tells him, “I’ll fix things tomorrow and that’s that.” Mario tells him, “tomorrow well at what time. We have a million things to do tomorrow. Even if you had time, what were you thinking of doing. Walking into Betty’s office, and give her a few pats on the back. I’ll see you after my trip.” Armando tells him, “fine fine what is it that you want me to do then.” Mario tells him, “first thing Mr. President. As an investor in this company, I want you to understand something. You hurt Betty in front of Adriana Arboleda. You made her feel like Adriana was more important than her. She has every right, don’t get her wrong. You can’t do that in front of the one person, that has this company in her hands. The one person, that is going to manipulate the numbers. That person has in her hands, the most important council meeting of our lives. You are going to throw away, everything that we have worked so hard for months now. What your doing is showing her, that this is all a game too you. You’re telling her, that you still would prefer to be with a model. She will figure out, this relationship is only about paper. I want to tell you one more thing, an ugly woman hurt. It’s like a dangerous tigress. No sir can you just give her a pat on the back.” Armando tells him, “well then what do you purpose I do with her then. With your words, I am starting to freak out. What do I do?”

Mario tells him, “go find her.” Armando tells him, “I don’t know where she went. Wait she mentioned an art museum, with the group of uglies. They all went to see Picasso.” Mario tells him, “hopefully they will let her go. Look go after her, remember to take knee pads. You can’t leave Betty here, so angry and hurt. Especially with Nicholas Mora hanging around. Offering his services, no sir so go over there take her out of there. Take her to a restaurants, or a dark romantic place. A cheap place, one of those clandestine places.  A romantic place, where you’re going to have to invent something. Convince her, that she is more important than Adriana Arboleda. More important than any woman in the world. Don’t worry about the size of the lie, you’ll pay it back in purgatory.” Armando just laughs, and tells him. “Calderon you still haven’t realized something. Didn’t you hear Marcela? Can you just image, me not showing up tonight at her apartment. Or showing up late? Do you know what is going to happen to me?” Mario asks, “what do you think might happen. If you don’t get back together with Betty? What do you think might happen, while you are away from Bogota. Just think about this, look for Marcela it will help her as well. She is also an investor in this company, and part owner. There are a lot of excuses.” Armando tells him, “fine give me a good excuse then.” Mario tells him, “we have to think of one that’s really good. Yes sir, because if you don’t make Betty happy. Your going to have to seduce her, yes take her too bed. Yes sir, that way your two can reconcile. You must double the doses, plus before one travels.”

Downstairs in the lobby, Bertha asks Aura Maria. “Aura Maria what will you do after the exhibit. Did you make plans?” Aura Maria tells them, “I don’t care I’ll think of something but I won’t go home and sleep early. Oh come on girls, since were great friends afterwards lets go out and party.” Everyone makes a fuss, and Bertha tells her. “Oh no don’t count on me, I have to get home early.” Ines tells her, “just look at me I am not dressed for such an event. I’m only going, because Dona Catalina was nice to invite all of us. I have this nice scarf, and long jacket to cover myself up.” Sandra tells her, “forget that plan all of us work tomorrow remember.” Aura Maria annoyed tells them, “ok yeah right thanks a lot. So much for being all united, thanks for the cooperation’s. I for one, will be going out tonight. Even if I end up going alone, I can’t just go home to sleep. While that idiot goes club hopping. Dancing with those loose women, I wouldn’t be able to sleep relaxed.” Ines tells her, “oh no senora you’re not going all by yourself. You’re going home, and sleep relaxed. You’re not going by yourself alone.” Sophia tells her, “do you think it looks good you go out clubbing. While I’m like a nanny to your Jimmy. That sounds like a delicious night for me.” Betty arrives downstairs, telling them. “Well girls lets go then.” Sandra tells her, “we thought you would never come down.” Betty tells them, “sorry girls but I had to give that form to Don Armando.  Then of course call home, to report where I was going. I had to ask for permission.” They all head to the door, Freddy waltzes in.

Ines asks, “Freddy you’re going to the museum with us.” Freddy tells her, “yes yes my life I’ll be there. I’m just waiting for Wilson to arrive he’s just changing his clothes. Relax if Catalina asks, inform her I’m on my way.” Aura Maria tells them, “let’s go girls the air in here stinks.” She throws her jacket, and Mariana tells her. “Don’t throw your jacket on me.” Then all take off, Wilson arrives, and asks. “So Freddy how do I look?” Freddy gathers his helmet telling him. “Oh you look better in your dark uniform.” Wilson asks, ” so who did you fix me up with. What delicious morsel will I end up with?” Freddy asks, “what girl?” Wilson tells him, “but you said you were going to contact a few lovely ladies for us tonight. We were going to go out clubbing, after the exhibit.” Freddy tells him, “well my little black book failed me for the thing is none of the girls are available tonight.” Wilson asks, “and what are we going to do then?” Freddy tells him, “look what were going to do is this. Go to the museum, don’t mention this disaster. Tell the girls and Aura Maria, are dates that look like Adriana Arboleda will be waiting for us. Look we stay for a bit, then mention were head out to see our dates.” Wilson asks, “and where are we going later then?” Freddy tells him, “I don’t know yet.  I can’t be by myself, go home and get some sleep. While Aura Maria is out clubbing with a guy. Come on be a pal old man, and accompany me tonight.” Wilson asks, “and what do we do without date’s tonight brother.” Freddy tells him, “well brother. If we have to dance, we’ll do it together.” Wilson tells him, “us two.” Freddy tells him, “I’ll invite you brother but please don’t leave me alone alright.” Wilson tells him, “fine then let’s go then.” Then they dance, and head to the bike.

Catalina is waiting in front of the museum, when she gets a call from Armando. “Hello its Armando.” Catalina tells him, “oh Armando what a surprise. What’s up with the call?’ Armando tells her, “it’s a call filled with regret. You’ve really touched me, this afternoon in my office making me feel really plastic. So I’m heading to see you at the museum.” Catalina tells him, “I have here waiting for you what I promised you.” Armando tells her, “I’m going to see a Picasso.” Catalina tells him, “the important thing is you are coming.” Armando tells her, “yes I’m on my way tell me has the employees from Eco Moda arrived yet?” Catalina tells him, “no not yet.” Armando tells her, “I’ll see you then bye.” Over at the apartment, Marcela is setting the table. “Hi love.” Marcela tells him, “hi love where are you?” Armando tells her, “I’m going to the national museum. The thing is Catalina, was manipulating me this afternoon. She made me feel really guilty, calling me uneducated, uncultured so I decided to go to the national museum to see that Picasso exhibit. All the employees will be here as well.” Marcela tells him, “yes I can just image it. So tell me, at what time are you coming home?” Armando tells her, “I just don’t know a couple of hours.” Marcela furiously asks, “a couple of hours?” Armando tells her, “look if you don’t believe me. Call Catalina right now, she knows that I’m on my way.” Marcela tells him, “well then go very carefully. I will be here waiting for you.” Weakly he responses, “ok.”  He hangs up the phone, and arrives at the museum.

At the museum the girls arrive, Catalina welcomes them in. “Welcome good evening go right in.” All the girls utter, “thank you for the invitation.” Catalina tells them, “now what you’re going to see comes from different museums and private collectors. This is the first showing in Bogota Colombia.” Aura Maria giggling, tells them. “Girls were going to see something dirty, just like in the movies. Those men, probably have a lot of money.” Catalina tells them, “now it wasn’t easy getting to see the collection. The museum paid a lot of money, in order to borrow them. We have a few hours, for all of you to see this great exhibit.” Sophia tells them, “now girls you heard her now act dignified. Don’t touch any of the portraits.” Bertha asks, “Sophie I’m hungry where is the cafeteria. I’m sorry, but I can’t look at pictures if I’m starving. What do I do?” Sophia tells her, “oh Bertha please.” Ines tells her, “oh come on dear don’t be so stubborn. Wait and afterwards, we will all go eat something.” Bertha tells her, “fine I’ll go but if I pass out looking at those paintings and breaking them. It won’t be Picasso’s fault, but fat me.”

Patricia is getting her dinner, and arguing with the owner about the price. Patricia tells him, “I won’t pay 3000. I’ll give you 500. Patricia utters, excuse me you don’t know nothing about being poor.” The guy tells her, “oh you’re a cheap blond.” She ends up paying him the full amount. Then she gets a call from Marcela. “Patricia come get me now.” Patricia asks, “why and where too?” Marcela tells her, “we are going to the national museum.” Patricia tells her, “oh a museum come on those places are boring. I’ll pick you up, and we could go someplace else.” Marcela tells her, “oh no we are not going anyplace else. Were going to that museum, because Armando is going to be there.” Patricia asks, “why there?” Marcela tells her, “oh come on he flew off to go see her. He probably went over there, to say goodbye to her. It’s all my fault, I told him go see her and say goodbye to her. That is what he is going to do.” Patricia asks, “so tonight is another release and catch.” Marcela tells her, “oh no release and catch. I’m going to make sure, he doesn’t have a chance to say goodbye to her. Get over her right now.” Patricia tells her, “now you’re going to have to wait. I’ll go to my apartment, change and fix myself up and then I’ll go pick you up.” Marcela tells her, “what do you want to go get a sauna as well.” Patricia tells her, “oh yes Marcee I am dead.” Marcela screams, “please you’re not going to fix yourself up. Nor going to the sauna, you come pick me up now. That’s an order. ” She hangs up and gathers her things, Patricia utters. “Oh poo.”

Over at the museum, Catalina tells the group. “Now as you can see all around you is all of Picasso’s works. Period blue, rose, cubism, textile, billboards, sculptures. We have here 60,70 Picasso dead  in 1973.” Bertha tells them, “oh no it’s so sad this man died.” The girls just laugh, then Hugo calls out. “Catta I am here. I have fulfilled my promise to you, so you can’t go through with that threat.” Catalina tells him, “I knew you wouldn’t fail me. Come say hello to me. Hugo goes over and gives her a kiss. I’m glad that you came. I’ve been showing the girls, the exhibition.” Hugo tells her, “ah and security has come around to pick up these  Muppets.” Catalina hits him, and tells him. “Please well then as I was saying.  Picasso was the most important artist of the 20th century. It was because of him, that the world opened up to Cubist movement and abstract art. Just look at this wonderful painting, it was done when Picasso was 80 years old. As you can see, it’s very contemporary full of movement and erotica. It’s called the siesta de fauna. He did it for a ballet that opened up in Paris 1971. It’s lovely and full of movement. This is one of his pieces that used movement. It was incorporated in the ballet, a man named Ganske was the model for this painting.” Sophia goes over to a painting, and calls over the girls. Sophia tells them, “he did like putting them in nice frames didn’t he.” Hugo utters, “oh what ignorance. This girl is called Cubist.” Catalina smiles and tells them, “yes Picasso created the Cubist movement. These pieces showed his intensity, his exuberate life.” Betty asks, “he probably had a lot of women chasing him.” That’s when Armando arrives. Catalina tells them, “oh yes Picasso all his works deal with his love for women. He painted every one of those women that he loved.”

Aura Maria tells them, “oh it would be delicious like that she snaps her fingers. I would allow a man too paint me.” The girls utter, “oh Aura Maria.” Hugo sees Armando, “well well yes Picasso had many models as his lovers. Relax Armando, we weren’t talking about you but the magic and creation and the sublime of Picasso.” Armando looks over at Betty, but she doesn’t turn to face him. Armando tells them, “good evening ladies.” The girls utter, “hello good evening Don Armando.” Catalina goes over towards him, “we were discussing about his presence and the influences of Picasso.  Taking about all the women he loved. He was a double dater, he had many women hanging on to him. Hello Armando.” She gives him a kiss, and hug. Armando simply asks, ‘how are you.” Catalina smiling tells him, “I’m well thanks. Now then Picasso didn’t have tons of women. But he had serious intense relationships. Sometimes he would pay dearly.” Betty asks, “apparently he painting two woman at different times. Marie-Therese Walter and Genevieve Laporte. But in the same locations, and same positions, and on the same sofa.” Everyone gasps, “really.” Sophia smiling tells them, “wow apparently he wanted everyone in the same place. Oh what a wretched man.” Catalina tells them, “it was his way of loving women. Sometimes he would get so furious and jealous. That he would lock them up in his studio. One time, he shut a woman in a room and can you believe the house burned down. The woman escaped by a miracle.” The girls just gasp, Hugo tells them. “Oh that’s nothing, there are some me that don’t lock them up. But some who send their women alone to their apartment buildings. While they go off gallivanting all over the place.” Catalina smiles, while Armando looks annoyed over at Hugo.  Catalina tells them, “now we can’t see Picasso as a vulgar disgusting man. Yes he loved them, and painting them. He made them suffer, he created them as art. He always said, that he put them in his art work because he loved them.” Betty tells them, “he even said to chose a person in certain form was killing another.”

Over in a car, Patricia is with Marcela. Marcela tells her, “yes yes yes all this is killing me. You don’t have to keep repeating it. I have to do something, Armando can’t just keep me locked up in an apartment. While he goes gallivanting, who knows where with this woman. He’s finding a way to say goodbye to her. That is something I won’t permit, well if that’s the game Armando is playing at then I will play as well.” Patricia tells her, “yes Marcee very well done. You’re not painted by the wall either.”

Over at the museum, Catalina continues her tour. “Now with this painting, you see this face covered over with another face. Armando glances over at Betty, hoping to catch her eye but Betty doesn’t even look at him. As you can see, his perspective is with the eyes. That is the sight of his erotic.” Hugo tells her, “oh if Picasso had met Betty he wouldn’t have needed any model to distort. He would have painted her, just as she is. It would have been outetue.” Betty angrily stares at him. Armando tells him, “cubism that’s what were always doing when were stuck looking at your designs. A piece here, another piece over there.” Hugo tells him, “oh your flattery me with your words Armando. Well then let’s continue, I really think you shouldn’t have wasted your time. Bringing these uncouth people here, it’s insulting the aesthetics of the museum. Come on lets continue.” The group follows Catalina, while Betty gazes at the painting. Armando then goes over to her. “Betty I didn’t come here to look at this exhibit, I came here so we could talk. Betty tells him, “no sir how could you even think of it.” Armando tells her, “fine then let’s go someplace else. Let’s get out of here.” Betty tells him, “yeah both of us leave her together in front of everyone.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz I came here so we could talk. Meet me upstairs in a salon, there’s nobody up there. I’ll be waiting for you alright.” He then takes off.

Freddy arrives with Wilson, “oh hello Don Armando.  How are you tonight?” Armando asks, “what are you two doing here?” Freddy tells him, “well we were invited by Dona Catalina. She insisted that we see the show. These magnificent paintings, we couldn’t say no or not show up. She is such an angel.” Wilson salutes, and tells him. “Hello Don Armando good evening.” Freddy asks, “so Don Armando where is the group from Eco Moda?” Armando tells him, “over there.” Freddy tells him, “yes well then won’t waste any more time I’ll go enjoy the culture.” Armando tells him, “yes I won’t apologize.” Freddy tells him, “ah yes sir. Now then Wilson, we’ll look at each one. Making sure we don’t miss a single one. Look and enjoy.” Wilson simply utters, “I’ll have your back.”  Freddy goes over and flirts with a woman. “Oh yes what beauty. This painting fascinates me, oh Wilson.” Wilson returns to his side, “yes sir.” Freddy tells him, “I’d like to purchase these go asks them to wrap it up for me.  These pieces speak to me.” The woman tells him, “there not for sale. This is part of a private collection.” Freddy tells her, “well then Wilson forget that order. I can’t take it, it’s a shame. One is fascinated with these art pieces, you bring money and then pow you can’t buy them.” Armando overhears him, and tells them. “You idiot come over here, over here. Tell me something, do you know who you are talking too.” Freddy smiling tells her, “yes of course let me present a friend of mine Armando Mendoza.” The woman smiles and gives Armando a kiss and a hug. “Hello Armando.”

Armando smiles and tells her, “hello Claudia how are you.” Claudia tells him, “I’m well thank you.” Armando tells them, this is Claudia a known presenter of our television. A reporter and journalist that’s marvellous, Claudia Gurisatti who has a series in the evenings. That presents important people and interesting facts of the country. My dear Freddy, she talks to various public personnel etc. Now this is the person, you were talking nonsense too.” Freddy smiles and tells her, “oh yes I knew that you looked familiar and that your voice sounded familiar. Forgive me and excuse me, for not recognizing you. See the company that I work in, we are always so busy working. You see they exploit us and we don’t have any time to watch television.” Armando tells her, “look let me present Freddy Contreras.” The woman shakes his hand, “nice to meet you.” Freddy tells him, “sir I will present myself hello my name is Freddy Stewart Contreras. I am a man that deals with a lot of paperwork, and do various other occupations in the company. It was nice to have met you, well then excuse me. We will continue enjoying looking at such beautiful art. Now then chino, lets take off see if we can pick up somebody else elsewhere.” Wilson replies, “yes of course let’s go.” Claudia tells them, “bye.” Armando tells her, “oh please forgive them.” Claudia tells him, “oh don’t worry about it.” They hug and kiss, “I’ll see you tonight.” Claudia simply replies, “I hope so.” Then he smiles and takes off.

The girls go ahead and as they wait for Catalina. Betty tells Sandra, “I have to go Don Armando needs me for something.” She leaves and Hugo and Catalina head to another painting. “Girls over here, this picture here is the most famous of Picasso’s paintings. It’s not the original but a copy, this is a tiny one. The real one is humongous, bigger than this wall. Marcela and Patricia arrive at the museum. This painting symbolizes violence.”

Talu Quintero was born on March 1, 1957 in Bogota Colombia. She has been in telenovelas since 1987. She played Margarita Sáenz de Mendoza.

EIGHTY-ONE

Catalina continues the tour, and tells them. “Now this painting was made, when Picasso saw the destruction of  Basque city of Guernica by the Nazis in 1937.” Freddy finds them, and continues the tale. “Yes it was made in 1937, and Picasso also did various paintings regarding the bombings in the Spanish civil war. Were talking about 1935-1939.” Catalina tells him, “very good Freddy well done.” Hugo tells him, “well from now on you’re going to be called Don Freddy.” Patricia tells Marcela, “oh there’s the Picasso exhibit the uglies should be over there. There probably with Catalina.” Catalina tells them, “oh what a surprise Marcela and Patricia.” Marcela tells her, “oh weren’t we invited.” Catalina tells her, “but of course. The thing is its late now, I’m finishing the tour.” Patricia tells her, “oh don’t worry I have the book and I’ll take a look at them at home.” Marcela asks, “and where is Armando?” Catalina tells her, “oh he’s around here someplace.” Sandra tells them, “well he’s probably with Betty. For she told me, that he wanted to talk to her about something. I don’t know where she went off too. Excuse me.” Ines goes over to Bertha, “Bertha dear have you seen Armando and Betty.” Bertha tells them, “no haven’t seen them.” Marcela approaches them, and asks again. “Have you seen Armando?” Bertha tells her, “no but if you like I’ll go look for them.” She then takes off, Hugo tells the girls. “Watch that hippo, she’s on her way to the cafeteria.” He laughs, and Ines angrily stares at him. Patricia tells Marcela, “we better go look for them. ”

Upstairs Armando glances at the paintings, and towards the foyer for Betty. Betty arrives and goes over towards him. “Sir.” Armando tells her, “Betty I’m glad that you came here. Look I just wanted to apologize. I was quite rude and vulgar, towards you this afternoon in front of Adriana.” Betty tells him, “no sir you weren’t rude I was the imprudent one. I should have know, and understood that you wanted privacy so you could be with her.” Armando tells her, “yes but it wasn’t that private what you were thinking.” Betty tells him, “I understand the privacy is only meant for one thing. You wanted to be alone with her. I am not asking for any explanation sir. For in the end, you are the president and I’m just your assistant. In the end, it was during my work day. I’ve been working with you for some time now. I know perfectly well your needs to be with the models.” People start entering, so Betty takes off. Armando follows her, “Beatriz Beatriz. What needs are you talking about?” Betty tells him, “you make it sound like I’m a disgusting pervert.” Betty tells him, “we both know your weakness is models sir. Don’t you worry about it, I fully understand. Yes she is an attractive woman. Very sympatica, a woman perfectly suited for you sir.” Armando tells her, “enough with this stupid idiot remarks Beatriz. He glances around, and she tells him. “Yes sir I’ll stop talking about this. I’ll keep my stupid idiot remarks to myself then. Excuse me, people are waiting for me downstairs.”

Armando angrily follows her again, “Betty Betty. Beatriz Betty listen to me for a minute. Please you can’t leave, Beatriz you can’t leave until we have finished talking. He grabs her to stop her. Please just stop and listen to me, look  I have to leave the country. I won’t be able to talk to you tomorrow. Please let’s talk now.” Betty tells him, “no sir were not talking here. Someone might see us, it’s just dangerous.” Armando tells her, “well then let’s leave this place.” He grabs her, and takes her out of the building. Bertha goes by a painting, and utters. “Oh an orange that looks so delicious. I’m hungry again, oh look at that worm. Don’t you go in there, why didn’t you save yourself for me. Don Armando, she screams again. Don Armando.” Armando comes out of a corner, “what do you want Bertha?” Bertha tells her, “Don Armando Dona Marcela is looking for you.” Armando utters, “Marcela Marcela is here?” Bertha tells her, “yes sir she’s downstairs.” He goes back to Betty, Betty tells him. “Sir go ahead.” Armando tells her, “I’m not leaving without you.” Betty tells him, “but Dona Marcela is waiting for you.” Armando tells her, “I came here to talk to you. I’m not leaving here without you. We are leaving together.” Betty tells him, “but sir you’re going crazy. You know what she might think, if Dona Marcela sees us leaving together.”

Armando tells her, “no she won’t think nothing of it because she won’t see us. Come with me.” Betty follows him, and tells him. “But sir how much have you had to drink?” Armando tells her, “nothing Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “but Bertha is waiting for a response.” Armando tells her, “don’t worry about it I’ll make up something. Oh Bertha.” Bertha tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “look do me a favour go back downstairs and tell Marcela. That you couldn’t find me.” Bertha laughing tells him, “but sir I’m looking straight at you. Or are you a ghost at the museum.” Armando tells her, “go back downstairs and tell her that you didn’t find me alright.” Bertha tells him, “come on sir I can’t lie to Dona Marcela.” Armando tells her, “look Bertha all you have to say is that you couldn’t find me. Now do that or your be leaving Eco Moda, but not until I cut off that tongue of yours.” Bertha tells him, “yes sir I will keep your secret. I won’t say anything.” Armando tells her, “good fine.” As he’s ready to leave, Bertha asks. “Sir, are all these painting by Fernando Botero.” Armando very annoyed tell her, “yes their is Fernando Botero. Over there is, Georges Seurat. The other one, is Guillermo Gomez Mayorga. Now then does that answer all your questions.” Bertha tells him, “no sir thank you. Then Armando and Betty take off. While Bertha moves over to another painting with food. Oh no, how marvellous this man this table is full of food. I can just image myself, sitting down and eating all this food. Looking at the beautiful landscape, and eating although looking closer. He is missing a few ingredients, like fried pork rinds and some potatoes. Oh yes I like these very much.”

Armando continues to walk, Betty tells him. “Sir Dona Marcela we shouldn’t go she will find out. That you left and with me, she’s going to kill you.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz she doesn’t suspect that were together.” Betty tells him, “but she will start thinking it.” Armando tells her, “come over here lets leave this place already.” Betty asks, “and what if someone sees us.” Armando tells her, “come on nobody will see us come on lets walk. He grabs her, nobody will see us.” Bertha looks at another painting, “oh dear lord look at all this blood. At least the man in this museum saved himself. Oh virgin saint.” Bertha blesses herself, and takes off. Over at another area, Patricia tells Marcela. “Oh Marcee it seems the earth swallowed him. He’s like no place.” Marcela utters, “yes your right. Bertha walks towards them, and asks. So did you find Armando?” Bertha tells her, “no madam I haven’t seen them.” Marcela tells her, “well then we’ll go over there.” Bertha tells them, “I was just over there. They’re not over there.” Marcela asks, “are you sure?” Bertha tells them, “yes Dona Marcela.”  Patricia tells Marcela, “oh come on Marcee this radar here said she didn’t see him. So she didn’t see him.” Bertha looks at the two and takes a deep breath, “excuse me.” Marcela stops her, “Bertha so have you seen Beatriz then.” Bertha tells her, “no I haven’t seen her either.”  Marcela asks, “what is wrong with you?” Bertha tells her, “nothing madam.”

Patricia tells her, “oh she’s probably just hungry and hasn’t eaten.” Bertha tells her, “yes that’s it haven’t eaten.”  Marcela tells Patricia, “I’m going over there myself I don’t trust that group of uglies. I don’t believe any of them.”  Bertha runs to the door, and sees Sandra and Mariana. Mariana asks, “have you seen Betty and Don Armando?” Bertha tells them, “haven’t seen anybody I’m going straight home bye.” Sandra looks over at Mariana. What happened to you?” Mariana asks, “Bertha what’s wrong?” Bertha tells her, “something is biting my tongue. I feel sick and a cold coming on, I better head home. Say goodbye to Picasso bye.” Mariana utters, “oh Bertha.” Patricia and Marcela pass a few painting, and Patricia tells her. “It’s just funny that Armando is with Betty.” Marcela tells her, “oh really don’t continue with those remarks.” Patricia tells her, “I’m not saying that Armando is with that Garfield. Well since you said, that she’s the one that’s always doing his favours.” Outside by the parking lot, Armando tells Betty. “See I told you nothing would happen.” Betty tells him, “but Bertha saw us.” Armando tells her, “tomorrow you just calm her down. Relax Beatriz.” Marcela inside is furious, “Armando left here to meet up with that woman. I told you, I told you to hurry it up. I told you not to stop at your place. Now look, he escaped.” Patricia tells her, “oh yeah it’s all my fault now. That Armando took off, and he’s having an affair. He went after that other woman.” Marcela hits her arm with her purse. “Don’t be imprudent.” Patricia touches her arm, “ouch well then just call his cell then.  You’ll see what story he tell you, maybe he’s still in the museum.”

(I’m surprise Mario isn’t in this scene. Its like Betty, took Mario’s place.)

At the parking lot, Betty tells him. “Oh sir you’re going to get into serious problems.” Armando tells her, “no Beatriz I don’t care about that I’m concerned about you. Get in the car, look I want you to know. That you’re more important to me, than any Adriana Arboleda. Than Marcela, in fact any woman that is everything.” Betty smiling tells him, “oh sir that’s not true.” Armando tells her, “yes it is then he kisses her. Yes it’s true.” The cell phone rings, Betty asks. “Who is it? It’s probably Dona Marcela. Just answer it please. It will worse if you don’t answer it. What if someone told her, that they saw both of us. Just answer it.” Armando gets the phone, “yes hello love.” Marcela asks, “where are you?” Armando tells her, “I’m leaving the national museum where are you I hear a lot of noise. Are you in a public place?” Marcela tells him, “I’m inside the national museum.” Armando asks, “inside the national museum what are you doing in there?” Marcela tells him, “for your information Catalina also invited me.” Armando tells her, “but why didn’t you just mention it my love. We could have gone together.” Marcela tells him, “I wanted to surprise you.” Armando tells her, “oh yes that sounds good good. I told you I’d make my presence known to the employees. Then I would take off.” Marcela tells him, “then why didn’t you say goodbye to anybody.” Armando tells her, “well if I did that Catalina wouldn’t have let me leave.” Marcela asks, “who are you with?” Armando looks over at Betty, “me.”

Marcela tells him, “yes you.” Armando tells her, “with Betty.” Marcela looks over at Patricia, “oh really doing what?” Armando tells her, “I had to take Betty out of the museum we had to fix some issue with the form Marcela.” Marcela asks, “what things?” Armando tells her, “yes my love tomorrow were going to go to Palm Beach. We need to fix a few things here. You know that Betty, will be in charge of a few things while I’m away. Tomorrow I just don’t have the time to discuss things. That’s why I decided to do it tonight.” Marcela tells him, “so that means you were lying to me when you told me. That you were going to come home early to the apartment.” Armando tells her, “Marcela one moment. I told you I was going to the museum. To look at the exhibit, stay for a bit and leave. That is exactly what I did, I went to the exhibit and then I left. I am here with Beatriz, and were going to discuss the job. I am also going to tell you, that I will be long alright. Betty tries to calm him down. I don’t know why you’re complaining. You who isn’t even at the apartment Marcela. Your not even there. What do you want from me? Tell me, what you wanted to surprise me with? What did the employees tell you, did they say I was with someone or what.” Marcela tells him, “no nobody told me nothing.” Armando screaming tells her, “of course they didn’t say anything because I wasn’t doing anything wrong. Marcela it’s that simple.”

Marcela simply utters, “oh really fine fine ok ok. So what time will we see one another?”  Armando tells her, “I’ll see you later.” Marcela tells him, “fine I’ll be waiting.” She hangs up her phone, Patricia asks. “So what motel is he shacked up in.” Marcela tells her, “in no motel. He’s with Beatriz, they have to discuss something about work. I image he will then take her home, then head back to the apartment.” Patricia tells her, “oh really are you sure so he convinced you.” Marcela tells her, “what more did you want me to tell him? He told me himself, that he is with Beatriz. I don’t think, I should have even come here. I think I gave myself away.” Patricia tells her, “you know what why don’t we head over to Betty’s house. Just to see if he’s telling the truth about that.” Marcela tells her, “oh no that scene again I won’t repeat. Thank you very much, look lets say goodbye and you can take me home.” Patricia tells her, “ok fine like you ordered. I just hope that Armando follows your orders. I just hope that your not stuck, waiting all night for him. The night is pretty long.” Marcela tells her, “you know I should have never never allowed you to come with me.” Patricia utters, “oh Marcee.”

By this point, Armando is furious and anguished. “Now Beatriz at last, now which side are you on? You know perfectly well, that I have to do this. I have no other option.” Betty tells him, “sir I feel pretty bad so many lies to Dona Marcela. You treating her so very badly. No that doesn’t make me feel any better.” Armando tells her, “well then what do you propose.” Betty tells him, “look sir you are going to travel tomorrow with her. You two will be alone together, you will have time for her. Look I feel that you should give her, an opportunity. Give yourselves an opportunity.” Armando tells her, “what are you talking about? Is that what you want? Look at me in the eyes, is that truly what you want. The cell phone rings again, blasted this cell phone again.” Betty tells him, “no if it’s Dona Marcela I won’t listen to this conversation. Stop the car I’ll get off.” Armando tells her, “no no relax its just Mario. Please just relax, hello.” Mario is with a woman, and asks. “Hello what’s up?” Armando tells him, “we are just leaving the museum. I’m with Betty.” Mario tells him, “great so things are getting more flexible. Everything is going well, getting better.” Armando tells him, “it’s going slowly Marcela arrived at the museum. No we didn’t meet up.” Mario tells him, “oh man she’s really chasing after you.” Armando tells him, “yes I know that.” Mario tells him, “well then where are you going?” Armando tells him, “truthfully I don’t know.” Mario tells him, “you sound very tense were you two fighting or what.” Armando tells him, “yes.” Mario tells him, “is Marcela still at the museum.” Armando tells him, “yes.” Mario tells him, “well then be careful where you’re going then with Betty. Marcela is on the loose, and going to be chasing after you. Don’t go to any public places please. It’s just risky, don’t even go to a hotel. She might have someone following you understand. Brother no more shows in public places please.”

Mario tells him, “I know a place that’s pretty private in fact it’s my apartment. I don’t like to lend it to people, but this is quite important. Look just invent something, take Betty over there. Relax I’ll call the porter to let you in.” Armando tells him, “I don’t think I’ll be able to convince her at that. Now then where are you going to be?” Mario smiles at the women next to him. “Relax I’ll be out of the house tonight. I’ll see if someone will shelter me for the night.” He then kisses his date, and Armando tells him. “Well then well what I’ll do is take Beatriz at home. To her parents, then I’ll see you later for that meeting alright. You just relax, yes leave me that there just in case thanks.” Mario tells him, “very good very good your talking like quite the professional. Oh wait one minute, one little minute. Don’t hang up yet, Mr. President I want you to understand something. Before you leave the country, you must solve this very well. Because if you don’t, there might not be a company.” Armando tells him, “I will attempt this.” He hangs up the phone, and Betty asks. “Where are you going sir? This isn’t the way to my house?” Armando tells her, “yes I know but do you really want me to take you home.” Betty tells him, “sir I really think it would be for the best.” Armando stops the car and tells her, “wait you want me to take you home. Blasted blasted Beatriz, all I want is to be alone with you tonight. Remember I will be leaving tomorrow. I only went to that museum, tonight because I wanted to talk to pick you up to see you. I wanted you to be my side, wanted you near me. I wanted you to be with me, when Marcela showed up. I risked my life, as of this point I’m still risking it. Everything that I have done, is telling you that I want you. I adore you, that you are above anybody. You are above Adriana Arboleda. Above Marcela, every one of those women. Now you saying, absolutely nothing. You want me to go to Marcela, as if it’s nothing. Go to Palm Beach, like I was going on my honeymoon. You want me to be happy, and get close to her once more. Is that what you want? Fine ok, right now I’ll take you home. That is what you’re asking of me, fine we will leave now.”

Betty begins to cry, and tells him. “Sir wait wait, sir please forgive me. Please forgive me, I just want you to understand. This whole thing, hasn’t been easy for me. With in regards to Adriana Arboleda. Now this conflict with Dona Marcela. It’s just killing me sir, I don’t know exactly what to do. I don’t know how to act, I know what I’m doing is wrong.” Armando asks, “but do you want to me alone with me?” Betty tells him, “yes I really do sir. Yes sir, and she caresses his face. That is what I really want, in this world but. Your leaving tomorrow, I won’t be complete without you sir. Being without you, isn’t going to be easy for me.” Armando caresses her cheek, “oh Betty my Betty. Nobody said this would be easy. We both knew this was going to be very difficult, you know what. I am really going to miss you. I will miss you so much, Betty my Betty.” Betty tells him, “oh sir.” Then they kiss, Armando tells her. “Beatriz we really should go someplace else. Its dangerous, someone might come by and see us.”

Betty becomes quite nervous, and tells him. “Yes sir, we really should get going. Maybe near by there’s a bar or a restaurant.” Armando tells her, “no no no we can’t go to a bar or a restaurant. Marcela is pretty paranoid, and might be following us. Or looking all over the place.” Betty tells him, “so where are we going?” Armando tells her, “we could go to Mario’s apartment.” Betty is quite shocked, and tells him. “What how could you even think such things? What will Don Mario think? Oh no you even promised me, that he will never find out about the two of us.” Armando tells her, “he will never find out I promise you. Remember I talked to him, and told him I was taking you home. Then I mentioned, I had another meeting. He even suggested to me, if I got lucky I would be able to use his place. The porter has a key, just relax. Come on lets go, I promise you that nobody will find out us. I guess we could go to my place. I wouldn’t recommend it Beatriz, but that’s the first place where Marcela will show up. I really don’t know what you want me to do. If you want I could drop you off at home, and well we could just leave it like this.” Betty tells him, “no sir I will go where you want to go.” Armando tells her, “look Beatriz you’re so divine. Its him then, that kisses her.”

Back at the museum, Patricia tells Marcela. “Oh come on Marcee I want to leave here.”    Marcela tells her, “I won’t interrupt Catalina’s tour. When she finishes her exhibition tour we will both say goodbye.” The girls are all looking at the pictures, with their heads tilted. While Freddy reads his pamphlet, and Wilson stares at Sandra. “Now then what you’re seeing here..” Freddy interrupts her, “now this picture was made in 1944.” Catalina tells him, “yes that’s correct Freddy. Now this painting was done, when he was quite young. When kids come by, they are just fascinated with this painting. Now Picasso bought Madoura Pottery, a ceramic company. It’s in Vallauris, on the French Riviera. That’s when he met Jacqueline Roque, now then ladies this concludes our tour. Thank you so very much for coming. I hope you learned a lot.” The girls tell her, “oh yes thank you.” Marcela approaches them, “well Catalina I surely have learned so much.” Patricia tells her, “yes Catta I have thoroughly enjoyed this Picasso exhibit. I just love him, in fact he fascinates me. Tell me, when Picasso has his next exhibition. Do you know, when Picasso will do another collection of paintings.” The girls just start laughing, while Marcela rolls her eyes. Catalina tells her, “oh it won’t be happening because Picasso died.” Patricia is shocked and tells her, “really was it pretty sudden? Hugo just holds Marcela and pats her head. Oh how can this be possible, for I didn’t even know. Was it just a few months?” The girls continue to giggle, Catalina tells her. “No Patricia he died in 1973.”

The girls laugh even more, Patricia tells her. “I really do think it’s a shame. A man so intelligent and brilliant, I suppose he had a lot of money. I can just image it. To just die like that, and nobody found out.” Marcela looks away out of sheer embarrassment, while Hugo tells her. “Yeah right, the entire world the entire planet.” Patricia annoyed tells her, “come on Marcee I’m really tired can we leave now.” Hugo tells them, “you know what why don’t we three head out and have a bite to eat. You’ll never guess but my boyfriend, told me he was busy and couldn’t pick me up. Apparently there’s a football game excuse us.” Sandra gives Patricia a dirty look, and touches her head. The three move away from the group, while Ines tells Catalina. “Yes we should be going as well. Dona Catalina thank you so very much. It was such a touching and moving story.” All the girls then thank her, and Catalina moves away. While Aura Maria tells the girls, “now let’s eat something before I head out to go clubbing.” Ines tells her, “dear across the street there’s a cafeteria. Let’s go and have something to eat.” Freddy tells Wilson, “yes we will go as well and have a bite to eat. Before we go out clubbing as well.” Wilson tells him, “yes you’re correct one gets drunk faster if your stomach isn’t full.” Freddy utters, “arrivederci Mr. Picasso  oh that sounded very good. Oh he was quite the ladies man, now lets go hungry people follow me.” Freddy then stops looks at one, of the paintings and just stares at it. Wilson asks, “do you really like this portrait.” Freddy ignores him, and combs his hair and then both take off. The girls by now are all across the street.

Hugo tells Catalina, “oh thank you so very much for this wonderful evening. I have seen a lot of scary things tonight, two ugly objects from the 20th century. First it’s those secretaries from Eco Moda, and Picasso the maestro. Seriously I really do think, Picasso would just love being at Eco Moda. Since he just loved visiting the circus. See we have the clowns, the bat lady, and the elephant man. Oh come on Marg, its getting late. Soon they will hang us, and put us in an exhibition. Come on lets go.” Marcela asks Catalina, “Catta now this woman was she the last woman of Picassos‘. Catalina tells her, “well Marie-Therese Walter was the one who he painted often. She brought out his sensuality and erotic nature.  Jacqueline was his last companion, he died by his side.” Marcela asks, “and how did they die?” Catalina tells her, “both committed suicide. The women that Picasso had, died in tragic circumstances. Its like he was full of passion for me, he loved them and then would push them away. Being so possessive and then growing tired of them. Then abandoning them.”  Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “Marcee what.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee that is so sad.”

Over at the cafe, Aura Maria tells the group. “Well I’m ready to go party.” Freddy tells Wilson, “now then we better head out the ladies are waiting for us. They start dancing, and Freddy tells him. Now pay up, we will pay for all of you.” Wilson tells him, “what do you mean pay for their meal. You know what, I’m always paying buddy.” Freddy tells him, “come on.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh thanks a lot I thought gentlemen had disappeared.” Sophia tells her, “with that type of invitation they are now poor.” Aura Maria tells them, “ok girls want to share a taxi then.” Sandra goes over to her, and whispers. “Now Aura Maria and where are you going to go?” Aura Maria tells her, “look I won’t look like a fool in front of that idiot no.” Freddy asks Wilson, “Wilson where are my bike keys.” Wilson tells him, “here are your keys and your protector and helmet.” Freddy asks, “now Wilson are we ready?” Wilson smiling tells him, “yes we are ready. Oh Freddy where are we going?” Freddy tells him, “look we take off and stop someplace.” Wilson tells him, “alright then.” Ines asks, “now gentlemen please to the decent thing and accompany us. To the bus stop, and wait till a bus picks as up. Then take Aura Maria to a taxi.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Inesita just forget that. It would be a waste of time, it’s like asking for oranges. Plus they are going out bar hopping.” Freddy tells her, “my dear sweet white haired lady it would be a pleasure for me. To take you all to the bus stop, but be quick for the night is fading.” Mariana tells him, “look enough with all this chit chat and flattery. Why don’t we do one thing. Drop off Aura Maria, to where she is going to go. The taxis aren’t very safe, plus she hasn’t that much money or no.”

Freddy tells her, “sure I would take her but that woman hasn’t asked me formally.” Mariana tells him, “oh you.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Mariana fresh just fresh. That guy won’t listen to you either. At least going with a taxi driver, he will talk to me. He will say, get in how are you. Maybe if I’m lucky, he won’t charge me. With him acting like a statue, I’d prefer to go with a taxi driver.” Sandra tells them, “enough I am sick and tired to you two. You come here, and you over here. Stop this fight right now, girl come here. Here and she throws Aura Maria towards him. Take her, we all know that you want him to take you.” Aura Maria tells her, “well yes.” Sandra tells her, “now then you be quiet. Now you, are you going to talk to her yes or no.” Freddy tells her, “yes.” Sandra tells him, “great and don’t stand around like a mummy.” Aura Maria tells him, “thanks a lot.” Sandra tells them, “now you two go right now.” Wilson tells them, “wait ladies one minute. Freddy come here, what your just going to dump me here brother.” Sandra tells them, “first the ladies later the porter.” Wilson tells her, “well where do I go then?” Freddy tells him, “well like we said go towards our women.” Wilson asks, “but where.” Sandra tells him, “use that brain of yours.” Then Freddy takes Aura Maria, and Wilson sits and eats. Mariana tells her, “finally.” Sophia tells Ines, “now Inesita I’ll head home to take care of Jimmy. Just for tonight, so they can fix this situation of theirs.” Ines tells her, “yes of course that way we can both collaborate. Oh yes.” Mariana asks, “tell me something girls do you know where Betty ended up going. She never said goodbye to any of us.” Sandra tells them, “my guess is she left with Don Armando.” Sophia asks, “but where?” Ines tells them, “poor thing probably had work to finish off.” Sophia tells her, “oh that’s terrible.” Ines tells them, “man they really do abuse us.”

Betty and Armando arrive over at Mario’s place. Armando opens her door, “come on Beatriz.” Nervously she follows, Armando tells her. “Relax Betty everything will go alright.  They enter the building, and Armando tells the porter. “Hello may I…” The guy shakes her hand and tells him, “well hello Don Armando. Nice to see you, yes here are the keys Don Mario told me to give you.” Armando tells him, “thank you.” The guy tells him, “tell me are you going to spend the entire night. Or you won’t be long?” Armando tells him, “we will be a little long.” The guy tells him, “well if you will be here all night. I will have to park the car. As you know, I always find spots for your little car. Every time you stay here.” Betty is furious, but keeps quite. Armando utters, “yes right. He turns and looks at Betty, oh we won’t be long.” The guy tells him, “go right ahead.” Then Armando walks, and has to come back for Betty. “Beatriz lets go. The guy waves at them and smiles. In the apartment, Armando tells her. Go right in Beatriz.”

Betty shyly enters, and asks. “So you come here a lot right?” Armando tells him, “yes you see its my best friends place I have to come here.” Betty tells him, “yes you come here to visit him. You come alone right? Or what I mean is, your don’t always come alone.” Betty laughs nervously and walks around. Armando tells her, “yes I have come on occasion alone and with company. But its been a while, since I’ve come with anybody over here.” Betty asks, “when will Don Mario return?” Armando tells her, “he won’t be coming tonight Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “well I guess you have your tricks. I guess if you come, he doesn’t show up.” Armando nervously asks, “care to drink anything.” He goes to the bar, and get a bottle of whiskey. Betty asks, “have any blackberry juice?” Armando heads to the kitchen and tells her, “no but I’ll check he has orange juice.” Betty tells him, “that’s fine sir.” Armando asks, “would you like me to put some vodka in it.” Betty tells him, “no thanks. I don’t want any liquor thanks.” Armando tells her, “well I’m going to have a glass of whiskey. This is my first glass of the day Beatriz and the last one.” Betty asks, “may I use the phone sir. I should call home, and talk to my father he’s probably very worried.” Armando tells her, “yes yes of course. Its over there.”

Hermes is pacing the floor, while Julia is knitting and watching television. Hermes tells her, “now don’t say a word. For the museums now are closed, look at the time. That museum has been locked up for hours now. Our girl should already be home.” Julia tells him, “but Hermes transportation at this time is very difficult. They are probably all full by now, its pretty far away have some patience.” Hermes tells her, “oh yeah who knows maybe she will go out with those friends of her again.” The phone rings and both get it. Hermes tells her, “now are you going to get that or shall I. Enough with this nonsense’s.” Julia sits back down, while Hermes goes to the phone. “Hi dad.” Hermes tells her, “hi dear senorita permit me to ask one question. Shouldn’t you be home by now? Julia rolls her eyes and he continues. You should be at home, and resting like its the right thing to do.” Betty tells him, “yes dad I know but I’m going to be a little bit late.” Hermes tells her, “oh really and where is the senorita?”

Betty tells him, “I’m at Mario Calderon’s place.” Hermes tells her, “and what are you doing at that mans apartment dear.” Betty tells him, “dad I’m working.” Hermes tells her, “no more stories Betty. First you say your going to a museum with your friends. Now your at this man’s place, and you say your working. Look Betty no more tragedies for the night. Remember the devil is pork. Well dear, why are you with that executive.” Armando is overhearing the conversation. Betty tells him, “oh dad don’t you worry I’m here with Don Armando. The thing is tomorrow they are going to the states. Since we were already at the museum. We left there came here, to Mario’s place to revise a few things. He had some documents here, and the thing is tomorrow we won’t have time.” Hermes tells her, “now the one thing I’m asking you Betty. Don’t you dare lie to me, I won’t stand for it. Stop putting yourself in trouble dear. So then what time will you be coming home. How will you get home, and in what condition are you in?” Betty tells him, “no I won’t be that long. Relax Don Armando will be taking me home. Yes and don’t you worry about it. I’ll call you later on bye.”

She then goes over to Armando. “Sorry Don Armando sir but I had to tell my father that we were with Mario Calderon. If not my father would really get worried. He does get bothered at times.” Armando tells her, “you don’t have to give me any more explanations. Beatriz I know that your father takes good care of you. There is no problem to that.” Betty tells him, “yes he takes care of me like I was a reigning queen of the beauty pageant.” She just laughs and sits down. Like I’m a super model, as a daughter.” Armando tells her, “well then in any case I think he has a very special daughter. He has every right to take care of her, the way he takes care of you Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “well you see me in another light.” Armando tells her, “no no no don’t say that Beatriz. No its just not like that, your always telling me that. Its just not true, your a kind of woman. That one has too discovered.” Betty tells him, “oh please don’t force yourself in talking to me in such a fashion. Stop talking about my intelligence, my loyalty, or all those numerous qualities you mentioned the other night.” Armando tells her, “fine Beatriz I was just saying stories. The truth is, the truths are everyone has something. That is just theirs.”

Betty tells him, “well those qualities with those specialities. Don Mario will know that I was here.” Armando tells her, “one moment I don’t understand.” Betty tells him, “the thing is that porter will mention it too him. He will tell him, and describe to him the woman that you brought up here to this apartment. He will know that it was me.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz I know that he you didn’t like the porter’s commentaries when we arrived. Well the parts where, I usually bring women over here. That I am well companioned and all those things, in certain form it could sound true but. Its not it, its been quite a long time since I’ve come by here. Plus Beatriz, that porter isn’t important.”  Betty tells him, “no that’s not it at all. You didn’t come in with just another woman.” Armando tells her, “don’t misunderstand me. Don’t misinterpret that, I didn’t mean to say that. Look you are to me, very special. For that porter, your just another woman.” Betty tells him, “exactly so when Mario asks. Who did you bring up here, he will describe me.” Armando tells her, “no Mario won’t ask.” Betty tells him, “we both know him sir.” Armando tells her, “yes but but that porter doesn’t know your name.” Betty tells him, “its really not necessary. When Don Mario asks for the description, about the woman who you brought in he will figure it out. You see if the description was of a very beautiful woman. Like a beautiful blond with blue eyes, or a brunette with a gorgeous body. Or even just an attractive woman, Don Mario wouldn’t be able to guess. He would have to revise all the photographs, that you have in that achieve in that computer. I don’t think, that it matches a lot of women. If he describes me, Don Mario will say. That you brought Betty.”

Armando tells her, “but Beatriz its just not that. Don’t say that.” Betty asks, “how many ugly women have you brought here.” Armando looks at the floor and tells her, “no we don’t have to talk in that manner Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “none sir no woman you would never be with an ugly woman by your side. I am the first, the last one in your life. Armando takes off his glasses, and looks away. I know that I am a small mistake, that you’ve made in your life. An accident, I know that sooner or later you will return to your regular life. Even if you don’t marry Dona Marcela. Surely another beautiful woman will appear, a woman of class for you.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz don’t say that please. Don’t say that.” Betty tells him, “oh sir lets be realistic lets be frank. No man dreams of marrying an ugly woman. Especially one that already has realized his life. One that wants a long and serious relationship.” Armando tells her, “this is a serious relationship Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “but sir this won’t get very far sir. I know that you will never show me off in public. Your family would never permit it sir, it would be a scandal. You could lose the company, you could be disinherited. Oh you know perfectly well, that I’m not the woman for you.” Armando tells her, “Betty please I am begging you truthfully. Don’t talk that way any more please.” Betty tells him, “I have to sir it was made to me quite clearly when Adriana Arboleda appeared. Sir you dream of her, or for a woman like her. Just like the group of ladies say, you two would look good together. You make a great pair, that’s a good woman for you sir.” Armando yells out, “enough Beatriz stop it I am begging you. I have told you, that there’s nothing between me and Adriana Arboleda. Please don’t continue with this.”  Betty tells him, “oh sir I don’t feel well. Its best that I just leave.”

Armando grabs her and stops her from leaving. Armando tells her, “no no you can’t leave you just can’t leave.” Betty tells him, “sir its best that you leave. Dona Marcela is waiting for you, don’t worry about me. I’ll just take a taxi home, we can talk tomorrow.” Armando grabs her, and tells her. “No we won’t talk tomorrow, your not leaving here. No Beatriz you just can’t leave here.” Betty tells him, “please sir don’t everything bothers me. It bothers me that they are waiting for you. I feel very uncomfortable, that I’m in this apartment. This place that you’ve spent with a lot of women.” He holds her tight, and tells her. “None of them, hear me none of them are as special to me as you are.” Betty tells him, ” yes non as ugly as me sir.” Armando kisses her forehead and tells her, ” no none so special as you. None so sweet, none so good.” Then he begins kissing her, none that has awaken in me so much like you have awakened.” Betty grabs him even tighter, “oh its just terrible for me sir.” Armando asks, “but why why?” Betty kisses him, and tells him. “Because sir I love you so very much. I just love you, I am so afraid. I am so very afraid sir, I am afraid of what might happen to you. I am afraid to suffer, I am afraid to lose you. Plus I am also afraid, to continue being with you.” They continue to kiss, and Armando takes off her glasses. Armando tells her, “Beatriz just look at me look at me. You don’t have to be afraid, don’t be afraid of nothing nothing.” Betty tells him, “I love you so very much sir. I love you.” Armando kisses her and tells her, “I love you.” Then with wild abandoned, they begin kissing with much intensity and then begin to undress. Betty’s hands go all over his body, and they end up on the couch. Where they continue kissing, and loosing one another in each others embrace.

Sixty-two-seventyone

July 16, 2010 at 3:26 pm | Posted in betty la fea | Leave a comment
Tags: Yo soy bety la fea

Telenovela:  Yo soy Betty la Fea, or I am Ugly Betty.  Was created  and written by: Fernando Gaitan and Liliana  Hernandez.  This version is the first, it’s from Colombia and aired in 2000. This English translation, was done by me.  For entertainment purposes, no copyright infringement is implied.

Fun Facts: The animal that represents Colombia, is the Condor. The majestic Andean Condor.

Sixty-two-seventy-one

Freddy arrives singing, he tells them. “Hello lovely group.” With Aura Maria he asks, “Aura Maria how are you today. So tell me, did you enjoy your delicious meals from La Correntazo?” Aura Maria tells him, “yes Freddy thank you very much.” Freddy asks, “well tell me when you were drinking that delicious blackberry juice. Were you thinking of me?” Aura Maria tells him, “yes.” Freddy then asks, “did you have a splendid memory. When you were savoring, your rice with lentals.” The ladies just laugh, and watch. Aura Maria tells him, “yes of course I thought of you all the time. Especially when I had to pay the bill.” The girls laugh even harder. Freddy tells her, “oh don’t worry about the money. Your transportation, also has been paid for this evening. With this chest, this heart and my motor-bike is waiting for you.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh you’re so divine Freddy thank you.” He then looks at the ladies, calls them. “Gossipy.” Then takes off singing, while the girls laugh. Mariana utters, “oh he’s so fresh.” Ines asks, “oh Aura Maria so tonight will you be going out with him. Or are you just fooling with him, so he can give you more money.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Inesita I don’t want to talk about that now. Later on, I will figure that out.” Sandra utters, “oh really.” Bertha tells her, “Aura Maria you have to stop this. Quite frankly you’re making him, have illusions with you and that’s just wrong.” Mariana utters, “unbelievable.” The girls are ready to get in that elevator, when the phone rings. It’s Aura Maria’s new boytoy, she answers. “Eco Moda oh my life.” Mariana asks, “who is she talking too?” Aura Maria tells him, “how are you this morning? Of course I love you, I haven’t stop thinking about you. You are so beautiful, my hot guy.” The girls have heard enough, and go inside the elevator.

Betty arrives at Armando’s office, and leaves him a lollypop on his desk. Then she heads to her office with a smile.

Hugo tells his models, “girls today you’re not going to be paid again.” One of them tells him, “again come on they can’t do this to us.” The other asks, “can’t you do something?” Hugo tells them, “what more can I do. I am not the owner of this company, I am not the one that gives out the money. Nor the one that distributes it. I am one of the  people, that just get a salary. A great artist but one that gets a salary. I also suffer for not having money, I have the same problems you have. Creams, lotions, gifts for my boyfriend. I am in the same boat as you.” One model tells him, “but you get a good wage. We on the other hand, get paid for just the shows. We have no family near us, that helps with our costs.” Hugo tells them, “you know what the solution to life really is. Do what that one did, steal another woman’s man. That will make you forget all your problems, that is what she did. Jenny doesn’t like this talk but keeps quiet. Now then don’t get yourself, a stupid man either get a working man. That way you’re not stuck taking care of him. This one what she did, this chicken romanced a man named cheque he gives her everything. Yes she has a great body, and that man didn’t have a chance. He didn’t know what he was doing, and before he knew it. He left his home, leaving behind a wife a witch that works here. Look among all of you, she’s not worried about money she’s happy.” Jenny tells him, “no that’s not true Don Hugo. My sweet love doesn’t maintain me, I buy my own things.”

The three start laughing, Ines arrives and tells them. “Hello what are you doing wearing my measuring tape. Then she says hello to the models, then looks over at Jenny. So what have you been up too? Now forget brushing your hair, come over here and start working over here.” Hugo tells them, “now this one. She got married, and he got bored of her and dumped her. She is now going to have to work here till she dies.” Ines tells him, “oh no your mistaken I was bored of him.” Hugo tells her, “then don’t get bored.” Ines tells him, “respect sir.” One of the models asks, “Hugeto don’t tell me you can’t do anything?” Hugo tells them, “I already tried to do something. I talked I insisted and nothing. You know how difficult Armando is, and that face he puts whenever you enter that office. He tells me, oh we don’t have any money. The thing is complicated. I don’t have the attributes physical to insist, so oranges for us.” The model asks, “why don’t we try something?” The other girl tells him, “yes that sounds like a good idea.” Hugo tells them, “yes go try with those bodies. How can he resist kiss kiss.” Then they both fix themselves up. While Hugo argues with Ines, over where his measuring tape is.

Armando is walking by, and looks over towards Bertha. He then utters, “oh my god Bertha. Bertha has a chocolate sponge cake in her mouth. Oh the horror, what are you doing?” Bertha utters with her mouth full. “Nothing sir.” Armando tells her, “nothing sir nothing your eating again.” Bertha tells him, “it’s just this time I had the munchies.” Armando tells her, “you know how much I detest people eating in the corridors. What are we going to do?” Bertha tells him, “sir I promise on behalf of my mom, my husband, kids. That I won’t do this again, care for some popcorn?” Armando tells her, “no.” Bertha tells him. “What ever you want to know, I will tell you. You be quiet, nobody will find out about this.” Armando utters, “Bertha Bertha.” He heads to his office, while she finishes her snack.

Armando enters his office, and gets his paperwork and doesn’t even see the candy. Betty comes by and asks. “So did you enjoy your meal?” Armando mumbles, “yes.” She takes the paper and starts discussing numbers, that’s when he sees the candy. Betty tells him, “I need your signature on this. This confirms the money, your parents will be receiving. He signs it and coldly throws it too her. Betty just utters, thank you sir. Oh I have great news for you, the report on sales plus with the money from Mario Calderon. We will be able to pay our debt, and pay everyone tomorrow.” Armando doesn’t even look at her. Armando then coldly tells her, “yes what great news Beatriz.” Betty knows something’s up, and her smile disappears. She tells him, “I knew you would like that news. She’s ready to go to her office, and stops. Sir may I ask one question? Armando just mumbles. Betty asks, are you angry with me?” Armando tells her, “what is this? If I am angry at you. No, I am not angry at you Beatriz. I am not angry that you’re screaming to the world. That you have a rich boyfriend. That doesn’t bother me.” Betty utters, “me?” Armando tells her, “no me he screams. Beatriz you’re telling everyone, you have a rich boyfriend. Patricia is telling everyone.” Betty tells him, “sir I’ve never said a thing.” Armando tells her, “what did I tell you. Am I the one telling everyone, I’m the rich boyfriend. Beatriz you are lying to me, he picks up the lolly and begins pointing it at her. What I hate more than anything are lies?”

(Unbelievable and he’s lying to her, what a cynic.)

“You told Patricia Fernandez, and the girls. That you have a rich boyfriend. I asked you as a favour, not to say anything. Something that is going on between the two of us, our relationship. Has to be kept secret. You know that we must keep this quiet, but no you’re telling everyone. You betrayed me, you betrayed me. You lied to me.” He throws the candy on the floor, Betty is distraught. Betty tells him, “but sir I swear to you I never told anybody. I will try to explain things, we were by the elevators waiting for it to come. I told them, I would invite them for lunch. Since they don’t have any money. I took 70 from Terra Mode, petty cash to help them out. At this moment, Patricia Fernandez overhear us talking she began attacking me. Saying I was stealing from Eco Moda. The girls defended me, they said. I didn’t have any need to steal, and that I made good money. That I was a great administrator, and that’s when Bertha told her. I had a rich boyfriend. I have explained to you sir, she has always bothered me over Nicholas Mora.” Armando tells her, “oh did you tell everyone that you’re dating Nicholas Mora. Or what is going on Beatriz?” Betty tells him, “oh no sir how could you think such things. I never mention this to anybody. Bertha did it to mortify Patricia, sir once again I am repeating sir. I have nothing to do with Nicholas Mora. We have a nice clean friendship, and a working relationship.” She timidly smiles, but he just looks at her coldly.

(I hate that she’s always the one, apologizing.)

Armando tells her, “look this isn’t right. I do not like people speculating, manipulating things. Nobody should have mentioned this, Bertha or anybody. I do not want our relationship to be burned. Especially when there’s mention, of a rich man around you. I do not like it, understand.” Betty tells him, “yes yes sir look I have talked to them. They promised me, they won’t bother me anymore with the talk of Nicholas Mora. They promised me, they would keep quiet. Anyway, I have nothing to do with Nicholas. Well sir, I am sorry about everything. I am telling you, I give you my word. I will die if it’s not completed. I will never betray you sir, I am just not capable of doing so. This relationship is so sacred for me. You believe me sir?” Armando tells her, “yes I believe you.” Betty tells him, “sir please it’s important for you to believe me.” Armando tells her, “yes I believe you.” Betty asks, “do you promise me?” Armando tells her, “I promise you, I promise you I swear it.” Betty tells him, “thank you sir.” Mario then comes in, and utters. “Armando oh sorry, I guess I interrupted something.” Betty glances at Armando, then goes to her office.

Armando takes a deep breath and closes his eyes. Mario asks, “what happened did you two fight?” Armando tells him, “don’t be stupid Calderon.” Mario then asks, “sorry did you to reconcile?” Armando tells him, “she explained everything it was just a mistake.” Mario tells him, “sorry for interrupting your intimate life of a couple. Come here, I need to show you something close the door please. Armando heads to the board room, closes the door.” Mario brings out bags, and Armando asks. “What is this?” Mario tells him, “these are known by women as details. You have heard mention of the word.” Armando tells him, “yes.” Mario tells him, “you have heard women mention the word details. For example: he arrived at 4am, and brought me a serenade. Or he was gone for 9 days, but he brought me some flowers and a card it’s divine. Can I forgive him? These women forgive them, a woman will forgive anything. All accept, that there not detailers. You can be a cheater, even caught in the act but if you’re a detailer. The women will think that you love her. Let resume this conversation, ladies love a detail man. It makes them have a great ego, it touches their heart strings.” Armando tells him, “fine show me all your details.”

(I know now, that I will be pretty suspicious if someone gives me gifts of this sort.)

Mario tells him, “we are now going to enter tacky ville.” Armando tells him, “let the magic begin.” Mario then tells him, “here are cards for anniversaries, birthdays, dating for weeks, apologizes, forgiveness, all sorts of cards.” Armando tells him, “oh how tasteless.” Mario takes out chocolate hearts, “this continues to work guarantee.” Armando asks, “can I eat some?” Mario tells him, “no you can’t. Here are bottles, little pigs, oh look at this candy stick oh how sweet.” Armando tells him, “oh yes of course.” Mario tells him, “be careful not to throw up. Now here are stencils of hearts, you will kill an ugly with these ones.” Armando tells him, “this is going too far. I will not be giving any women any of these.” Mario tells him, “you’re not the one that’s going to be writing it. I will do the honours, I am your poet. I am your Cyrano Bergerac of Eco Moda. My cards, will be so like Freddy sappy and so tacky.” Armando asks, “where will you get the inspiration?” Mario takes out a small book, “it will come from this. I bought this one, poetries short quotes. Plus all these will inspire me, and the last touch of class. Is this tiny flower, put in every little card. Oh isn’t it divine.” He then reads from one book.

“Oh every day that passes, he loves me more than ever. It’s a day missing from my life. Oh dear lord don’t let this day go by or else I will die. If I haven’t given him one kiss. Armando burst out laughing, Mario continues. Oh this junk will make her melt brother. Now if this poetry doesn’t work. I have the perfect solution, songs and ballads of love.” Armando tells him, “oh no not this I can’t believe this. Then they sing a song. Armando tells him, not beautiful or divine Calderon.” Then he plays with a plastic heart. Mario tells him, “I know this will break Betty’s heart. He begins to sing, and dance. Oh these old women, go crazy for this crap. They literally begin to cry, you don’t like here’s another one. Maybe this one, she will identify with.” They begin to sing and dance. Armando then, “shhs” him. Mario tells him, “you can use that, when you dump her.”

(The songs quoted are: Linda by Spain singer Miguel Bosé. Amor divino from Argentine singer de Leo Dan. Siempre en mi mente y Yo no nací para amar, are from my dad’s favorite singer Juan Gabriel of Mexico.)

Armando then gets serious, “Calderon Calderon. Wait one minute, but let’s get serious. I love the songs, but I won’t be singing that to Betty.” Mario puts on his game face, “Armando this is serious. You might think, this is the tackiest thing we’ve ever done but. This junk touches a lot of women’s hearts. Million of ugly women adore this crap.” Armando tells him, “fine this plastic heart that says I love you. The stickers, the chocolates. What is this garbage, doing here it’s just a candy wrapper. I don’t understand.” Mario tells him, “garbage you are saying something so sacred. This is details, you know nothing of the sort. Armando remember, this is the first candy that she gave you.” Armando utters, “oh no.” Mario tells him, “this you must keep.” Armando asks, “where did you find this?” Mario tells him, “as a reminder. You must keep this, where she will find it from time to time. This signifies, that you’re important to her. That you’re her center of the world.” Armando takes it, and looks at it and tells him. “Fine I’ll put it someplace.” Mario takes it away, “look I will do it. I will put this in a place strategically meant for her to see it. Sir this is like a doctor administrating medicines. This will be a daily routine, we must administrate the doses slowly every day. Look I will begin this, I will continue with this romance. You will probably mess this up.” Armando tells him, “why if doing this I will feel very ridiculous. If you are in charge of this romance.” Mario sits down, “tell me who doesn’t look like a fool when they fall in love. At this point in time, at this point in our lives. Begins the dozes we need, of romance. Whether you like it or not.”

Armando tells him, “Calderon you stop right there. What are you going to do with my name?” Mario tells him, “she gave you the first detail. Showing him the wrapper, today you had your first fight. You must now get back together, the reconcile has to begin. Today and tonight you must reconcile. Armando is ready to say something, but Mario stops him. Mario tells him, you haven’t heard, the saying. After the fight, people who live together the best thing is to getting back together.” Armando just thinking about it and is disgusted. Mario tells him, “today we will call it reconcile day. Look this card here, is perfect. We will leave this on her desk today.” Armando utters, “no.” Mario tells him, “no I will do it you’d probably screw this up. You know what must be done.” Armando tells him, “oh no I have plans tonight. I will not do this, you can’t make me.” Mario asks, “what were you late last night, with Marcela or what. Did you make out with Betty last night?” Armando tells him, “I was doing my job nothing else.” Mario tells him, “you do know about that other job right and nothing more.” Armando takes off his glasses, and pretends to cry. While Mario just laughs.

Daniel arrives at Eco Moda, he goes straight to Patricia. He tells her, “good morning  or is it not a good day for you. Have they paid you yet?” Patricia utters, “no.” Daniel asks, “or have you found a lover, or boyfriend to use and maintain you? Or would you like to use me, until they pay you.” Patricia just stares at him then tells him, “I have never had any lovers Daniel.” Daniel asks, “or how about boyfriends? Patricia your situation in life is deplorable. What make it worse, is that you have great ambitions but you need clarity. You need to accept your reality.” Patricia asks, “now what reality is that.” Daniel tells her, “you’re only good for sex. Of course that won’t last you your entire life. You are going to waste.” Patricia tells him, “Daniel you will not insult me further.” Daniel tells her, “but I am not insulting you. It’s an advice from a close friend. An ex-lover, a man that remembers exactly what your body looks like. Who has enjoyed having sex with you. You are just confused, accept good advice and don’t take it as a criticisum. You better get on board, or else that boat will sail without you. You are wasting your time, working as a secretary. With only 6 wasteful months at university of finance. If you do look at yourself in the mirror, you will notice. You still look good, you’re still attractive. Great legs, fantastic breasts, an attractive face. You can still take advantage of getting yourself a lover. That will value what you have, who will take you out of your agony and misery.” Patricia tells him, “I really do thank you Daniel. For your great advice, but you are so mistaken. I know what I want, and my projections.”

Daniel tells her, “yes of course you did think a lot. With that pregnancy scare you used, yes that was nicely played but of course it failed. You almost left town, with 5000 to Miami.” Patricia tells him, “look Daniel enough I will no longer discuss my private life with you. I assure you, I do not need any lover to survive. I also don’t have to live using my body, to resolve my life.” Daniel tells her, “Patricia really thinks this through. Tomorrow will come, and you will be a dying flower. That would be such a shame, a woman without any offers. You’ll end up an old woman, full of debts.” Patricia tells him, “oh Daniel I still have a few good years left.” Daniel tells her, “ah yes that is what Elizabeth Taylor said when she got to 70.” Patricia tells her, “oh Daniel let me see if I understand this. Those advices, and those suggestions. Why are you taking such an interest, with your time and such. To tell me all of this?” Daniel asks, “tell me why don’t you tell me yourself?” Patricia tells him, “that you want to be that lover. That you want a relationship with me?” Daniel tells her, “tsk tsk no I am not asking for myself. I have this friend, that wants a lover.” Patricia tells him, “Daniel I hate you and can’t stand you. You will never insult me ever again. I will never be one of your friend’s lovers, for any money in the world.” Daniel tells her, “ok forget about the money what do you want?” Patricia tells him, “nothing I want you to disappear from my sight.” Daniel tells her, “Patricia when you repent your decision call me. Advise me, and I will introduce you to my friend.”

Armando tells Mario, who by now is reading one of the books. “Calderon I can’t continue going out every night with Betty. Take that out of your head, look we talked about. Making Beatriz fall in love with me, not that we were going to start dating. That’s not what we discussed, you know very well Calderon. I have a suffocating relationship with Marcela, I can’t have a girlfriend. Especially with that vampire.” Mario tells him, “do you really think what you already did to Betty was enough to fix the problem.” Armando tells him, “no look I fully understand that I have to still work at this. I will do this calmly, I will ask her to go out with me for another night and that’s that.” Mario tells him, “another night yeah so now everything will cool down once again. Fine she will think that this romance, was just for 2 days. While our friend Nicholas Mora, will be waiting in the wings for her. Rubbing his greedy little hands, and waiting for Betty to return to him. I thought I was dealing, with an expert here not an amateur. What is wrong with you?”

Armando tells him, “you are mistaken Calderon. I am an expert in women, the problem is I am not an expert dealing with ugly women. This is the first time, I am dating an ugly woman.” Mario tells him, “look Casanova. It doesn’t matter, here we are trying to cement a relationship. That’s supposed to be serious, we have to do this quickly. With intensity, not just with one night. Various nights must be attempted, no sir we must cement this romance you understand. It’s like raging fire its starts with a spark, we give it some more wood and a fire burns brightly. It last for a long time.” Armando asks, “oh you are such a poet my dear Jose Louis Bergerac Calderon.” Mario tells him, “that I didn’t read from any old book. Pablo Medula Mendoza. I am saying this quite seriously, you must work at this pretty hard. You must make sure that Betty, is so in love with you. You must take the temptation, of that idiot out of her mind. You know why, because women if they are in love are patience. That is the only way, we will turn down the intensity. The women, they are satisfied with the bits of pieces of an illusion. That the world will be the same, but before that happens. You must solidity that romance.” Armando tells him, “yes I understand but I will end up in a lot of trouble with Marcela.” Mario tells him, “oh come on Armando you are an expert in tormenting that woman. You are a guru in cheating on her. It will be a lot more work, kissing Betty than doing that to Marcela.” That’s when Daniel, enters the boardroom.

Daniel tells them, “well good afternoon.” Armando tells him, “oh what a pleasure it is too see you Daniel Valencia. So what brings you here, to our humble offices. Mario quickly moves towards the table. Oh I really do want to congratulate you on that suit. You look great as a funeral director.” Daniel tells him, “it suits me fine coming to a place like this. Oh maybe I’ll get some capital out of it.” Armando tells him, “Mr. Calderon sit down he wishes to start a meeting.” Daniel tells him, “I have been checking out my bank balance. I cannot find the cheque for this month, so what happened. Are we bankrupt?” Armando ask, “oh really do you know anything about this Calderon.” Mario tells him, “no I have no idea. I haven’t been put up to speed.” Armando tells him, “oh that’s a shame Calderon. Look I have an idea what might have happened. I think tomorrow, you will be getting that money.” Daniel tells him, “oh a guess. Fine could someone in this building. Give me more of a better explanation on this matter.” Armando tells him, “but of course Danielito. Talk to the one, that is in charge of the company’s finances. Her name is Beatriz Pinzon Solano my assistant.” Daniel tells him, “oh you mean that computer with glasses that you put in that closet.” Armando tells him, “yes correct.” Daniel looks at the table.

“Oh how lovely, so who does all this belong too?” Armando points towards Mario and tells him. “It’s all Mario Calderon’s.” Mario utters, “it’s a right….” Daniel goes, “oh how sweet. I didn’t know you were that romantic, oh how lovely these stencils. Oh a book on love, no this detail. One that loves, oh before I loved you nothing was mine. I have searched the streets it didn’t matter, for none of them had names. The world was just air that I waited. So where is a handkerchief, to wipe away these tears. Oh sensible, oh how charming Mario. Oh how impressive, oh look at this music. Oh how exquisite, oh Leo Don Erick Eleno, Juan Gabriel, Myra Hernandez. Leto Ortega. Oh Mario please what a collection of music, it’s so delicious. What a selection, maybe one day you can lend me one. So I can record them. Mario oh how tender, oh definately your one of the last romantics in the world you naughty boy.” Then he leaves, Armando burst out laughing. Mario hits his head on the table, he’s furious and embarrassed. “I can’t believe this, that it’s Daniel Valencia who discovered this. I just can’t believe this, oh thank you very much Mr. President. For saying all this stuff was mine, oh how kind.” Armando laughing recites a quote, “oh your tenderness and comprehension and caring have filled my life fully. Armando  continues laughing. What did you expect me to say? Tell him, all this stuff is so I can romance Betty. Yes tell my brother in law that. He continues to laugh, that’s why I said it was yours.” Mario quickly begins by picking everything up. “I can’t believe this, I’ve never felt so embarrassed.” Armando tells him, “I am glad you feel this way Calderon. That is what I feel, every time I have to romance that vampire.” Mario tells him, “this isn’t done.” Armando laughs once more.

Betty is working when Daniel arrives, he tells her. “Good afternoon.” Betty gets up, and tells him. “Good afternoon sir, how are you doing today.” Daniel tells her, “you always have that scared face every time you see me. Or is that a characteristic of yours, that you look at me that way.” Betty tells him, “I’m guessing it’s an involuntary reaction to your appearance. It happens to me all the time, when I see horror movies. She laughs, please sit down.” Daniel tells her, “oh you enjoy scary movies. Oh they are quite reasonable, may I ask why you are afraid of me. I too can give you some details, as to why  I am also scared of you.” Betty tells him, “I didn’t know the feeling was mutual sir.” Daniel tells her, “yes of course. I can image that you are afraid, if I search that computer I would discover the true files regarding the company. The losses from that failed collection, the bad business deals, and the audit I could ask. Would that scare you, is that why you’re always supporting Armando’s back. It’s understandable.” Betty tells him, “no it’s not because I take care of Don Armando’s back. Or that Eco Moda’s computer has tons of information. It’s just that every time, you come its always bad news.”

Daniel tells her, “so I bring the bad news. Or is it that, you’re the ones that give them too me. Tell me Betty what news, have you told me for you to say that too me.” Betty gets up, and gets a binder. “Every time we are told your coming, bad news bad news Daniel Valencia is coming. We all get prepared, like were expecting a death of someone. I guess that is why, when I think of you I think of bad news. It’s always so little good news, since you never have friendly gestures sir.” Daniel tells him, “it surprises me how sincere you are Betty. Considering, you shouldn’t say those things with an investor being next to you.” Betty tells him, “yes I would also think about it as well. If you didn’t doubt my honesty all the time.” Daniel tells her, “yes I will be giving you bad news. I want you to give me my cheque today. You know what kind of mood I get, if you don’t comply.” Betty tells him, “yes sir but sorry to say I also have bad news to give you. No not today, we haven’t been able to pay our investors, our employees. Plus the banks because no money has come in. We are over extended with the banks, until that is paid there is no money to give anybody.” Daniel tells her, “let me be clear. I have a large capital investment in this company. A capital unfortunately, Armando is in charge of the money and he has you as an accomplice. The last thing I want to hear, is that you can’t give me my money. I don’t care if your overextend with the banks. Before you deal with the banks, make sure you give the investors their share first. The owners of the company.” Betty tells him, “well sorry sir you are correct but. We must take care of the banks, for in the future we won’t be able to help out the investors. You know how the banks work, well in any case I do have good news. We can pay you tomorrow afternoon.” Daniel tells her, “how kind of you Betty. Now you can take away, that face of terror I am leaving.” Betty tells him, “sir well if you do leave that feeling will go away.” Daniel utters, “your ugliness no.”

(If Betty wasn’t ugly, he would be very attracted to her. For her intelligence alone, he does enjoy their conversations don’t you think.)

He leaves and Mario and Armando bump into him. “Have nice afternoon gentlemen.” Armando tells him, “oh the afternoon has already been ruined by your presence.” Daniel tells him, “oh Mario you never fail to surprise me.” He hits his chest, and walks away. Mario says, “bygones bygones.” Then Armando asks, “what was he doing inside with Betty?” He wants to barge in Mario stops him. Mario tells him, “enough with your jealousy nothing happened control control.” Armando angrily heads inside, “control you idiot what jealously. He opens the door, he asks. Betty what was Daniel doing in here?” Betty tells him, “he came by to ask why we didn’t give him his cheque.” Armando tells her, “no no no he didn’t come here for that. He doesn’t need that money. Someone must have told him, that payroll hadn’t been paid. He came by fishing for information.” Betty tells him, “be calm sir I was able to control him. I told him, we would pay him tomorrow afternoon.” Armando tells her, “good Beatriz thank you. Do you have the list of people, that must be paid first.” Betty tells him, “I will go ask Sophia she might have them excuse me.” Both men watch her leave, then both get moving. Mario tells him, “this stays here while this goes over here.” Armando tells him, “that’s perfect.” Mario tells him, “don’t move it now the details are monumental. Armando picks it up. Mario asks, what are you doing?” Armando opens the letter, and says. “At least I should know what this says. I don’t know anything about poetry, I would never write that.” Mario takes it away, and says. “Give me that, it doesn’t matter it has to be tacky to work. Now then you messed it up.” Armando tells him, “hurry up she’s coming.” Then both come out of Betty’s office.

Daniel heads over to see Marcela, she tells him. “Oh Daniel the role of victim doesn’t suit you. Well just because, we didn’t give you your cheque of the month. You must have money coming in from other avenues.” Daniel tells her, “yes I am an advisor to the state.” Marcela tells him, “yes but you live on your own. You should have saved all the money, we have given you from here. It has to be saved somewhere, you only came here to mortify Armando.” Daniel tells her, “Marcela oh I enjoy mortifying Armando as a natural insticts. Like a dog bothers the cat. I didn’t come just for that, truthfully I need that money. I have no money saved, I am not that stupid to just leave it in the bank. I invested in a project, that devours a lot of money. Marcela I am in debt with the banks, this project consumes a lot of money. If I don’t pay, they will take me out of the project. I’m at risk, of losing all my money.”

(I got to thinking, what if at one point Daniel was a friend with Armando. They run in the same circle of friends, did the company really tear their friendship apart. Just a thought.)

“Marcela I am your brother, I hardly live on with what you give me as an investor.” Marcela tells him, “I am glad at last you treat me like a sister. It’s just a coincidence, that we haven’t given you your cheque of the month. I will fix this detail. Like a sister, I will order that thing over there to pay you your cheque tomorrow.” Daniel tells her, “when you refer about that thing. Are you referring to Armando’s assistant?” Marcela tells her, “yes.” Daniel asks, “do you have that power to guarantee. That she will give me my cheque?” Marcela asks, “what are you trying to tell me? What that she is on top of me?” Daniel tells her, “I don’t want to say anything. I am telling you.” Marcela tells him, “if she doesn’t obey me. I will clean the floors of Eco Moda with her.” Daniel tells her, “well good luck with that. If you do that, Armando will do that too you. He goes and kisses her cheek. He will throw you out of the company and his life.” He then leaves, Marcela just angrily stares at the door.

(It’s like Daniel knows, that without Betty Armando would be lost.)

Daniel before leaving, head straight to see Patricia once more. ‘So Patricia have you thought things through. Should I contact my friend?” Patricia tells him, “look Daniel Valencia. You are looking to be slapped.” Daniel tells her, “oh women pay that way for favors. With slaps on the face, I will give you a better offer Patricia. I can image soon, that you thought I was that lover who would want to maintain you. If you like it so bad, I suppose I can make that dream a reality but by half.” Patricia tells him, “that doesn’t interest me.” Daniel tells her, “you will continue working here. I will not maintain you, anytime I want I will go visit you at your apartment. We make love, but please Patricia without saying one word. I arrive you take off your clothes, and that’s that. For every visit, I will pay you something extra. Plus with this job, it will help pay your debts.” Patricia tells him, “under no circumstance will I accept that money. To sleep with you once again, I am not a whore forget it.” Daniel picks up her bills, “oh my they will turn off your cell phone. Problems with your credit cards, this now will become a justice’s problem. They will embargo you.” He then leaves, Patricia just stares at him.

Betty tells Armando, “here is the list all the people we have to pay back. She gives it too him,  Armando just smiles and accepts the folder. Then Betty heads to her office, he nervously waits while Betty finds the card and trinket on her desk. She reads the letter:

“Oh all the evidence and misunderstandings, and all the problems we have had lately. I just want to show you that I do love you. Attentive Armando.”

Betty holds it dearly to her heart, and sees the chocolates and also takes it. She utters, “oh Don Armando, I also love you.” The models arrive, and close the doors behind them. Both of them tell him, “hello.” Armando asks, “well what are you two doing in here?” One of the them says, “it’s been such a long time since we haven’t seen you.” The other says, “we are very sad today.” The other says, “we haven’t been paid.” Armando goes towards them, “look I am truly sorry but yes nobody has been paid. It’s shameful of us, we’ve had a few problems with the banks. That causes us not to be able to pay the payroll.” One model says, “you can do two exceptions.” The other says, “from two women that adore you and dreams about you.” The other one says, “we admire you.”

Armando tells them, “girls it doesn’t depend on me. He moves close to them. We really do have problems, in paying the payroll. No money is coming in.” Betty goes to the door and overhears them. One of the models asks, “oh are you sure?” The other says, “you have it here come over here.” The women begin tickling him, and Betty opens the door. They stop, and he glances at Betty. Armando straightens his jacket and tells them. “I am the president,  ladies like everyone here must wait till tomorrow to get paid. Wait only 24 hours.” One of them says, “oh come on.” The other one asks, “what’s wrong?” Armando tells them, “I’m serious this isn’t a game. Then he takes both of them by the hand, and takes them out of the office. Yes ladies, I am telling you the truth.” One of them asks, “what is wrong with you?” He then closes the doors, and looks her way. “Look at that Betty, did you see that. They wanted to play with me, what no respect. I am the president of this company, they were tickling me looking for money. I am furious with them, furious. Betty nervously fixes her glasses, what is wrong Beatriz?” Betty tells him, “no nothing sir. She shows him the gifts, thank you sir.” Armando smiles, and she attempts to wink at him. Then she closes the door, and he is left puzzled. Betty sighs and nods happily.

Night has fallen, Mario comes around. “So did Betty come around? Did she see the gifts you gave her? Armando just nods, Mario continues. “So what did she say?” Armando tells him, “nothing she just winked at me. Like I was Doctor Motrin, then she thanked me.” Mario asks, “so will you take her out tonight?” Armando tells him, “Calderon you know damn well I can’t. Marcela will kill me, just to go out with that.” Mario tells him, “look one minute no nerves let’s see what cocktails I can send you tonight. Let’s see, what event is going on tonight.” Armando tells him, “Calderon I can’t go anywhere tonight with her.” Mario tells him, “don’t be an idiot. It’s not to take her, it’s so you can tell Marcela where you will be. What your love is making you an idiot. Posh La Amor, what do you think?” Armando tells him, “I will tell Marcela I am going to a cocktail party she will want to join me. That won’t help me out.” Mario asks, “how about this Color Inn she can’t stand the place. It’s perfect, Marcela can’t stand Jorge Monteja.” Armando tells him, “alone are you kidding with my luck she will want to go with me.” Mario tells him, “fine we will do one thing. Tell her, I am going with you and my date is Maritza she can’t stand her. We will have no problem.” Armando tells him, “that’s not bad but it’s risky.” Mario tells him, “of course it’s risky but only if you get nervous about it. Remember your self esteem, you won’t get caught. Tell Marcela, I am going to a cocktail party at Color Inn. With Mario and Maritza Vajanera, and Jorge Manteja it’s not that hard.” Armando repeats it, and stops when Marcela comes in.

“Oh hi dear how are you, oh I got this invitation from Color Inn. There’s a party for their new merchandise, do you care to come with.” Marcela asks, “will Jorge Manteja be there?” Armando tells her, “yes he’ll be there. Mario will be coming as well with Maritza Vajanera.” Mariana utters, “oh with that woman. Oh I can just hear, Marcela Valencia don’t you dare show up there.” Armando tells her, “oh come on love lets go so what no.” Marcela tells him, “no that’s probably going to finish at 10 p.m. What will you do later?” Armando tells her, “that I don’t know when it’s done.” Marcela asks, “what do you mean you don’t know how long that will take?” Marcela asks, “what do you have other plans? Will you be going out with somebody else or what?” Armando tells her, “again with the suspicious questioning. What is wrong with you? This is exhausting.” Marcela tells her, “oh you have a great time.” She leaves, as he calls out. “Marcela Marcela. Then he happily jumps up, it worked.” Betty comes out of her office, “sir I would like to know. If I can go home, or do you need me for anything else?” Armando tells her, “I will take you home Betty.” Betty asks, “don’t you have plans sir?” Armando tells her, “you are leaving with me tonight ok Betty.” Betty tells him, “ok sir.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz don’t call me that. Don’t look at me that way, this isn’t an order. Don’t interpret it that way.” Betty tells him, “yes sir like you order. Don’t worry, relax.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz look right now I am not your boss I’m you’re….” Betty tells him, “look you don’t have to force yourself by saying so.” She smiles, and he tells her. “I have to do some things, and then later on we can go out alright.” Betty tells him, “I will be in my office just tell me.” Armando tells her, “I will tell you.” Then she heads to her office, with a big grin on her face.

The first commercial valentine greeting cards produced in the United States were created in the 1840s by Esther A. Howland.

SIXTY-THREE

Marcela goes by Patricia quite angrily, Patricia calls out to her. “Marcee are you alright?” Marcela tells her, “no” and goes towards her office. Patricia follows and asks, “what is happening?” Marcela tells her, “no I don’t want to talk about it. All I want to do is leave here.” Patricia tells her, “did that Betty do something?” Marcela tells her, “no her existence here in this company is a mistake. Having her here, is an insult towards me. Beatriz isn’t the problem tonight.” Patricia tells her, “the way you’re talking there is one thing infidelity.” Marcela tells her, “I told you I don’t want to talk about this.” Patricia tells her, “its infidelity Marcee. No you shouldn’t have to deal with this on your own. It hurts us both, you for not releasing it and for me for not being able to help you. How am I supposed to leave to my place, with you like this. You have it so inside you, you’re going to explode. How am I supposed to sleep? Tell me something, give me a name. Give me a name, how long has he been cheating on you?” Marcela tells her, “you know what don’t get all anxious. This isn’t a movie, you know very well. I don’t like sharing my private life.” Patricia asks, “so then what is going on? Marcee you have it, you have it. It’s at the tip of your tongue.” Marcela tells her, “Armando has plans to go with someone tonight.”

Patricia asks, “with whom?’ Marcela tells her, “you know with whom. If I knew, I wouldn’t be this worried.” Patricia tells her, “well then let’s use our intelligence. Let’s follow him.” Marcela tells her, “oh really that’s all I needed. To become a detective.” Patricia tells her, “well it’s not that complicated. I do have some experience in this, you remember when I was stuck. Having to follow my ex-Mauricio. Well what we could do, is get a car that he wouldn’t recognize. I would drive, I made sure to know his routine. Then what I did was… ” Marcela tells her, “stop right there. Stop stop stop right there. I will not do your plan, I will not follow Armando. You know why, what I have and you don’t have is dignity.” Patricia tells her, “then what. You want him to go, and someone will steal him. Will you give him away, like a gift. It has taken you years to trap him, he has only one foot in before you two marry. Marcela I just can’t believe this, I just can’t believe this. Tomorrow you’ll wake up, oh what pain. Patricia makes horns on her head with her fingers. Oh what is happening, what is on my head.” Marcela tells her, “just because I don’t want to follow him in a car. Doesn’t signify I am crossing my arms in defeat. Understand I have a good plan, so I can find out what he did. I do not want to discuss this further. I do not want to talk about this, I don’t want to hear this from you. I am leaving.” She takes off, Patricia utters. “Oh Marcee wait, you haven’t given me money I need to pay the gas.”

Armando tells Mario, “I am going to get in trouble with Marcela. She is starting to get suspicious, she knows that I’m going out with someone.” Mario tells him, “does she know who it is?” He laughs like Betty, Armando tells him. “Oh come on she will never guess that.” Mario tells him, “yes a question that stupid. Can you image, anybody thinking that you’re going to escape with Betty is a complete moron.” Armando tells him, “Calderon we shouldn’t continue with this. Marcela will find out, that I am not going to that Color launch Inn.” Mario tells him, “but you will be there at the launch.” Armando tells him, “with Betty Betty oh no not in a million years.” Mario tells him, “no without Betty.” Meanwhile Betty is fixing her hair, using her small mirror. She stops when she sees Armando, he tells her. “Well then let’s go Beatriz then.” Betty just nods and gets her things. While Armando is having second thoughts, and all he can smell is her perfume.

Patricia is counting her change, and says in her head. “Damn I hardly have enough to pay for gas. I will be dumped someplace, wait I could take the bus. No way, I would rather be dumped someplace without no gas than take a disgusting bus. Oh who could I ask, who can I asks for money.” Mario comes by, and says “hello.” Patricia tells him, “hello Mario look how about you take me..” Mario stops her right there, and gets on the cell phone. He utters, “tonight yes” and he walks away. Patricia utters, “you bastard Mario who will I ask for money? She sees the ladies getting ready to leave. Patricia utters in her head, I’d rather die than ask them for money. Or walk home, before I beg for money from them.” She then stares at Armando walking by. Sophia asks Betty, “will you be coming with us?” Betty tells them, “no.” Sandra asks, “then how will you get home?” Betty glances at Armando, and Armando tells them. “Well I will drop her off, since it’s close to a cocktail party I have to attend.” The elevator opens, Ines tells him. “Go ahead sir.” Mariana tells him, “you can go first.” Armando tells them, “you all go in then.” One by one they go in, and utter “thanks sir.” They are all grinning, and staring at Betty. Sophia teases Betty, until Armando glances over at her. While Patricia counts her change once more.

Aura Maria is on the phone, “yes its logical were going out again tonight. No don’t be silly, if I asks permission at home. They won’t give it to me, look tonight if I do go out I can’t stay out too late. She hears Freddy, and tells him. I’ll see you there.” Quickly Aura Maria, picks up her things she goes past Wilson. Who utters, “hello.” She goes “shhh” and takes off. Freddy comes by singing, and sees Wilson. “Wilson excuse me.” Wilson utters, “yes sir.” Freddy asks, “have you seen the lovely receptionist that usually sits here.” Wilson drinks his coffee, “brother your lovely lady went running out of here a few minutes ago.” Freddy tells him, “well that is impossible. She told me, that she would wait for me. I was going to take her home.” Wilson tells him, “brother as soon as she heard you coming she took off. Between the two of us, Aura Maria is cheating on you.” Furiously he grabs Wilson’s barrett. He utters, “no brother no brother. No that can’t be happening. No woman, has ever cheated on Freddy Contreras. Especially my queen, this can’t be happening. No it won’t happen.”

The group come out of the elevator, everyone says “goodbye see you tomorrow” to Armando. Armando tells Wilson, “Wilson head to the garage and open it please.” Wilson tells him, “yes sir following your orders.” He takes off, Betty just waves and the door closes. The group sees a very upset Freddy Ines asks. “So where is Aura Maria?” Freddy asks, “what happened to Aura Maria? She told me to wait, and look she’s gone. He picks up the chair, its empty.” Mariana tells him, “sorry Freddy but we have no idea where she went out too.” Freddy tells them, “ladies please I am starting to get worried. What if she’s all alone, waiting for the bus. She’s wearing that small mini-dress showing off her long legs. Those are mine, I die for her. I am going to look for her.” Ines tells him, “no Freddy don’t go.” Freddy tells her, “Inesita its a question of morality.” Ines tells her, “no son don’t bother going. She’s not worth it.”

Armando gets to the car, Betty follows behind him. Then she stands beside the car, he utters. “Go in, then stops and says. Wait you naughty girl, I’ll open that door.” Betty just smiles and says, “thank you sir and enters. Then when he enters, she tells him. Sir just drop me off, I’ll find a way home. You go to that cocktail party at Color Inn, you know it’s not even near my place. Drop me off in a corner, I’ll get a taxi.” Armando tells her, “no I will take you home Betty.” Betty tells him, “but you’ll be late for your party.” Armando repeats, “I will take you home.” Betty tells him, “sir you’re going to waste gasoline.” Then Armando screams, “I will take you home Beatriz alright. Permit me, he calms down I will take you home. Betty then shuts up, and looks away. Look I am sorry, but I want us to be together for a while.” Betty tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “I am not ordering you Beatriz. This relationship we have, we do have feeling for one another. We need to be together, for just a few minutes.”

Betty once again smiles and asks, “so where are we going?” Armando tells her, “I don’t know we’ll find a place.” Betty tells him, “no one can see us together.” Armando tells her, “yes nobody can see us. We will go and find a nice place, that both of us like then we can be alone.” Betty laughs and says, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “we do have one problem. I told Marcela I had to go, to that cocktail at Color Inn. That was an excuse, so we could both meet up later on. If I don’t make an appearance, Marcela will get suspicious. Someone might tell Marcela, that I didn’t show up. I will get into big trouble, this is what were going to do. I will drop you off at a location, that we both like of course. Then I’ll  leave you alone there, and go to Color Inn stay for say a bit. Then come back ok, then we can enjoy being together all night. I know that it’s strange but, it’s the only reason for us to be together. You know how Marcela gets.” Betty tells him, “oh sir don’t worry about me. I understand, I know your tricks.” Then she laughs, and he taps her lightly. “I am doing it for the two of us.” Betty tells him, “sir I will wait for you.” Armando tells her, “if I could kiss you right here I would but I can’t.” Betty tells him, “oh sir there’s Wilson we should get going from here.” Armando tells her, “yes we should go before I do something crazy.” Betty just laughs and smiles. Wilson yells out, “till tomorrow sir.” Then he shuts the garage doors.

At the lobby Freddy tells the ladies, “between my lady and I. I know that there’s a nice friendship, she told me this this very morning very primitively. She told me, Freddy between the two of us. We are only friends, the word friend just doesn’t fill me up. It doesn’t work with me, I know that I am not the man of her life but love is full of battle scars. I am going to fight, and make sure she knows that I am that man of her dreams. Even though she doesn’t dream about me.” Ines tells him, “Freddy my dear son.” Freddy tells her, “Inesita one minute don’t ruin this inspirational moment. I know that you might want to tell me, Freddy that woman doesn’t want you. What stress and worry. That woman doesn’t even pay any attention to you. Oh what stress, what agony, it’s like a flame has gone out.”

(For some reason, when Freddy starts up with his poetry he reminds me of poet smurf.)

Sophia tells him, “you gave up your meal so she could eat.” Sandra tells him, “Freddy stop wasting your time. Waiting for her, every night like an idiot.” Mariana tells him, “yes what stress I am feeling anguish for you.” Bertha tells him, “stop it stop being such an…” Ines stops her, “Bertha Bertha.” Freddy tells them, “I know all of you are saying the same thing. I know that my conscious is screaming, but the beating of my heart is stronger. Sometimes that makes me deaf, I will continue fighting. I will try to bend her heart, with my words, with my class of flirting. With her attitudes, that so fascinate me. My life without her, has no meaning. If this seat is empty this object stops being the throne, and will transforms into the electric chair.” Ines tells him, “Freddy please listen to us.” Freddy tells her, “no Inesita I will continue fighting for her. The road is empty, at least I am not competing with anybody. Everyone looks away. Or is there someone else?” Sandra tells them, “we better go ladies.” Mariana tells him, “take care Freddy.” Freddy screams out, “wait ladies is there another prince taking my spot.”

(Why doesn’t Freddy have a better job, he’s an intelligent well spoken guy. Why is he just a delivery guy?)

Armando and Betty, arrive at a club called the Discovery. “Now you go inside the discotheque and pick a nice spot. While I will head to Color Inn, for that cocktail party. I will try to be quick.” Betty tells him, “yes sir don’t worry I will wait for you.” Armando tells her, “I won’t be long.” Betty utters, “alright sir.” Then she closes her eyes, and waits for a kiss. Armando quickly kisses her, and she leaves the car. He utters, “oh without a drink these kisses are horrible.” Then he waves, as does Betty and then she enter the club while he leaves.

(Betty hasn’t even been to a club on her own, how could he just leave her like that.)

Wilson is with Freddy, “brother what is wrong you look worried.” Freddy utters, “brother I don’t know I just don’t feel well. I am very anguish, I invested badly that money.” Wilson asks, “what money the money I lent you. Or that money you gave so Aura Maria, could go eat something. Why are you saying, you invested badly. Wasn’t that money for her anyway?” Freddy tells him, “brother I think I am helping her out just so she can be with another.” Wilson utters, “oh another lizard got her.” More people come down, and Mario asks Wilson. “Where are my car keys?” Wilson tells him, “I left them on the switch.” Mario tells him, “go open the gates to the garage.” Wilson tells him, “right away sir” and he leaves. Freddy utters, “oh Santa Barbara. Please don’t let this be true.”

Mario is singing away and heads to his car. He enters, and then pow. Patricia screams, “my love and gives him a big kiss. He screams and pushes the car horn. She utters, it’s your love Patricia.” She then begins kissing his ears, Mario asks. “Oh Patty what are you doing in here?” Patricia tells him, “I was waiting for you my love. I am going to kidnap you tonight.” He then jumps up nervously. “Patty you can’t kidnap me, I have a cocktail party to go too at Color Inn.” Patricia tells him, “well then let’s both go to that cocktail party. Then we can go to my apartment, I will give you a massage that’s delicious.”

(This scene was hilarious. I busted a gut laughing, oh that Patricia.)

Mario tells her, “no I will not take you to that cocktail party. Armando will fire me, you know that you’re not his favorite person.” Patricia kisses him once more, “ok fine then take me home tomorrow you can pick me up ok.” Mario tells her, “no Patty in 10 minutes I have to be at that cocktail party. Or else Armando will kill me, and chop me into small pieces. Look I’ll figure out what to do tomorrow. Will make something up, and he gets out of the car. Patricia I don’t have that much time. He takes her out as well, now you be a good girl.” Patricia tells him, “but Mario.” Mario tells her, “go and don’t do what I wouldn’t do.” Patricia tells him, “Mario please Mario.” Mario utters, “oh Patty I’m in a hurry.” Patricia utters, “I need you to give me money for gas for my car.” Mario by this point in his car, and drives away. She screams his name. Wilson screams, “have a great time Don Mario.”Wilson asks, “are you leaving as well Dona Patricia?” Patricia tells him, “I have been trying to do so for a half an hour.” Patricia utters, “so Wilson.” Wilson asks, “yes Dona Patricia.” Patricia twirls her hair and asks. “You don’t happen, to have money you can lend me?” Wilson utters, “me lend you money. Oh Dona Patricia, don’t fool around with my economic status. It’s like a bank asking me, for money to pay a loan.” Patricia tells him, “I need 5000 to get gas for my car.” Wilson tells her, “you need 5000, you need 5000.” Patricia tells him, “yes I need money do you have them or not.” Wilson tells her, “fine Dona Patricia I will lend you 5000 but it has to be return tomorrow morning. It’s the last that I got. He gives her the money, she takes it and walks away. He utters, definitely its best to be rich pointing to himself than poor pointing to her.”

Nicholas is at home, and on the phone with Antonio.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(He tells him, “yes Mr. Sanchez we have your money. Oh don’t you worry we can even give you an advance. Remember I am the vice president and financial advisor here at Eco Moda. Where do you want me to take it?”)

“Oh I’ll be there with your money, and thank you for the invitation.” He hangs up, “oh Mr. Sanchez you’re like a bohemians.” The phone rings once more. Hermes comes running in. “I’ll get it, I’ll get it.” Nicholas gets too it first and he answers. “Oh hi Betty, where are you?” Betty tells him, “I am here with my boss. Give me to my dad.” Nicholas utters, “what do you mean you’re going to be late again?” Betty tells him, “oh Nicholas what it to you it doesn’t bother you.” Nicholas tells her, “don’t say that what do you mean it doesn’t matter to me. We are both worried, if you come home late. Mr. Sanchez asked for his money, I told him we would give it to him by half. One with a cheque, the other with real money. I’m stuck having to go, because he says he can’t afford to come all the way for it understand. I’ll give the phone to your dad, he’s ready to explode. His face is red, his nostrils flaring. Call me on my cell, I will have it on just in case you might need me call me.” Hermes grabs the phone, and glares at him.

Nicholas tells him, “start the torment and screaming.” Hermes tells her, “hi dear what do you mean the senorita is going to be late? Where are you, what is with that music? Where are you Betty?” Betty tells him, “I am here with my boss and some other executives at an event.” Hermes tells her, “again out all night.” Betty tells him, “oh dad I am at a meeting for work.” Hermes tells her, “fine I will pick you up tell me the name and address.” Betty tells him, “but dad Don Armando will be taking me home.” Hermes tells her, “once again your boss. Oh what is with him, and his friendly ways dear.” Betty tells him, “well the thing is were dating.” Hermes tells her, “don’t say that I am not in the mood for jokes. Nicholas overhears and laughs. Hermes asks, so what time will you be coming home?” Betty tells him, “I am going to be late after midnight. I will call you back to advise you.”

At the cocktail party, Mario tells a person. “Oh the collection has been a complete success, the clients and investors are thrilled. The only place, that has been a bit of a problem has been palm beach. Wait just to mention it, we will one day head over there maybe you two lovely ladies could come with me.” The models utters, “oh really.” Mario tells her, “the only thing that is holding us back is of course a bit of financial problem.” Armando shows up, and gets kissed by the models. He shakes a guy’s hand. Mario then excuses himself, and goes over to a corner with Armando. “So tell me where did you leave the monster?” Armando tells him, “that monster is over at the discotheque you recommended.” Mario asks, “so have you kissed her without booze?” Armando tells him, “yes a small peck of goodbye. That should keep her happy, before I arrive. Now Calderon I have 20 minutes, for me to get super drunk than I’ll head over there. Get me a whiskey right now.” Mario tells him, “I’ll get that right away. Sir over here, recognize this face he only came here to drink.” Armando takes a drink, and then says. “Alright I’ll do my president duties, shake a few hands and then take off.” Mario tells him, “you can’t leave that girl alone at the discotheque. What if she gets picked up by someone.” Both start laughing.

At Discovery Betty waits, and a server comes by. She orders an orange juice, the guy says. “If you want a table, you’re going to get at least two liquor bottle. Or else you have to leave the table.” Betty then asks, “I’ll have then two bottles of whiskeys and my orange juice please is that all right.” The guy utters, “that’s fine” and he takes off.

At the cocktail party, Armando is ready to go. “Ok I’m heading over to see Betty, she’s waiting for me. I have to complete my mission.” Mario tells him, “yes go you look so worried for her especially leaving her all alone. Ok have your inspiration, and he takes out a picture of Adriana Arboleda. Now you’ve had your whiskeys son, you have a great job ahead of you. One two three, you’re ready.” Armando smiles then tells him, “bye.” He turns and there is Marcela. “Well hello love.” The smile erases from his face, Mario watches in disbelief and Armando asks. “My love what are you doing in here?” Marcela tells him, “what is strange. At the office you invited me to come.” Armando tells him, “yes but you said you would rather be in jail instead of coming in here.” Marcela tells him, “well I changed my mind my love. She laughs and Armando laughs as well. I didn’t want to disappoint you. I know that if you invited me, that you needed me to be by your side.” Armando tells her, “yes of course.” Marcela tells him, “just because I can’t stand Ricardo Monteja. Or for that matter, your best friends and his girlfriend doesn’t mean I shouldn’t be here. I said to myself, Armando is never selfish with me. So this time I won’t be, so that’s why I am here. That is alright?” Armando tells him, “yes that’s divine like a queen.” Mario comes next to Armando, “oh hello it’s great that you were able to make it.” Marcela tells him, “oh all that flattery will end up costing you one year extra in hell when you die. So where is Maritza?” Mario tells them, “she hasn’t arrived yet. I’m waiting for her, she should arrive soon.” She glances over to the models. “What is up with those two, I see you already have replaced Maritza. So which one is yours Mario, and Armando?”

Armando tells her, “those two came with Mario.” Mario tells her, “oh no one minute they were already here when I arrive.” Mario tells him, “why are making me look bad in front of Marcela.” Marcela tells him, “what image? On the contrary, you are a solid friend to Armando. You were so kind as to get a date, and bring one for him as well.” Armando tells her, “they did not come with me Marcela. Don’t start this again?” Marcela tells him, “I know that they didn’t come with you. They were waiting for you here.” Armando tells her, “oh yes is that what you think come with me.” He takes her to the girls. Marcela doesn’t want to go, but he drags her to the girls. “Excuse me ladies, which of you two came with me. One asks, excuse me.” Marcela utters, “enough.” Armando tells her, “listen to make things clear. Did Mario here, talk to you and bring you here for me.” One girl asks Mario, “what is he talking about?” The other asks Mario, “was is this all about?” Mario is holding them, and says. “It’s just a little misunderstanding. Don’t you two worry about it?” Marcela tells him, “thanks a lot I now look like fool.” Armando tells them, “ladies thank you.”

Marcela heads to the table, Armando tells her. “What are you now satisfied? Do you still have a doubt? Or do you have any more questions to ask me? Or any other curious notions, let’s go right now.” He grabs her yet again, and she pushes him aside. “Don’t you dare do this to me Armando Mendoza. If we need to argue, we will leave this place.” Armando tells her, “why should I leave all these guests. Who I have to talk too, just so I can go outside with you to argue no.” Marcela tells him, “oh really then I wasn’t waiting for nothing from you. At least you’re not embarrassing me in front of the entire world. You are creating a show.” Armando tells her, “I am creating a show. He laughs and repeats, I am doing a show really.” Marcela tells him, “I will wait out there.” She leaves and he goes straight to Mario. “Calderon come here, we need to talk. I have to go to a corner, and ended up fighting with Marcela. Think of something quick, I have to meet Betty.” He leaves, Mario thinks of a plan.

At Discovery, Betty asks the server. “Sir may I get another glass of juice.” The server asks, “aren’t you drinking the bottles?” Betty tells him, “no there not for me but I am waiting for someone to arrive. They should be here soon.” The server tells her, “alright I’ll get you your juice.” Betty utters, “if he decides to come.”

At the cocktail party, Armando tells Marcela. “You have never truly trusted me in years.” Marcela tells him, “yes this sir you bring me here full of obstacles. First you invited me to this place that is so nice and elegant. Dealing with these kinds of people, plus to deal with Ricardo Monteja. Then you put on a show, and finally your friend Mario told me he would come with that Maritza woman.” Armando tells her, “the woman’s name is Maritza Vejanita.” Marcela repeats the name, “now then to mention this that woman still hasn’t arrived.” Armando tells her, “is that why you’re so upset and suspicious thinking that I’m cheating on you Marcela.” Marcela tells him, “give me one reason for me to confide in you. Just tell me one, in my life.” Armando tells her, “yes Marcela that’s fine. I now know, why you bothered to show up to this event. To see what I was up too, to see if you would find me with another woman. Fine Marcela, so this event was just a part of your espionage night. I will help you along with your adventure. We will now ask, every single one of these women. Asks them, what am I doing in here. Let’s go asks, and solve all your doubts. You are driving me crazy, with all these doubts.” He grabs her, and she pulls away.

A guy watches, and goes to Marcela aid and calmly tells her. “Hello, and kisses Marcela’s cheek. Remember me, Ricardo Monteja.” Marcela tells him, “oh yes Ricardo you are unforgettable.” Ricardo tells her, “oh yes thank you Marcee. I am truly surprised that your here. You are always welcome in these parts.” Marcela asks, “what you thought I wouldn’t be coming or what.” Ricardo tells her, “I always wait for you to arrive and you never come to any of my events. I don’t know why you hate me, what did I ever do too you.” Marcela tells him, “oh no let me remind you. Lorena Sarmento.” Armando tells him, “oh I’m truly sorry Richardo for this. You see Marcela thought. That I was cheating on her, with your public relations agent. That you managed to fix together, isn’t that right dear.” Roberto utters, “oh Marcela.” Marcela tells him, “yes Marcela the paranoid girlfriend. Everyone knew what went on, with you using your car. Your chauffeur took them to a fancy restaurant. Then her and this man here, went who knows where the entire night.” Armando tells her, “that’s not true.” Marcela tells him, “oh no.” Ricardo tells her, “oh do forgive me. The truth is, you have the wrong informant. There are tons of gossipers all over the place. Why don’t we sit down, and close the deal with that collection.” Armando tells him, “yes let’s do that right now. That is why I came, which is unbelievable to some people.” Roberto tells him, “let’s go to my office.” Armando asks, “will you be joining us?” Marcela tells him, “no I will wait here.” Armando tells her, “are you sure of that. I think it would be a good idea, that you do join us. That way you can see that Roberto, doesn’t have two blond woman up there waiting for me. Wearing both bikinis, well lets go.” Roberto tells her, “if you want to go it won’t bother me.” Marcela tells him, “no I will wait right here.” Armando tells her, “fine wait right here.” Both men leave and head to the office.

Inside the office, Roberto tells him. “Relax we won’t discuss business, Mario told me to rescue you from Marcela and that is what I did.” Armando smiles and laughs Roberto asks. “So tell me what is going on?” Armando tells him, “quite simple. Marcela has arrived unexpected, the thing is there’s another woman waiting for me someplace else.” Roberto tells him, “oh you dirty dog you. When are you going to learn? You made me fire Lorena Sarmento, one of the best public relations personal around. Just because of that stupid rumor. What kind of friend you are sir? Now once again, you’re using my events as an excuse. Now let’s see, who is the lucky girl tonight?” Armando tells him, “oh no it’s nobody you would know. Nor important.” Roberto tells him, “you’re acting all impatient she must be a very beautiful woman. Is she one of your models?” Armando tells him, “no.” Roberto asks, “how about and ex beauty?” Armando tells him, “no.” Roberto asks, “not one of the wives of our friends?” Armando tells him, “no no no.” Roberto asks, “are you sure?” Armando tells him, “yes I’m sure.” Roberto tells him, “fine I’ll let you go all I need is a description. She must be a bombi of a woman I image.” Armando bursts our laughing, “oh a bombi yes.” Roberto bursts out laughing, Marcela watches quite nervously. Then she heads towards them, Armando sees that. Roberto sits down, and they start talking business. She tells him, “Armando will you be long.” Armando tells her, “Marcela I just don’t know yet.” Marcela tells him, “fine we will talk later excuse me.” Armando tells her, “bye we will talk in your apartment.” Marcela slams the door, and Armando breaths a sign of relief.

“Thank you man, boy sometimes she’s so annoying.” Roberto tells him, “fine go on but next time you better bring me this woman. Present her too me, she must be quite the bonbon.” Armando laughs again and says. “Yes quite the bonbon bye.” Roberto gives him a thumbs up and Armando leaves the office. He scans the room for Marcela, he sees Mario. “Calderon Mario.” Mario tells the girls, “one minute I’ll be right back don’t leave. What’s up?” Armando tells him, ‘Marcela just left I am going straight to Betty.” Mario tells him, “be careful she could be waiting outside for you. Or she could follow you.” Armando tells him, “fine we talk tomorrow. Now I’ll go see Betty.” Mario tells him, “calm down the uglies won’t be bothered waiting. They have a lot of patience, it’s there only choice. Enough with the anguish, your acting all worried over Betty than Marcela brother.” Armando tells him, “don’t be such a jerk Calderon. Stop saying such stupid things, what we’re doing with that girl is wrong. What having that poor girl waiting, all by herself alone like an idiot is wrong.” Mario tells him, “you better be lucky she doesn’t leave or else you’re going to be in trouble tomorrow. Plus you will have to do a lot of apologizing.” Armando tells him, “shut that mouth of yours Calderon. Are you sure that place is discreet?” Mario tells him, “I am now getting paranoid. Brother brother, it’s so dark you won’t see one another. You can’t even see another couple, if you were talking to them. That is one of the favours when dating Betty. Good luck, and go to your Betty. He gives him a hug, may god be with you.” Armando utters, “go you” and leaves. Mario returns to the girls, “so ladies where were we. You ladies, care for a drink.”

At discovery, Armando finally arrives he asks the guy to park his car. He enters, and looks for Betty. He asks the waiter, “you haven’t seen a woman this tall, with big glasses, with braces and a moustache.” The waiter tells him, “fortunately I haven’t seen her sir.” Armando looks around, Betty sees him, and yells out his name. Betty holds him and says, “oh Don Armando I thought you wouldn’t be coming.” He sits down, while she’s still holding him. “How are you Betty? Sorry I was late, but I was ready to leave that cocktail. When Marcela arrived, I guess she thought. I had a date with a model or someone else. She showed up and we had this horrible fight.” Betty asks, “sorry sir so where did she go?”

(If it were me, I wouldn’t have waited. Like how she just screamed his name, so much for discretion.)

Armando tells her, “Marcela I don’t know I guess she went back to the apartment. She’s probably there furious.” Betty tells him, “I think its best you go to your apartment.” Armando tells her, “no I want to be here with you Betty.” Betty tells him, “its best you’re on good terms with her.” Armando tells her, “no I want to be here with you.” Betty tells him, “no sir don’t worry about me I’ll take a taxi.” Armando screams, “no I want to be with you don’t you understand. Look sorry for yelling at you, you are such a naughty girl. I wanted tonight to be special, I wanted to be alone with you. To enjoy our time together understand.” Betty tells him, “like you order sir.”

(Ricardo Montaner cachita, is the beat in the background. With different words attached.)

Armando tells her, “please stop calling me sir I am not ordering you. I want us to be alone together, so what is with the bottle of whiskey?” Betty tells him, “I ordered it for you I hope you like it.” Armando tells her, “oh thank you Betty and he pours himself a drink. I am like so nervous, with what Marcela did too me. This taste great.” Betty tells him, “yes sir drink up I know that you need it to make me look good. Then she just laughs, that’s a joke sir.” Armando tells her,  “I don’t like those kinds of jokes Beatriz. You know don’t insult yourself. This isn’t a game, I don’t need a drink to make you look good. Nor a lot of whiskeys to see you divine. Beatriz you must understand something, I see you, I see you. To me your are beautiful. Betty just laughs, I am drinking this whiskey because I am stressed and had that fight with Marcela. Not because of you ok, and don’t think of other excuses.” Betty tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “let’s have a toast to you.” Betty tells him, “yes a toast to you as well.” She closes her eyes and he takes a deep breath, and is ready to kiss her. When the cell rings, he pulls back. “It’s my cell.” Betty just laughs, then he angrily says. ‘Damn it, it’s Marcela. What do I do?”

Betty tells him, “don’t answer it here go outside and answer it.” Armando tells her, “no no I won’t get it.” Betty tells him, “answer it or else she will get more suspicious.” Armando asks, “what should I say.” Betty tells him, “you know what to say. Your good at lying, go.” He gets up and heads outside. Marcela utters “Armando Mendoza. So you don’t answer your cell. Very good.” Armando is outside, and asks. “What is going on?” Marcela tells him, “well finally your answer. I was calling to find out where you were, and what plans do you have. Will you be coming here, or going to your apartment. Or for that matter, are you going to party the night away.” Armando tells her, “I am on my way to my apartment.” Marcela tells him, “so that means you’re not coming here.” Armando tells her, “no.” Marcela tells him, “fine Armando Mendoza fine the only thing that you want is to make matters worse.” Armando tells her, “no Marcela you’re the one that started this. Look tomorrow, we can argue all day if you want.” Marcela asks, “where are you? Why is there so much noise, are you out of Color Inn?” Armando tells her, “I had to come outside to the street to answer the call.” Marcela asks, “outside?” Armando tells her, “what did you want me to answer it in there. On the cell at the cocktail, so we can start fighting and be listened on. So like you say continue the show.” Marcela tells him, “no I didn’t want the show to continue. The only thing I wanted is to know where you were sleeping tonight, are you coming home yes or no.” Armando tells her, “you already know the answer to that. I am heading straight to my apartment.” Marcela asks, “so what time will you be leaving?” Armando tells her, “I don’t know a couple of hours.” Marcela tells him, “fine do whatever you want.” She then hangs up, Armando utters. “I better turn this off or this woman is going to drive me crazy. Oh what a cross, now I have to go back in there and kiss Betty. Oh where are you, he takes out a picture of Adriana Arboleda and says. I am going to kiss Adriana Arboleda. Oh you are so lovely, I have to kiss her.”

Inside the club, Betty asks. “What happened?” What did she tells you? Do you have to leave again?” Armando tells her, “no I told her I was still at Color Inn and would go home later to my apartment. You see that place, has been abandon for months Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “yes I know sir.” Armando tells her, “you see I live there but I’m always stuck having to go to her place. If I don’t Marcela  throws a fit. It’s like were already married. Why do I have to marry, if I’m already living that life?” Betty tells him, “she probably wants a confirmation of your relationship. She wants it done officially, or legalizes what you guys have. In all accounts sir, I think what condemns a man to stay with a woman. It’s not marriage, nor the engagement its love.” Armando tells her, “love yes yes. In this case, love there isn’t that much. It just doesn’t exist you see, I have a serious engagement with Marcela, because of our two families. For our company, oh you know what let’s just change the subject. Let’s stop talking about me and Marcela. Lets discuss nicer things, were are together now. I just want to ask you one question, I haven’t asked you this until now. I would like the truth, I want to know. Does Nicholas know, what is going on between the two of us?” He touches her hand, she holds it tighter. “Oh sir, don’t you think about that. What is going on between the two of us. Only we two know, what’s occurring. Why are you asking me?” Armando tells her, “what just out of curiosity Beatriz. Just curiosity since you haven’t even mentioned Nicholas.” Betty tells him, “this secret is so sacred to me and my life. I don’t mention this to my pillow.” She laughs, and he asks. “What haven’t you thought, if Nicholas finds out about us what would he do.” Betty tells him, “no sir that would be terrible. The thing is Nicholas, knows that you’re my boss. That you are engaged, you will soon get married. He would criticize me.”

Armando tells her, “you Beatriz are you worried to tell him because he might break up with you.” Betty asks, “what are you talking about sir. Please you still think, there’s something with me and Nicholas.” Armando tells her, “Betty I want you to promise me. That is most sacred to me, I want you to promise me that you belong to me only.” She takes his hand, and lovelingly says. “I promise you sir. I am only yours sir, only yours. I will be yours forever.” She closes her eyes for a kiss he utters. “Oh that makes me feel a lot better.” Then they kiss, Armando continues but then opens his eyes in surprise.

Nicholas is with the two lawyers, who are both drinking. Nicholas tells him, “here is your cheque and the money I promised I would give you.” Antonio utters, “Jose you take care of this tomorrow. Thank you lord, this is like a present from heaven sir. He kisses the money and counts it. He screams, hey chino wash your hands and bring us an another bottle.” Nicholas tells them, “well then I have to leave. I have things to do tomorrow.” Antonio tells him, “don’t go yet my friend. Join us in this celebration stay for a while.” Nicholas tells them, “oh sorry but I have to get up early tomorrow. Lots of things I have to do.” Nicholas gets up, and Antonio stops him. “Sir, I will invite you for a drink.” Nicholas utters, “well then why not.” Antonio screams for another bottle. “So tell me, what happened with that Eco Moda company. It’s been way too long, they haven’t even sent me any lawyer to bother me yet. So we can arrange a deal or something. What is going to happen, with that deal.” Nicholas tells him, “they are confident in the arrangement. I think Miss Betty, made a deal or something with them.” Antonio asks, “wait one minute what deal. What is all this?” Jose lights his cigarette. Nicholas tells them, “they now have a great relationship between the two.” Antonio tells him, “so that means they are still. What’s the word”? Jose tells him, “in cahoots.” Nicholas repeats the word. Antonio screams for a glass, “hey chino a glass for this Mr. Mora.” The waiter tell him, “I’m on my way.” Antonio tells them, “this place is getting worse by the day. The waiter brings them two bottles. He pours them drinks, and says. Well then let’s make a toast. Then he screams for another glass. The waiter brings it, and is told he should cut his nails.” The drinking begins, Nicholas just laughs.

At Discovery, Betty and Armando are on the dance floor. They’re not really dancing, Betty is holding him tight and they just turn in circles. He tries to pull her away, she moves away for a bit then gets back to holding him tight. He just looks at the lights.

(The song is called Llorarás, is from singer Oscar D´León.)

Top night clubs in Colombia are:
1. Cafe Havana, 2. Donde Fidel Salsa Club, 3. Plaza de Toros Santamaría, 4. Teatro Colón 5. Beachfront Bars of El Rodadero, 6. Walking Calle 10, 7. Centro Andino, 8. Le Bon Cafe, 9. Orquesta Sinfonica de Colombia

SIXTY-FOUR

Marcela is pacing back and forth, she still trying to contact Armando. “Why isn’t he at the apartment yet? All she gets is the answering voice, from the cell and his home phone. She utters, no he turned off the cell phone. Where are you? Oh no you won’t get away with this. She sits by her dinning room table, then contacts Patricia. Patricia give me Mario’s phone number. Angrily she screams, what is it to you. All I’m asking, is for that number.”

(I’m wondering at this point, what time is it?)

Mario is still at Color Inn, trying to pick up that model. She tells him, “no I just want to go home.” Mario tells her, “Valeria my house is your house. She is waiting for you.” Valeria tells him, “no Mario forget it maybe another night. I have to work tomorrow.” Mario tells her, “yes I know I too have to have to get up early. We are going to my place to sleep, I will awaken you with my elbow. So what do you want for breakfast. She laughs, and he gets the cell phone. Then he utters, no dear me.” She asks, “what wrong?” Mario tells her, ‘I can’t answer this.” Valeria asks, “who is it? Your girlfriend?” Mario tells her, “worse than that. It’s Armando’s girlfriend, you remember that girl in the red dress. The one that insulted you.” Valeria tells him, “yes.” Mario tells her, “she thinks that Armando is with me that’s why she’s calling. Can you image it? He shuts off the phone, and puts it in his pocket. Now then let’s get back to our plan. I’ll tell you everything in the car.” Marcela is furious she utters. “Fine Armando Mendoza, I wonder what excuse you will tell me tomorrow. How will you take out of my head, that you’re not with another woman.”

At Discovery, Armando gets Betty to sit down. Betty asks, “do you see someone you know sir?” Armando tells her, “I don’t know I just have this feeling I’m being watched. Or some of them, try to say hello to me it’s just strange.” Betty tells him, “oh relax sir none of your crowd comes here.” Armando tells her, “yes I know Beatriz.” Armando tells her, “oh I’m just a bit paranoid because of that fight with Marcela. I am just nervous.” He takes another drink, Betty tells him. “If you’re relaxed, if you wanted we could leave.” Armando tells her, “no Beatriz don’t say that. In this corner, were like protected isn’t that right. I don’t know, maybe next time we should head to a nice restaurant. A quiet place where we can dance, and be alone together. I want you to feel comfortable, I want to take you places where I can take care of you understand but of course it’s dangerous.”

Betty tells him, “don’t worry sir I understand. The truth is where ever we are, is beautiful as long as I’m here with you. This place will be in my mind, a place that truly made me happy. Sir you can take me anywhere, I won’t feel uncomfortable. The most important to me is, that you are relaxed. That nothing is bothering you, nothing makes you nervous that we are at peace.” Armando tells her, “Betty you’re so special.” Then he kisses her. Then a spotlight shines on them as their kissing. Both stop kissing, and looks up. The announcer welcomes them to the Discovery. Everyone is clapping, Armando nervously fixes his hair. While Betty fixes her glasses. The announcer, tells them. “Ah this is the hour for lovers, at your favorite discotheque we are going to look around the room to see everyone. To pick out that favorite couple of the night, that enjoy our music and show so much affection for one another. They say, how much they love one another.” Armando nervously asks, “Beatriz what’s going on?” Betty tells him, “I don’t know I’ve never been here before.” The announcer tells them, “now then that couple must sing one song that identifies their love. Let’s look at the crowd.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz I think we should pay the bill and get out of here quickly. Before that announcer ruins our night ok.” The announcer tells us, “the couple of the night is.” Armando gets up then sits low, on his chair and the light shines on them.

Everyone claps, “congratulations your our first couple.” Armando tells him, “look were heading out were just going to pay the bill and go thanks.” The announcer tells him, “don’t worry well if you sing and win your drinks are free.” Armando gets up with Betty, and tells him. “No sir we are leaving, were not singing. I mean we’re terrible singers.” The announcer tells them, “you two can’t leave.” Armando tells them, “yes we can.” The announcers tells them, “everyone do you want these two to leave.” The crowd screams, “no oh the public just loves you two. Please stay and participate in the contest, let’s clear the ice why don’t you tell me your names.” Betty tells him, “Betty Pinzon.” The announcer tells them, “give her a hand.” Armando tells him, “Armando Manzanero.” The announcer tells him, “very funny man now you two what are you. Are you engaged, dating, husband and wife, oh their two people in love. Let’s give these two a hand. Now Betty, I will give you a sheet with a song. You sing for your love, look at him show him you love him with a look. Tell him by song, that you love him.” Betty laughing tells him, “ok.” The announcer tells her, “now dedicate this song to your love with all your heart.” Armando looks at her, and then she gets a card.  She begins singing, “si los dejan” very badly. The announcer tells him, “now you sir.” Armando looks over at Betty, then back at the announcer. Armando joins her, and Betty shows him the sheet. The announcer screams, “Armando doesn’t love Betty.” The crowd joins in, and Armando grabs the mike and begins singing. With Betty accompanying him.

Armando stops singing when the announcer, takes away the mike. “Brave Bravo, Betty and Armando. With all couples, may you respect one another and love one another. Desire one another, let’s finish this off with a kiss. Ladies and gentlemen join me, kiss kiss.” Armando looks at Betty then Betty, grabs him and kisses him. The crowd cheers, the announcer screams. “Another one, another one. Armando is frustrated, Betty just laughs. Once again, it’s Betty that does the kissing. The announcer tells them all, Betty and Armando have started this night of lovers. Now let’s look for more lovers. I see so many people happy, and they’re so in love.” Then the announcer moves to another couple. Armando and Betty go back to their seats. He tells her, “we better go I’ll pay the bill.” He takes out money, and puts it on the table. Betty tells him, “congratulations sir.” Armando asks, “Betty what?” Betty tells him, “I didn’t know you sang I guess that’s another facet of you. That I didn’t know you had.” Armando tells her, “oh come on lets go. What discrete site, this is all I needed.” Betty just starts laughing. As they are leaving, Betty sees Aura Maria coming with a guy. “Oh my god, there’s Aura Maria.” She grabs Armando and they head to a corner. Aura Maria is grabbing a guy, that doesn’t want to be there. She tells him, “oh please Estefan come on were going to have a great time here. Come on shy guy.” Armando asks, “do you think she saw us. Who is that guy?” Betty tells him, “she only had eyes for him. I guess that’s her new boyfriend.” Armando tells her, “we better go or else other employees from Eco Moda might show up.” Then they take off.

Nicholas is at the club, and drinking. Nicholas tells them, “I better get going I don’t feel well. I’m starting to see everything fuzzy.” Antonio just has another drink, and tells him. “Relax sir sit down, and enjoy the evening it’s just starting. We have finished one bottle, let’s get another one.” Nicholas tells them, “no thanks I have to get up early.” Antonio tells him, “stop there the night will get better. Two women come by, and kiss the two lawyers. See I told you.” One of them says, “Mr. Sanchez we haven’t seen you in quite a while.” Antonio tells him, “hello Lily I am here with a client. This gentleman is Mr. Mora, very prestigious fellow from Eco Moda.” Nicholas once again gives out his business cards. Lily tells him, “hello sir nice to meet you.” Nicholas just shakes her hand and smiles. Antonio asks, “would you like a drink?” Lily tells him, “if you’re buying sure.” Antonio tells her, “I have this cheque well sir aren’t you going to join us.” Lily tells him, “stay awhile you are so handsome.” Nicholas tells him, “thank you thank you.” Antonio tells her, “Mr. Morita has a brilliant future ahead of him. No doubt about it.” Nicholas calls the waiter, “hey there Mr. Sanchez has ordered another bottle. Put it on my tab.” Antonio tells Jose, “look at this good man our great client is buying us a round.” The woman go towards him, and begin caressing him. While the other goes in, between the two lawyers.

Nicholas tells them, “look I need to make a call I’ll be right back. I have to cancel a meeting, excuse me.” Antonio tells him, “go ahead don’t worry we understand.” Nicholas calls his mom, “look mom its Nicholas. I’m going to be late, could you leave the key on the mat. Don’t worry I am with good companions. He glances at a girl walking by, I will be a good boy. Ok mom, hang up I’m calling from my cell and the calls are expensive. If the boss sees it, she’ll kill me. I know you’re the only one, that’s allowed to hit me. Hang up hang up, bye see you later. Nicholas returns to the table, and pretends to be talking to someone important on the phone. Yes cancel that meeting, tell them I can’t make it. I’m at an important meeting here. I have other important matters to attend too. Yes yes, I will pay that bill relax. Cancel that meeting, Jorge follows my orders goodbye.” Antonio asks, “what happened?” Nicholas tells them, “you know an employee that doesn’t follow instructions.” Lily tells him, “oh this man is very nice why don’t you give him to me.” Antonio is pouring some drinks, and says. “Oh course he’s all yours.” Lily tells Nicholas, “but you’re so shy.” Nicholas tells her, “no not shy but difficult.” Lily begins kissing his neck. Antonio goes, “careful sir she’ll cost you. He’s difficult to pay.” The two lawyers start drinking again, Nicholas tells them. “I am very sincere as well.” Lily begins kissing him once more. Antonio screams, “toast again toast again. Oh this is delicious, have a drink.” Everyone plays around, and then all take a drink.

Armando now has taken Betty home, and they sit in the car. Betty tells him, “I guess my dad just went to bed. I better head in before he gets up, tomorrow we have to get up early.” She then laughs, Armando tells her. “Yes I understand.” Betty tells him, “sir thank you for everything it was a grand night.” She laughs once more, Armando looks away and just utters. “Yes of course.” Betty tells him, “I just hope that tomorrow you don’t get in trouble with Marcela.” Armando tells her, “oh don’t you worry about that Beatriz.” Then Betty closes her eyes, and waits for a kiss. Armando tells her, “we talk tomorrow. She waits, and in the end he kisses her once. See you tomorrow, Betty opens her eyes and smiles. See you tomorrow.” He repeats Betty laughs and tells him, “you have a good night sir.” Armando tells her, “you too.” Betty gets out of the car, and waves goodbye. Armando waves and leaves.

Betty quietly enters, and locks the door. Then to her surprise is her father, covered in a blanket and carrying a flashlight. “Oh you thought, you wouldn’t wake me.” Betty tells him, “dad you scared me.” Hermes tells her, “oh yes I am so happy waiting up for you. Do you know what time it is?” He takes out a watch. Betty tells him, “yes dad well I had to go with Don Armando to a meeting and it lasted more than I thought.” Hermes tells her, “doesn’t this man know you come from a good family. That you must come home at a decent time.” Betty tells him, “yes but dad I was working.” She then heads to the stairs, Hermes tells her. “At least they are paying you for those extra hours. The company I was working in, who still hasn’t given me my pension. Would pay extra if you worked late.” Betty tells him, “well no it’s not in my contract. I am an employee that is trusted, and confided in.” Hermes tells her, “more than working than being confided on. Tell me something Betty, isn’t that man engaged to an investor at Eco Moda.” Betty just nods, “so you were with her as well.” Betty shakes her head “no.” Hermes tells her, “oh Betty don’t you think this person might get you in trouble. If she finds out, that you’re going out with her boyfriend. Going here and there, late meetings after hours at late hours.” Betty tells him, “dad she knows I am his personal assistant. I have to join him, I don’t have problems with her.” Hermes tells her, “I need you to talk to Nicholas Betty. He got a call tonight, and ran off to meet this man. He left everything on the table, like this was his house. Who knows what his place looks like, where he lives he might have cockroaches at that bakery.” Betty tells him, “I will talk to him tomorrow.” Hermes tells her, “now go to bed don’t turn on the lights. It’s almost morning.”

Nicholas is ill by this point, Lily tells them. “We really should go out this weekend.” Both lawyers have closed their eyes. Antonio utters, “no trip thanks.” Lily begins caressing Nicholas, telling them. “I am going with this handsome man. Doesn’t that sound wonderful my love?” Nicholas pulls away, and tells her. “Yes yes, I have to check my appointment book and taps her hand. I’ll see if we can go out.” Lily utters, “you’re so divine.” The other girl asks, “could I borrow that cell for a minute.” Nicholas tells her, “sure here it is.” The girl makes a call. Lily asks, “so when will be going on that trip?” Nicholas tells her, “tomorrow.” The girl making the call, utters. “Hello oh I can’t hear nothing.” Then has to leave to hear the call, Lily asks. “So I can reach you through these numbers. Or do you have a secret girlfriend hiding out someplace?” Nicholas tells her, “no I am difficult to catch. Call me sometime, if I’m not home call my secretary Julia Pinzon. So where’s your friend, the one that I lent my cell phone.” By this point both lawyers are passed out. Lily tells him, “she went over there someplace.” Nicholas asks, “where.” Lily utters, “she’s someplace and takes his glasses. Oh that girl doesn’t know, where she’s going half the time.” Nicholas utters, “oh where is she going? Where’s my cell phone?” Lily tells him, “she’s coming back later tonight or tomorrow.” Nicholas tells her, “what tomorrow no.” He gets his glasses and gets up. Lily asks, “can I get another whiskey?” Nicholas doesn’t hear, and goes searching for his cell phone.

Betty writes in her diary:

“I don’t know what Armando thinks of Nicholas, he begins to get jealous and it flatters me. It makes me feel, like I am his. I’ve never had a man act all jealous on me before. I feel like a secure woman, so many men never bothered to really look at me but he sees me. Armando arrives home, and feeds his dog. Oh he’s a man so full of lovely details, with  chocolates and a card placed lovingly on my desk. Who would have thought, he was a man with details. Armando walks around his place, then heads to his bedroom. He seems so troubled, and lays down. Oh this man who gave me so much pleasure tonight. The best night in my entire life, he was worried about me. He didn’t want me to be there, and wanted me to be comfortable. I know that we should go, to places that nobody knows who we are. Of course we have other dangers, we have to go to places where his friends don’t frequent. Plus that grand part of his life, the employees of Eco Moda. Tonight we almost bumped into Aura Maria, and her new boy toy. She seemed so infatuated with this guy, I also suffer for Freddy. Aura Maria hasn’t wanted to tell him the truth, she hasn’t wanted to burst his illusion.”

Aura Maria is making out in the car with Estefan. When she tells him, “bye bye its way too late.” Estefan tells her, “no get back here.” Aura Maria tells him, “I have to work early tomorrow.” Freddy is watching by her house door. He screams, “leave her alone you scoundrel.” Aura Maria asks, “Freddy what are you doing in here?” Estefan grabs Aura Maria tighter, “who is this fool what does he want?” Freddy tries to jump over the fence, he can’t and goes to the gate. Aura Maria tells him, “he’s a friend from work.” Freddy asks, “what only an acquaintance. This morning I was your friend Aura Maria.” Estefan tells him, “I don’t care if you’re an acquaintance or a friend. Crazy I don’t want any problems.” Freddy tells him, “what problem? Are you threatening me?” Aura Maria tells him, “relax Freddy go home go.” Freddy tells her, “the problem is with this guy. Are you threatening me sir?” Estefan tells him, “no no no I am warning you. Crazy don’t get involved with me, leave us in peace. Or else she might end up with no friend.” Freddy tells him, “oh how scary.” Aura Maria tells him, “Freddy please just go home. Estefan wants to get out of the car, to beat up Freddy. Aura Maria stops him, let’s go instead or else my mom will throw me out.” Freddy tells her, “let him come out. Nobody is stopping him, I am ready to rumble. Come over here chungo. Estefan drives off, Freddy puts on his helmet. Aura Maria your mom is going to kill you love.” Freddy then cries by his bike.

Betty continues with her diary:

“I suffer for Freddy I just don’t want to be in his shoes. I would hate that one loves a person, and he loves another and that person doesn’t know. On the other hand I am happy, Don Armando has been very clear to me. He has told me, that he does not love Dona Marcela. The thing that touched me the most, the thing that made me so secure of our relationship was his attitude towards her. Don Armando is risking his life for me, I know how difficult that sacrifice will be for him. You see Marcela in her bed, still awake. Don Armando fought with her, he escaped from her. This time he chose me over her, he pushed her away. He sent her home, from a cocktail. Now she is sleeping alone, he is beginning to question why he is living with her. I just can’t believe, I am winning a battle with a woman like her. I am not saying a war, but a battle. I just don’t know if I will win this battle, or will I end up wounded. I just don’t know where all this is going, maybe it’s just too premature to see into the future. I am making illusions, and that scares me but I just don’t want to stop living this dream. Because this is the most beautiful life and dream I have ever lived through. Something that I have dreamed of, all my life.”

The next morning at Betty’s house, Julia is watching infomercials about bras. Julia asks, “mom do you still have that card. Where you friend owns a clothing store?” Julia tells her, “here its right here. Are you going to go shopping?” Betty tells her, “yes mom I’m starting to repeat my clothing too much. I don’t know, but I really want to change to buy new clothes. Today at last were going to be paid.” Julia tells her, “oh that’s great dear. Oh why don’t you buy something like that.” Betty asks, “but why mom?” Julia tells her, “that lifts up your breasts. You could get a full lift of your body.” Hermes comes in complaining, “oh yeah how beautiful you’re going to tell your daughter to buy that filth. So our daughter can go out on display on the streets.” Julia tells her, “it’s not exhibiting yourself. It’s so she look better, you know she winks looks better.” Hermes doesn’t get the hint, and tells her. “Oh no she won’t be exhibiting herself to others. Like this, and he pretends to have breasts. If she’s not exhibiting herself, what is it then.” Betty tells them, “well I better go I will call you later on.” Hermes tells her, “I better not see you wearing those kinds of clothes. Or else I will lose it. You what are you standing there for, go wash the dishes. Broom the floor, and turn off the tv. Stop watching temptations.” He grins his teeth and growls then leaves. Julia looks up for guidance.

(Julia is saying all this, so Betty will be able to attract a husband. Hermes just doesn’t get the point.)

Betty is ready to go until she sees Nicholas. “What’s up Nicholas? What’s wrong? Are you going to just stand there like a statue.” Nicholas tells her, “no Betty I was mediating.” Betty asks, “how did the talk with the lawyers go?” Nicholas tells her, “it went great Betty.” Betty asks, “are you sure Nicholas that you’re alright?” Nicholas tells her, “nothing is wrong.” Betty tells him, “ok we will talk later on. Oh Nicholas remember, when you’re done working clean up. My dad made a big fuss about you, leaving everything all over the place last night. Are you sure you’re alright?” Nicholas tells her, “I am fine.” Betty tells him, “well then bye.” Nicholas tells her, “bye.” When she’s gone, he grabs the phone. “Mr. Sanchez its Nicholas Mora, no my head is fine but look I got insomnia. Do you have news, regarding that woman friend of yours friend. No!” Then he hangs up.

At Eco Moda, Wilson is with a very sad and depressed Freddy. Freddy tells him, “it was so hard and difficult seeing her with another man. I just don’t understand this brother, I have class and  distinction. I’m attractive, but it wasn’t me that she was kissing. Those red lips, of Aura Maria they belonged to another. Oh you don’t have another handkerchief.” Wilson tells him, “no look brother. What you can’t do is become, a Maria Magdalena crying all over the place. No sir you’re a real man, you have to show her that it doesn’t hurt.” Freddy tells him, “yes I will act like a true man. I will be valiant, how does one do that brother?” Betty arrives, and asks. “Has Don Armando arrived yet?” Freddy tells her, “no Betty he hasn’t arrived yet.” Betty then heads to her office. Wilson goes back to his post, and sees that Marcela has arrives. As she’s about to enter the building. Patricia arrives, she beeps her car and screams. “Marcee Marcee.” Marcela screams, “what?” Patricia tells her, “oh my god last night I hardly slept thinking about you. Where you able to talk to Mario, or what?” Marcela tells her, “that Mario didn’t even answer his cell phone.” Patricia asks, “and why did you need him?” Marcela just looks away, Patricia tells her. “Oh yeah Armando, attempted to escape. So who did he go with?”

Marcela tells her, “no but I am going to find out. Armando is going out with some woman Patricia, that woman is going to steal him. She doesn’t know, what I am going to do with her when I discover her.” Patricia asks, “are you sure do you have say a clue. A physical description something, so we can at least know who it is.” Marcela tells her, “no but I just have this feeling.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee with just a feeling I would already have strangled her.” Marcela tells her, “I just don’t have that luxury Patricia. No matter I will find out who this woman is.” Patricia asks, “Marcee now are you going to use my surveillance skills to capture her.” Marcela tells her, “I tried that last night.” Patricia asks, “so how did it go?” Marcela tells her, “it was a disaster.” Patricia asks, “what happened did you catch him with someone or what tell me.” Marcela tells her, “what do you think I’m an idiot if I would have caught them. Do you think I’d be here, talking to you. No I was stuck talking to Ricardo Monteja.” Patricia tells her, “yuck.” Marcela tells her, “oh I created such a scandal. Armando probably wants to kill me. She turns and sees a crying Freddy. Wilson is standing next to him. Marcela asks, Freddy what’s wrong?” Freddy tells her, “I just have a cold that makes me cry.” Marcela asks, “so has Don Armando arrive yet.” Freddy tells her, “no he hasn’t shown up or called to report himself. Marcela grabs Patricia and they move away from them. See that who knows, where he slept last night. Or maybe he’s just getting home.” Patricia tells her, “maybe he didn’t even arrive at his apartment.” Marcela tells her, “last night I called him exactly what time he was suppose to arrive home. I just couldn’t continue, marking that phone all night for a man. I have my dignity understand, even if it’s Armando Mendoza. Marcela takes out money, from her purse and gives it to Freddy. Here do me a favor, buy yourself medicine for that cold and buy me a pill for my nerves.” Freddy tells her, “yes madam.” Then both head inside the company. Freddy utters, “goodbye my waterfall blond. Oh brother the only thing, that will get rid of this is a bottle.” Wilson tells him, “brother calm down and stop crying. You’re acting like a baby old man.” Freddy tells him, “no brother.”

They turn and Wilson tells him, “it’s Don Armando.” Freddy tells him, “go you snoop good morning Don Armando.” Armando tells him, “park my car.” Wilson tells him, “yes sir.” Armando asks, “Freddy has Mario Calderon arrive yet?” Freddy tells him, “yes sir he’s in production. He said, once you arrive your to go see him.” Armando asks, “has Marcela arrive?” Freddy tells him, “yes she arrived and went up with Patricia.” Wilson tells him, “yes and she was asking for you.” Armando asks, “and what did she say?” Wilson tells him, “she asks Freddy and found out that you hadn’t arrived. So that’s when she told Patricia, that you’re an idiot and  probably are just arriving home to sleep. Sir she was furious, I guess last night you were a bit naughty sir.” He pats his shoulder. Armando asks, “when you talk do you have to touch me?” Wilson utters, “no sir.” Then he salutes and splashes his coffee on his jacket. Freddy starts laughing, and Armando tells him. “That happens because you’re a meddler.” Wilson tells him, “yes sir.” Then Armando looks over at Freddy, “why are you laughing? So that was very funny?” Freddy tells him, “yes sir.” Armando asks, “what is with you today?” Freddy tells him, “I just have a cold it just makes me cry.” Armando asks, “where is Aura Maria?” Freddy tells him, “please don’t ask me about that woman. Look sir I just have a cold, that makes me cry.” Armando tells them, “I will be in production.”

Wilson utters, “yes sir yeah run away from your woman.” Armando overhears that and asks them, “what was that you said?” Wilson utters, “nothing sir I was talking nonsense to our delivery man.” Freddy hits him, and Armando tells him. “Really both taking nonsense, I guess you have nothing else to do. I want you to wash every single car of the company, then do the ones on this block please. Now Freddy, you are going to join him even though you’re sick you cry baby.” Then he enters the company. Wilson tells him, “see that what’s happens when I’m with you you idiot.” Freddy tells him, “you double towers you. Your aren’t the sharpest tool in the shed.” Wilson tells him, “pale face.”

Patricia and Marcela arrive at the bathroom. Patricia tells her, “I just don’t understand. You arrived by surprise at Color Inn, and you didn’t find him with anybody. So what is this feeling you have?” Marcela tells her, “I want you to call there and find out. What time that cocktail event ended, and what time Armando left and with whom.” Bertha is having her snacks in the bathroom, and overhearing the entire conversation. Patricia asks, “and what for?” Marcela tells her, “I need to confirm with the information you give to what he tells me.” Patricia asks, “and who am I suppose to contact there at Color Inn.” Marcela tells her, “I don’t know ask anybody but minus that Ricardo Manteja. Remember he’s Armando’s accomplice with Mario.” Patricia asks, “why and how will I get for this information?” Marcela tells her, “look Patricia just say you’re trying to find out. Where the president Armando Mendoza is, since he hasn’t arrived yet. Tell them, all you know was that he was at Color Inn. For a cocktail last night, and that you’re worried.” Bertha’s mouth is in awe, and both later leave.

Patricia tells her, “you don’t think you’re alarming yourself too soon. You haven’t even tried calling his cell nor his apartment.” Marcela tells her, “I haven’t wanted too because like I told you I tried calling there last night. At the exact time, he was supposed to arrive home. I didn’t find him,  that man hasn’t even bothered to call me. Nor has he appeared, call him.” Bertha quietly runs to her desk. Patricia tells her, “Marcee I will do what you ask but I don’t want to get in trouble with Armando. When I asks, if he’s disappeared Marcee. When I call I’m suppose to identify myself, and Armando will find out. You know what he will do, the one that will deal with the broken plates will be me. He will break it on my head, Marcee you do the calls and locate him please. Maybe in reality, something bad really happen to him. He’s usually here before I am.” Marcela tells her, “oh no what a shame you of all people concerned for Armando’s welfare.” Patricia tells him, “look Marcee what if he’s already arriving. Or if he’s asleep at some hotel, with that supposed woman. He won’t answer that phone, nor his cell phone number. Marcee please, just give it one more try please call him.” Marcela tells her, “fine you call the apartment and I’ll call his cell. They both hear the same message, satisfied call Color Inn.” Patricia makes the call.

Bertha goes to see Sophia, and tells her. “Oh Sophia I heard a conversation something so turbulence, between Marcela and that’s blond bimbo. If I don’t do something, it will ruin my diet.” Sophia asks, “well then tell me.” Bertha tells her, “well it seems the search is on for Armando. The thing is last night, he attended a cocktail event at Color Inn.” She wants Patricia, “to find out what time he left and with whom did he go with image that.” Sophia tells her, “so what if he does that that isn’t new news. He has done that before.” Bertha tells her, “no no no it goes beyond than that gossip. Dona Marcela joined with that blond bimbo catch him, with another woman than that’s that. No we have to warn Don Armando, he has been very kind to all of us oh no.” Sophia tells her, “well then what are you thinking about doing.” Bertha tells her, “let’s go see Betty.”

Betty is writing a love poem:

“My love last night was tragic, and like a sweet dream. Your key sang in my lock. Later the door opened, a shadow appeared. Your shadow was a spot of love of white flash. Everything was shone with light, with your eyes that were like diamonds. My cup was filled, your lips so fresh. It rested on my pillow, your sweet fragrance head. I loved your recklessness, I adore your craziness. Today I laugh when you laugh, I sing when you sing.”

She rolls it up, and puts a ribbon on it. With a happy heart, full of love she goes to his desk. She tries to find out where to put it, then find the wrapper. “It’s the first chocolate bar I gave him.” She quickly puts it back, when Bertha enters. “Betty where’s your boss?” Betty asks, “Don Armando?” Bertha tells her, “yes Don Armando or do you have a new one.” Betty nervously laughs, “no I don’t know where he is. Why?” Bertha closes the doors, and tells her. “What I am going to tell you is serious information. It might cost me my head. Dona Marcela and that blond bimbo are trying to find out, what Don Armando did last night.” Betty tells her, “but he was at that cocktail party at Color Inn.” Bertha tells her, “yes but later on he went someplace else. So Dona Marcela is trying to find out, what time the event ended. The time he left, and with whom he left with. I think its best, that you try to find out where he is.” She sits down, and asks. “Now Betty, who is this woman. That he’s cheating on, do you know her?”

Betty tells her, “no Bertha.” Bertha tells her, “what did I do.” Betty tells her, “it’s not my fault if Dona Marcela thinks that Don Armando has a lover.” Betty utters, “a lover?” Bertha tells her, “yes a lover why?” Betty tells her, “be more respectful Bertha.” Bertha asks, “what is wrong with you?” Betty tells her, “well I just don’t like that people are talking about Don Armando and his romances. The thing is a lover, is when a man is already married. Don Armando is still single, he doesn’t have a lover.” Bertha just smiles, and laughs and tells her. “What another girlfriend? I wonder if, he wants to dump Dona Marcela. We can call her, the other.” Betty tells her, “fine the other but she’s not his lover.” Bertha tells her, “well then Dona Marcela is becoming suspicious that Don Armando has another lover. She laughs once more, you don’t say.”

Armando is walking around the factory, and tells Mario. “Oh I really want to thank you, about that place that you chose. It was quite delicious, oh yeah really discreet. You know what happened last night? An announcer, with a big spotlight shone on the both of us. He was looking for lovers to interview.” Mario just starts laughing, “oh I can’t believe it. Look I swear the last time I was there, that never happened.” Armando tells him, “there he was looking for us to sing love songs.” Mario utters, “no.” Armando tells him, “yes.” Mario asks, “so does that mean you sang for Betty. What song was it?” Armando tells him, “I am not going to tell you.”

Mario tells him, “oh yes your favorite. Then he sings, and asks. So did Marcela show up to break up your romantic moment with Betty.” Armando tells him, “yes she interrupted she called my cell.” Mario goes, “really.” Armando tells him, “she was curious I told her I was at Color Inn. I hung up and shut the cell phone off. I just haven’t bothered turning it on.” Mario asks, “what time did she call?” Armando tells him, “I guess 10:30.” Mario tells him, “well she tried calling me as well but it was around 12.” Armando asks, “did you answer it.” Mario tells him, “how could you think that. Don’t be an idiot. I recognized her number, I imaged that she was looking for you like crazy. I knew you were probably, having a great time with Betty. Enjoying kissing those lips, with a moustache and braces. I told myself, I can’t interrupt these lovely moment so idyllic and romantic. Plus I didn’t know, what to say. So tell me, what happened last night. Mr. romance did you win her over, and ended up kissing her again.” Armando tells her, “yes I kissed her.” Mario tells him, “oh no be careful you’re going to start enjoying those kisses. Lately you haven’t been complaining or mentioning the terror, that those kisses Betty gives you.” Armando tells him, “this is like a boxing match. See you do this, and he does a boxing move. See the second time around, it hurts even more. By the end your face is just numb, the body full of anaesthesiology. You don’t feel a thing, nor you are alerted to it. The most important, in all of this boxing event is to be alive before you have to fight again.” Mario tells him, “yes unless your knockout first.” Armando tells him, “no the one that will knock me out is Marcela. If she called you at 12, that means the phone must have been ringing non-stop at my apartment. That woman is driving me crazy Mario, she’s going crazy.”

Patricia is on the phone, “thank you,no don’t worry I guess Armando will show up sooner or later. Well I’ll see you later.” Marcela asks, “so what did they say?” Patricia tells her, “now I talked to the lady that held the event. I told her, I was very worried. She told me, Armando left around 10 he left all by himself.” Marcela tells her, “but I left at 10.” Patricia tells her, “but he must have left after you Marcee. I’m not inventing nothing, that is what she told me. It seems to me that he must have left, not after you but going to someplace else.” Marcela tells her, “oh no I called him at 10:30 he told me he was still at Color Inn. Then he turned off the cell phone, and he didn’t answer his apartment phone. I don’t need any more proof do I.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee don’t say another word or else my mouth will salivate.” Marcela tells her, “if he decides to walk by here. You contact me, and she heads to her office.” Patricia tells her, “of course I will.”

Meanwhile Betty is trying to contact Armando, with the same luck. “No he doesn’t answer his phone at his place, nor his cell phone. The machines just pick up.” Bertha utters, “Betty I think that he’s with that woman right now. Who knows where he slept last night? Then she starts laughing. Who knows what bandida, he found last night. Betty is furious. She must be gorgeous, for him to be captured at this time of day.” Betty angrily tells her, “yes what kind of woman of class of bandida he ended up last night.”

Dr. Martin Cooper of Motorola, made the first US analogue mobile phone call on a larger prototype model in 1973.

SIXTY-FIVE

Wilson tells Freddy, “batteries ok Aura Maria will be arriving soon. Now then, you take care, be strong and cold, and be brave.” Aura Maria tells him, “hi Freddy. Freddy just looks at the mail. Look Freddy I just wanted to apologize, for what occurred last night.” Freddy bravely sings a song, and heads to the elevator. Aura Maria asks, “Freddy are you listing to me.” Freddy turns and asks, “excuse me miss are you talking to me.” Aura Maria tells her, “yes you idiot who else is here. You’re the only Freddy in the company.” Freddy tells her, “excuse me and forgive me miss we have nothing else to discuss. Unless it deals, with the business at hand. If you have anything to say to me, talk to my interpreter Wilson Zastoque our illustrious porter excuse me.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no Freddy you’re not going to play idiot games with me today. Don’t be ridiculous.” Freddy tells her, “I would like you to be more respectful to me this humble delivery person. Plus take care in using the words idiot, ridiculous, stupid or any other insulting words against me.” Aura Maria tells him, “Freddy fine I won’t insult you further. Well the thing about last night… well… it wasn’t what you thought it was. He was just a friend.” Freddy tells her, “miss I am not asking you for explanations. Do you think that I need them? What you don’t think, what my eyes saw last night didn’t hurt. Well no, no! If you excuse me.” Then he sings once more and sees Wilson.

Freddy then screams, “Wilson.” Wilson approches and asks, “yes to serve you sir.” Freddy tells him, “raise your hand upon this moment. You will have a bigger role in this company, you will remain in the reception room. I would like to inform you, that between the receptionist and I has officially ended. Please what I need from you, is for you to be my interpreter. Between the two of us, regarding the company duties.” Wilson asks, “excuse me Freddy on who orders this?” Freddy tells him taking him to the side. “Come on brother, I really need your help. I just don’t want to talk to her.” Wilson tells him, “yes brother I will do this for you.” Aura Maria asks, “let’s talk ok.” Freddy asks, “what is she saying?” Wilson tells him, “she says she wants to talk.” Freddy tells him, “inform her that I am very busy right now.” Wilson repeats, “do you want to say anything to him.” Aura Maria tells him, “no none.” Wilson tells Freddy, “none.” Freddy tells him, “well then thank you see you later.” He then enters the elevator.

Armando screams, “wait wait Freddy hold the elevator.” He looks at Aura Maria, “it’s a pleasure having you here today.” Aura Maria tells him, “sorry sir but I had a bad night. I woke up late.” Armando tells her, “yes lately your nights have become very bad nights. You have been arriving here, late every morning this week Aura Maria.” Aura Maria tells him, “sir this is the last night this happens. I promise you.” Mario tells her, “its about time Aura Maria.” The three men, then get in the elevator. While Aura Maria is angry at herself. Upstairs the door opens, Armando looks around as does Mario. Before walking out, Freddy asks. “What game are we playing sirs?” Mario heads to his office, and Armando goes past Patricia. “Good morning.” Patricia watches him, Freddy drops off the mail and says. “Good morning Patty, how are you here. Here’s your mail, you look lovely today excuse me Patty.” Patricia then calls Marcela. “Marcee well guess who just arrived, Mr. disappear with that idiot Mario. He looks very restful, a face full of pleasure hello hello.”

Betty is on the phone, talking to Ricardo Monteja. “No sir Monteja, he hasn’t arrived yet. Yes I don’t know where he spent the night. Wait he just arrived, Bertha gets up. He seems alright, I will get him to call you sir goodbye.” Armando asks, “and who disappeared?” Betty tells him, “you sir.” Armando tells her, “well where did I come from?” Betty tells him, “well your here in your office.” Bertha tells her, “Betty I am going excuse me. I am happy that you’ve appeared quite well.” She gives him a smile, and takes off. She leaves Betty and closes the door behind her, and Armando sits down by his desk. “Beatriz what is going on, what is Bertha talking about? What is going on? Am I a ghost, are you trying to make me go crazy. Where did you think I would appear at?” Betty tells him, “sir everyone is searching for you like crazy. Dona Marcela has been asking around, about last night. Trying to find out where you were. What time you left, and with who from that Color Inn cocktail event.” Armando asks, “and what did they say?” Betty tells him, “I image someone mentioned what time you left. Plus that you left alone. A Ricardo Monteja called sounding all worried, he didn’t know what happened to you. I tried calling your cell, but you have it off. Your place just had the answering machine message. If you leave the apartment, just advice me sir.” Armando tells her, “what do you mean I didn’t sleep at my apartment Beatriz. So tell me, where did I sleep last night?”

Marcela enters, and both women have the same stance. “Bravo well at last you appeared.” Armando asks, “who appeared?” Marcela tells him, “Don Armando Mendoza. The man who left Color Inn cocktail at 10, at last you appear she glances over at Betty.” Armando tells her, “Marcela you are mistaken. Let’s not start this now.” Marcela looks over at Betty, “I wish to talk to my boyfriend alone. Betty looks at her, then at Armando then takes off her office. Marcela tells him, next time. If you go out with your women, or with your lovers, please inform your red muskrat over there about your whereabouts. So we can know, your fine so none of us get worried about you.” Armando asks, “what girlfriends. What lovers prove it? What are you talking about?” Betty begins to get worried. Marcela tells him, “oh poor man oh you’re a victim of circumstance. The man that has behaved, with such good moral behaviour. This time around Mr. Mendoza. You’re not going to get your way, you left that cocktail at 10. False.” Armando tells her, “true.” Marcela tells him, “well then I called you at 10:30 and you said you were still at Color Inn. False.” Armando tells her, “I was on the street.” Marcela tells him, “on the street by Color Inn. False.” Armando tells her, “I told you I was on the street Marcela.” Marcela tells him, “then you said you were heading straight to your apartment. False, you turned off your cell phone. False for at 1 am this morning, I once again called your phone at your apartment. You weren’t there. False.” Armando tells her, “no but.”

Marcela tells him, “I am not finished yet. I called your apartment, and you weren’t there. Even your cell phone was still off. What time did you get up, no no no sorry don’t answer that. Sorry what time did they wake you?” Armando tells her, “oh that is so ridiculous Marcela what are you inventing now. You are mistaken.” Marcela tells him, “I am not mistaken Armando. I have everything so clear, the only thing that I ask you next time is tell someone. I don’t want to go to hospital to hospital trying to locate you. Or police stations after police stations. Or be visiting every morgue to morgue in town. Or motels or hotels, trying to find out where you slept last night. Or going to apartment to apartment. Or search tons of thousands, of apartments of your girl friends looking for you. To find out, in which woman’s flat did you wake up in.” Betty is furious. Armando asks, “are you finished yet?” Marcela tells him, “yes I am now finished. Goodbye Armando Mendoza, oh enjoy your new lover.” Armando screams out, “no false you’re going to stay right here Marcela.” He goes towards her, “I have listened perfect to everything you’ve had to say.” Marcela tells him, “let me go I don’t have to listen to you again.” Armando tells her, “you are going to listen to me Betty Beatriz come out here.” Betty comes out, looking very angry but tells him. “Yes sir.” Armando tells her, “do me a favour please my apartment call this number right now.” She dials the numbers, put it in high voice. Marcela asks, “what are you doing?” Armando shhs her, and then he says listen.” A voice utters, “you have reached the Rosa apartments how may I help you?”

“Rubin how are you. Yes its Armando Mendoza here, please tell me at what time did I leave my apartment this morning.” Rubin tells him, “you left here at 7:30 sir. Tell me, did I leave alone or with someone.” Rubin tells him, “alone sir.” Armando asks, “how about last night who was at the door.” Rubin tells him, “Francisco.” Armando tells him, “please when he takes over tell him to call Marcela Valencia here at Eco Moda. Tell him to say, what time I arrived last night at my apartment.” Rubin tells him, “yes sir like you order.” Armando tells him, “thank you.” Marcela tells him, “don’t be ridiculous.” Armando tells her, “see like you heard Marcela I slept at my apartment. I am impeccably changed and dressed.” Marcela tells him, “no no it doesn’t matter if you changed your clothes. Or for that matter, how much money did you paid the porter.” Betty gets nervous, Marcela has her hands on the wrapper and the rolled up letter. Armando asks, “oh what is wrong with you today? Marcela you want a war you’ll get one.” Both women turn, and Armando calls out to the corridor. “Freddy Freddy get in here now.” Marcela tells him, “yes create a scandal. If you think, this is going to get me to stop thinking. That you were, without someone last night you’re mistaken. You were with your lover, and I’m not imaging it. Betty tries to figure out, how to get that letter then Marcela picks up the roll. Armando Mendoza I will prove it.” She then puts it down, Betty is relieved.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Freddy comes out of Gutierrez’s office, and asks the girls. “Excuse me girls, was it my idea or did I hear Don Armando calling my name?” Both women utter, “aha.” Freddy tells her, “yes my heart is broken but listening to that yell. Do you think I’m going to get fired?” Bertha tells him, “oh no don’t worry Don Armando needs your help. Dona Marcela is about to kill him go.” Freddy fixes his suit and utters, “just relax. Both woman push him forward, he moves back. No at these times, its the innocent parties that end up falling.” Sophia pushes him, “hurry it up find out what’s up?”)

Freddy enters, and asks. “You called me sir.” Armando tells him, “yes Freddy I would like you to tell Dona Marcela. What time did I arrive this morning to this company?” Freddy tells her, “yes of course sir. Dona Marcela are illustrious president, arrived exactly at 8 this morning. You had already arrived, and had entered the company. Oh taking note of this occasion, yes here are the pills of depression you asked me for.” Marcela grabs it from his hands. Armando tells her, “how interesting what a coincidence we almost bumped into one another.” Freddy tells him, “yes sir that’s right.” Armando asks, “why were you late what kept you up all night. That you arrived late.” Marcela tells him, “I am not going to support your jokes.” Armando tells Freddy, “Freddy one more question please.” Freddy tells him, “yes sir.” Armando asks, “now then tell her after I arrived what did I do next.” Freddy tells her, “yes well once you sir arrived you went straight to production to meet Mario Calderon.” Armando tells her, “then of course I arrived at my office at 8am like always. My dear Marcela, then headed to production. I was there just few moments ago, until I decided to return to my office. Now Freddy, one last question.” Freddy tells him, “yes sir.” Armando asks, “am I ordering you or threatening you to tell Marcela this yes or no.” Freddy tells him, “no sir you would never even think about doing this.” Armando with a smile tells him, “well thank you so very much you may go.” Freddy tells him, “thank you sir excuse me.”

Freddy goes out, and Sophia motions him over she asks. “So did they catch him in the act?” Bertha asks, “did Dona Marcela disfigure his face?” Freddy tells them, “no and that man is defending himself like a wounded lion. He has his witnesses, and that is why he will be free. That is why I admire Don Armando, he is my hero. He knows how to cheat, and not get killed.” Bertha tells him, “don’t say that.” Armando now gets up, and looks at her. “For your information, I did not arrange this talk with Freddy. We will now contact production, mark the number Beatriz mark the number. I have tons of witnesses, that saw me arrive early. Betty grabs the note, and puts it back on the table. Or do think that I bribe them as well.” Marcela grabs the phone and turns it off. Marcela tells him, “you will not embarrass me in front of our employees.” Armando tells her, “the ridiculous part in all this. Is the person who contacted Color Inn. To tell them, that I had disappeared who did that?” Marcela tells her, “but they said that you left at 10 while I call you at 10:30. By that point you disappeared.”

Armando tells her, “so your point is at what time did I leave Color Inn. That is very easy to find out Marcela, call Ricardo Monteja he saw me leave. Call Richard Monteja at Color Inn right now.” Betty eyes the note, and Marcela stops her from making the call. “Don’t bother calling.” Armando tells her, “oh come on he knows what time I left last night. If it was 10 or 10:30 mark the number please.” Betty is close to the table, when Marcela instead of grabbing the phone grabs the letter. She screams, “don’t call anybody.” Bertha and Sophia get up scared and jump up. Armando screams, “don’t yell at Betty no one is to scream at her.” Marcela tells him, “what know one screams at me. She turns angrily and glares at Betty. You why are you always here? Leave us in peace, you always have to get yourself involved in our personal life. Or do you also control his private life?” Betty utters, “excuse me” and goes to her office. Marcela throws the roll on the table, and notices the candy. Armando tells her, “if you don’t accept all this evidence. I’ve had it with your screaming, your hysterical rants, and your accusations.” Marcela asks, “why didn’t you answer your phone last night.” Armando tells her, “quite simply I fell profoundly asleep. Or am I not allowed to have a good night’s sleep. Is it so suspicious that I was so tired, I didn’t hear the phone ring. You could have called the porter of the apartment. He told you clearly, I left that apartment this morning at 7:30 this morning by myself. Or do you still think, I went out with a woman. My love have any more doubts.” Marcela tells him, “no no no don’t worry. Like always you think, you can erase what occurred last night. By having all this proof, and evidence that I have to believe you. Yes you always leave the scene, so beautifully clean like your desk. Until now, what is this? She grabs the candy wrapper. Since when do you like chocolates, can I throw it away.” Armando tells her, “go ahead throw this away.” Then she sees the roll of paper and opens it. Marcela tells him, “oh what a mess” she opens it and begins to read. Armando repeats, “throw that away as well.”

(Oh why didn’t Betty keep her note in her hand.)

“What is this?” Armando tells her, “oh it’s just a sheet of paper.” Betty covers her mouth in horror. “No, this isn’t just a simple piece of paper. My love last night was tragic, and like a sweet dream. Your key sang in my lock. Later the door opened, a shadow appeared. Your shadow was a spot of love of white flash. Everything was shone with light, with your eyes that were like diamonds. My cup was filled, your lips so fresh. Armando looks towards Betty’s office. It rested on my pillow, you sweet fragrance head. Armando again stares at that door. I loved your recklessness, I adore your craziness. Today I laugh when you laugh, I sing when you sing. Armando closes his eyes, waiting for the explosion then it falls. Marcela utters, it’s signed Delmira Agustini. Armando looks up in relief, so who is she?” Armando tells her, “how the hell do I know who this woman is.” Marcela tells him, “don’t tell me you don’t know who this woman is who wrote you this poem. Armando shakes his head. What by magic this letter, happen to be by your desk.” Armando tells her, “I don’t know who she is Marcela. Believe me I don’t know.” Marcela asks, “who is it!”

(Delmira Agustini is a poet from Uruguay (1886-1914)

Armando tells her, “I don’t know.” Marcela tells him, “oh you got to be kidding you don’t know. With such dictation, your eyes that were like diamonds. My cup was filled, your lips so fresh. It rested on my pillow, your sweet fragrance head. Know wonder you couldn’t get up. Today I laugh when you laugh, I sing when you sing. So did you two sing.” Armando is speechless. Marcela asks, “so what song did you sing her? Armando please, I can’t believe your nerve. What nerve that you don’t know who she is. This woman took the time to write this, to recreate what you two lived in this poem. You don’t even have, the courtesy to remember her name.” Armando tells her, “no but but I don’t even know who wrote that I don’t know Delmira.” Marcela tells him, “let me remind you, Delmira Agustini you know that the typical names that you like. Like for example: Silvia Vananeli, Karina Larson, now its Delmira Agustini. It has to be another model.” Armando tells her, “no look you have to believe me I just don’t know who put that there. My love I just don’t know, what’s happening. He looks over at Betty’s office. I just don’t know, what is going on in here.” Marcela tells him, “I know what’s going on. I am in total agreement when she writes. I loved your recklessness.” Then she throws the paper, and storms out of the office Armando screams. “Marcela Marcela. He tries to go after her, and stops when he sees Sophia and Bertha. Crouching by their desks pretending to work. Then he closes the door, and Bertha utters. “Oh my god, he got caught. With the bandida’s name and everything.” Sophia utters, “with this he won’t be saved.”

Armando screams out, “Betty Betty.” She sadly leaves the office, “yes sir.” Armando asks, “tell me one thing. Do you know, who put this poem on my desk.” Betty tells him, “I did sir.” He gets up angrily, “Betty don’t you know what problem you got me in. Didn’t you notice? Tell me, now how am I suppose to take that idea. Out of her crazy head, that I don’t have a lover. Didn’t you think about the consequences? How could you put this poem, on my desk.” Betty tells him, “Don Armando sir I just wanted to give you a surprise. I just wanted to give you one, since you gave me such a lovely card. Sorry sir, I think sir the best thing we can do is break up this romance.” Armando asks, “what what.” Betty tells him, “sir please I just can’t take this anymore. You have gotten yourself, in big trouble with Dona Marcela. For going out with me, now with the poem. I feel really bad.” Armando tells her, “but Betty no lets calm down. No you know how Marcela gets, she’s always very suspicious. She makes everything, look like a big scandal. No no no, think about this further.” Betty tells him, “yes sir you had affairs with other women but not with me. I just can’t do this to her, I just can’t destroy this relationship especially like this manner.” Armando tells her, “no no no Beatriz. What are you destroying? What? I mean does it look like, a harmoniously relationship with Marcela no. The harmony is what we have.” Betty tells him, “the thing is she loves you sir. She suffers for you, she wants to take care of you. She doesn’t want anybody to rob you, that’s why she acts that way with you. I understand her Don Armando, I am not useful in this. I just can’t be the other, or what other people say your lover. For my dad, my family, for my job, for you and your family. For the company and Dona Marcela. I think the best thing is we break up.” Armando tells her, “no no no Betty please let’s calm down.” Betty goes to him, and touches his hand. “Don Armando, it has been very beautiful what we lived. It has been the most wondrous nights of my life. I will always keep, these inside of me. From now on, we will go back to what we were. President of Eco Moda, and his assistant excuse me.” She heads to her office crying, while Armando utters. “No Betty come back please. Armando is left stunned, then he utters Delmira Agustini.”

Marcela is walking through productions, Patricia goes running after her. “Marcee Marcee Delmira.” Marcela repeats  “Delmira Agustini, Delmira Agustini.” Patricia asks, “who is this bandida.” Marcela tells her, “now that is what you have to find out.” Patricia asks, “and how?” Marcela tells her, “I think she’s a model, that’s where we start. That woman, won’t take him away from me even though he denies it. That poem was very explicit, they lived through something.” Patricia tells her, “or what their living now Marcee.” Marcela asks, “what do you mean living now. Where is that Hugo?” Armando heads to see Mario, who is working in production.” Armando grabs him, and tells him. “We need to talk.” Mario asks, “what happened?” Armando tells him, “Betty broke up with me.” Mario utters, “what.” Armando repeats, “the worse is she doesn’t want nothing to do with me.” He still holds the poem in his hands. Mario asks, “what why.” Armando just shrugs miserably.

Bertha is telling the girls, “that man caught him red handed. There was a poem written and everything, so what is her name again.” Sophia tells her, “it’s a weird name Delmira something. Do you guys know who it is. Everyone thinks, then all say. “No.” Sandra tells them, “the one that should know, is Betty she should know.” Mariana tells her, “why don’t we interrogate her right now?” Ines tells them, “no no no we shouldn’t get involved in this.” All of them say, “Inesita.” Bertha tells them, “girls are you going to be able to keep this under wraps.” All of them go, “oh no.” Ines tells them, “I have an idea. We should go eat, and that supplies us more than gossip.” All of them go, “Inesita.” Bertha tells them, “sorry dear but first things first or what.” Mariana tells her, “you know what they say a woman without gossip.” Sandra tells her, “is like a garden without flowers.” Sophia tells them, “were dangerous.” All of them laugh.

Betty is caressing Armando’s picture very sadly. “I have to let you go Don Armando, it’s better for the both of us. This isn’t going to go anywhere, it’s a useless dream.” Sandra screams out, “Betty Betty.” Betty quickly changes her photo, and wipes the tears away. Sophia tells Sandra, “you guard the door so the wolves don’t come in.” Mariana asks, “so tell us Betty tells us everything.” Betty asks, “what are you talking about?” Bertha tells her, “oh come on everyone in this company. Overheard the fight between, Don Armando and Dona Marcela. Tell us who is Don Armando’s lover?” Sophia asks, “is she from Argentina or Spain? That’s what the name sounds like.” Betty tells her, “no I don’t know her I’ve never seen her.” Sandra tells her, “oh come on spill the beans. Is she a model or someone’s wife, tell us they all say.” Betty tells her, “Don Armando doesn’t have a lover.”

Mariana asks, “then where did that poem come from?” Betty shrugs her shoulders, “I don’t have a clue where they got it.” Sophia tells them, “oh no she’s the black box of Don Armando. She has all the information, but you can’t decipher it.” Ines tells her, “yes she’s correct that’s why she’s called a secretary.” Mariana tells them, “oh no girls. I think we’re going to find out first, by Dona Marcela than from Betty. Who is Don Armando’s lover. Oh but I am telling you Dona Marcela once she’s discovered, she won’t stop until she finds out who she is.” Bertha tells her, “oh you can image what she’s going to do.” Sandra tells her, “that will be a prize.” Everyone laughs except Betty, she just tells them. “Maybe it was just a quick romance.” Mariana tells her, “she’s going to cook her and fry her up its better she dies. Dona Marcela is going to follow her all over the world if necessary. Remember Silvia Melanie, or Karina Larson. See those two disappeared from Colombia.” Sophia tells her, “they deserved it for they are bandidas.” Bertha tells her, “let’s go she’s not going to release a thing. She has no solidarity with her friends.” Sandra tells her, “Betty were going to eat see you there.” Mariana tells her, “oh what stress with you Betty.” Ines tells her, “no your doing the right thing keep it too yourself. Very well done.” They leave and Betty once again sees the photo. “I have to let you go forever Don Armando.” Armando tells Mario, “she’s serious about this she was very affected by this.” Mario tells him, “I can’t believe you let yourself be broken up with by an ugly woman. Oh what humiliation, look go get her back and dump her. Oh that would look so bad on your resume.” Armando tells him, “this isn’t a joke. She told me it’s the truth, it’s out of my hands. I lost it, when I found out she wrote that poem. I yelled and screamed at her, then she started crying.” Mario is reading the letter, “at least she signed it Delmira Agustini. What does that signify? What so she wouldn’t sound that ugly. What is that?”

They find Hugo, fixing up a jacket. He utters, “Delmira Agustini no I’ve never heard of her.” Marcela tells him, “I think it’s a model. Or do you think, it might be someone that he met.” Patricia tells him, “that name sounds Italian or from Argentina or from Uruguay. Maybe from those parts, they might know who she is.” Hugo tells them, “look I will try to find out who this person is. Under one condition, for who and what interest is it too you.” Marcela tells him, “just find out who she is.” Hugo tells her, “oh Marg I recognize that brilliance in your eyes for a while now. That brilliance appears in my eyes, when I have doubts with my boyfriends and I’m jealous. If I have that person face to face to face. I know that someone, is trying to steal someone’s man.” Marcela tells him, “yes someone is trying to rob him and I want to know who it is. Before I lose him for good. You know more than anybody, what it signifies to lose a man.” Hugo tells her, “yes I know and I pray to god that it doesn’t occur again. Look I will try to find out, who this person is and inform you ok.” Patricia asks, “weren’t you going to Milan.” Hugo tells her, “Patsy Pat with what money. In this company, the employees don’t get paid.  With no money, there’s no trip to Milan no.” Marcela tells him, “well I am waiting for a report of sales. To see if this afternoon, we will be able to pay everyone.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee really oh thank you thank you.” She gives her a big hug, Hugo tells her. “Marg since you are now the private investigator. Try this on, since you’re going to be inspector gadget.” He then sings the theme song and laughs.

(Cartoon Inspector Gadget was done in 1983-1986 )

Mario tells Armando, “you know man you look so depressed and down. The best thing you should do, is go up there to Betty and get on your hands and knees. Ask her to get back together with you.” Armando tells him, “don’t be an idiot Calderon this is serious. With Betty, we have to have a different approach. Be serious, I am very worried we need another strategy to work with Betty. Look were both in agreement, that this crazy stunt is finally over.” Mario tells him, “oh no one minute. Yes both of you, are going through a crisis. It happens to every couple, look were not talking about ending it with Betty. You told me she’s destroyed, when women like Betty act that way. They are very fragile and vulnerable, they can fall into anybody’s arms. Especially fall into the arms of Nicholas Mora eye.”

Meanwhile Nicholas is miserable, he misses his cell phone. Hermes makes a crack about him slurping away, and not doing any work. Then both run for the phone, when it rings. Hermes once again hits Nicholas with a newspaper. Hermes tells him, “I am waiting for a call.” Nicholas tells him, “yes me too.” Hermes tells him, “well then let them call you on your cell phone.” Nicholas covers his side and utters, “yeah right.” Hermes picks up the phone, and the woman who talked to Nicholas the previous night is on the line. “Excuse me, is Nicholas there?” Hermes asks, “who is calling?” The girl utters, “a friend.” Hermes tells her, “one moment please. Nichorats a friend is calling you.”

Nicholas tells him, “thank you Don Hermes.” Lily tells him, “hello Nicholas. You’re talking to a friend of Mr. Sanchez.” Nicholas asks, “oh good has your friend shown up with my cell phone?” Lily tells him, “oh darling I have it here in my hands. I’m using your cell, to make this call.” Nicholas tells her, “hang up its costing me a fortune. Hold on, where are you I can go pick it up? Fine I’m on my way bye.” Then he’s counts his change for the bus, Hermes asks. “Where are you going sir?” Nicholas tells him, “sorry to leave you all alone but I have a meeting.” Hermes tells him, “well it’s about time you got yourself a girlfriend. Now you go, and don’t look back.” Nicholas tells him, “well this one is a bit costly.” Hermes tells him, “well with a face like yours. You’re going to be dumped, on the streets pretty quickly.” Nicholas tells him, “I studied economics I don’t want a woman that exploits me. I know girls today, all they want to see is your bank balance and your wallet calculator. Well then enjoy your forced unemployment.” Hermes tells him, “laugh now but my daughter Betty is the one that works here. Or else, you’re going to be worse than me.”

Mariana calls out to Marcela, as she walks out. “Dona Marcela, here are the last numbers for the sales figures. That you asked for, make sure they’re all there.” Then she eyes Patricia and both women flip their hair back. Marcela heads to see Armando. Hugo calls asking Patricia, “so Patsy Pat do you know where Marg is?” Patricia tells him, “no she just walked by to the president’s office.” Hugo tells her, “tell her to call me for I have the information she asked for. I know who is Armando’s lover, that beast.” Patricia asks, “who is it?” Hugo tells her, “when you find out your going to die.” Patricia asks, “come on Hugeto tell me who is it?” Hugo tells her, “fine tell her to come down here. I will tell her personally.” Patricia utters, “Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “this only concerns the one that asked for the information. This isn’t something, that the whole company needs to know. She’s the one, that’s going through this not you. Bye Patsy Pat kiss.” Marcela tells Betty, “here you are Beatriz. The paperwork that you requested. See if they match well, so then we can pay payroll for this afternoon. Then Betty has no one of her fantasy.

Marcela is crying and asks. “Why Betty? Why did you do this to me? Why are you taking him away from me?” Betty tells her, “no Dona Marcela. I am not stealing him.” Marcela tells her, “it’s been a relationship of three years. This is the man, I chose to marry. I’ve waited for this all my life Beatriz. Please take pity on me.” Betty tells her, “Dona Marcela I am returning him to you today. I have given him up, I know how much you love him. I really do feel awful about this, even though I do love him. I have given him the best of me, but I know you’re his fiancée. You are going to marry him, today I give him back to you Dona Marcela but please. Treat him well, take good care of him. I know even though at times he’s tough, he needs a lot of love.” Marcela holds her head, and tells her. “Thank you, thank you Beatriz, I promise you that he will have a lot of affection. I have learned a lot from you, I have learned from my errors. Thank you for giving him back to me.” Betty tells her, “we are both in love with Armando. We have been sharing him, but only one will be going to the altar. It will be you Dona Marcela.” Marcela then gives her a big hug. The fantasy ends, with Marcela yelling at Betty. “Get your heads out of the clouds Beatriz. What is wrong with you? What did you fight with your boyfriend? Or did he push you away?” Betty tells her, “I have inputed the numbers in the computer. We will be allowed to make payroll.” Marcela tells her, “very good.” She turns and walks away. Almost bumping into Armando and Mario as they walk in. She doesn’t say a word, and just keeps walking.

Armando slowly caresses the door frame he asks. “Betty what was Marcela doing in here?” Betty tells him, “we were checking the number from the stores. We will be able to pay the bank of Montreal, and pay the payroll. He acts all shy and hurt, and tells her. Good you get started on the paperwork, and let’s pay everyone this afternoon.” Betty hardly looks at him, and tells him. “I will check the last of the numbers, and will get on that quickly.” Armando tells her, “well thanks.” Mario shakes his head and tells him, “both of you are suffering.” Armando tells him, “don’t be an idiot.” Betty calls Nicholas, “oh hi mom can I talk to Nicholas. No he’s not there, ok I’ll try his cell. I’ll call you later tonight. She then dials Nicholas’s number and reaches a girl. Betty asks, who is this?” Lily asks, “who are you looking for?” Betty tells her, “Nicholas.” Lily tells her, “no he’s not here would you like to leave a message.” Betty asks, “who is this?” Lily tells her, “a friend.” Betty tells her, “what girl friend.” Lily tells her, “you don’t know me. Let’s not waste any more time on this. Am I talking to his girlfriend or what?” Betty tells her, “I am not the girlfriend of Nicholas. I demand to know, what are you doing with Nicholas’s cell phone. Both men overhear the conversation, and look at one another. Who are you?” Lily tells her, “look if you’re not the girlfriend then forget about the interrogation. He should be coming soon, I am waiting for him. When he arrives I will tell him, that you called. What is your name?” Betty tells her, “I’m Betty and tell him I am waiting urgently for his call.” Betty then hangs up.

(That girl what kind of outfit is that. Its morning for Pete’s sake, wear something more decent.)

Armando calls Betty over, “Betty?” She goes to see him, “yes sir.” Armando asks, “have you done what I asked?” Betty tells him, “I am trying to locate Nicholas. He has the final data, and I haven’t been able to reach him. I will call the bank directly.” Armando utters, “thank you.” Mario tells him, “she seems upset but not at you but that call killed her.” Armando just stares at him.

Lily waits and Nicholas arrives. Nicholas tells her, “hi there how are you festival.” Lily wants a kiss he just waves “hello.” Nicholas tells her, “may I have the cell phone?” Lily tells him, “oh come on say hello or give me one kiss. What do I scare you or what?” Nicholas tells her, “me scared I don’t know the word. Then he approaches her, and gives her a peck on the cheek. Please may I have my cell phone.” Lily asks, “how did you get here. Where’s your car?” Nicholas tells her, “oh I dropped it about two blocks from her. I didn’t want the chauffer to bring it here. May I have my cell phone, I need it.” Lily asks, “who is Betty?” Nicholas asks, “Betty why?” Lily tells her, “because she called you.” Nicholas asks, “what you answered?” Lily tells him, “yes.” Nicholas asks, “you didn’t tell her that I lost my cell phone. That your friend had it all night.” Lily asks, “oh fresh come on who is she? Why do you look so afraid, is she your girlfriend. Your mother in law, what your wife?” Nicholas tells her, “all three no. What did she say?” Lily tells him, “she said that it was urgent that you contact her.” Nicholas asks, “can I have my cell phone now please I need it.” Lily asks, “where will you take me?” Nicholas tells her, “have you heard about a place called the Lenoir.” Lily tells him, “oh yes it’s for rich people. Are you going to take me there?” Nicholas tells her, “yes I have a reservation for us. There’s champagne cooling everything is set, now may I have my cell phone. I need it.” Lily tells him, “oh what elegance here find it.” He looks around her, and grabs it. Nicholas asks, “thanks so how many calls did your friends make on my cell.” Lily tells him, “I don’t know well it was a friend of a friend. Who gave me the cell, and told me to give it too you.” Nicholas tells her, “a friend oh boy excuse me. Oh hi Betty.”

Betty tells him, “Nicholas where have you been?” Nicholas tells her, “in the center doing some business.” Lily begins to kiss his neck, Betty asks. “Then who answered the phone?” Nicholas tells him, “a friend a friend.” Betty asks, “what friend?” Nicholas tells her, “you haven’t met her yet. Soon I will present her.” Betty asks, “why did she want your cell phone. I guess you don’t have an explanation.” Nicholas tells her, “Betty wait well last night. I had to go to the bathroom. I lent it to her, you know how I take care of this cell phone.” Betty tells him, “Nicholas are you lying to me? Why aren’t you telling me the truth. What is going on? Who is she?” Nicholas tells her, “a friend simply a friend. So why were you calling me?” Betty tells him, “I needed the numbers to begin making the cheques for the loan.  Since you’re not next to the computer, and it seems you’re so busy with this woman. I will contact the bank to consult.” Nicholas tells her, “no no Betty wait I have the numbers in my head. Now then, the bank of Montreal gave us 97000. Then he begins calculating, and if you want them to give us money. The end results turns up as 7732, do you understand.” Betty asks, “are you sure?” Nicholas sits down, and tells her. “Yes I am always sure. When haven’t I been sure on things? Then he stares at Lily’s legs. What is your opinion?” Betty tells him, “I will verify again, with the banks to confirm.” Nicholas tells her, “fine I will return to the company because I have two more meeting to attend.” Betty tells him, “look Nicholas we will talk at my place tonight. I don’t want to talk over the phone about nothing.” Nicholas tells her, “well yes look can’t talk about nothing. I am the vice president of Terra Moda bye.” Then Nicholas tells Lily, “I have to go. I am heading towards the chauffer.” Lily tells him, “fine I’ll go with you.” Nicholas tells her, “no it’s best you stay here. Safety reasons you know, the city is dangerous woo hoo I’ll be right back.” Lily tells him, “I’ll be waiting right here love don’t take too long.” Nicholas runs to the corner, and takes the bus.

(This numbers might be wrong, I’ve tried my best to get them right but if there wrong email me.)

Armando is sitting in the boardroom, looking miserable. Mario gives him a drink, “I don’t know about that call it sounded pretty strange.” Armando tells him, “and your point.” Mario tells him, “what conclusion am I getting. You heard all those accusations, regarding that friend of his. What is this, that she wants him to come visit. So they can talk personally? What business is it? Why doesn’t he just come here?” Armando asks, “what do you advice? What, do you think that she’s seeing Nicholas again. Is she playing us both?” Mario tells him, “no I am not going to kill your ego in that fashion. The thing is, it hasn’t been considered. What if now, she’s not really in love with him.” Armando tells him, “what more consideration can I do. I have been going out with her every night. I lost count, on how many times I’ve kissed her. Calderon tell me, what more do I have to do. Mario just raises his eye brows. Armando tells him, oh no not that. No way don’t give me that look, I am not going to sleep with Beatriz Pinzon Solano. She now doesn’t want nothing to do with me.”

Mario tells him, “she may have just started doubting. You may have screwed this up, but we have a lot of obstacles in our way. One you are engaged, soon you will be married. Your fiancée is an executive in this company. She watches you 24 hours a day. You might be the boss, and her the employee. You are rich and she is poor. In theory you’re rich, and she’s the poor one. I am saying that there are serious obstacles in your way. Look at Nicholas, he is single without any attachments. Without any social limitations, he is free. He must be very attractive, that she can’t resist him. All you have to do…” Armando asks, “what do I have to do?” Mario tells him, “get on your knees and beg her to come back to you.” Armando tells him, “I am making a huge historical mistake. I took her out of that closet. I began to seduce her, I made her fall, and I took her out to places. We danced, and in front of the world we kissed. What more do you want me to do?” Mario tells him, “count it as another mistake in your resume. Let’s look at this way, a president who gave away his company to his assistant. The assistant who’s boyfriend now owns the company. Do you want to run that risk?” Armando tells him, “you haven’t really thought about the consequences Calderon that may immerge out of doing all this. I can’t continue tricking her, it’s wrong and it hurts when I do so. Plus breathing down my neck is Marcela. She is spying on me, trying to find out where I am and with who I go out with. That my friend, is annoying.” Mario tells him, “a story of love is the story of a fight. You are so stubborn, first it’s your ego, next is your company. Tonight there will be a man who will talk to Betty. He will show his jealousy, they will fix their sentimental situation forever and that is annoying. Thank about it.” Armando then finishes his drink.

Hugo tells Marcela and Patricia, “I know who Delmira Agustini is. Both utter, who?”

The Bank of Montreal was founded, in 1817 in Montreal Quebec. Its first president was John Gray (1817 to 1820)

SIXTY-SIX

Hugo tells them, “I just found out.” Patricia tells him, “oh Hugeto.” Hugo tells them, “fine she’s a poet from Uruguay. She was quite the scandalous woman, for her theories regarding women. So ladies how does that grab you.” Marcela asks, “a poet from Uruguay.” Patricia asks, “was she pretty liberated?” Hugo tells her, “yes.” Patricia asks, “does she live here in Colombia? Has Armando already have her living in an apartment? Or maybe she’s staying at a hotel?” Marcela utters, “maybe.” Patricia asks, “so Hugeto do you know where she is?” Hugo tells them, “she’s been dead for years. Apparently she was killed by her husband, he shot her twice. She died in 1914, Marg I told you that would die with this news. You’re after a ghost, that doesn’t exist. If she did exist, she wouldn’t even look twice at that beast Armando Mendoza. Armando doesn’t deserve anybody writing a poem. Not even a ring ring. If I had to write a song for Armando, nothing would come out but boom. Marcela is quite curious, Hugo looks at his models and tells them. “Well my bombi’s lets go eat something delicious. The girls all race towards him, including Jenny. He tells her, no I meant bombi. A model takes her place and they leave. Ines enjoy your meal, he looks over at Jenny. You enjoy your tray.” They all laugh and take off.

Patricia tells her, “so this was all a false alarm.” Marcela tells him, “no someone left that poem there. I have this feeling, that Armando didn’t have a clue that was there.” Patricia asks, “what then?” Marcela tells her, “what do you mean what then. The person that wrote it or copied it. Is here, Armando didn’t bring it to the company. I think it’s someone, that came here or she works here. That’s the person, who put it on his desk.” Patricia asks, “Marcee do you have that letter is their proof there?” Marcela tells her, “no why?” Patricia tells her, “elementary my dear Marcee. That poem is hand written right.” Marcela tells her, “yes.” Patricia tells her, “well take it to an expert analysis they can decipher who wrote it. Plus they can say a lot, about that person. The physiology of that person, age etc. It’s at least a clue, as to who it might be. That bandida that’s after Armando, or that person that robbed him.” Marcela tells her, “I think Patricia your watching way too much tv. Forget about the handwriting analysis, or have that poem in my possession. I am telling you if that bandida is here, I will discover her.”

Betty stares at Armando’s photo again, when Sophia enters. “Come on were all ready to go eat. You coming with us?” Betty tells her, “yes I’ll meet you there.” Sophia asks, “oh Betty you seem strange. What is wrong?” Betty tells her, “oh it’s nothing nothing I’m on my way. Sophia leaves, and sadly Betty utters. Goodbye Don Armando, she turns off the computer. Betty goes to see Armando, who now is alone in the board room drinking. Don Armando I am heading for lunch, would you like anything?” Armando tells her, “no Beatriz.” Betty asks, “would you like me to order you something?” Armando tells her, “no.” Betty tells him, “excuse me sir. If you don’t eat anything, that whiskey will make you sick.” Armando tells her, “you know what Betty. Don’t worry about me, go eat calmly with your friends go.” Betty nods and closes the door, while he continues drinking.

Ines tells Aura Maria, “come on were hungry my stomach is grumbling.” Aura Maria tells them, “let me just fix this mail and we can go.” Freddy walks by, and heads straight to the elevator. Aura Maria calls out, “Freddy Freddy.” Freddy doesn’t move, so Ines tells him. “Freddy Aura Maria is talking to you.” Aura Maria tells her, “Inesita could you please tell Freddy to take this mail up.” Ines repeats what Aura Maria told her. Freddy tells her, “excuse me and forgive me sorry Inesita but you’re not the one that I have to follow orders from.” Ines asks, “what are you saying?” The girls utter, “what?” Aura Maria rolls her eyes, and calls Wilson. Wilson asks, “yes how may I help you?” Aura Maria tells him, “tell Mr. Freddy to take these upstairs and deliver it.” Wilson tells her, “with pleasure. Wilson tells him, you heard her Freddy.” Freddy asks, “heard who brother?” Wilson tells him, “from your ex.” Freddy tells him, “I don’t hear nothing.” Wilson tells him, “take this upstairs and delivery it.”  Freddy tells him, “yes I will.” Aura Maria tells Wilson, “tell him also that there are two important faxes that Don Armando is waiting for.” Wilson repeats it, and Freddy stares at it. Freddy asks, “what telegrams?” Wilson repeats, “what telegrams?” Aura Maria tells him, “the last two in the back.” Wilson tells him, “the last two.” The elevator opens and Betty comes out. “Are we going to eat?” Sandra tells her, “we have one problem. Well once again only two will be able to eat today.” Bertha tells her, “well that’s what you get when none of you want to do my diet.” Mariana tells her, “oh enough with that Bertha.” Betty tells them, “don’t worry I will lend the money to those that can’t afford it.” Everyone utters, “thank you.” Betty tells them, “well I have some great news. This afternoon, we can pay the payroll.” Wilson picks Betty up, everyone cheers and hugs begin. Freddy is about to hug Aura Maria, and stops and pushes her aside.  Wilson then tells Freddy, “remember you owe me money and have to pay up.” Freddy tells him angrily, “I know you had to ruin the party.” He picks up the mail and goes inside the elevator. Wilson then gets back to work.

Sophia asks, “Aura Maria what is going on? What up with Freddy and you?” Aura Maria tells her, “what you girls don’t know. Last night I arrived home, and Freddy was waiting he caught me saying goodbye to my boyfriend. He’s now cut all communications with me.” Mariana tells her, “with good reason.” Aura Maria tells them, “the joke is he put Wilson as the intermediate between the messenger and the receptionist.” She laughs, but the rest are quite cold towards her. Ines tells her, “I don’t see anything funny about this. You have hurt that poor boy Freddy immensely. I told you you were going to pay. It’s here or up there, didn’t anybody teach you that.” Aura Maria tells her, “yes Inesita yes I screwed up. The good girls go to heaven, the bad one go all over the place.” She’s the only one that laughs at her joke. Ines tells her, “well then that means your boots will go to heaven.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no don’t all look at me that way. I didn’t kill a priest, I told Freddy from the start. That between the two of us, we would only be friends. Look at me awful if, I date a married man, or taking another woman’s man. I will go straight to hell in a sauce pan.” Betty listens and is quiet, and looks at all of them. Ines tells her, “ok let’s go eat.” Betty follows but lags behind.

Marcela tells Patricia, “oh no it has to be one of Hugo’s models who else.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee he didn’t go to that cocktail at Color Inn with her.” Marcela tells her, “no.” Patricia tells her, “I think I know what happened. What if they were supposed to go out? Or what if he left here with the girl, dropped her off some place. Then he heads to Color Inn, to attend that meeting. Later on, he return to see her. Marcee did you find out, who he left here with? Oh my god, what if it’s her?” Marcela tells her, “I am going to find out.” Wilson is on the phone, he tells a girl. “Don’t worry doll face I will ask Don Armando, he might have a job for you. See you precious, I will miss you.” Marcela comes down, and sees him. “I need to ask you a question, and it must stay between the two of us. Who did Armando leave with last night?” Wilson tells her, “no look Dona Marcela. I really don’t know, who’s going out with Don Armando. That is a part of his personal life, I am not a gossiper. I don’t go around asking people, what they do in their personal life.” Marcela asks, “that’s not what I’m asking about. I am asking who did he leave with, last night from Eco Moda. You opened the garage door, you must have seen who he left with.” Wilson tells her, “well that’s another thing Dona Marcela. Yes I saw him leave.” Marcela asks, “well then who did he leave with last night? Who was his companion?” Wilson tells her, “I understand your doubt but rest assured. Mr. Mendoza left last night, with Miss Betty Pinzon Solano. On that side, you can just relax.” Marcela tells him, “Wilson next time we talk. Don’t eat anything, in front of me its bad manners.”

Evening has fallen once more, and Armando still drinking by his desk. Mario comes by, and asks. “So what have you decided to do?” Armando tells him, “I haven’t decided a thing. I need more time to think.” Mario asks, “to think what. To think what?” Betty comes by, and tells him. “Sir everyone has been paid. The phone rings, and she goes and gets it. You have reached the president’s office of Eco Moda. Hi dad, no I am on my way home. Is Nicholas there? Tell him, to wait I am on my way. Yes dad, I’m promise see you soon.” Mario asks Armando, “are you going to let her go. Are you going to let her meet up with Nicholas? What have you given up?” Armando growls, “enough leave me alone Mario.” Mario utters, “fine like you ordered.” He leaves, while Betty gathers her things and goes to see Armando. “Sir I am heading home, do you need me for anything else.” Armando tells her, “yes Betty I need you. I don’t want to our relationship to end. Please permit me, to take you home. Yes we have much to discuss.” Betty tells him, “no sir.” Armando tells her, “what do you mean no.” Betty tells him, “please sir don’t do it. We can talk tomorrow, at the office. You have been drinking too much, Dona Marcela is really in a bad mood. It’s quite dangerous.” Armando tells her, “I need to talk to you understand. In fact I need to talk now, right now.” Hugo then comes in, “Armando we need to talk.” Armando tells him, “what do we possibly need to talk about what Hugo.” Hugo tells him, “we have lots to discuss. Like creams, style,  dating, calls. Oh how beautiful your assistant looks lately.” He then laughs.

Betty takes this opportunity to leave, Armando screams “Betty.” Hugo tells him, “oh were going to discuss the business at hand. For nothing else, really joins us.” Armando calls out, “Betty.” Hugo tells him, “oh stop screaming let her go. She is ugly and doesn’t hear noises. All she hears is big loud noises in her head. Big noises, that is why you always have to scream at her so she can understand.” Armando tells him, “what is so important that we have to discuss.” Hugo is on the couch, and he tells him. “Oh this is a delicious sofa, can I take this to my studio.”  Armando asks, “now what do you want?” Hugo tells him, “I have a cous cous this problem with the money has been stressed out. I don’t know what to design, nothing inspires me.” Armando finishes his drink, and he tells him. “Don’t worry about the money, that is being taken care of.  All are coming from different stores, continue designing like you always do. We will give you your money ok.” Hugo tells him, “fine then do it. I have a cold breeze go through me, I don’t know what to do. What should I design for, the poor. Yes yes the taste of the design, we can give it to your assistant. Betty hasn’t left she’s eavesdropping by the door. She knows how the poor dresses.” With that said, she leaves.

Patricia is overjoyed, and kisses her cheque. “I just can’t believe how happy I am Marcee. I have this in my hand I never felt this way. I don’t know, if I should cash it or bronze it.” She makes a cross and Marcela sees Betty by the elevator. Betty feels her stare, and tells her. “Have a good evening.” Marcela tells Patricia, “how shameless.” Patricia tells her, “hey Marcee you don’t think just because she left last night with him. That she’s his lover, I knew that he took her home last night. I never mentioned it, because I thought it wasn’t important. It’s just minuscule nothing really to say. Armando is probably really bitter, and neurotic than before. He’s probably drinking more than before, but I don’t think that his tastes have faltered. I don’t think he went to that extremes.” Marcela tells her, “that scarecrow isn’t his lover but she must know who is. She must hide everything, and she arranges all his meetings and their always talking.” Patricia tells her, “yes there is no doubts but unfortunately you can’t do nothing to her. You can’t fire her, or punish her, or for that matter talk to her.” Marcela tells her, “yes I know but it doesn’t mortify me,but Beatriz is the only one that take me too her.” Patricia tells her, “oh yes say oh hi give me that woman’s number and address. Oh yeah, she’ll give it too you right away.” Marcela tells her, “it’s not that idiot.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “she is the only one that can lead me to that woman.” Patricia tells her, “oh yeah.”

Betty arrives downstairs, and sees everyone standing there. There all there eavesdropping on Aura Maria and her new boytoy. Betty asks, “can we go now?” Bertha tells her, “no not yet. We have to wait, till Aura Maria night shift ends.” Everyone laughs, Aura Maria tells him. “Look I am on my way out. I should be there in say a half an hour, you can pick me up there. Yes hold on for a moment.” Freddy is whistling and comes by. “Oh my interpreter.” Wilson says, “yes your majesty what can I do for you.” Freddy tells him, “tell that beautiful receptionist. Tell her to continue with her new romance on the phone. Don’t let me, by coming by stop her being with her evening beau. For it doesn’t matter to me, I hardly listen to her. It’s like I’m watching a silent film.” Wilson tells her, “keep talking he doesn’t care.” Freddy tells Wilson, “that isn’t what I said.” Wilson tells him, “look who’s going to remember all that. Look I just shortened it, but she gets the idea.” Freddy tells him, “how can I explain this. You’re missing the poet side, the elegance, the condensation.” Aura Maria tells the guy, “ok batteries look we will meet there. Well ladies lets go.” All of the them shake their heads, and utter. “Alright.” Wilson and Freddy walk to reception. Aura Maria tells them, “see you tomorrow.” Wilson tells her, “yes have a good night Aura Maria. Then he asks Freddy, “what did you say?” Freddy tells him, “nothing I am furious with her.” Wilson tells her, “no messages to report.” Aura Maria tells Betty, “finally your boss let you go early. Now you can come with us.” Betty tells them, “he doesn’t need me anymore.” Ines tells them, “well then let’s go.” All of them say goodbye to the men.

Freddy begins saying, “sayonara, arivaderchi, goodbye.” He then begins to cry, Wilson asks. “What wrong now you cry baby?” Freddy tells him, “oh brother she’s going to be with him. She’s going to be with him. Give me your revolver.” Wilson tells him, “you know I’m not allowed to carry one.” Freddy tells him, “don’t you get my meaning. You handsome idiot, oh take off that hat you extremist.” Wilson tells him, “you ungrateful.”

Armando tells Hugo, “do what ever you want with that material. I don’t care, use anything design anything.” Hugo tells him, “who listen to that gratitude Mendoza. What is up with you, or your eagerness to leave.” Armando tells him, “eagerness yes I want to get rid of you.” Hugo tells him, “oh do you have an intimate gathering to go too. With Marg I image.” Armando tells him, “Hugo when you came to my office. You wanted to talk to me, you mentioned with grand flare. That we didn’t have nothing to discuss, unless it regarding the company. I do believe that this conversation is now over. Now then, leave me in peace.” Mario comes by, and asks. “Have you calmed down now?” Hugo tells him, “Mario Calderon. I just found out, you going out with one of my bombi models.”

Mario tells him, “no and?” Hugo tells him, “don’t do that with your lips or I won’t respond. I warned both of you, that you’re not allowed to get involved with my girls. I don’t want any more shows, like Claudia Bosch or Karina Larson no more. Mario points no at him. Now then, I would like you to look at your schedule books. I’ve learned a lot of bandidas, ask for a lot of sexual favors. Armando just rolls his eyes. With my girls, don’t get involved with them. Are we clear?” Mario tells him, “hear that our mother in law of Eco Moda has spoken. Now we have to ask permission, our Dona Hugo if we can date the models.” Armando asks, “now Dona Hugo. Is it possible, I can talk to Mario alone please. Without your strong presence.” Hugo tells them, “oh Abbot and Costello continue enjoying yourselves. Dance like Cubans, drinking like Cossacks but stay away from my territory. Or no or else, go find yourself another Delmira Agustini.” He zzz them both and takes off. Mario quickly closes the doors saying. “Goodbye mother in law.” Armando tells him, “oh I can’t believe the whole company knows about that.” Mario asks, “what happened with Betty. So did you talk to her?” Armando tells him, “you can stop whispering she’s gone.” Mario asks, “and how did it end?” Armando tells him, “nothing she doesn’t want nothing with me. She flew away.” Mario tells him, “so you let her go to that guy and their meeting.” Armando asks, “well then what did you want me to do?” Mario asks, “what she pushed you away. Armando nods, and Mario goes caramba. Who does this girl think she is, the birds hitting the shotguns that’s incredible. You know what I’m thinking, that Nicholas Mora is better than you. Did it hurt, well now you know him.” Armando tells him, “he doesn’t interest me.” Mario tells him, “error the enemy you have to know him better. Look at him, and look at him in the eyes. Those are the eyes, that Betty will see when she complains he’s seeing another woman.”

Armando tells him, “you just don’t understand Mario. You don’t understand I am tired, I’m I’ve had it with everything. I am serious, I am telling you with all honesty. I’ve had it, I have to stop this or else Marcela is going to kill me. I just don’t have the heart to continue betraying poor Betty. She doesn’t deserve any of this, I don’t want to kiss her anymore. No more kisses, today I wanted to fix everything but she left. I just didn’t want to kiss her anymore. Understand me one thing, I am losing my valour. I don’t have any more.” Mario tells him, “fine it’s done. Let’s just leave everything like that, just forget it. Go home, rest and relax. Look just thinks, about what’s going to happen one year from now.” Armando tells him, “what do you pretend. That I go to her house tonight, is that what you want go to her place. To go on my knees, and give her a serenade.” Mario utters, “mariachi are nice.”

(The line “I don’t want to kiss her anymore.” Is it at this point, that Armando is really now becoming affected every time Betty kisses him. It’s no longer a game for Armando, even though he tells Mario. It’s as if he doesn’t want to let Betty in, but she’s already inside his heart.)

Armando tells him, “mariachis never Calderon.” Mario tells him, “fine mariachis no. Instead how about a surprise visit. Look just talk about your things, put the rules of the game. Look give her thing, this small detail his name is popey it’s for you.” Armando takes it and utters, “popey what now more kisses.” Mario tells him, “yes that detail you must give. Look your lips are already with anaesthesia, so what’s the problem. Frustrated he screams, Armando please its 50 million, it’s the future of the company. Of the families, Betty is going to be with this guy. This will end up fixing their relationship, like forever understand. Look your car is faster, than that buss that carries Betty. If you floor it, you will probably get there before she does.” Armando tells him, “this is the last time hear this Calderon. Suggestion that my conscience, will permit me to do so. I have never in my life, gone after a woman. I have never begged, or will go on my knees for a woman to take me back. Especially now, with a woman like Betty.” Mario tells him, “I know brother I know look believe me you have all my solidity. True this is an exceptional moment. The worst is over, you’ve already kissed her. Don’t worry about your ego, that disappeared when you kissed her that first time.” Armando tells him, “I can’t promise you that things will work out between the two of us. She was very cold towards me.” Mario tells him, “I will tell you something it’s not for the company. It’s for your dignity, if a woman as ugly as Betty pushes you away. Operate yourself or ask Marcela to lend you a dress. Or go in a monastery, for your career as a man is over. Armando puts on his jacket. It’s ruined, come on lets go to the ugly. Then Mario goes, come on for the champion ship. Do you have that picture of Adriana.” Armando tells him, “it’s in here.” Then they begin to box, and they head out.

Marcela is ready to go, when she sees Patricia leaving the office she asks. “Oh why are you so nervous? What were you doing in Mario’s office. Were you with him?” Patricia tells her, “no I was taking out some things I left behind.” Marcela asks, “are we going now?” Patricia tells her, “no Marcee I want to stay a bit longer.” Marcela asks, “what you’re going to wait for Mario?” Armando and Mario arrive by the elevator, Armando tells him. “Enough.” Then Mario heads to his office. Marcela asks, “so where is the cocktail?” Armando tells her, “there is no cocktail.” Marcela asks, “so what are you going now? If it’s not much trouble, since it’s not intimate.” Armando tells her, “don’t worry I will tell you I am going grocery shopping. I have no tomatoes in my fridge. Later I will be going to my apartment, it’s not a intimate act for the grocery store will be filled with people. Do you want to know anything else?” Marcela tells him, “no nothing else. I guess because of today, I have no more rights to get involved in your life.” Armando tells her, “think whatever you want. I haven’t broken up with you, or even considered it.” Marcela tells him, “when you’re done your shopping. Why don’t you come to my place?” Armando utters, “yes.” Marcela tells him, “oh come on don’t make that face. You probably have more important plans to do.” Armando tells her, “we will see one another at your apartment Marcee.” Patricia tells her, “oh did you believe that story of him going to the grocery store.” Marcela tells her, “and what do you want me to do about it.” Patricia tells her, “that story about the grocery store or else that store is someplace else. We should follow him.” Marcela asks, “well do you want to take my car or yours. What you want me, to make a fool out of myself again.” Patricia tells her, “we really should get another unmarked car just in case. For I don’t believe that story, about the grocery store. Are you going to question him at your apartment?” Marcela tells her, “I am not that stupid Patricia. If someone wants to take him away from me, I won’t cause a fire for Armando. I have other means to punish him with.”

Mario starts calling Sandra, and sees Patricia instead. Patricia tells him, “she left a long time ago. What’s wrong?” Mario tells her, “I can’t find my car keys.” Patricia asks, “did you look carefully.” Mario tells her, “yes I looked all over my office it’s not there. I even went downstairs, to see if it was placed on the ring and it’s not there either.” Patricia tells him, “oh it’s not that important look tomorrow they will show up. I am heading out, if you want I can take you home.” Mario tells her, “oh no thanks love. I don’t want to bother you with this. I’ll just take a taxi.” Patricia tells him, “no it’s no bother. On the contary, it will be quite the pleasure.” Mario tells her, “look Patty I am going really far. It would be too dangerous, for you to be travelling back so far.” Patricia tells him, “well we can go back together.” She sits down, and crosses her long legs. A model comes by and tells him. “Hello.” Mario asks, “hello are you ready?” Mario tells her, “yes no we have a slight problem. I can’t find my keys.” The model tells him, “oh that’s ok I have my mine downstairs in the garage.” She grabs his hand, and guides him to the elevator. Mario tells Patricia, “thanks for the offer but maybe next time.” Patricia is heartbroken, and sits down in shock. She utters, “you bastard.”

(I’m surprised by this point, hasn’t Patricia realized that he doesn’t want nothing to do with her.)

At Betty’s house, Nicholas touches the photo of Patricia. Julia enters and asks Nicholas. “Nicholas may I serve the dinner now.” Nicholas tells her, “yes yes my food or our food. I will clean up the table.” Betty arrives home, “hi everyone.” Nicholas is ready to do their dance, but she’s not in the mood. Julia tells her, “please tell your vice president of Terra Moda. To clean up so we can have our Pinzon table back, so I can serve dinner dear.” Betty tells Nicholas, “look I’ll help you Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “thank you boss thank you.” Betty sees the picture of Patricia on the table. “What is this doing here?” Nicholas tells her, “she’s my inspiration. I don’t have flowers, and so I use her.” Betty tells him, “oh no I don’t want a picture of that woman here in my home. Why don’t you put it back in your wallet.” Nicholas tells her, “but it’s a copy for my office. The original is right here, he shows her his wallet. It’s close to my heart.” Betty asks, “so where is that cell phone?” Nicholas tells her, “its right here are you going to call me or what. Betty when are you coming.” Betty tells him, “look Nicholas I have to be very clear with you. When you wanted a cell phone. I didn’t object, because it was going to be used for business of Terra Moda. You have to remember, that were using Don Armando’s money.” Nicholas tells her, “oh no were working hard now using our brains don’t you forget it Betty.” Betty tells him, “well then don’t lend it out to your so call girl friends. You’re not going to seduce them that way.” Nicholas tells her, “I am not seducing anybody. I haven’t lent my cell to anybody.” The phone rings, Hermes runs to get it and then he says. “Hi dear.” Betty tells him, “hi dad.” Hermes tells her, “maybe this is the news about my pension money.” Hermes gets the phone, “one moment please. Dear it for you, it’s your boss.” Betty tells him, “my boss. She answers it and tells him, “hello.”

“Hi its Armando calling, is it possible we can talk.” Betty tells him, “well the thing sir I just arrived home.” Armando tells him, “well I am parked in the front of your house. Could you come out for a minute.” Betty asks, “you’re out front.” Nicholas tells her, “just let him in. Let’s ask him to dinner, right Don Hermes.” Armando asks, “who is there who are you talking too?” Betty tells him, “my dad and Nicholas.” Armando asks, “sorry that I’m interrupting something.” Betty tells him, “no no no you’re not interrupting nothing.” Hermes tells her, “tell him he’s invited to dinner.” Betty tells him, “no he’s in a hurry.” She hangs up, and goes to the door. Hermes asks, “what’s going on?” Betty tells him, “dad he just wants some disks I brought home. He needs them urgently.” Hermes tells her, “fine give it to him and come straight back.” Betty tells him, “well Don Armando wants to give me. Some extra information he forgets at work.” Hermes tells her, “listen to me Betty. I don’t want you, going in a stranger’s car. What will the neighbors think? Then of course it ends up in the sofa, now then if he wants to visit bring him in. We can invite him to have some dinner. Julia what’s for dinner.” Nicholas tells him, “it sure smells good add more water.” Hermes utters, “add more water.”

Outside Armando is staring at Adriana Arboleda photo. Betty comes out, and Armando has a drink from his flask. “Hello sir, how may I help you sir.” Armando tells her, “get in the car for a moment.” Betty tells him, “I can’t sir… well the thing is sir…” Armando tells her, “get in the car.” Betty utters, “ok sir” and gets in. Hermes is watching through the window. Armando asks, “Betty why are you askew with me?” Betty tells him, “sir what I told you at the office is real. I think we have nothing more to discuss, between the two of us nothing has occurred. Its best we continue like we were.” Armando tells her, “why are you telling me this you’re so cold? What you don’t have a heart? What you want me to forget everything. Plus pretend that nothing happened, between the two of us. What are you even listening to me?”

Betty meanwhile, is looking at the window of her house. Betty tells him, “yes sir I am listening.” Armando angrily tells her, “it doesn’t seem like it. It seems you’re worried, over what occurring inside your house than with me. You keep on looking over there. What you’re angry that Nicholas, is going to see us or what?” Betty tells him, “well no the thing is my dad told me that I couldn’t stay outside for too long. If you wanted to talk, we could go in and do a proper visit.” Armando tells her, “what do you expect me to sit in your house. To talk about our relationship in front of your father and Nicholas. Is that what you want?” Betty tells him, “no no sir its best we go from here.” Armando tells her, “are you sure. Its only because, you’re afraid of Nicholas might think?” Betty tells him, “no it’s my dad sir. Nicholas knows, that we are talking.” Armando asks, “so what did he say?” Betty tells him, “nothing we were discussing other matters before you arrived.” Armando asks, “is he waiting?” Betty tells him, “yes but it’s not important. Why don’t we get away from here sir.” Armando drives off, while inside the house Hermes tells Julia. “They left, Betty left with her boss.” Nicholas tells him, “unfortunately.” He grabs another potato, Hermes tells him. “Who asked for your opinion sir?” Julia tells him, “oh come on she probably went with him to get some cigarettes just relax.” Hermes tells him, “its best that she doesn’t take too long. I don’t want to be obligate to go.”

Armando drives around the block. “Now then Betty over here, do you feel more comfortable. Now we can concentrate on our conversation. Betty nods he continues. Now then, why don’t we begin. How can I say this, you are so cold. How am I going to forget, everything that occurred. That it’s over and done with. Beatriz we were touching, the heaven with our hands. Now it’s all gone to pieces, on the floor in the fire. What happened?” Betty tells him, “sir don’t say that for me it’s just not simple for me to forget.  I too touched heaven with my hand sir. I swam in my dreams, and lived the best nights of my life. Armando rolls his eyes, before looking back at her. I know that I won’t be living like that again, but I am also touching hell. When I see Dona Marcela, I feel things I condemn myself because I am ripping apart something. I am betraying so many people. No sir, I really do feel awful. I can’t carry this burden any longer.” Armando asks, “but what Beatriz what is stronger. The burden you’re carrying, or what you feel for me and what we have lived together?” Betty tells him, “of course it what I feel for you its superior than anything sir.” Armando asks, “and then why don’t we live it Betty. We touched heaven with our hands, if we are swimming in the ocean, let’s climb that mountain Beatriz. Why should we deny it, we can be happy. Why can’t we feel it, tell me Beatriz. Don’t you want to continue, enjoying these nights we have been living.” Betty lovingly stares at him, and utters. “Oh yes sir, but…” Armando tells her, “no let’s live it. Really let’s live it for real Beatriz. I want to continue living it, every single night of my life. Next to you, you..” He moves closer, Betty utters. “Oh sir.” Armando tells her, “what.” Then they kiss, Betty once again falls.

Roman and his gang are walking around, when they see the car. They peak in, and one tells Roman. “Man that guy is eating her up.” Roman asks, “do you know who it is? It must be one hell of a woman.” Roman tells them, “respect and why don’t we go and say hello.” It’s Betty after a few minutes, stops Armando from kissing her. “Sir please, we have to stop this we can’t continue this crazy thing. We can’t fall once again.” Armando tells her, “Betty this isn’t about breaking this up. It’s marvellous, we had to cool it we were going crazy. Here I am going crazy, wanting you and escaping to every little place. Or wanting to take you on my office desk, that can’t be happening. That isn’t what we should be doing.” Betty tells him, “yes sir I know.” Armando tells her, “Betty looks Betty I want to spend all my nights with you. It will be a bit difficult, because Marcela is now very suspicious and thinks I am seeing someone. You know more than anybody, the consequences if she were to find out.” Betty touches his lips, “you don’t have to tell me sir. That is what scares me the most.” Armando tells her, “look I can’t just break up with Marcela just like that. It will take me some time.”

Betty tells him, “yes sir I understand. You don’t have to tell me nothing.” Armando tells her, and caresses her cheek. “I want to tell you, Beatriz the thing is for you to fully understand. I can’t break up with Marcela, if the company is in this state. I have to do it when, the economic situation is more stable. When all those loans have been paid off. In other words, when the company is once again back in my hands. When I am once again, the president of Eco Moda. If I were to break up with Marcela right now. She will hate me, and will want vengeance. She will try to fragment the company, she would want her share. Then of course, I would be stuck showing her the real bank balance of the company. That would be terrible.” Betty tells him, “of course that would catastrophic sir. I understand, that is why we should break this up. Sir you shouldn’t risk so much especially for me.” Armando angrily tells her, “you want to still break up with me Beatriz.  I am telling you, we should just be careful. Let’s continue like this.” Betty tells him, “its best we break up now before it gets worse.” He caresses her face, “Beatriz don’t leave me. Betty don’t leave me. Please don’t leave me.” Then he’s the one that kisses her. Roman hits the car, and he screams. “Oh go to a motel? who is in here? Oh my god it’s Betty! Yuck!” The guys make vomiting noises. Betty and Armando stop kissing, and it’s Armando that asks. “What is wrong with you?” Betty screams, “sir don’t get out of the car.” Roman asks, “you were kissing that.” Armando asks, “what’s the problem?” Armando gets out of the car. “I said, what is your problem?” Roman tells him, “oh but you were kissing that thing.” Armando tells him, “so what?” Roman tells him, “but you were kissing the ugly girl of the barrio. See definately I told you lot, someone from another part of town. Had to come around, to take our Betty.” One guy asks, “and what about Nicholas? He now has competition.” They all laugh, and make fun. Armando takes off his glasses, and goes towards them. “You lot are so funny.” The guys utter, “booo.” Betty gets out of the car, “Don Armando don’t pay them any attention. Let’s just go ok, leave us in peace Roman.” Roman tells her, “but were not bothering you on the contrary. He extends his hand I just wanted to congratulate you, your my hero. So Betty, how did you manage to win this lottery. Look at this expensive car, look at how he’s dressed.”

Roman touches Armando’s suit. Armando is standing acting very cool. A girl screams out, “give me your formula.” Armando tells Roman, “let go of my jacket.” Roman tells him, “oh what aggression. Tell us Betty, how did you end up with this lottery. What did she put something in your soup? Or did she put witchcraft on you? Come on tell me the name, of the witch that cast the spell. Are you seeing her as divine?” One goes, “she’s nauseating.” Armando has had enough, he grabs Roman and pushes him to the side. Roman screams, “oh a defender of the uglies.” Armando punches his stomach, and hits his face. Roman is down, and then he comes back up and gives Armando a huge punch on the face. Armando falls back on his car. Betty screams, “Don Armando!” Armando does another punch, and grabs him. He screams out, “you will respect her!” Then punches him over and over. The guys of the gang, all gang up on Armando and grab him. Roman then begins punching Armando. The girl begins to stop the fight, “oh my god look how you left him.”

Back at the house Hermes tells Julia. “Oh my god, Betty has left with her boss.” Julia utters, “oh dear.” Nicholas tells them, “you should have a job as 007 spy.” Hermes tells them, “no I am going to find her.” Julia tells him, “but Hermes. Oh he goes crazy after Betty.” Nicholas tells her, “if he acts that way if she’s ugly can you image if she were beautiful.” Then he laughs, Julia’s not laughing and begins cleaning the table.

The fight continues, Betty screaming. “No more Don Armando please, no more.” Hermes screams, “what is going on here?” Betty tells him, “oh dad there bothering Don Armando.” Roman tells him, “well the thing is Don Hermes well.” Hermes tells him, “you are a delinquent and a bully.” Then Don Hermes begins to hit Roman, with his karate punch. Roman tells him, “but Don Hermes don’t get all aggressive.” Hermes utters, “oh you delinquent.” Roman tells him, “oh another defender this time for the boyfriend.” One guy says, “he’s her prince charming.” Hermes screams, “what prince charming you buffoon. Go on, the lot of you go.” Then Roman gang, eventually take off. Hermes screams, “antisocials go and find a job.” Armando is by the floor coughing up blood. Hermes asks, “are you alright sir?” Armando tells him, “he hit my face but I’m fine.” Hermes asks, “what happened?” Betty tells him, “well dad I accompanied Don Armando to the store for a package of cigarettes.” Hermes tells him, “boy sir you do smoke a lot.” Armando tells him, “yes two pack a day.” Hermes tells him, “well it’s time to end that tobacco is bad for your health.” Armando utters, “yes.” Betty tells him, “dad they got in the way and started that fight. You know how they get.” Hermes asks, “what they say?” Betty tells him, “that’s not important you know that they like to bother me.”  Armando tells him, “they were insulting Betty. I couldn’t permit that, so I got out of the car. That’s when the fight started.” Hermes asks, “what exactly did they say?”

Betty tells him, “oh dad you know they always bother me because I’m ugly.” Armando tells him, “Don Hermes I wasn’t going to permit that. They have to respect Betty, no matter what people will have to respect her you understand.” Hermes tells Armando, “how embarrassing sir. What an embarrassment, you fighting with these hooligans in this barrio. That’s why I told you, to have this man inside our house. So then this wouldn’t be happening.” Armando tells him, “well I was just passing through it wasn’t Betty’s fault.” Hermes tells him, “Betty knows firsthand that I have prohibited her going out late in the streets. This isn’t the first time, we’ve had fights with these people. Just the other day, Nicholas was also fighting with them.” Armando asks, “oh Nicholas as well.” Hermes tells them, “yes I’m always at it too. I just want to go running after them.” Armando tells him, “no sir.” Betty tells Hermes, “dad please let’s leave it like this. I don’t want any problems.” Hermes tells him, “now look at you sir. Did you hear that, your Betty’s boyfriend how embarrassing.” Betty starts laughing, Armando looks away. Hermes tells them, “oh when they want to start a fight. They scream out a whole bunch of things.” Armando tells him, “oh Don Hermes just forget all about it it’s now over. Now let’s go back to the house. My wife will fix your wounds please.” Armando tells him, “sir what I’ll do is drives both of you back. Then I’ll head home.” Hermes tells him, “yes I guess your fiancée is waiting for you.” Armando tells him, “yes.” Betty gets in the car, Hermes tells him. “Sir please don’t mention, that you were here what will that distinguished lady think of us.” Armando tells him, “don’t worry about that sir. She will never find out about this.” Hermes gets in the car, and tells him.  “Thank you sir.” Then Armando touches his face, and grabs his glasses.

The earliest evidence, for fist fighting with any kind of gloves can be found on Minoan Crete.  (c. 1500–900 BC)  Boxing was first accepted, as an Olympic sport in 688 BC. It was called Pygme or Pygmachia.

SIXTY-SEVEN

They reach the house, Armando tells Hermes. “Don Hermes thanks for everything, we will talk again.” Hermes tells him, “no no thanks necessary sir. Are you sure, you don’t want to come in and let my wife fix you up. She’s not a nurse, but she can heal wounds with herbs and stuff. She can get rid of those bruises quick. Right dear?” Betty tells him, “that’s right dad.” Armando tells him, “Don Hermes thank you for your concern and your invitation but. That hit in the face I think its swelling, its best I go home and put ice on it and head to bed.” Hermes shakes his hand, “sorry sir for this inconvenience.” Armando utters, “ow my hand.” Hermes tells him, “next time come in we can eat and have a few drinks. We can listen to old music as well, I have a great tango collection to die for.” Armando tells him, “yes ouch my ear.” Hermes tells him, “well then let go dear.” Betty tells him, “I’ll be right in dad.” Hermes tells him, “oh no you’re not staying alone with him. You don’t want to start more problems. Betty doesn’t say a word, and just gets in the car in the front seat. Bye sir.” Hermes heads inside, Armando tells him. “See you later sir.”

Betty asks, “really sir are you don’t want to come in. I just don’t want you leaving like this.” Armando takes off his tie, Armando tells her. “I don’t want too Betty.” Betty tells him, “oh sir you shouldn’t started fighting for me. I’m not worth it.” Armando tells her, “what do you mean please it’s not worth it. I just couldn’t control myself I lost it. How could they say all that garbage, how could they laugh at you. I don’t know what occurred, I’ve never done that before. I just couldn’t contain myself, and I had to make them respect you. Betty smiles lovingly towards him. So did Nicholas defend your honor too.” Betty tells him, “yes once.” Armando tells him, “oh I guess Nicholas has competition that guy said. That you used to go everywhere with Nicholas, and that you are his.” Betty tells him, “no just forget that they just say that to mortify and play.” Armando tells her, “right so I guess he’s still in there.” Betty tells him, “I guess so he shouldn’t be that long to come out. He leaves early.” Armando tells her, “I see that’s fine. I am going then.”

Betty asks, “are you sure you’re ok?” Armando tells her, “no I’m not ok. How am I going to be fine Beatriz. I came here to talk to you, I was pretty worried. I wanted us to get back together, I wanted what we had back. I didn’t want to lose you, we can be together. Look what I ended up with, my hands empty and my face completly brusied.” Betty tells him, “sir you won’t leave empty handed. I don’t want to let you go either. We have to be more careful now, we can’t go out so much. We should pull back a bit.” Armando tells her, “oh Betty I feel so happy oh it’s wonderful. What you’re saying, Betty soon we will have time for us alone just the two of us.” Betty tells him, “yes sir because I’m just scared that one day Dona Marcela will find out. Sir do you really not like Nicholas. The thing is I’ve noticed that you, don’t like it when I talk about him so much. Or when he’s name is mentioned.” Armando tells her, “Beatriz if you say there’s nothing between the two of you I won’t feel bad. Oh this is making me so happy. He caresses her cheek. Well then, this is what were going to do Beatriz. Now from now on, you are going to tell everyone. That your boyfriend’s name is Nicholas Mora. Yes yes, now don’t roll your eyes at me. Look its simple, we can’t continue making everyone suspicious all over the place. Marcela is breathing down my neck, if you say that Nicholas is your boyfriend than she will calm down and not be so wary. Just like the girls at the office, they won’t know the difference. That way we can kill that fire, so if people do see us. We have that story about Nicholas. Is that alright Beatriz?” Betty tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “I would kiss you but your dad might notice the blood on your face.” Betty tells him, “yes sir. She laughs, she then tells him. Well then we can talk tomorrow.” She kisses his cheek and leaves the car. “Goodbye sir see you tomorrow.” He touches his face, where she kissed him then she enters the house.

Inside Hermes is re-enacting the heroine experience, “I managed to scare them and Roman’s gang took off.” Betty tells her, “oh Betty my love how embarrassing oh that poor man.” Betty tells them, “at least it wasn’t worse.” Nicholas takes off his jacket, “you should have called me. How many men were there?” Betty tells him, “there were six.” He puts back his jacket, “well then it’s over right.” Hermes tells him, “yes they went running.” Nicholas tells him, “it’s a good thing I wasn’t there they saved themselves. Or else we would have, massacred them all right Don Hermes.” Hermes tells him, “I don’t doubt it Nichorats that I don’t doubt.” Hermes glances once again at the door. Julia tells Betty, “oh how embarrassing what will his friends think. When they sees him all banged up. What will his girlfriend think dear?”

Armando arrives at the house, and goes and gets a drink by the bar. Marcela tells him, “oh hi love I thought you would be grocery shopping for a life time. She is shocked when he turns around, oh my god love. What happened to you ? Dear lord where did you go?” Armando tells her, “oh nothing happened love. Nothing’s wrong love.” He takes another drink of his whiskey. Marcela touches him, and utters. “Oh what do you mean, nothing happened. Look what they did to your face? Where did you go?” Armando tells him, “well the thing is a taxi driver cut me off. We had words, then we got to a traffic light the guy flipped out. So he got out of his car and we fought.” Marcela asks, “so does that mean, you fought with that taxi driver by punches.” Armando tells her, “well there was more than one.” Marcela asks, “oh so you fought the taxi driver?” Armando tells her, “well the thing is I hid in the car as long as I could. Then the guy started hitting the car, I had to stop it and got out of the car. So where fighting, and then his pals came by they must have thought I was killing him. I had no choice I fought with all of them. I gave they gave.” Marcela touches his face, and he flinches. “Oh my lord they could have killed you. I will get you some ice, I’ll be back in a minute.” Armando looks up and then sits down.

Betty writes:

“Yes I have to admit. That he does have a relationship with Dona Marcela. I know that he doesn’t love her, I know that he has to be with her. I will follow Don Armando’s orders, for our evenings out. I will treasure the time he can give me. I will be discrete like he asks, tonight he did something I thought would never happen. He showed me how he truly feels for me. This reality surpasses all my dreams. I know that he loves me so much, and likes what I look like. He defends me, I know that I have to change for him. I want to change for him, I need to change for him. I can’t continue asking him to fight with people every night. If someone calls me ugly, or for those people that make fun of me. I don’t want to bother him, starting tomorrow. I will become another woman. I will change for him, I just hope I’m not the usual Betty as always. Ugly Betty.”

Armando is in bed, Marcela is nursing his wounds. Marcela tells him, “I just don’t understand you. No what you did, is more than fighting with that taxi driver. Something is changing inside you, she touches his heart. What is it love? Is it that you’re drinking more, and that’s making you crazy?” Armando tells her, “no you’re driving me crazy.” Marcela tells him, “so that means I am making you go crazy. The one that’s driving me crazy is you.” Armando tells her, “love I will find you a lover and I will not spy on you. I don’t find you women, nor secret rendezvous. I am not following you day and night. Creating scandals, you know something. I wouldn’t do that you.” Marcela tells him, “I know I know that love but you have to admit that it’s not easy confiding in me.” Armando tells her, “fine my love don’t confide in me at all. Let me drink as much whiskey’s as I want. Or fight a whole bunch, of taxi drivers if I wanted too ok.” Marcela tells him, “fine ok my love. Fine I went too far, but lately a lot of strange things are occurring. She kisses him, let not continue arguing. If someone wants to steal you, they’re going to have to do so much more. Than write those poems, and give you chocolates. I am not going to lose you that easy.” Armando tells her, “the point is that nobody is trying to steal me. The thing is that I want, someone to rob me understand that. I don’t want that to happen, I just want to be by your side.” Marcela tells him, “I will confide in you. I just hope that I don’t regret it.” She kisses him, and he just stares at her with a puzzled look.

The next day Betty goes to her dad. “Oh dad here’s my cheque from work you can consign.” Hermes tells her, “that’s great because I haven’t heard nothing about my pension. We are going to have to sit down and check our accounts.” Julia is once again watching infomercials about bras. Betty tells him, “I can’t today but I am going to use a bit of money. I will be using it today.” Hermes asks, “what ever for?” Betty smiles and says, “I am going to buy clothes.” Julia tells her, “good go to Rosita Cavel you can get a discount.” Betty tells her, “no mom I won’t be going in there.” Julia asks, “no then where are you going?” Betty tells her, “you don’t know the store.” Hermes tells her, “now don’t go crazy and waste all your money on clothes.” Betty tells him, “don’t worry dad.” Hermes tells her, “we will see.” He leaves, Julia just shakes her head then Betty sits down. “Oh Mom the truth is, I just want to get a whole bunch of clothes. That will cost me.” Julia tells her, “oh dear you deserve it. Forget about what your father thinks. He’s a lot of work dear. The important thing is, you’re important now. Your boss now, is calling you and coming by and dropping you off.” Betty tells her, “oh mom it’s just more than change my clothes but my hair as well. I want to change my look too.” Julia asks concern, “change how?” Betty tells her, “I was thinking changing my hair style. Maybe putting on make-up. Starting today, I want to be a new Betty.” Julia tells her, “oh dear that sounds great. You my dear deserve it, do you want me to go with you?” Betty tells her, “no mom relax I’ll go by myself.” Julia asks, “so that means you’re not going to work?” Betty tells her, “I’ll call and ask for permission.”

At the apartments, Marcela tells Armando. “Oh your face looks a lot better, than last night. Would you like me to put on some make-up?” Armando tells her, “are you crazy I am not putting on make-up at the office. Hugo will be after me.” Marcela tells him, “don’t be an idiot. You can’t show up looking like that, full of bruises.” The phone rings, he looks at it. “Oh I don’t know this number.” Marcela asks curiously, “aren’t you going to answer it?” Armando tells her, “fine I know exactly what you’re thinking so I’ll get it hello.” Betty calls, “hello Don Armando sir it’s me Betty.” Nicholas walks by eating. Armando says loudly, “hello Betty Betty and looks over at Marcela. How are you?” Betty tells him, “sir first off I just wanted to ask you. How are you this morning?” Armando tells her, “I am fine.” Betty tells him, “the second is I wanted to ask your permission. Since I really don’t have much to do this morning. I will be needed some hours off. I have some personal matters to attend too.” Armando asks, “around what time will you be coming.” Betty tells him, “I’ll be there around 11 sir.” Armando tells her, “you better get there on time.” Marcela tells him, “oh love remind her please to have Daniel’s cheque ready today.” Armando tells her, “oh Betty how about doing a favor give that torment of Daniel Valencia’s cheque please.” Betty tells him, “yes sir sir I want to ask you one question. Are you at Dona Marcela’s apartment?” Armando tells her, “yes I slept over here I am at Marcela’s place.” Armando asks, “where are you calling from?” Betty tells him, “I am using Nicholas’s cell phone.” Armando tells her, “fine then I will see you at 11 you be well.” Marcela asks, “oh my you have to report your whereabouts on where you spent the night. What you now have to ask her, for permission or what?” Armando tells her, “oh no don’t start that again.” Marcela tells her, “well then does that mean she reports to someone else your whereabouts.” Armando asks, “with whom?” Marcela touches his chin and tells him, “let’s not fight today.” Armando tells her, “ouch that hurts.” Marcela tells him, “I am going to get my make-up case.”

Nicholas tells her, “oh no eye that call lasted more than two minutes. When the bill comes, don’t begin screaming at the top of your lungs. Watch that bill.” Betty tells him, “don’t worry when it comes we will both check every call. There should only be three calls, or am I mistaken.” Nicholas tells her, “don’t worry I will pay for that bill.” Betty just laughs, Nicholas asks. “So what is all that important business, that you have to do?” Betty tells him, “I’m going to change my look.” Nicholas tells her, “your look Betty but isn’t that dangerous. Now really consult your doctor and the surgical team. Then talk to the anaesthesiologists, we don’t want you coming out beautiful and cold and petrified.” Betty tells him, “oh don’t be an idiot Nicholas. I am not going to get an operation. I’m just going to change my hair, put on make-up and buy some clothes.” Nicholas tells her, “oh is that all you’re not going to be that different. You’ll never end up like this beautiful thing. He shows her a picture of Patricia, Betty tells him. “We are both different people, different types of women.” Nicholas tells her, “oh that obvious one is very beautiful the other very different. Go on your surgeon is waiting, I mean the make-up guy.” Betty tells him, “look at me this is the last time you’ll see me like this.” Nicholas tells her, “oh that’s a horrible memory.” He makes a monster claw and both laugh. Then he kisses Patricia’s photo and laughs.

At Eco Moda, Patricia arrives. Wilson tells her, “good morning.” Freddy tells her, “oh hello my lovely doll face.” Wilson laughs and then shuts up, he’s eating once more. Patricia asks, “so where is our receptionist where is she?” Freddy tells her, “oh Aura Maria is on her way here.” Patricia tells him, “don’t say that she’s going to arriving. She should already be here, look at the time and she still hasn’t arrived yet. Lately she has been arriving late, what she arrives at 9 and leaves at 11. That doesn’t work.” Freddy tells her, “excuse me Patty I think…” Patricia angrily tells him, “Patricia.” Freddy tells her, “Patricia first thing you may continue to call me Freddy. With complete confidence number two.” Patricia asks, “then what is your full name?” Freddy tells her, “my full name is Freddy Stewart.” Patricia smiles and says, “so Freddy Stewart.” Freddy tells her, “number two like I was saying. Since you don’t know me that much, so that means you don’t remember me. Third it’s none of your business, what time our lovely receptionist arrives. Aura Maria will arrive at the time, she is designated to arrive but since we move in different circles. You haven’t noticed.” Patricia tells him, “oh really Freddy Stewart let see if it isn’t just my problems.” She heads inside the elevator. Wilson tells Freddy, “oh brother that blond bimbo looks that her dream will come true. To see forever that Aura Maria, gets kicked out of this company. I wonder where is she at this time?” Freddy tells him, “oh brother please don’t let me image. Where that monkey is, it will kill me.” Wilson tells him, “fine continue suffering sir.” Freddy tells him, “brother stop calling me sir. Fine call me sir, with more significant.”

Gutierrez is walking around, screaming at his walky-talky. About rats eating the cheese, or the guy eating the cheese. Patricia screams, “Gutierrez Gutierrez.” He stops, “yes my lady.” Patricia tells him, “oh do you know where are receptionist is?” Gutierrez tells her, “I suppose she’s in the area of reception. That is her location to work.” Patricia tells him, “well for your information she hasn’t been arriving on time all week. In fact Aura Maria shows up around lunchtime.” Gutierrez is shocked, he tells her. “Senorita Patricia Fernandez, are you sure you know what you’re talking about.” Patricia tells him, “I would love it if you accompany me to the first floor. So you can assure yourself personally.” Gutierrez follows her saying, “yes immediately.” Marcela and Armando arrive, “good morning.” Wilson and Freddy utter, “good morning.” Marcela asks, “where is Aura Maria? You’re not going to tell me, she’s in the bathroom again.” Freddy tells her, “well no but it’s like she is.” Gutierrez arrives down with Patricia, “see see I told you she hasn’t arrived yet. Hello I was just showing Gutierrez, that our receptionist has yet to arrive. She is leaving the reception area neglected.” Armando tells her, “for one thing one has to arrive early to the company. Something you never do.” Patricia tells them, “ok sometimes I am late. Well she must have an important reason, as to why she isn’t here. Sometimes if I do arrive late, she’s never at her reception desk. That is some nerve.” Gutierrez tells them, “from the rules of the company I will have to do the ultimate punishment of them all. To fire Aura Maria. Bye Bye Aura Maria see you later.” Freddy is shocked, and yells. “No no sir.” Marcela tells him, “we have tolerated her lateness for far too long Freddy. When she arrives, tell her to see Gutierrez if she happens to arrive.” Freddy runs to Armando, “please sir give her one more opportunity.” Marcela tells him, “the opportunities have expired. This has now reached my nerve.”

Freddy and Wilson both pray, “please sir one last opportunity. I will personally make sure that she’s never late again.” Armando tells him, “look Betty I mean cosito look sometimes things are out of my hands. Unfortunately this is one of those times.” Freddy asks, “sorry sir but are you putting on make-up?” Wilson asks, “yes you seem weird today.” Freddy tells him, “call him sir sir.” Armando tells him, “strange strange the weird one is you. You’re the weird one, you’re the strange one. I am going to tell you one thing, I am not wearing make-up. Do I look like I’m wearing make-up?” Freddy utters, “no sir.” Armando tells him, “look that way.” Both men look over to a corner, and Armando has gotten inside the elevator. Wilson tells him, “you don’t think that Don Armando is going funny. Maybe he’s going out with Hugo Lombardi. Look I’m sorry that they fired your woman, but the truth was she was becoming your torment. They did you a favor by firing her or no.” Freddy tells him, “no Aura Maria can’t leave this company. My life without her has no meaning. I need her here, even if it’s to ignore her brother.”

Armando gets out of the elevator first. Marcela tells Gutierrez , “I just hope when she arrives. You better have that letter ready to be signed. I don’t even want to see her.” Gutierrez tells her, “yes madam.” Patricia tells her, “oh what a relief. Sandra and Mariana are listening intently. I guess now we need a new receptionist. One that comes early and works, she must be decent.” Armando tells her, “mmmm I have a candidate for you.” Patricia asks, “oh really who.” Armando tells her, “Patricia.” Everyone laughs even Patricia. Armando she says, then stops smiling when she sees that he’s serious. “Armando don’t play.” She looks over to Marcela, Armando tells her. “I am not playing Patsy Pat. You do like to work right.” Patricia utters, “yes.” Armando asks, “you like to come here early right.” Patricia tells him, “right.” Armando asks, “you are decent right?” Patricia tells him, “yes obviously.” Armando tells her, “Mr. Gutierrez I would like you to find a replacement. For Patricia Fernandez, secretary of the presidency. That now Patricia Fernandez, will now work for reception at Eco Moda.” Gutierrez tells her, “like you ordered sir.” Patricia is mortified.

Marcela smiles, and head to her office. Patricia runs towards Armando, “please don’t do this to me. Armando why are you doing this to me.” Armando tells her, “numerous reasons my dear Patty. First place, you’re the one that started all this. You’re the one that got Aura Maria fired.” Gutierrez  tells him, “yes correct.” Armando tells her, “second Patricia you only described a woman with your characteristics.” Gutierrez  tells him, “that’s correct.” Armando tells her, “third I can’t leave the reception area empty. I have to fill that void, and you’re the one that’s going to help me.” Gutierrez  tells him, “absolutely correct.” Patricia is now in tears, “Armando you might think I’m repetitive. I did not attend 6 months of finances at the San Marino. To end up as the receptionist, I accepted to be your secretary of the president because I was trying to help you. It’s a downturn becoming a receptionist.” Armando tells her, “its only one floor.” Gutierrez  just laughs, Patricia tells him. “Armando respect my contract, that I signed it was for a secretary job.” Armando warms his hands, “give me your hands come on with confidence. She reluctantly gives her hands, I am going to ask you one question. Remember when you read that contract. Patsy there was a clause in your contract. In it you were supposed, to make your boss happy. He has to be satisfied with your work, you have to follow his orders.” Patricia utters, “yes.” Armando screams, “you have never followed my orders. You Patricia Fernandez, go straight to reception.” Patricia cries, “Armando please. Armando what do you have, under that make-up?”  Gutierrez  looks as well, Armando flicks his head. Armando tells her, “nothing Patricia. I ate a clown soup for breakfast that’s why I look like this. I don’t have nothing.” Patricia tells him, “oh Armando Armando please.” Armando utters, “shhhh he looks over at Gutierrez  who’s copying him. Are you going to continue with me to hell? Do I have to support your shadow as well?” Gutierrez  tells him, “no sir.” Armando tells her, “go to reception.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Hugo is walking with one of his girls. He sees Armando, and looks at him carefully. “Well Armani I was looking at some materials. Wait Armando what is that on your face? Oh what type of make-up are you wearing?” Armando tells him, “I don’t know Marcela put it on this morning. I don’t know what its called.” Hugo tells her, “well it doesn’t matter the mark. Oh you look very bombi, come on girl accompany me to the washroom bye.” Then he start laughing, Armando glances at Bertha. Goes into his office, then comes back out.)

Then Armando asks Bertha, “look I was wondering how women take off make-up. What is the product?” Bertha smiles and says, “yes sir face cream and a tissue.” Armando tells her, “yes do you have some can I borrow some.” Bertha tells him, “ah yes sir of course.” He looks around and takes it. Patricia is complaining to Marcela. “Marcee you can’t permit that Armando, do this for me Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “well what do you want me to do about it. You’re the one that started the ball rolling, with firing Aura Maria. As an investor and president of the company, he can order you that transfer.” Patricia tells her, “but Marcela this isn’t a transfer. It’s a degradation I will finish my days in this company, stuck at the cafeteria. Armando can’t do this, as an investor or president Marcee. I’m a friend of the family, you can’t do this to me. Especially since I am his finance’s best friend.” Marcela tells her, “look Patricia first thing he doesn’t look at you as a friend. Second he can’t stand you, and he doesn’t care if you are my best friend. The possibilities are, you can’t cancel that transfer its null.” Hugo comes by, saying “hello Marg.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(“Look Marg becareful your boyfriend is starting to use your make-up kit. You know how expensive it is. Then the three start laughing, oh the stamp latino of Armando. Oh he looks so high bombi, it even makes pancake rise.” The four start laughing at his joke. Marcela tells him, “oh Hugo.” Hugo tells her, “oh soon he will want me to introduce him to some friends of mine.” Marcela tells him, “please don’t bother him about the make-up please. I am just begging you.” Hugo utters, “all right.”)

Then Mario arrives with model in tow, hand in hand. Hugo asks, look at the time where have you been? What bad steps have you been taught? First you’re late, and badly accompanied.” The model tells him, “I am truly sorry Don Hugo.” Mario tells him, “she is sick and can’t talk. Now before yelling at her, she did me a favor. I lost my car keys, and she picked me up in her car.” Hugo asks, “you left naked from your palace?” Mario coughs as well. Hugo tells him, “sneeze over there. What you now exchanged viruses or what? Look Mario Calderon you macho bleep, not only did you lose your keys but honor and value. Ethic and morals, my dear Calderon.” Mario tells him, “enough don’t be an idiot didn’t you understand. She did me a favor, she was a good girl now back to work.” He caresses her hair, and the model goes next to Hugo. He tells her, “don’t you dare touch me or talk to me.”

Mario smiles, and then looks over at Patricia. “Sandra you didn’t find my keys, I couldn’t find it anywhere.” Sandra tells him, “the last time I saw them. Was in your office, I don’t know where else it could be.” Mario tells her, “fine call a locksmith to open my car get me a duplicate. Oh this is going to cost me a fortune.” Patricia utters, “bastard.” Marcela stands next to Patricia, “that’s the model that taking Mario away from me. She’s not doing him a favour their dating.” Marcela asks, “oh really so what are you going to do?” Patricia tells her, “the same thing you’re going to do. With Armando’s lover, fight her for him.” Armando is in his office, with a small mirror taking off the make-up. Mario arrives, and asks. “What are you doing? Putting on make-up? Since when?” Armando tells him, “oh don’t you start bothering me now not now Calderon.” Mario then looks closer. “What the hell. He sits down, what happened to you?” Armando continues taking off the make-up. “Oh I got into a fight with some guys.” Mario tells him, “wait a minute what guys. I didn’t know that Marcela, would hit that hard she almost killed you.” Armando tells him, “I told you it was some guys. It wasn’t Marcela, you idiot Calderon. I got into a fight with Betty’s neighbours.”

Mario asks, “what do you mean what neighbours what happened. Oh come on do tell relax.” Armando tells him, “now don’t make fun.” Mario utters, “I promise.” Armando tells him, “well I was kissing Betty. Mario starts laughing. Armando continues, I was kissing Betty then these guys. Began hitting the car, then they began screaming that I should take her to a hotel.” Mario asks, “were you two steaming up the windows.” Armando tells him, “nothing was going on Calderon. I told you not to make jokes. Mario backs off and is quiet once more. They began screaming, I got out of my car I just needed them to respect her. I feel really bad so I ask them, what’s your problem.” Mario goes, “really.” Armando continues, “well then they began to insult her and they were yelling at her and calling her names. I couldn’t stand it anymore, and I gave it to them.” Mario tells him, “I was wondering what were they calling her. I’m serious, what were they saying.” Armando tells him, “oh the poor thing they were calling her the ugly of the barrio. Of the world and planet.” Mario cracks up, and asks. “What did you lose your lights? What business, what is it of your? It’s as if, I would fight with someone for calling me Mario Calderon. Is she in there?” Armando tells him, “no she asked for permission today she had some personal business to take care of.”

Meanwhile Betty goes to a store, and picks out an outfit, she’s a bit self conscious and asks the sales girl for help. “I got this dress, and want to see if it would fit me.” The lady takes her by the mirror, and shows someone else wearing the same outfit. It’s of course a skinny model, and the lady says. “I’ll take it.” Betty in the end doesn’t, and leaves the store all together.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Mario tells him, “oh galant of you so are you two back together.” Armando tells him, “yes but Betty accepted that we don’t see one another too much. Plus I also convinced her, to tell the girls. That her real boyfriend is Nicholas Mora. Do you undestand, if they do find it a bit suspicious. It elements it once and for all.” Mario tells him, “oh yes because nobody would even think that your dating her. Not even thinking your under the covers. Plus it makes things more comfortable.”)

Mario tells Armando, “ok now do another detail.” Armando asks, “what detail now?” Mario tells him, “I need to know how did things ended up last night. The topic is, I need to know the melody and rhythm and he sings a song.” Freddy is talking to himself, and waiting for Aura Maria. “Could it be, or not to be.” Wilson tells him, “I just think she just slept in.” Freddy finally sees her, and says. “Lovely time of arriving interpret.” Wilson repeats, “lovely time of arriving.” Aura Maria tells him, “Freddy I just wanted well..” Wilson repeats, Freddy tells her. “I don’t want to hear it, inform her that she has been fired from the company.” Aura Maria frantically screams, “what!” Wilson repeats, “you’ve been fired.” Aura Maria tells him, “but they can’t do this to me.” Wilson cries and repeats, “they can’t do this to me.” Aura Maria tells him, “look Freddy I need a favor.” Wilson repeats, and then Aura Maria looks over towards the door. “Jimmy please come here. A small boy enters, she tells them. I was thrown out of my house.” Wilson repeats it. Freddy does a dance, the boy copies and says. “Hello Freddy.” Freddy tells her, “Aura Maria Mr. Gutierrez is waiting for you upstairs. Wilson is ready to repeat, but Freddy stops him. Enough with the translation.” Aura Maria asks, “can I ask for one more favor.” Wilson repeats, “could you take care of Jimmy here while I head upstairs.” Wilson once again repeats. The boy goes to see Freddy, and he holds him. Freddy tells him, “brother I can’t let them fire her. Have you eaten today?” Jimmy tells him, “no.” Freddy tells Wilson, “go to the cafeteria and get something.” Wilson tells him, “right away.” Jimmy tells him, “something with honey.”

Aura Maria heads upstairs, Sandra and Mariana are working. Mariana asks Sandra, “would you check this to make sure I did this right.” When Aura Maria arrives, Patricia screams. “It’s about time you showed up. Go straight to Gutierrez, they are going to fire you.” Aura Maria crying tells her, “leave me in peace you witch blond bimbo.” Patricia tells her, “shut up it doesn’t make me happy that they are firing you. You wretched you got me in trouble as well.” Aura Maria takes off, Mariana tells Patricia. “You snoop.” Then Sandra follows and they head to see Sophia. Marcela comes out, and asks for Mariana. Patricia tells her, “Mariana is busy. Aura Maria showed up, and at this moment she is crying to the girls. Their probably drying her eyes.” Marcela happily tells her, “so she showed up.” Aura Maria tells the group, “I showed up this morning around 7am. My mother without mercy, or remorse had my suitcase and my son waiting for me at the door. I cried and cried, and begged her not to throw me away. That I wouldn’t do it again, no she threw me out. Plus I arrive here, and I’m thrown out as well.” Sophia and Bertha glance at one another not very surprised. Sophia tells her, “my dear I’m sorry but what did you expect her to do. You served yourself as a banquet. Plus today that blond bimbo, was on the rampage and you were the victim.” Mariana tells her, “look Sophia enough with the venom. Aura Maria has a huge problem, we have to help her we can’t leave her here all alone or what.” Bertha tells her, “no one is going to help her here. Name one person. He already told me, to write that resignation letter. Aura Maria cries even harder, Gutierrez is waiting for you to show up so she can be fired. Tell me, what more can we do.” Sandra asks, “what about Betty? Betty’s the only one, that can help us out. Where is she?” Sophia tells her, “but she hasn’t arrived yet and I don’t know where she is.” Frustrated Aura Maria screams, “what do I do now? What do I do?” Everyone tells her, “calm down.”

(The ladies are relying on Betty more than ever, notice that.)

Meanwhile Betty arrives at a local salon, that cuts men’s and women’s hair. She tells the guy, “hi Sammy.” He asks, “hello what can I do to help you out?” Betty tells him, “I would like to change my look. I want to be a different woman. Different than the one, looking at me.” Sammy looks at her and thinks.

Over at Eco Moda, Ines has joined in the conversation. Ines tells her, “now stop crying and calm down this is what you should do. Don’t dare go in that office, until we can think of something.” Bertha tells her, “well how and with who. Everyone got together, and agreed to fire Aura Maria.” Sandra tells her, “Aura Maria now then go to them tell them. That you were kicked out of your house. With your kid and everything. It would be impossible, if that doesn’t move them.” Sophia tells her, “yes do that and how will you explain. The other numerous times she’s been late. She’s going to have to tell them, about the guy she’s been seeing at night. Aura Maria, are you sure you’re not pregnant? That’s the only excuse you can say, for them not to fire you.” Aura Maria tells her, “like that one oh no.” Mariana tells her, “oh Sophia. Lovely Inesita, since Betty has disappeared. Only you can you do anything, please see if you can help her out. See if you can talk to Don Armando, d Mario Calderon or Dona Marcela. Please see, if you can do something.” Ines thinks about it, then tells her. “Now don’t push me, yes I will try talking to Don Armando and Dona Marcela. But you my dear, stay away from that office. Hide from Gutierrez hears that.” Gutierrez  comes out, with a big smile. “Well hello Aura Maria, I have been waiting for you. Now then have the gentleness of coming into my office. I have something to say to you.” Bertha asks, “what Aura Maria are you talking about?” Gutierrez  says stupidly, “I don’t see her either. Bertha I am looking at her right now. What you haven’t gone, to that exercise place? Now get in here now.” Ines tells him, “please sir wait one minute. This girl won’t enter your office, not until I speak personally to Dona Marcela and Don Armando.” Gutierrez tells her, “no no no there’s nothing for you to discuss with them Inesita.”

Gutierrez tells her, “Inesita the decision has been made all of them were in full agreement. There’s nothing more to be done nothing, now Aura Maria get in here right now.” Mariana tells her, “please wait one more minute. I want to tell you something the thing is. You see Aura Maria has been kicked out of her house, and with her young son without pity.” The women utter, “oh poor thing.” Gutierrez  tells her, “no.” Mariana continues, “yes sir can you image it.” Gutierrez  utters, “oh my god. Oh I am truly sorry, or what has occurred to you but now you will be starting a new life. A new house, and a new job please come in here please.” Sandra tells him, “she’s not going in there and you can’t force her.” Gutierrez  tells her, “fine then it’s already been said. He comes out with a letter, this is your waking papers.” The women begin to complain. Marcela hears the commotion, and comes towards them. “Now what is going on in here?” Gutierrez  tells her, “Dona Marcela these ladies here. Are refusing Aura Maria, to accept this her letter.” Ines grabs her hand, and tells her. “Please listen, I would like to talk to you please.” Marcela tells her, “Inesita I am sorry but Aura Maria we have given her a lot of opportunities. How long do we have to support, her arriving late every morning. You were warned, were you not.” Aura Maria crying tells her, “please Dona Marcela please listen.” Marcela tells her, “accept that letter of Gutierrez.” Everyone utters, “Dona Marcela.” She screams, “you heard me.” Aura Maria between her tears tells them. “Fresh fresh girls, thank you all for trying to help. She has no choice and grabs the letter, Marcela excuses herself. Aura Maria and Gutierrez  are still holding on, it falls on the floor. Both grab it, and Aura Maria picks it up and puts it in her purse. Thanks a lot you dirty old man.” Then she walks away, and heads to the elevator. The girls all scream, “Aura Maria Aura Maria.” Gutierrez  screams, “right ladies back to work.”

Ines tells him, “stop screaming.” Sandra goes to him, and says. “You’re a vulture.” Gutierrez asks, “what?” Sandra standing tall and firm hits him. “You’re a vulture.” Gutierrez  tells him, “I thought you said something else.” Patricia asks, “so did they fire you?” Aura Maria enters the elevator, “yes you can be pleased with that.” Patricia tells her, “I’m not happy but I’m not happy. I’m not happy Aura Maria. Talk to Marcela or Armando, do something to fix this.” Aura Maria tells her, “what are you crazy or something you blond bimbo.” Patricia utters, “I am going straight to hell I am going straight to hell. But why me? Why me?” Wilson is with Freddy and Jimmy, Freddy is combing his hair. He says to Wilson, “this was my first occupation.” Then he pretends to be gay. Wilson calls him, “crazy.” Freddy turns and sees her, “so how did it go?” Wilson repeat, “so how did it go?” Aura Maria shows the letter, and goes to the phone. “She didn’t answer Freddy.” Freddy asks her, “so what are you going to do?” Wilson repeat, “so what are you going to do now?” Freddy tells him. “No it’s over, I will talk to her personally. So what are you going to do now?” Wilson tells him, “you should have told me before.” Aura Maria tells them, “please could you leave me alone for a minute.” The three sit down in the chairs.

Aura Maria calls her boytoy Jorge, “hi my black darling.” Freddy holds his hands on the boy’s ears. “Cover my ears too.” Wilson does so and they watch. Aura Maria tells him, “oh no no its awful here I got here and they had my red card. I got my walking papers ready, now look they also kicked me out of my house. I’m with Jimmy and I don’t know where to go. Or where we’re going to sleep? Why don’t we all go someplace, and be together with my son. What trip to Sofics where is that? Greece oh that so far away, but you never told me nothing. Oh it happened today, so when do you come back? Well no fresh, no don’t worry. We’re going to be fine thanks, and you have a good life too.” Aura Maria is devastated, Wilson takes his hands away from Freddy’s ear. “It’s over, what did he say.” Wilson tells him, “but you said you didn’t want to listen.” Freddy tells him, “she asked her boyfriend to come pick her up. You know what, the guy told her that he couldn’t help her. Plus he’s leaving the country, and going pretty far.” Freddy tells him, “that means the guy cleaned his hands of them and dumped them both.” Freddy tells him, “I can’t let them be thrown out into the street. He holds Jimmy closer. Then he tells Wilson, stop breathing in my ear.”

Armando is walking away from his office, Bertha and Sophia go after him. “Don Armando Don Armando.” Bertha tells him, “we really need to talk to you.” Armando tells them, “please stop insisting it’s now impossible. I have saved Aura Maria on numerous occasions, but this time it’s impossible for her to be saved. I would like to say, it really does hurt me a lot.” Sophia utters, “Don Armando.” Armando tells her, “Sophia please stop insisting it out of my hands now stop insisting.” Sophia tells him, “it’s not about Aura Maria I just wanted, to ask one question what happened to your face. You look kinda funny.” Armando tells her, “so I look funny eh? You mean that man over there, oh he’s so funny.” Sophia tells him, “it’s quite tragic.” Armando asks, “tragic yes I was in a fight. Now stop with the faces Bertha.” Bertha tells her, “my bet is Dona Marcela must have hit him pretty hard.” Sophia asks, “Dona Marcela, you saw his face. Armando returns, and overhears the conversation. Wow she must have been hit pretty hard.” Armando tells them, “it wasn’t Marcela both women jump up and turn. What am I going to do, with both of you? It wasn’t Marcela, now can I go walking to the bathroom in peace. In peace.” Sophia tells him, “yes sir go on ahead.” Armando tells them, “fine then excuse me.” Bertha tells her, “yes that man is a true gentleman. He will never let it be know, that it was Dona Marcela. I heard I saw, and smell it my dear. Your telling me my dear.” Sophia burst out laughing.

Patricia is complaining to Marcela, “come on give her another chance Marcee.” Marcela tells her, “who understand you Patricia. You’re the one that started this, you’re the one that went against her even you got Gutierrez involved. Now you want another opportunity, for her and now it’s now too late.” Armando sees them both, “so what are you still doing here. Why haven’t you gotten your belongings down to reception.”

The origin of the red and white barber pole, is associated with the service of bloodletting. It was historically representation, of bloody bandages wrapped around a pole.

SIXTY-EIGHT

Patricia turns and holds onto Marcela and tells him. “Please Armando, I am begging you Armando. Marcela please.” Both Sandra and Mariana watch. Armando tells her, “be very careful Marcela fine. This is an order, I am giving. Ok I accept that Aura Maria, I feel for her but really she screwed up way too many times. But no, this is an order of the company.” Marcela tells him, “I haven’t said a word.” Armando tells her, “what you want a written invitation to head downstairs Miss Fernandez. To be at reception, oh you two call Gutierrez.” Sandra tells him, “sir we just need to tell you one little thing.” Armando screams, “doesn’t anybody here follow my orders.” Mariana tells him, “well we just need just a few minutes of your time. If you would be so kind.” Ines goes to him as well, “please sir could we talk for just a minute sir.” Bertha and Sophia are now standing next to him. Freddy has gone by them and utters, “excuse me excuse me.” He then stands by the corner.

Marcela tells her, “Inesita I told you over there. That no, you won’t go by me. I am not painted on the wall, I also make the rules.” Armando tells her, “yes that’s correct. Now stop staring at me like a crazy person, get your things and go downstairs to reception.” Patricia tells him, “oh Armando come on cancel it.” Armando tells her, “cancel what respect me.” Patricia tells him, “listen to them. Give Aura Maria another opportunity, where are you going to find another receptionist better than her Armando. Yes she has had her errors, so have I. Everyone stares at her curiously. I have been her worst critic. I know with the scare were giving her, she will straighten up. She won’t ever come to work late ever again.” Freddy tells them all, “well everyone thank you all for being here all together. Don Armando I would like to talk to you. Man to man, human to human.” Armando tells him, “Freddy listen to me, if it deals with the topic of Aura Maria I can’t do nothing. Look what happened, she screwed up. No I won’t listen anymore, to you or anybody. This topic is now over.” Freddy tells Marcela, “Dona Marcela please its necessary I would like to you man to woman. Delivery person, to head of sales.” Marcela tells him, “in what language are we talking. Look were not going to do nothing please.” Freddy tells them, “please just give me five minutes of your time.” He presses the elevator Marcela asks, “what are you going to do now?” Freddy tells her, “we are going to look at a picture.” The door opens, and there is Aura Maria with her son.

“Here is Aura Maria, and her son.” Freddy does the dance again. Marcela asks, “what is the boy doing here?” Freddy tells her, “that is a good question a very good question. Why is this boy here?” Freddy tells them, “they are looking for a home. A refuge, a home.” Armando tells him, “please Freddy.” Freddy tells them, “Aura Maria’s family did something quite cruel and it doesn’t mean to be repeated. Her family, threw both of them out of her house. That is why our lovely receptionist was late this morning, but what happens when she arrives here to her second home. The support that maintains her son, nothing for all she gets is a letter. She has now been fired, now they are saying she must now leave. From her other home, the grand family that is Eco Moda.” Bertha crying, tells him. “Enough Freddy no more.” Freddy tells them, “its not the worst thing my dear Bertha. Who else did get fired? Mariana and Sandra goes next to Bertha, while Armando heads over to Marcela. Freddy continues, this woman who counted on this company financially. For her and her son, does she have another job no. Does she have other investments, or income coming in no. Does she have a friendly hand of friendship never.” Bertha crying tells him, “but she can count on us.” Sophia tells her, “we won’t leave her alone.” Mariana tells her, “Aura Maria you can come live with any of us.” Sandra tells her, “we can help you out with taking care of you son.” Ines tells her, “we will see what we can do.” Freddy tells her, “Aura Maria you can depend on all of us. I also have to say, that stupid boyfriend she had has dumped her.” Aura Maria hits him, “enough Freddy.” Armando tells Marcela, “my love I really feel miserable now.” Marcela tells Freddy, “Freddy you’re in charge of the boy. Aura Maria come to my office.” Aura Maria tells her, “yes madam.” Freddy then takes Jimmy, downstairs to the reception area.

Armando tells everyone, “back to work please everyone. Patico you are on standby.” Patricia tells him, “Armando Armando.” Armando asks, “what?” Patricia asks, “what is with all the bruises?” Ines asks, “Don Armando did they hit you?” Armando tells her, “back to work everyone.” Ines tells him, “yes sir.” Then goes towards Sandra, and touches her cheek. Jenny comes out of the studio, and says. “Hello Don Armando.” Who just goes towards the office. Jenny sees Sophia and tells her. “Dona Sophia, may we speak for a minute Dona Sophia. I need to talk to you about something.” Sophia asks, “so what do you want.” Jenny tells her, “well it’s about my cell phone. The thing is you said, you would pay it but I haven’t received any money.” Bertha looks over at Sophia. “I need it urgently Dona Sophia, my sweet love is furious and anxious that he can’t reach me. You know how he gets with security and all. I leave here all alone, and he doesn’t know if I’m alright or not. Or if something, is going to happen to me he’s like this. The poor thing.” Sophia tells her, “well then why don’t you since nobody is watching go out with another guy. Go and betray Elfrain.” Jenny tells her, “I wouldn’t dare do that to my sweet love. You are insulting me.” Sophia tells her, “but you didn’t mind stealing another woman’s man.” Jenny tells her, “well no Dona Sophia I wanted to talk all nice with you about this. I have been patient with you, I understand your circumstances. Now no I have to talk to Mr. Gutierrez, to discuss the matter again. We had an arrangement, I am truly sorry Dona Sophia. You don’t know the word decency.” Sophia tells her, “if you recall we have to be paid first before I can pay you. I have asked for a loan, which Dona Marcela has offered. I can’t do anything, until I talk to her.” Jenny tells her,  “alright I will give you another opportunity because I really do feel sorry for you. Don’t worry, I will wait for the money excuse me.” Bertha is doing everything to hold back Sophia. Sophia utters, “what a slut.”

(Unbelievable what a cynica!)

Inside Marcela’s office, Marcela begins pacing. Marcela tells Aura Maria, “I know that your life is a bit difficult but. Today you have been thrown from your home. That doesn’t mean you can come here, expecting us to take care of your problems. You didn’t do your job, in fact you have been late on various occasions.” Aura Maria is crying once more. “Yes Dona Marcela I know.” Marcela asks, “why did they kick you out of the house?” Aura Maria is quiet, Marcela tells her. “Well if you don’t want to talk that’s fine then. I don’t want to talk anymore, leave my office now.” Aura Maria tells her, “no Dona Marcela the thing is I arrived home a couple of times really late.” Marcela tells her, “but how late you finish work around 7pm. Are we talking mornings? Aura Maria just shakes her head,  Marcela ask. Do you have a fiancée?” Aura Maria tells her, “yes Dona Marcela. Well now I don’t know, I called him today and told him nicely. What was occurring, in my home and here. If he could come pick me up, he said he was going out of the country.” Marcela tells her, “well then he wasn’t your boyfriend then. I guess you were just being used.” Marcela tells her, “look it’s none of my business what occurs in you private life. With all this mess, you have brought us all into your private life. I am going to ask you, a very serious question. What do you want out of this life? I understand, this isn’t the first time this has occurred. You have been looking for men, to stabilize your situation in life. So that man can take care of your son, but what has it accomplished. On the contrary, none of these men have been serious with you.”

(Why is that tv on, it’s a serious part why doesn’t she just shut it off.)

Aura Maria tells her, “no no Dona Marcela.” Marcela asks, “why don’t you find a serious man to be with. Enough with dating these fools. Do you really think, these men take you seriously.” Aura Maria tells her, “look Dona Marcela I know I am not perfect, I know that these men treat me differently. See I have a mother, who takes care of my son. The father doesn’t want a thing to do with the boy. Never once, has he given us any money. I hardly can afford to pay his school tuition. I have always dreamed, of having an apartment for the two of us. So we can live together, but Dona Marcela I will never have much money to get one. That’s why, I am looking for a man who will maintain both of us. So we can both live well comfortable.” Marcela tells her, “you will never have that. The truth is you now have, no home nor a job. Try to have a serious relationship with someone for real. What about Freddy? He is really in love with you, look just today everything that he has done for you.” Aura Maria laughs, and says. “Oh come on Freddy no, Dona Marcela you see I make more money than he does. Plus he helps out his mother, and has to ask for a loan to buy his clothes here. He is so vain, no Dona Marcela I am beautiful. Men ask me out, so we can go out. These men aren’t delivery men.” Marcela tells her, “oh yes just like Mario Calderon. These men are quite serious and…” Aura Maria tells her, “Dona Marcela look it may sound pretty cruel. For what I’m about to say but. I really do care about Freddy, but I want something better. I know that one day, I will get someone better. Can you image the life, that Freddy will be able to give me and my son. Can you image it?” Marcela tells her, “you know what I imaged. I see a serious relationship, a concrete relationship. A relationship with affection, not a relationship that you’re looking for. Not the relationship were men call you a dog, Aura Maria haven’t you thought. Freddy really wants to be a delivery guy. That he doesn’t have someone by his side, that pushes him to be somebody. To make him find another way of life, haven’t you thought Aura Maria. That you might be the woman that he needs.”

Outside Mariana and Patricia are pacing, while Sandra just prays. Then all sit down, and cross their legs at once. They see Marcela coming out with Aura Maria she tells Mariana. “Call Gutierrez right now.” Mariana tells her, “yes right away.” Patricia asks, “Marcee what decision did you choose.” Marcela tells her, “we are going to give her another opportunity.” Patricia jumps up for joy, and hugs Marcela. Sandra screams, “thank you Dona Marcela. She runs towards Sophia and Bertha. Girls girls Aura Maria gets to stay, she’s staying.” Sandra and Mariana hug Aura Maria. Patricia tells Aura Maria, “I am happy that you’re sticking around. I am overjoyed, but don’t screw this up alright.” Aura Maria utters, “only if you stop being a snitch.” Sophia goes over to her, and hugs her telling her. “Aura Maria congratulations dear. You’re now going to be a good girl.” Bertha tells Marcela, “Dona Marcela don’t worry we will make sure she’s always on time.” Marcela tells them, “this is the last opportunity she knows quite clearly. Remember the one, that you have to thank is Freddy heared me.” Patricia head back to her desk. Sophia asks, “Dona Marcela could I have a moment?” Marcela tells her, “come to my office.”

Downstairs Wilson asks Freddy, “what do you think if they really do throw her out. With you take care of her and the boy. Jimmy meanwhile is playing with the flashlight. If you don’t help them out, and if she has no family or place to live. Are you up too taking care of both of them?” Freddy tells him, “I don’t know. Stop playing with that flashlight, or you’ll find out who your daddy. No I can’t let them be on their own.” Aura Maria comes out, and Freddy asks. “So what happened? Did they throw you out, or are you staying?” Aura Maria tells him, “guess what they are going to be giving me another opportunity. She goes and hugs Freddy, and kisses his cheek. Thank you Freddy you are so divine, if you hadn’t have talked to Dona Marcela. She wouldn’t have given me another opportunity. Oh the girls, have given me their homes so I will have a place to stay with Jimmy. Everything has fixed itself. Freddy just stands there, and she asks. Freddy doesn’t that make you happy or what?” Freddy tells Wilson, “Wilson.” Wilson tells him, “yes how may I serve you.” Freddy tells him, “please inform this woman. That we are still at war I only talked to her, because it was a state of emergency and a state of solidarity. Now that her situation is fixed, our war still continues.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh come on Freddy.” Freddy handshakes Jimmy, and tells Wilson. “Now then Wilson inform this lady, that I have to go to the street. To get that folder, that’s in the moto.” Aura Maria tells him, “oh Freddy please oh Freddy.” Freddy tells her, “I can’t hear you.” Aura Maria repeats, “Freddy Freddy Freddy.”

(In real life, when you get fired. Nobody comes to your aid, you’re on your own. Plus those so called friends, never contact you or even want to talk to you.)

Once again we see the someone coming into Eco Moda. Freddy says, “well hello how may I help you.” Betty tells him, “oh come on Freddy it’s me.” Aura Maria and Wilson come closer. Betty tells him again, “it’s me Freddy Betty.” Aura Maria asks, “Betty what is with the new look?” Happily Betty laughs and tells her, “it’s my new look Aura Maria.” Freddy is stunned, and just stares at her. The three stare at her, as Betty heads upstairs. Sophia tells Marcela, “I am here about the loan you see. Jenny is asking about money, to pay her cell phone. Since you said Dona Marcela, I could have the loan that’s why I’m here.” Marcela tells her, “alright I’ll get Betty to sign the document. Then you can get your money.” Sophia tells her, “well the thing is Betty hasn’t arrived yet.” Marcela tells her, “oh yes she asked for some time off. She should already be here by now.”

Patricia is dropping off paperwork, the elevator opens. Patricia utters, “Betty?” Betty tells her, “hi good morning. Betty tells the girls, hi girls.” Sandra and Mariana are left speechless then utter. “Betty.” One by one everyone stares at her, Betty arrives by Bertha. Bertha asks, “how may I help you… Betty.” Betty tells her, “hi Bertha”. A lady comes by and smiles, then Betty enters Armando’s office. “Hello Don Armando.” He’s looking at forms, then utters. “Hi Betty, could you…” He looks up and drops his pen. Then he slants to smile, and utters. “Betty.” Betty tells him, “oh sir I hope I didn’t take too long.” Armando asks, “what did you do?” Betty tells him, and laughs. “I was at a salon.” Then you see Betty, she’s wearing a long brown skirt with a orange striped top. Her hair tied back and curled, she wears a lot of make-up. Armando has a strange look on his face, and doesn’t say a word. Betty smiling tells him, “excuse me sir I’ll go put my things away in my office.” She enters and he takes off his glasses and says. “Oh how ghastly? What did this old woman do? How horrible.” Betty sits down, and find more chocolates, a gift and a card. The card reads, “being able to return to you. It’s like life, returning to me. It’s only when I am in your arms, and kisses your lips. I feel alive, Armando.” Betty just smiles.

(I think it would have been better, if she would have gone with her mom. It seems Julia doesn’t get out much.)

Mariana and Sandra are talking, “oh my god she changed her entire look oh how bizarre.” Sophia comes out and Sandra asks. “Oh Sophia have you seen Betty?” Sophia asks, “did she arrive?” Mariana tells her, “yes prepare yourself because she’s transformed. Complete change, go and see for yourself.” Sophia tells her, “yes I’ll go see her. I have to get her to sign the loan.” Mariana and Sandra follow Bertha, while Bertha is telling Ines. “Oh Inesita I swear to you she arrived completely changed.” Ines tells her, “I have to see her.” Bertha tells her, “oh my god it’s unprecedented.” Sophia asks, “where is Betty?” Bertha tells her, “she’s in the president’s office have you seen her.” Sandra and Mariana utters, “yes.” Sophia tells her, “I need to see her.” Bertha tells her, “me too I didn’t quite get a good look.” Ines tells them, “curiosity is so great I’ll come too.” The girls knock on the door, Sophia asks. “Sir may I speak to Betty?” Armando tells her, “fine. Then all head inside, Armando tells them. Hey hey what is with this parade in my office?” Bertha tells him, “sir we want to see Betty.” Armando tells her, “Sophia I didn’t know that you had to have all of your friends with you.” Sophia tells him, “well sir were just all taking this opportunity to say hello.” Ines tells him, “sorry sir.” Armando utters, “go ahead.” They open the door to get a closer look.

Sophia utters, “hi Betty.” Betty says, “hello Inesita good morning.” All of them stare with surprise and pity. Sandra asks, “what is with the new look?” Betty tells her, “when we have our lunch I will tell you all about it.” Mariana tells them, “I think this change is all about Nicholas Mora or no Betty.” Mariana picks up the gift and card, “oh look at this nice card.” Betty tells her, “Mariana please give that back.” Ines tells her, “don’t be so noisy Mariana.” Mariana tells her, “that is purely Nicholas Mora isn’t that right.” Betty tells her, “I’ll tell you later.” Sophia tells her, “now Betty then I wanted to know. If I can have the document signed for that loan. So I can pay that scoundrel, I need to pay her today. Well could you do that?” Betty tells her, “fine I will do that right away. Then I’ll sign it, and then Dona Marcela will sign it.” Sophia tells her, “thank you Betty.” There all are quiet, and then Mariana tells her. “Now at lunch, you tell us everything.” Betty tells them, “yes of course.” Ines tells her, “come girls we’ll see you later.” Betty tells them, “could you please close the door please.” Mariana utters, “goodbye Betty.” Slowly they stare at her and leave. Betty touches the card, and holds it next to her and smiles.

Sophia asks, “and what did you think? The truth?” Sandra tells her, “I want that blasted stylist name and address so we can go kill him.” Ines tells her, “oh the poor girl where does she buy her clothes. Why didn’t she ask someone, that knows about these things poor little thing. We didn’t say nothing about her look.” Mariana tells her, “oh girls I consider myself a good friend of Betty and I just can’t lie to her. What stress.” Sophia tells her, “that’s why I kept quiet.” Bertha tells her, “we can’t leave her like that.” Mariana tells her, “what if someone sees her she could get fired.” Armando tells them, “now then would you like. Let me explain this, would you like to have your meetings here or in the bathroom.” Ines tells him, “sorry sir Don Armando. They they all apologize and Ines asks. Sir what really happened to your face?” Armando tells her, “it’s was accident. I am working thank you.” All of them utter, “excuse us Don Armando.” Bertha tells them, “well Inesita don’t be so imprudent. Last night there was a huge fight. Dona Marcela beat up on Don Armando.” Ines asks, “so does that mean Dona Marcela hit him?” Bertha asks, “then who?” Ines utters, “oh dear lord.” Armando coughs and Bertha, closes the door and they scatter.

Patricia is cracking up, and tells Marcela about Betty’s new look. “You have to look at her, she looks hilarious.” Marcela asks, “so she arrived at the office.” Patricia tells her, “oh yes she thought she was all that.” Patricia then impersonates Betty. “Hi girls.” Marcela laughs and tells her, “I’ll go see her now I need to talk to her.” Patricia stops her, “oh my god look at Armando’s face man you really hit him hard. That must have been some strong fight.” Marcela asks, “what are you talking about?” Patricia tells her, “the bruises he has on his face. Since you told me, that you were going to fight with him last night. I thought…” Marcela angrily tells her, “what a gossiper you are. How could you even think, that I would do something like that.” Marcela takes off, and Patricia utters. “Oh yes how could I have thought something like that. Oh these rich people.” She flips her hair and sits back down.

Marcela arrives and finds Armando working. “Hi love, why did you take off the make-up I put on this morning. All your bruises are being shown.” Armando tells her, “my love its better this way. People were looking at me strange. I prefer they know, I fought with a taxi driver than me going out with Hugo Lombardi.” Marcela tells him, “well people don’t know you were hit by some taxi drivers. Patricia told me, she thought I beat you up.” Armando tells her, “what a coincidence it seems everyone is saying. It seems the uglies ladies, think that you beat me up as well.” Marcela tells him, “how can they be saying that.” Armando tells her, “well my life don’t be surprise that is your reputation.” Marcela asks, “oh my love how can you even think I would do that.” He shakes his head no, then utters. “Yes.” Marcela tells him, “my life.” Armando tells her, “everyone knows that you treat me badly.” Marcela goes close to him, and smiles. “No I don’t treat you badly, no rationally I wouldn’t be capable of doing such a thing. It would be like this, then she begin to kiss him. Now you have been very smart, with you countless infidelities. Never have I been able to catch you, with another woman. The day that I catch you, you will end up worse than this. I will remove your lips, she kisses his neck, and then your ears. Then your tongue, and they kiss once more.” Betty comes out of her office, Armando is furious, and curses and moves away. Betty covers her mouth in shock, “sorry sir.” Armando asks, “Betty what do you want? What do you want?”

Marcela looks at her, and wants to crack up from laughter she keeps it in. Marcela tells him, “calm down and covers her mouth.” Armando tells her, “fine sorry everyone.” Betty tells him, “the truth is I just wanted to ask permission to go see Dona Marcela.” Marcela asks, “so what can I do for you?” She can’t even look at Betty, she grabs the paper and sign it. Betty tells her, “it’s for Sophia’s loan.” Betty tells her, “thank you Dona Marcela I will now give it to Sophia so she can signs it. Then she can get her cheque.” Marcela is starting to laugh, Armando just stares at Marcela. Betty utters, “excuse me my love.” She leaves and Marcela screams with laughter. “Oh dear, who hates her so much. That hair stylists combed her hair, with a rack and all his enemies.” Armando tells her, “don’t make fun of my assistant.” Marcela tells her, “oh my love but that guy should have made her bolts. He put her finger in the light switch. She continues to laugh, Armando just stares at her. Oh come on don’t be so angry my love. What it’s a step forward, that I am laughing at your assistant.” She laughs once more. Armando returns to his computer. Sophia tells Betty, “oh Sophia just sign here for that loan.” Sophia signs it, and Betty stares back at the door. Sophia tells her, “oh thank you Betty. I was wondering, when will we get the money. I am just dying to give it that woman, just to get her off my back.” Betty tells her, “I will tell them immediately to give you your cheque.” Betty stares at the door once more. Bertha asks, “Betty are you alright?” Betty tells her, “oh its nothing.” Betty heads away, and Bertha asks Sophia. “What do you think is wrong with her?” Sophia tells her, “she just probably looked at the mirror.” Bertha utters, “ahhee.” Jenny comes by once more. “Dona Sophia, how are you. I am just wondering, what happened to my cell phone?” Sophia tells her, “you know what calm down. They’re going to give me my money.” Jenny tells her, “are you sure for my sweet love is very anxious.”

Marcela tells her, “they are going to give you your money dear.” Jenny bows and says. “Oh Dona Marcela how are you?” Marcela tells her, “fine.” Jenny tells her, “Dona Sophia I will be waiting for that money ok.” She bows once more, and tells her. “Excuse me.” Then takes off, Sophia utters. “Oh that slut, she runs after money.” Bertha tells her, “shh.” Marcela asks Sophia, “have you talked to that lawyer.” Sophia tells her, “yes Dona Marcela and thank you we will have began doing the procedures. We will meet, so we can divide the object of the house. Then of course the divorce.” Marcela asks, “just now why didn’t you do that before. That man already has a mistress, why wait so long. Or are you waiting for him, to come back to you.” Sophia tells her, “well no Dona Marcela the thing is he said in these cases things take time. It would take time.” Marcela asks, “what did the lawyer say.” Sophia tells her, “the lawyer told me the first step that I have to do is grant a meeting.” Then you see Elfrain, flirting with his secretary. Then she gives him papers, all he asks. “When will we go out again? When she leaves he opens it. It’s a court appointed paper, that says. See you in court for a meeting,of the parties with Sophia.”

Marcela tells Patricia, “oh my god I saw her. I can just image her saying, to the hair stylist I need a change of look a hairdo so they can fire me.” Patricia laughs and tells her, “oh and that dress. Nobody will want to takes off her dress.” Marcela tells her, “oh what optimisum with that who wants to take off her clothes. They both laugh once more, Beatriz might say when she goes to the gynecologist. May I take off my clothes. He says, no keep your clothes on. I can see you from here.” Patricia tells her, “sir should I take off my clothes. Armando comes by and overhears their conversation. He tells him, no no please keep your clothes back on. I am begging you.” Armando walks away, and then stops. Patricia tells her, “can you image how she is with her boyfriend.” Marcela tells her, “oh poor man. I bet he just looks at her, and bolts.” Armando tells them, “still making jokes on Betty’s behalf.” Marcela tells him, “no not of Betty her boyfriend. Can you image, what he is going to say when he see her.” Both laugh hysterically. Armando tells them, “he might have already seen her.” Marcela utters, “poor man.” Betty comes by, with Sophia’s money. Going by Marcela and Patricia who are still laughing. Hugo comes by with the model. “Oh my god who is this specter? The madam of Betty?” Patricia tells him, “no that’s the real Betty just a different version.” Marcela tells him, “she went to an enemy who helped her get dolled up and dressed up.” Hugo tells them, “oh poor hair stylist. Oh it’s not only thunder and lightning bolts.” He zz’s them and takes off. Armando just listens, and shakes his head then goes to see Mario. Marcela and Patricia just break up laughing.

Betty is used to the laughs, and just goes to Sophia’s desk. “Now then Sophia, here’s your money it will be taken out through four payments.” Sophia signs it and says, “oh Betty thank you very much.” Freddy singing comes by, and drops off the mail. Betty smiles and heads back to her office. Freddy waits and utters, “eek oh that’s scary. Ladies explain to me, why a woman like Betty. Does what she did? Why? A complex, no boyfriend, no engagement, no lover.” Sophia tells him, “you know what Freddy that is none of your business. Now go see that scoundrel, and tells her I have the money for the cell phone.” Freddy sings and leaves. Sophia tells her, “unbelieveable. What I am going to do, is have a receipt for her to sign. That way she’ll know that I paid her.” Bertha tells her, “its better security than the police.” Jenny is trying on clothes and utters, “oh no.” Ines tells her, “you gained weight you’re going to have to lose it.” Jenny tells her, “oh no Inesita but I only had water this morning.” Freddy pretends to knock on the door, “excuse me Inesita but I need to talk to Jenny. Can I rob a few minutes of your time, you imitation of a cow.” Ines tells her, “go ahead. Ines tells the other model you can change now.” Freddy tells Jenny, “I am the delivery of very good news for you. Dona Sophia finally has the money, to pay for your cell phone that she destroyed. Jenny is happy, oh Freddy is it true.” Freddy tells her, “I wouldn’t play with your emotions my life.” Jenny tells him, “you shouldn’t talk to me that way. So many things have happened, I am going to buy a cell phone we will talk later.” Freddy asks, “so do you have someone that will take you.” Jenny puts on her jacket, “no why?” Freddy tells her, “I’ll take you we can go on my bike. We would talk of you, and me. Your life, your cell phones so many things we can discuss. What happened that night, that stupid stunt of Aura Maria. It can’t ruin such a harmonious relationship. That we had you and me, we can’t have our destiny go in different ways. Senorita Garcia, we should save our friendship. This bridge that unites us, our souls together.” Jenny tells him, “enough Freddy fine you can take me. I’m wondering, how do you manage to remember all those words.” Freddy tells her, “it happens because you give me everything with your sweet injections.” Jenny tells him, “wait for me in a minute. Inesita I am going for lunch, and buy my cell phone.” Ines tells her, “yes where in the era of the cellulitake go on.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Armando enters the boardroom with Mario. “I am very bothered, they have no right.  The only thing that people have been doing is laugh at poor Betty.” Mario asks, “tell me that you didn’t participate with those jokes?” Armando tells him, “absolutely not I hate it that they are making fun of her. With that new look of hers, if you can call it a look.” Mario asks, “so is that monster there?” Armando just nods, inside the office Betty is looking at a small mirror and touching her curls. She puts it down when Mario shows up.)

While Mario goes to see Betty, and tells her. “I need the numbers of the sales please.” Betty tells him, “right away sir I’ll give it to you.” Mario utters, “thank you and closes the door. He makes a funny face, and goes next to Armando. He then starts laughing, I just can’t believe it. You’re going to have to kiss that one.” Armando tells him, “great it would be like kissing another ugly woman.” Mario tells him, “it’s not the stylist’s fault her problem is the surgical problem. So did you say something, about her new look. What you didn’t say a word, you beast you animal. You’re a poor ignorant, there is nothing worse than stepping on her, and not fueling her ego. Than the love of a man, that disappears. Come on you have to say, something regarding her new look.” Armando tells him, “say four words on that her hair of hers.” Mario tells him, “she’s not the first woman that this has happen too dear lord. Most woman, when they change their looks are a complete disaster. You have to say something, about her new look its very simple. Look when a woman, changes her look. A) for one, husband 2)two her lover and we only have one god. So my dear god, say something nice about her new look.” Armando tells him, “Calderon no she just won’t believe you. Everyone has made fun of her today, she’s going to think that I am consoling her and telling her falsehoods. I can’t continue making fun of her, like the others. It will be worse.” Mario tells him, “look it’s the time when you have to be serious. You must tell her, your love is more than physical. The dress, the shoes, hair, glasses, the eyes that are cross eyed, the moustache. The bad breath, the braces, the bad taste. Oh the list is long, you know what. If that were me. I would make love to her just the way she is. Armando just stares at him. That would prove that you love her, and desire her.” Armando tells him, “be very careful. Just thinking about kissing her, with that look I am paying the price in life than death. I want to tell you something, I am never going to do that. Even thinking about it, gives me chills.” Mario tells him, “you better prepare yourself. Where is the picture of Adriana Arboleda?” Armando tells him, “what good is it now look how she’s dressed.” Mario tells him, “oh this woman is gorgeous no matter what she puts on.” They put the photo on the table ,when Betty comes by. “Sir here is your report on the final sales figures.” Mario takes it, and tells her. “Thanks Betty.”

Betty sees the picture of Adriana Arboleda. Armando tells her, “oh she’s a model.” Betty tells them, “she’s very lovely. Is she from Colombia?” Armando tells her, “yes just like you and me.” Betty asks, “so will she be working with us?” Armando tells her, “oh I if god wants it. Well what I meant is, that woman of her caliber are able to work with us. It would be great, if she did work with this. Well I’ve never met her, or been near her.” Betty tells him, “oh I see yes she is very beautiful. Sir do you need me for anything else, or may I go for lunch.” Armando tells her smiling , “go eat my naughty girl.” Betty utters, “thank you sir.” Then she just stares at the photo and walks away. Mario tells him, “did you see that? The brilliance in her eyes disappeared.” Armando tells him, “are you kidding anybody will lose their eye sight looking at that fine woman. Betty overhears, one day if that woman happens to step in this office. I will drop everything, and go on my knees and marry this woman. I will whisk her away.” Betty then goes to Sophia’s.

Sophia is telling Jenny, “now then I want you to count every single dollar in front of me. I don’t want any problems with you.” Jenny tells her, “oh of course not. I trust you Dona Sophia.” Sophia tells her, “fine then just sign this paper then. This states that you’ve received the money for the cell phone.” Jenny utters, “but of course Dona Sophia.” She signs it, Betty asks. “Are we going to eat?” Sophia tells her, “wait till Bertha makes sure that that’s the same signature.” Bertha tells her, “fine I’ll check on the contract if it’s the same.” Jenny tells her, “oh come on Dona Sophia stop being so untrustworthy. It’s as if, I did something wrong. Come on Freddy.” Freddy tells her, “before you my princess.” Sophia asks, “where are you going?” Freddy tells her, “I am going to heaven and glory and far beyond that.” He begins to sing, and Jenny and Betty start laughing.

(Apparently this scene, had to be shot twice. For the woman who plays Inesita, burst out laughing and couldn’t stop. It’s in the deleted scenes on you tube.)

Bertha tells her, “what is up with him. He’s once again. becoming the energizer bunny after that bandida.” Sophia tells her, “good.” Bertha utters, “what?” Ines tells them, “let’s go eat ladies. It’s going to get late.” Armando and Mario come out, and Armando asks. “So where are we going to eat?” Mario tells him, “let’s go to Fish Paradise the best place for aphrodisiac. Oh stop bothering me, or let’s go to Le Noir or someplace else. Oh stop bothering me so.” Mario tells him, “my only interest is that you shouldn’t lose your lust. One never knows, when one will need to go into action.” Downstairs in the lobby, Wilson is playing horsey with Jimmy. Aura Maria tells him, “oh come on Jimmy behave yourself. Oh come on Jimmy my love, do you want me to get fired again. Please calm down, and look at you Wilson. So tall and acting like an idiot. Here take this coffee away.” Freddy is flirting with Jenny, as they get out of the elevator. “Excuse me for one moment. Aura Maria just watches. Wilson please my jacket and helmet quickly. Wilson hands it too him, which Freddy gives one flap to Jenny. Wilson please inform reception, that I will absent for the afternoon.” Aura Maria asks, “and Freddy where are you going?” Freddy is quiet, and ignores her completely. Jenny just watches as Aura Maria, asks Wilson the same question. Freddy answers, “inform her that I have other duties to attend too of a more personal intimate nature. He sprays his mouth, and Jenny smiles. Bye Jimmy.” Jimmy says, “bye Freddy.” Then both take off, Aura Maria looks stunned.

(Aura Maria shouldn’t be cross with Wilson, he’s the one looking after her kid and letting her work. Where’s the gratitude.)

The girls arrive downstairs, Sandra tells her. “Aura Maria its best we go eat now.” Aura Maria just nods, and gets her things. Ines tells her, “now come on bring Jimmy Alexander with us.” Aura Maria tells him, “come on babe.” Jimmy tells her, “I want to stay with Wilson.” Aura Maria kisses him and tells him. “Well alright then, I will bring you something to eat.” Mariana tells Betty, “alright you my dear have lots of gossip to tell us. She now has a boyfriend, and that other one lost hers.” Aura Maria looks at them coldly. Bertha tells them, “oh she not only lost the only boyfriend but the only man who wanted her. Oh no Aura Maria.” She just gives them an upset look. Outside Jenny tells Freddy, “why aren’t you two talking? It’s what I noticed.” Freddy tells her, “we have decided not to have a relationship anymore.” Jenny asks, “but why you two looked so happy.” Freddy tells her, “well then lets look at it this perspective. There are women, that just don’t acknowledge a good thing when they have it. The details, the bouquet, the quality that a good man has. It’s best that I stay away, I think the best thing that could be done. It’s just now a working relationship, and it should have stayed that way. I’m delivery and she’s the receptionist, nothing will go between that. Words yes that are cold, but necessary. Freddy takes Jenny’s hand, we won’t even touch or flirt. Not even a kiss, will get me back. Freddy then takes the opportunity to kiss Jenny’s hand. We just say hello, and goodbye and that’s that.” Jenny tells him, “oh Freddy I really do think. That it’s best this way. I always thought, that Aura Maria just wasn’t your type.  You Freddy really do deserve something better.” Freddy tells her, “I am getting all excited with your attitude. Now then, hop on board the motorbike. I am already lit on fire.” Jenny holds onto him, Freddy caresses her leg. He makes a joke, while she laughs. Wilson just watches them leave.

(That cow outfit was made famous by the late Selena.)

Aura Maria comes out running and screaming. “You idiot slut.” Sandra grabs her saying, “don’t look at them.” Mariana tells her, “enough.” Betty just watches, Ines asks. “What is wrong with you?” Mariana tells them, “oh dear isn’t it that she’s jealous. Now Betty you’re going to tell us everything, what is it with you and Nicholas.” Wilson overhears and smiles. Aura Maria squeals oh her and Nicholas. Sophia tells them, “oh come of course that’s why she changed her look.” Aura Maria asks, “so when did this happen?” Betty blushes and smiles, and utters. “Last night.” Everyone sequels with delight and all clap hands. Mariana asks, “at last.” Aura Maria asks, “so Betty Betty. Did you two really work everything out. So are you officially dating?” Betty walks and blushes, everyone ask. “Oh come on do tell.” Betty just nods, and they squeal some more. They cross the street, and kiss her cheek. Aura Maria tells her, “let’s go celebrate.” Armando is in the car with Mario. Mario asks, “what is with all the chicken squealing.” Armando tells him, “all the chickens by this point Betty is telling everyone. That she is official dating Nicholas Mora.” Armando glances back at the mirror and smiles. Mario asks, “what I guess it worked. They all seem so happy, so that means they believed everything. Oh and look how happy your area. Armando stops looking. Mario tells him, oh that look.” Armando then tells him, “oh that look will kill me. It’s horrible, and killing me.”

Sandra tells her, “now you must really take good care of him. You know how difficult it is, so you can have a boyfriend now a days.” Mariana tells him, “now remember batteries take care of him and never lose sight of him. Don’t let him go by himself, even if it’s to go grocery shopping or walking by the streets.” All the girls laugh, Bertha tells her. “I have to tell you something, oh I am just thrilled with this news. Has he already, asked for your hand in marriage.” Mariana asks, “yes or no.” Betty tells them, “marriage no.” Bertha and Mariana are shocked. Aura Maria tells them, “oh leave the poor girl alone. Look it’s just the start of their long engagement. Now Betty you must work him, I will explain it further. So give us more details please, and explain how did it go.” Betty tells them, “first he said he wanted to talk to me. Last night he came to my house, and we talked he told me. That he really like me a lot, he told me he wanted to official start dating me.” All the women scream, Mariana tells her. “Oh Betty that’s wonderful.” Aura Maria is disappointed. Betty tells them, “so I accepted.” Aura Maria asks, “just like that? No caresses or kisses no touch?” Ines tells her, “Aura Maria why do you always have to bring that stupid stuff up.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Inesita it’s not interesting if you don’t talk about the intimate parts.” Ines tells her, “well that’s how my relationship began with the man. Who in the end, turned out to become my husband. Oh it was delicious.” Everyone squeals, and utter. “Oh Inesita.” Then they  head forward, and Aura Maria keeps Betty back.

Aura Maria asks, “come come over here. I won’t tell a soul, did you sleep with him.” Betty tells her, “no.” Aura Maria asks, “I won’t believe that story. That you two just talked, and you two touched hands. No I know, that you desire that man. He must be quite a galan, women are always after him. He has tons of money, no these men don’t just drop just like that. Unless that woman, is a model. Then she looks at Betty, and utters. Well you do look nice, with your new clothes but a knock out no.” Betty tells her, “you don’t have to force things to explain things Aura Maria.” Aura Maria asks, “so when will you two you know?” Betty asks, “what you know?” Aura Maria tells her, “when are you going to sleep with him.” Betty tells her, “me.” Aura Maria tells her, “if you want I can take your place. Of course you. Betty gives her a nervous look, and she goes. Oh girl, what is with that look? What don’t tell me, you never want to sleep with him. Don’t be an idiot dear.”

America’s relationship expert, Myreah Moore. Tells people, if you been dating for a while. You know that person is the one, then a  minimum of nine months. Is a good length of time, before engagement should enter someone’s mind. While Clinical psychologist Dr. James E. Savage, believes that people should wait nearly five years before getting engaged. Dr. Drew Pinsky, co-host of MTV’s “Loveline. Observes that men and women, have different mind-sets when it comes to being ready to stroll down the aisle. Men wait for the right time to get married, while women wait for the right partner.

SIXTY-NINE

Armando and Mario are having lunch. Armando tells him, “Calderon you know what. Stop tormenting me. I want to say this, so you can really understand. This will be explicit as possible, I will never touch Beatriz never. Did you get that.” Mario tells him, “I have heard it coming from your lips and now it has reached my ears. You didn’t want to kiss her, in the first place but you did. Look you love kissing her, see you almost killed yourself for her.” Armando tells him, “Calderon I for one do not have that vivid imagination that you have. For making love to Betty, just look it this way. If I have to kiss her, I have a drink of whiskey. If I have to touch her further, I have physiological prepare myself. I have to look at that photo of Adriana Arboleda. To even touch her hand, now one more thing, She has never insinuating that we sleep together.”

Betty tells Aura Maria, “well in our plans no we have never really discussed sleeping together. Nor the act of sex, he just doesn’t want to yet. Or go to that territory yet.” She laughs nervously, Aura Maria is stunned and just glances at her. “Oh no Betty, why hasn’t he said, Come on girl lets go someplace, where I can teach you something.” Betty tells her, “no.” Aura Maria tells her, “then you two won’t do nothing at all.” Betty tells her, “you don’t understand Aura Maria. This is a different type of a relationship. It’s a relationship, that starts with books, poetry and economics. A shared interest in various topics.” Aura Maria shakes her head, “no no no. Oh do be quiet Betty, what kind of relationship are you having. No so intellectual, no kisses, no touching of the hands no other little things.” Betty laughs, “oh no their are kisses.” Aura Maria tells her, “only with kisses for the rest of your life. It’s just tiring.”

Mario tells Armando, “so that means for one full year. You won’t have nothing, except giving her little kisses. You really think, that Betty being so ugly doesn’t want sex. Eye she might be very shy and timid, in that small spot that you put her. She could be a volcano of passion, and when it explodes you could be covered in lava boom. Relax you can just wash it off.” He just pats his arm.

Aura Maria asks, “Betty what don’t you desire him?”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Aura Maria continues talking. “Doesn’t it make your mouth water? Don’t you have tickles up and down, your body everytime you see him?” Betty tells her, “well no Aura Maria.” Aura Maria tells her, “man you are pretty weird I think you should go see a physiatrist.”)

Betty tells her, “yes I desire him I just don’t want to force things. I am quite timid Aura Maria.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh Betty look you don’t have to force things. If you like him, and he likes you it should come naturally. One day before you know it, he will be all naked and you can do a lot of marvelous things to him.” Betty tells her, “well no it seems he’s not one of those men. He’s a man of calm, romantic, a talker.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no dear then batteries it will be up too you then. One night, that he comes next to you really jump him.” Betty just utters, “jump him.” Aura Maria tells him, “yes look get him drunk a bit and take off his clothes. Then pow you attack.” Betty just stares at her in disbelief.

Armando asks Mario, “Calderon you don’t think that one day she will want too. Jump on me?” Mario tells him, “oh brother she is crazy for you. What will you do if she does? Will you go out running, will you push her away. Look that is, what I am telling you this might happen one never knows.” Armando tells him, “but but the thing is she’s a different woman Calderon. I don’t think that you’re going to believe this, I am going to tell you something. We have a different type of relationship, we are doing other things not even thinking about sex.”

Betty tells Aura Maria, “well sex isn’t everything in a proper relationship. It’s not our number one priority.” Aura Maria tells her, “Betty it might not be for you but what about him. You must put on your battery, what if another gives him what you don’t want to give.” Mario tells Armando, “look when one has a lover one doesn’t discuss politics. No sir Mr. Mendoza, when one gets a lover you have a lot of sex and lots of it.” Armando tells him, “that is why I have Marcela. We have a crazy relationship, that’s the only thing that keeps us together its super. Now with Betty, it’s very different. Ours is a cerebral relationship.” Mario tells him, “cerebral you say but it’s not one that’s my favorite.”

(The roles are reversed, Marcela is the lover and the wife is Betty. Funny isn’t that what he’s trying to say.)

Aura Maria tells Betty, “remember forget about cerebral relationships or intellectual relationship. Yes a relationship is full of intelligence, but you must maintain him in the bedroom as well. What if someone else has him, and gives him more than you do. Then he will be gone, and you’ll be left with nothing.” Betty tells her, “Aura Maria the thing is I believe that he admires me for who I am. For my intellect, for my career but I don’t think he desires me.” Aura Maria looks at her bizarrely, “oh Betty put on batteries dear. If by now nothing manifests sexually dump him, it’s only for two reasons. One that he’s gay, or you just don’t interest him Betty.” Betty really starts to think.

Mario tells Armando, “would you like her to think that you’re gay? That you don’t desire her, sex is the only way to truly love a woman. It shows her that you desire her, and are crazy for her.” Armando tells him, “I don’t desire her I am not crazy for her. Especially with that new look of hers, she look really scary.” Mario agrees, “oh that poor girl. Why hasn’t anybody taken pity on her and  told her the truth. First she’s ugly, now she’s horrendous.” Armando tells him, “the ladies might tell her. They noticed, and they didn’t have the heart to say anything.”

Bertha and the others stop, and wait for Betty and Aura Maria. Bertha tells them, “we really have to tell her that look is awful. That’s why were her friends.” Mariana tells them, “yes girls.” Sandra asks, “fine who will tell her?” Mariana tells her, “Sophia she’s always saying things bluntly. She has no compassion.” Bertha tells them, “yes that’s true.” Sophia tells them, “oh no how can you say that to me. No no no, she’s liable to go into the street and get run over by a car. Let’s look at credibility, the experience and respect that is Ines.” Ines tells them, “oh no no senorita I don’t want to get involved.” All of them go, “Inesita.” Ines tells them, “no but we are all going to say it together.” Sandra tells them, “now we just have to bring up the topic.” Sophia tells them, “shh she’s coming. Look Betty, tell us where did you buy your clothes? Who is the hair stylist that did your hair?” Sandra tells her, “it’s a stylist.” Sophia utters, “that is no stylist but a criminal. Oh come on give us the information.” Betty smiling says, “well first I went to Mollin.”

Sophia asks, “is that what they’re selling?” Mariana asks, “are you sure this is Mollin.” Betty tells them, “well no I did go there first but in the end I didn’t like the clothes. They were for clothes, for models. You know tall, thin, sexy, classy beautiful women. So I ended up, going to a friend of my mother’s she buy all her dresses there. I found a lot of new and exclusive dresses.” Sophia tells Sandra, “yes exclusive for ugly people.” Betty asks, “what?” Ines gives her a look, then Sophia asks. “And your hair?” Betty tells her, “oh I went to the local salon at my barrio.” Bertha asks, “was it for women and men.” Betty tells them, “oh it was for men and women. Or did you think, it was just for women.” Sandra tells her, “no no no.” Betty tells them, “well I went and told him. I would like a new look, he gave me a lot of magazines. It was full of a lot of hairdos, and we decided on this one.” Aura Maria touches her hair and shrugs. Mariana is just stunned, Bertha keeps her mouth shut. Poor Betty smiling away. Sophia asks, “from which magazine came that hairdo from.” Betty tells them, “it’s like my dresses. The women in the magazines, had different facial characteristics.” Sandra tells her, “so he just experimented on you.” Betty smiling tells them, “well yes and this hairdo came about. Don’t you think it’s more my style?” Mariana tells her, “yes you loo beautiful.” Sophia looks down at the floor, “yes you do look nice.” Aura Maria pats her arm, and takes her to the restaurant. Sophia tells Bertha, “I just don’t have the heart to break her heart.” Bertha tells her, “oh she’s going to die.” Ines tells her, “that is going to be her problem.” Sandra tells them, “oh that poor boyfriend of hers.”

The meal finally arrives, and Mario tells Armando. “I have the solution, give Betty some money.” Armando tells him, “what are you trying to imply. That I should buy Betty clothes, send her to Marcela’s stylist oh come on.” Mario tells her, “oh no cool water won’t solve that. What we need is a surgeon, fine you go to a surgeon go with an international magazine. Tell him I want that one, and he will make her look like that. Then you’ll have someone, you really want to kiss and make love as many times as you want. You heard that story, that man who had such an ugly girlfriend everyone thought she was his wife. Armando just laughs. So what about that idea? A lover that’s natural for a year eh. Armando considers that, well it seems you like that.” Armando tells him, “Calderon the man that knows everything. The guru of the women, the magician Merlin of the female species. Tell me something, how am I going to approach that subject. With a woman and say, I want you to get operated on. So she can become another woman.” Mario tells him, “well my dear Armando we will start by parts. The truth is Betty is ugly, we are talking about an ugly woman. The best gift one could give her, is for her to get cosmetic surgery. No apartment, no car, no house, jewels etc. Get her cosmetic surgery brother, it’s the best thing for her. Think about it,  to think about her dedication, your loyalty and love all of that.” Armando tells him, “fine then another question. That surgical procedure, how will it change Betty. How transformed could she get.” Mario tells him, “were talking about a surgeon not a magician.”

Mario tells him, “why not tell her she could look like Aura Maria.” Armando laughs and tells him, “so Aura Maria. Aura Maria oh you are really exaggerating, oh you’re so naive. Don’t you understand, Betty would have to be made completely. Plus I’m really afraid that Marcela finds out, that I paid for her surgery. That money isn’t going to be, coming out of Eco Moda. It would come out of my pocket.” Mario asks, “how will she find out does she look at your credit accounts?” Armando tells him, “oh come on I thought you knew Marcela.” Mario tells him, “well with those bruises. She has to stop having paranoia, with you looking like that.” Armando tells him, “I really hope so.”

Marcela and Patricia at still at Eco Moda. Marcela tells her, “I am now fine with Armando but I am not going to lose my focus. I know that there’s a woman after him. The poem didn’t come from thin air, no senora there’s a woman behind him.” The phone rings at Armando’s office. Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee you know those phones constantly ring. That idiot woman, still hasn’t arrived.” Marcela tells her, “well get it then.” Patricia asks, “me why?” Marcela tells her, “hurry up and get it find out who it is.” Patricia tells her, “but it’s not Armando’s phone its Betty’s.” Marcela tells her, “well get it then.” Patricia asks, “what you want me to get the Garfield’s phone?” Marcela tells her, “don’t you understand with her not here. We might find out, about that lover of Armando’s. I am sure that woman, who’s after him is calling through her phone. Especially Betty’s I know for a fact, that she’s the one hiding every single one of those calls.” Patricia reluctantly answers the call, and Marcela discovers the photo of Adriana Arboleda.

Patricia answers the phone, “hello presidency of Eco Moda.” Nicholas is on the line, “yes hello please is Betty Solano there?” Patricia tells him, “she’s not here yet who is it?” Nicholas tells her, “it’s from Nicholas Mora. Can I leave a message for her?” Patricia tells him, “fine yes.” Nicholas asks, “excuse me but whom am I talking too?” Patricia tells him, “Patricia Fernandez.” Nicholas quickly turns and looks over that her photo. Patricia utters, “hello hello.” Nicholas tells her, “wait one minute. One minute. He takes a drink of his juice, hello.” Patricia asks, “and what is the message sir you wanted to leave?” Nicholas tells her, “oh Patty could you tell her to contact the office of Terra Moda.” Patricia repeats, “Terra Moda.” Nicholas tells her, “yes yes I am the vice president. We have important business to discuss. The thing is, I am heading out to another meeting. Could you please give her the message. Tell her to call me through my car phone, or my cell. Oh do you have a pen, give her this message. Hermes overhears his lies, and tries to hit him with the paper. Wait one minute. Then Patricia overhears, Nicholas screaming. You there, is my car warmed up. Julia where is my coffee? You over there, where’s my correspondence? Julia where are my calls? Hermes please give me, the cheques I have to sign.” Hermes asks, “what the hell are you talking about you fool?”

Nicholas tells him, “oh the 5000 I will mail out. Patricia’s eyes light up like dollar signs. Hurry up, it has to be sent to Miami hello.” Patricia tells Nicholas very sweetly, “yes sir I am listening.” Nicholas tells her, “sorry Patricia with all my screams. Oh yeah what was I talking about, please tell Betty to call my cell alright.” Patricia tells him, “yes fine I’ll do that. I will give her the message.” Nicholas tells her, “Patty is was a pleasure talking to you.” Patricia tells him, “like wise bye.” She just stares that the message, while Nicholas is jumping for joy. “Oh my god she talked to me, she talked to me.” Hermes asks, “who?” Nicholas tells him, “oh this beautiful woman in this photo talked to me.” He kisses the picture and wants a hug. Hermes pushes him away. “Nicholas tell me something, did you lose a bolt in your head. Don’t you dare, tell me that your taking drugs of some sort. At that bakery your poor mother’s owns? What moved inside?” Nicholas tells him, “Don Hermes this woman drives me coco crazy. From this moment on, I am never going to wash this ear ever again. Oh that phone is going to be bronzed, and placed as a museum piece. That call reached my ear, and went through my head. Now is going all over my body, straight back to my heart.” Hermes tells him, “wash that face of yours and away that maniac face of yours. Nicholas ignores him and hugs the picture close to his heart. Hermes tells him, your a fanatic, and susceptible.” Hermes takes off and Nicholas, just kisses the photo once more.

Marcela is still looking at the picture and ask. “Who was it?” Patricia tells her, “oh it’s a Nicholas Mora from a company called Terra Moda. Do you recognize this company?” Marcela utters, “no it doesn’t ring a bell. So what did he want?” Patricia tells her, “he wanted to talk to Betty. Something to do with a business transaction with Terra Moda. So who are you looking at?” Marcela asks, “is this Adriana Arboleda?” Patricia sees the photo and tells her, “yes this is Adriana Arboleda Marcee. What is this picture doing in here?” Marcela tells her, “that’s a good question. She puts it back on the table. Come on before were discovered.” Patricia stops her, “hey Marcee you don’t think. That’s the one that’s after Armando?” Marcela raises her eyebrow and  tells her, “maybe.” Then they leave the office.

Wilson is playing around with Jimmy. The girls come back, and Aura Maria tells her. “Forget about wasting your money on clothes, just get yourself a good plastic surgeon. Then she tells Wilson, give this to Jimmy.” Wilson tells her, “ok with pleasure.” Aura Maria tells Betty, “now make your boobs bigger. Then get a big ass, you know the one that stops traffic. Then take off a bit on the waist, you’ll look spectacular. Then you get big lips, blue eyes of course then color your hair blond. Oh with that look, your liable to wake up the dead.” Ines just rolls her eyes, then Aura Maria burst out laughing the others join in. Betty tells her, “oh Aura Maria that’s for woman who likes all that attention. I am a bit discreet.” Sophia utters, “looking like that you look very discrete.” She looks away, Betty just laughs while Wilson begins eating Jimmy’s food. Aura Maria asks, “where is Freddy?” Wilson talks with his mouth full, Aura Maria hits his hand. “That’s for the boy.” Sophia tells her, “oh that Freddy is probably someplace with that woman.”

Over at the cell phone store. The girl tells Jenny, “this will be better for you and quite practical.” Freddy asks, “so is it safe from office accidents. Oh my lovely representative, of digital objects. You see if a crazy secretary were too break it.” Jenny screams out, “no.” Freddy continues and says, “relax my dear is there like a warranty against witches and ex husbands.” Jenny asks, “may I use it now I need to contact my sweet love.” Freddy asks, “and it has to happen now.” Jenny asks, “why?” Freddy tells her,  “we can go eat someplace. At a restaurant, and talk about clothes modeling etc. Jenny doesn’t care she just stares, at the box containing her new cell phone. You know what, we used to talk about. When we were alone before.” Jenny tells him, “oh that was fun.” Freddy tells her, “would you like to repeat it.” Jenny tells him, “ok and the girl hands her a gift bag. Oh thank you. She looks over at Freddy, look you have really been nice to me here have this. So you will always remember me.” Freddy tells her, “not only do I remember you in my heart but in my soul. In my head, and my motorbike. Then he sings her a song, she tells the girl. “Thank you.” Jenny then takes off, Freddy tells the sales girl. “Don’t be jealous I see that you’re very lovely. Here’s my card, my name is Freddy Contreras. I’ll come around, to get a cell phone and to see you once again.” He kisses the girls hand, she stares and him as he leaves.

(The sales girl reminds me of, Myrka Dellanos former host of Primer Impacto of Univision from 1994. She once dated singer Luis Miguel.)

The girls head upstairs, and Patricia is waiting for them. “Oh lovely time to return from lunch, why didn’t you just stay in that humble you call a restaurant.” Sandra tells her, “well they don’t have bed so we can have our naps. But here we can sleep, see seeing you all day sleeping and not doing anything makes one sleepy. What do you have a problem or what?” Patricia tells them, “no oh just relax all of you. Relax and enjoy your meal, I will answer all your calls. Then of course I will do your job.” Bertha flicks her hair like Patricia, “yes and what kind of job are you doing doll face. One by one they sit down. So what calls are you answering?” Patricia tells her, “well the president’s phone rang nonstop. It drove me so crazy it rang so much, I was stuck having to answer it.” Mariana tells her, “oh how stressful. Oh my dear, aren’t you the president security and isn’t that your job.” Patricia tells them, “yes I may be the secretary of the president but not the assistant of the president. I had to answer your phone calls.” Betty asks, “yes and who was it?” Patricia says sarcastically, “sorry miss but I’ll get the information too you right away. Betty smile slowly disappears, when she hears. Apparently it was a president of a company named Terra Moda. He told me he was going into a meeting, and for you to call his cell. Then he said, he was going to a club and a bunch of other things. A man named Nicholas Mora.” The girls go crazy, and scream his name. Patricia asks, “who is this guy?” All say, “that’s Betty’s boyfriend.” Sandra tells him, “oh you better hurry he must be anxiously awaiting your call.” Mariana tells her, “oh Betty forget the cell call him at the club.” Bertha tells her, “no an important executive like your boyfriend. He might not like it that you’re bothering him.” Mariana tells her, “since he’s so in love with you.”

Sophia tells her, “don’t bother him but call his cell. For it seems, he wants Betty to chase him isn’t that what he said. To call his cell phone.” Patricia tells them, “well I gave the message. Let me get back to work please, I am not here to receive, the calls from your boyfriend.” Sandra tells her, oh how jealous you are. Oh you’re not even hiding your envy.” Patricia angrily goes over to Sandra and asks, “what envy and jealousy. What envy you ridiculous woman?” Sandra tells her, “envy my dear. Betty now has a rich boyfriend, and you don’t. Now then, faint or die of a heart attack let me see it.” All of them laugh, even Patricia. She tells her, “enough with the extravagant display I am not envious in the least. It just makes me laugh, poor devil.” Sophia laughs and tells her, “oh so many people would love a poor boyfriend like that. Especially someone who’s always crying, over every monthly statement. Or one that’s always dumped by her car without gas.” Everyone burst out laughing. Patricia tells them, “I don’t need an idiot like that.” Bertha tells him, “oh what a shame deary it just that you can’t get one.” Everyone starts laughing again. Patricia tells her, “what was that again? What did you say?” Bertha tells her, “maybe Betty can give you some pointers. Maybe then, you’ll be able to get a rich boyfriend my dear.” Betty tells her, “whenever you need advice Patricia I will help you out.” Then all burst out laughing, Patricia tells them. “Listen you, you’re on going to give me lessons on how to land a man. Oh I can get a guy like that, she snaps her fingers. Plus I have a great body, style, class, modeling class, and 6 semesters at the San Marino. Plus the phone numbers, of every rich bachelor in this country.” Everyone utters, “oh really.” Daniel arrives and hears her speech and utters. “Really?” Patricia calms down, and utters. “Oh hello Daniel, oh how are you I didn’t hear you come in.” Daniel tells her, “of course you didn’t hear me. I come in and end up hearing you, squealing and screaming at the top of your vocal cords. The topic sounds very interesting, so do you really have the list of the most eligible bachelor in town. So like this, you can land a man.”

All the ladies giggle, and Patricia tells him. “I will explain Daniel, I have a book with a lot of important people on it. You do know that, on that sheet is a list of men.” Daniel asks, “so does that mean my name and phone number are on that sheet?” Patricia asks, “yes and why?” Daniel tells her, “so when I snap my fingers you can get me.” The girls starts laughing, Patricia tells him. “Look Daniel, this is a conversation between women. These women here, were all glorifying Betty because she now has a boyfriend. Can you image it, they are now all shoving it in my face. Don’t you know, they are saying that she’s better than me. She has a boyfriend and I don’t. Betty begins to get nervous. You can image, the ridiculous discussion were having.” Betty tells her, “that’s not it at all Patricia.” Daniel tells her, “don’t worry senorita. I would have put it publicly in a newspaper that you now have a boyfriend. It will be top news, and it would be free. All the girls are silent. Now then, it’s true it’s quite silly. That she has a boyfriend, and you Patricia will become a spinster. The girl laugh once more, Daniel asks. Is Marcela in her office?” Patricia tells him, “yes Daniel.” Then he takes off, Sandra snaps her fingers Daniel turns around. Everyone points to Patricia, in unision they utter. “It was her.” He stares at Patricia, then takes off. Everyone laughs, and Patricia utters. “Bastards.” Sandra tells her, “your the bastard you’re going to become the single one now. You heard Mr. Daniel Valencia, spinster.” Bertha tells her, “yes Monica you need to take a class from Betty.” Patricia plays around with her hair and tells her. “Yes she could do just that, for she’s properly using witch craft to land a guy that wealthy.” Sandra angrily goes to her, “repeat that repeat that.”

Ines comes between them and breaks up the fight. “Ladies enough, enough for today back to work.” Sandra tells Patricia, “after work you and me. She puts up her hands in fists. Wait after work, keep her over there.” Patricia does the same, “oh I am so scared. You scare me more than Betty.” Mariana tells her, “oh poor thing a spinster and so bitter.” Bertha tells her, “and a witch too.” Sophia comes next to her, and snaps her fingers. “Lets see if a boyfriend comes around, we will see if we believe you.” Bertha tells her, “now get him the right way just like Betty Monica. Or sort of the same.” Patricia tells her, “you’ll see you bastards you’ll see.” Betty smiling goes by her, and heads to Sophia’s desk. Mariana tells Patricia, “oh Patico if it’s that easy my friend. Bring him here, and present him.” Patricia tells him,  “I haven’t done so because I haven’t felt like it.” She flicks her hair and sits down. Sandra tells her, “oh you Rio De Janeiro.” Mariana tells her, “oh poor thing.” Then she laughs, then they get back to work while Patricia stares at the number.

Armando and Mario arrive, Wilson has been playing with the boy while Aura Maria was working. Armando tells her, “I fully understand your situation but the reception isn’t a place where children play. Especially with the doorman of the company, put him someplace else understand me.” The boy lights a light in his face, and he hits the boy in the head. Aura Maria tells him, “I understand sir well he will soon be picked up.” Armando tells her, “thank you very much. You. Wilson salutes. Stop playing with the boy, you electric donkey.” Aura Maria tells Jimmy, “come over here my love.”

Upstairs Bertha tells them, “we have that blond bimbo exactly where we want her. She is so envious of our betty, she’s ready to explode. It’s better than food.” She begins describing a delicious meal. Sophia and Betty crack up. Sophia tells her, “now we have a reason to come to work.” Betty tells them, “yes but stop tormenting her. I don’t want that witch spreading to everyone, Nicholas’s name and company left and right all over the corridors.” Bertha asks, “but you silly why. If it were me, I would get a humungous photo and put it right here. Have his name on it, and his bank statement written on the bottom. Lastly his job title, it could be the executive or president anything.” Sophia asks, “isn’t he vice president what’s that company called again. Yes Terra Moda.” Betty just tells them, “he’s an executive of finances.” Sophia tells her, “you never mention he was a big shot of a big company. Terra Moda that name sounds so familiar. Aren’t they doing business with us?” Betty gets serious, and tells her. “Yes a few business deals, that’s why I don’t want him mentioned so much. To that blond bimbo just to torment her. You know her, and what she is capable of doing. She could invent anything, in front of Dona Marcela or Don Armando. I don’t want nothing of the sort. Please treat this information with the discretion.” Sophia tells her, “you should have told us sooner Betty. Oh don’t worry we will be very discrete.” Betty smiles and heads to her office, while Bertha takes Sophia to systems.

Betty arrives back inside the office, and looks at the photo of Adriana Arboleda. She remembers what Armando said to Mario. “Are you kidding anybody, will lose their eye sight looking at that fine woman. One day if that woman happens to step in this office. I will drop everything, and go on my knees and marry this woman. I will whisk her away.” Daniel enters and coughs, Betty puts back the photo on the table. Daniel takes a good look at her, and Betty asks. “Sir how are you?” Daniel tells her, “I am worried, disgusted, surprised. We made an agreement senorita, that said quite clearly. That when money entered, I would get paid. I have checked my account, and the money hasn’t been put there.” Betty tells him, “oh sorry sir I am truly sorry we had to pay payroll first. Tomorrow morning, you will get your money and she smiles. You have my word.” Daniel tells her, “is your word as serious than your look. That attire, make-up, and hair. Instead of being a assistant of a president, you look more like a assistant to a clown.” Betty utters, “excuse me.” Daniel tells her, “I know that Armando is a clown. This company is a complete joke, but you shouldn’t be dressed as a clown. You should have more discretion.” Betty tells him, “excuse me sir you are insulting me.”

Daniel tells her, “the one that offending this company is you. What were you thinking, when you put on those clothes. What went into that head of yours, when you combed your hair. Do you think you look divine or what? No senorita you look worse. Armando has arrived and is furious. More worse.” Betty tells him, “sir you will respect me. You are getting involved in personal territory.” Daniel tells her, “tsk tsk I am getting involved in this issue because of the image of this company its part my company. Come to work like a decent person, just because you have a boyfriend. You can’t come here like that, you’re mistaken. You disrupt the routine of the employees, please take heed of the humanity.” Armando angrily utters, “Daniel Valencia. Get the hell out of my office this instant.” Daniel tells him, “oh hello Armando.” Armando tells him, “hello nothing get the hell out of this office. Stop insulting my assistant.” Daniel tells him, “the one disrespecting this company is her. She doesn’t respect the aesthetics, of this company nor the routine. Someone who has an important role in this company. A person that practically runs this company, because our president and his inept ways of running things. Someone who has an important company, regarding style, fashion, design, color. Can’t be dressed like that.” Armando tells him, “maybe you didn’t understand Daniel Valencia. Get the hell out of here. He then grabs him, and screams get out of here get out.” Daniel screams, “I am no clown that you can scream at nor boss around. You may never, put your hands on me ever on my jacket nor push me.” Armando utters, “oh no didn’t like that.” Betty grabs him and screams, “please sir leave him alone.” Armando tells him, “get out.” Daniel cool and collected tells him, “I understand why you’re defending that economiest but its bad taste. He looks at them both, oh if isn’t Tarzan and Cheetah.” Then he takes off.

Armando turns, and touches her face. “Relax Betty, I don’t want nobody messing with you. Or bothering you, or making fun of you you understand me.” Betty tells him, “no sir don’t worry about it because he’s right.” Armando tells her, “no he’s not right.” She then heads straight to her office. Armando utters, “Beatriz Beatriz please.” Armando then just sits down, and stares at the door. Patricia is telling Marcela, “like I said Marcee that executive of Terra Moda  is Betty’s boyfriend. Oh those bastards, saying that I am jealous that Betty has a boyfriend. That I am incapable of landing a rich boyfriend. Can you believe those bold, ignorant, rag dolls, fools.” Marcela just works away, and then says. “Leave them alone, don’t pay them any attention.” Patricia tells her, “what do you mean Marcee don’t pay them any attention. That was a huge offence.” Marcela tells her, “fine then do something. Find yourself another rich boyfriend, it will be good for everybody.” Patricia tells her, “yes laugh about it. Another one of the ladies, she takes away her pen. I swear to you Marcee, that Garfield will pay for this.” Marcela ask, “how what are you thinking about?” Patricia tells her, “they are gloating me on that man is too much for her.”

( I don’t know why she calls Betty, “Garfield” he’s cute and fuzzy.)

Marcela tells her, “are you trying to say. That you’re going to steal Betty’s boyfriend away.” Patricia tells her, “oh not only will I take him away. I will steal him away from Betty. Please what battle can Beatriz win?” Marcela burst out laughing, “you aren’t serious Patricia are you. No no no this can’t be happening. She laughs some more. What you are going to fight for a poor boyfriend of Beatriz?” Patricia tells her, “no Marcee he’s not poor he’s an executive of Terra Moda. He deals with a lot of money, I heard him over the phone. He has a car with a chauffeur, is part of club, a big executive that can fix someone’s life.” Marcela tells her, “oh not only will you fight for Beatriz boyfriend. Then you will solve all your problems. Please Patricia, what movie are you planning to star in. You just don’t know, what kind of man he really is. If he’s Betty’s boyfriend, please what kind of person are we talking about?  He can be a big executive, he could own a company, he could have a chauffeur and car. Everything that you dream of, if he went after Beatriz. You can image the class of beauty, that man really has. Please don’t make illusions about this guy.” Patricia stares at the number, “I am not saying I am going to do it but if they continue bothering me. Or tormenting me, I will show them clearly how to steal a boyfriend from an ugly woman. Just like that.” She then snaps her fingers.

Armando enters, and tells Betty. “I just want to tell you, you shouldn’t be so affected over what Daniel told you.” Betty crying tells him, “sir it wouldn’t affect me so much that I have a speculation but yes he is correct.” Armando tells her, “no he’s not correct. That look looks alright, its ok that look relax.” Betty asks, “really sir?” Armando tells her, “yes.” Betty smiling says, “I did it for you only for you. I just wanted you to see me distinctly.” She laughs and smiles, Armando tells her. “Betty.” Betty tells him, “sir I did it for you. I don’t care if anybody else doesn’t like it. I just don’t care what they think. Only if you like it.” Armando tells her, “oh Betty I really do like your look truthfully it fascinates me but. To be more honest, I liked you more before. I know what I’m about to say sounds weird, I look at you he closes his eyes. I look and look. I ask myself, where is that Betty? That Betty that spectacular, the one that obsesses me. Later I ask myself again, where is the Betty that captivates my heart. The one that entered that first day at Eco Moda. He turns and thinks of that first meeting. With that hair and outfit, that innocent laugh. With that charisma, that so fascinates me. Oh where is she?” Betty tells him, “sir so what you’re trying to say is that you want me like I was.” Armando tells her, “I just want to see the Betty that’s in here. Like a simple picture.”

Betty tells him, “I thought you didn’t like my appearance before.” Armando tells her, “please close your mouth. Betty when I first saw you, you know first meetings are always so cold. But in time, days, you grew on me.” Betty tells him, “yes sir I understand you fully.” Armando tells her, “but I’m not done yet. Then came the magic, the magic. Then I discovered that woman, the one that captivates me. A woman that is filled, with marvellous qualities that now a days is something that I would miss.” Betty tells him, “sir I will be your Betty like before. The same Betty.” Armando tells her, “that’s right.” Betty tells him, “the Betty that dies for you.” Armando utters, “yes.” Betty comes closer, he tells her. “The door, I’ll get the door.” Betty tells him, “no sir don’t do it. It’s dangerous, its caution.” Armando rolls his eyes out of relief then tells her. “Oh I almost did something crazy. I just can’t hold myself back any longer. Look tonight, we won’t be able to see one another. Not tomorrow either, but next week yes we will see one another.” He touches her chin a couple of times, and Betty moves away then says. “Don’t worry sir, we decided to do that arrangement. When you can go, we will go out. I will wait for you.” Armando tells her, “that’s why I love you my naughty girl. He kisses his fingers, and taps it on her nose. Betty shyly smiles, I am going to tell you one thing. You look divine, whatever people say you are divine. But before you were my crazy.” He taps her nose once more and then leaves. Betty grins from ear to ear. Armando closes the door, and has a disgusted look on his face.

Wilson is playing around with Jimmy. Aura Maria tells Ines over the phone.

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(“Oh Inesita, please take Jimmy for a little while. No Inesita the others can’t take him, plus Don Armando and Mr. Valencia already told me he can’t stay in the reception area. You know him he’s very shy and quiet. Please take him, since Don Hugo hasn’t returned yet. Oh your so beautiful thank you.”)

“Oh thanks I will send him up there.” Jenny and Freddy arrive back, both smiling and grinning. Freddy tells her, “oh go forth my lovely female species.” Jenny tells him, “oh you’re always so poetic.” Aura Maria asks, “so did you guys gets stuck in blankets or what? So Freddy they’ve been looking for you.” Freddy ignores her, and tells Jenny. “I will press the button, so we can go up to heaven.” Wilson tells him, “oh Freddy look at this time buddy. They were looking for you.” Freddy tells him, “oh who is complaining you.” Wilson tells him, “I am just translating a message from Aura Maria.” Freddy tells him, “that is a comment made out of context. I was using my lunch hour, I was with this gracious lady at an exquisite restaurant.” Jenny tells him, “oh yes Freddy that meal was delicious. Thank you very much, I owe you an invitation.” Freddy tells her, “it can be used tomorrow morning.” Jenny tells him, “oh Freddy you’re so persistent ok let’s go eat tomorrow.” Aura Maria tells Jimmy, “now Jimmy Freddy will take you up. So you can see Inesita at her studio. If he doesn’t mind, or it isn’t quite the bother.” Freddy tells him, “Jimmy you know something. I will show you and take you to see Inesita’s studio its divine. Jimmy follows and Freddy tells him, now come here and look at this lovely bottom to the very top. It teaches you early, the luck of man.” The elevator door closes, Aura Maria looks over at Wilson and tells him. “What are you looking at? You frog eating bone head.” Wilson just takes Freddy’s belongings, and puts them on the back counter.

Patricia once again, is complaining about money. She tells someone over the phone, “listen sir what do you mean by harassing me again. What does embargo mean? No no, look I will be getting money next month. So I can give it to you, yes including with paid interest.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia tells him, “I spent six semesters of finance at the San Marino. So you can know who you are talking too. I’m not a beast, yes sir I am telling you.”)

Freddy, Jenny and Jimmy arrive on the floor. “I swear that I will pay it. Jimmy comes around, then plays with Patricia’s hair. Patricia utters, what stop that? Freddy grabs Jimmy, and takes him away. Both Sandra and Mariana crack up. Patricia tells the guy, yes I swear it. I am giving you my word, I know that I’ve said it a couple of time but this is definite. This is the truth sir, please take pity on us poor people. We will talk later. Marcela comes by, Marcee Marcee Marcee the lawyers credit card company want to embarg me.” Marcela tells her, “that isn’t new news Patricia.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee I need you to help me. They are going to take away my car.” Marcela tells her, “well then sell your car and pay off your debts.” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee please. I can’t live without my car. I would like Eco Moda to give me a loan.” Marcela asks, “another loan?” Patricia tells her, “oh Marcee help out a poor friend. Marcee please please please.” Marcela tells her, “talk to Armando.” Then Sandra and Marina snap their fingers. Patricia tells them, “you idiot what is up with you.” Sandra asks, “come on my dear where is the rich boyfriend?” Mariana tells her, “yes Patico you better get him quick before they seize everything.” Patricia turns and tries to think of something. Sandra tells her, “oh the poor thing.” The girls both start laughing again.

Over that Betty’s house, Nicholas is still jumpy. Hermes is annoyed, and they both jump when the phone rings. Hermes tells him, “stop being a snake.” Nicholas tells him, “I will get that phone Don Hermes.” Hermes tells him, “you better not break that phone.” Nicholas utters, “hello oh hi Betty.” Betty tells him, “oh hi Nicholas. Oh did you call me here?” Nicholas tells her “yes this morning, I sent you all the information you needed through the internet. Plus the information with the Bank Of Montreal.” Betty tells him, “why in the hell did you give the message to Patricia Fernandez?” Nicholas tells her, “oh don’t even mention it. Oh what a beauty, what a goddess we talked one on one Betty. Oh I am so emotional that I don’t mind that Dona Julia stop cooking, and there’s no empanadas in this house for this executive. Oh that woman has a beautiful voice, from all the way here I could smell her perfume Betty.” Betty tells him, “enough Nicholas stop that what you did was crazy. How could you call, and say you’re an executive of Terra Moda especially to her.” Nicholas tells her, “what’s wrong with that. Oh I can’t find my resignation letter, I can’t find it so where did you put it.” Betty tells him, “don’t be an idiot Nicholas. Simply don’t leave message to my enemies, saying that an executive from Terra Moda. Called me, was coming out of a meeting. That later on, you were going to a club.”

“Nicholas you don’t know, how dangerous it is to mention that name. Especially here in this company, and coming out of the mouth of Patricia Fernandez.” Nicholas tells her, “oh her mouth I calculated that we have the same mouth. Oh I have to learn how to kiss, is there a correspondence class on can take. Oh has she asked about me? Is she interested in talking to me further?” Betty tells him, “enough Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “oh Betty stop exaggerating what’s the tragedy. Yes I know mentioning the company, is bad but Terra Moda is an official company. They can check all the paperwork, and receipts that they want. What is the mystery? Don’t tell me you’re so jealous, of that beautiful Fernandez woman.” Betty tells him, “no it’s not only that but you can’t be calling saying. You’re an executive of Terra Moda, and that you’re going to a club. What would Don Armando, think if he heard this?” Nicholas tells her, “oh Don Armando can look at our books and account records. He can see its all lies, it was just to impress that gorgeous woman. Tell me Betty, was she impacted hearing from me.  What’s up Betty? Why aren’t you talking? Tell me?” Betty tells him, “we will talk at home.” Nicholas tells her, “no no tell me now what’s wrong?” Betty tells him, “the thing is I am the official girlfriend of Tera Moda executive.” Nicholas gets up,  “oh what your my girlfriend no. What when did this happen. What is this? Explain it to me.” Betty tells him, “yes Nicholas you are my boyfriend.” She then hangs up, Nicholas tells her. “Don’t hang up on me Betty.”

Apparently Waltor Yeo, a British soldier is the first person known. To get plastic surgery, it was a skin graft and it was performed by Sir Harold Gillies in 1917.

Although India practiced the craft in 2000 BC.

SEVENTY

Nicholas utters, “this is all I needed. Or is it that Betty, has falling in love with me as well. He laughs, and says. I guess that when one comes, and the others follow. He laughs again, I guess I have to wait till tonight. You my dear no jealousy.” He then kisses Patricia’s picture.

It night time once again, Patricia goes racing towards Mario. “Oh Mario dear, Mario Mario could I talk with you for a minute.” Mario tells her, “oh I really have to leave.” He looks at his watch. Patricia tells him, “only for a minute not for your entire life.” He utters, “tell me and presses the elevator door.” Patricia tells him, “well the thing is between the two of us theirs now nothing.” Mario tells her, “yes that’s true.” Patricia tells him, “well I image it between the two of us I guess their is a friendship.” Mario tells her, “yes that’s true.” Patricia tells him, “like a friend I would like to ask you a favour.” Mario asks, “now tell me?” Patricia tells him, “I need you to lend me 5000 so they won’t embargo my car.” Mario utters, “oh Patty how about 10000.” Patricia tells him, “oh Mario I know that you have it.” Mario tells him, “I don’t have that money I would have to sell my car and my apartment. Sell my shares in this company, I don’t have 5000 resting in a bank somewhere. What makes you think that?” Patricia tells him, “oh yeah rich people like yourself in this country. Never have cash in your pockets, oh Mario at least you can do is see if you can get it for me.” Mario pauses, then says. “Ok I will help you, tonight I will call some friends and see how much I can get you. How does that sound?” Patricia utters, “that’s fine.” Mario tells her, “I will tell a lot of people.” Patricia just utters, “yes.” Then he enters the elevator, and bumps into Hugo. They both zzz.

Hugo tells Patricia, “oh I would love to join him he is divine.” He walks away and Patricia screams his name. “Hugeto, Hugeto please and you can’t deny me. I need a big favor from you, lend me 5000 dollars.” Hugo just starts laughing, “zzzzzz five.” Patricia tells him, “oh Hugeto they are going to take away my car. Hugeto I promise I will pay you back next month I promise you.” Hugo tells her, “no you don’t have to promise me nothing. Where am I going to get, that amount of money. I don’t have that, five five no.” Patricia tells him, “Hugeto please I know that you have it. You make a good living, you never spend any.” Patricia tells him, “you don’t have great expenses.” Hugo tells her, “oh no oh no oh how funny. Do you think, I have a man to maintain me. I have a lot of tastes, all my extravagant object. What do you think, they don’t cost me my dear. At this point in time, I am creating a new apartment with my boyfriend. We are now ruined in money, but we are rich on love. Plus I will never give woman money, what if you never pay me back. I will end up all scratched up, and in complete failure economically. At this moment, the only thing I want from a woman. Is money, I am not interested in sleeping with a woman. My dear Patsy Pat, asks a rich man among them they’re few. I am going to confide in you, the real reason I can’t lend you money. I maintain my mother, don’t cry don’t cry.” He then leaves, Patricia is left miserable.

Betty comes out of her office, and stares at Armando. “Sir I am going.” Armando tells her, “Betty tonight I can’t take you home.” Betty tells him, “don’t worry sir. Our arrangement stands, everything is clear.” She just smiles at him, and then Marcela enters. Marcela ignores her completely, “so love are you ready to go home with me. Or do you have other plans, with your other acquaintances.” Armando looks over at Betty, before talking. “No yes, well the thing is. What I wanted to say is, I am coming with you.” Marcela asks, “fine then I thought you were going to have my bath ready?” Armando asks, “what bathtub?” Marcela tells him, “with lots of bubbles, oils and all that good stuff we add and like. A bubble bath of aphrodisiac.” Armando tells her, “I don’t know what you’re talking about my love.” Betty tells them, “excuse me.” Marcela asks, “what is wrong? Why did you get so nervous?” Armando tells her, “what are you going to invent now. That I have something to do, with Betty or what. Are you suspicious of everyone, its tiring.” Marcela tells him, “I am not being suspicious of anybody. I think that you’re nervous, that she has to report to somebody. Our intimate affairs.” Armando tells her, “look Marcela I am really tired tonight. I am not into games tonight, let’s just going to that blasted bathtub.” Marcela’s smile disappears, and she just nods. Armando closes the door, and Marcela tells him. “Hey if you don’t want to join me in the bathtub, you don’t have to come in.” Armando closes the door and tells her, “my love look lets go to the apartment. I will go into that bathtub, with the bubbles and everything.”

Hugo comes out of his studio, “excuse me and forgive me but who put this mini Freddy in my studio.” Ines tells him, “oh come on Don Hugo please.” Hugo tells her, “what have I told you. I don’t want kids in my studio. No kids in my life, even a destroyer that’s near my exclusive designs.” Ines tells him, “Don Hugo it’s only for today.” Hugo tells her, “I have told you the only child I will support. Is the one that I adopt with my boyfriend. That is the one, that I will hold tight in my heart. I have told you million of times, no kids, no gossips, nor uglies in my studio.” Ines asks, “oh Don Hugo. What will you tell that boy, you adopt to call you. Mapa or pama?” Hugo just laughs, “don’t lose that funny humour of yours.” Ines and the others just laugh. Freddy tells him, “bye Hugita.” Hugo curses and goes back to his studio.

Marcela lovingly tells Armando, “why don’t we tonight in that bathtub have a child.” Armando tells her, “oh that will be wonderful. We will have a swimmer, and name it aqua man.” Marcela doesn’t like his tone, and the smile disappears on her face. Patricia goes to Armando, “Armando I need to talk to you.” Armando tells her, “I don’t need to talk to you.” Patricia tells him, “you have to listen to me Armando.” Armando tells her, “I don’t feel like it Patty.” Patricia tells him, “I need 5000.” Marcela just breaks up laughing, Armando tells her. “Ok who’s the one, that gave her a drink.” Patricia tells him, “I will pay you next week.” Armando tells Marcela, “Marg explain it to this woman. That under no circumstances, can employees be drinking on the job. You alcoholic.” He goes to the elevator, Marcela tells him,. “Oh dear I forgot something in my office.” Patricia goes and sits down, she says to herself. “They are forcing me, to end up in Daniel Valencia’s arms once again.”

Betty asks Aura Maria, “I was wondering where are you going to spend the night tonight with Jimmy?” Aura Maria tells her, “well tonight were going to stay with Sophia. While we wait for an apartment to open up, maybe to share with someone.” Aura Maria looks over at Freddy, who is ignoring her. Freddy tells Betty, “in the newspaper there our ads where people are looking for roommates. A lot of them.” Aura Maria tells her, “well the thing is Betty. It would be great, sharing the place with a work friend.” Ines comes down, “now then Aura Maria here is Jimmy safe and sound. Come ladies lets go.” Aura Maria says aloud, “yes it is really late to get transportation.” Freddy ignores her again and gets the phone. Freddy is on the phone with Jenny, “how dear how are you? Jenny I thought that maybe, we could talk about our experiences and enjoy our time together. Before you have to go home. Fine I’ll wait for you at reception, and remember forgive me and involve me.” Everyone gasps, and Aura Maria angrily tells them. “Well then let’s go then. Jimmy my love, come on let’s get our suitcases.” Sandra tells her, “Aura Maria just forget it. You and Freddy are finished. That is what you get, for going after someone else. You deserve this.” Aura Maria tells her, “don’t get involved in my personal affairs you you snoop.” Freddy just stares at them sadly, and sits down.

Daniel is in his office, when he gets a call. “Yes I’ll take the call. So were you snapping your fingers?” Patricia tells him, “Daniel Valencia I will tell you without no round around. I need without fail 5000, what do I have to do. Will you be able to get it for me?” Daniel tells her, “5000 ok let’s take into the value of tonight. He gets his calculator, and tells her. It would come out to one hundred nights, it will be very difficult. I would have to sleep with you, for one hundred nights. That would boar me immensely. Wait I could talk to some friends, and maybe we can make a deal.” Patricia tells him angrily, “you bastard!” She hangs up the phone.

(What did she expect, she’s basically prostituting herself to Daniel.)

Nicholas is cleaning up the table, and Julia tells him. “Hurry up I am going to serve the meal.” Nicholas tells her, “yes Dona Julia that’s what I’m going to do. Oh careful my love.” He takes the photo of Patricia away. Hermes tells him, “you’re a fool. The food is going to get cold.” Nicholas tells Julia, “you have me on a diet Dona Julia.” Betty enters and Hermes, Julia and Nicholas stare at her. Hermes tells her, “Oh my dear how may I help you? Then he looks more clearly. Oh is that you Betty, is that you? What is with that outfit and hair, I told you not to dress like that. With that make-up and all you look like a clown.” Julia tells him, “oh Hermes stop yelling at our girl. She just wanted to change her look, and smiles lovingly at her. You look lovely.” Nicholas plays with her curls, and asks. “So where’s the costume party? Do you want me to dress up as well? Ding dong ding dong.” Betty tells him, “shut up Nicholas. Or else no food for you, look dad tomorrow I will be myself once more. Mom can you comb my hair, like always tomorrow.” Julia smiling says, “why dear you look so divine.” Betty tells her, “we have a problem you and I. Only the two of us like how were dressed. This was a failed look, the public of Eco Moda hated it. I just don’t want to eat, excuse me.” Hermes tells her, “but dear.” Nicholas tells her, “wait Betty.” Julia tells Nicholas, “don’t you dare torment her. Look at her she’s miserable.” Nicholas tells her, “oh relax Dona Julia relax she scares herself.” He laughs and leaves, Hermes asks. “Why are you just standing there serve our meal.” Julia starts crying and heads to the kitchen.

Betty arrives in her room and throws the things on the floor. Betty lies on the bed, and tells Nicholas. “No commentaries.” Nicholas tells her, “we won’t talk about that outfit. Explain to me, why I’m your boyfriend since when?” Betty tells him, “since last night.” Nicholas asks, “you mean last night you and me.” Betty tells him, “yes last night we began dating.” Nicholas tells her, “when did this happen. At what time did it happen? When I was asleep? You aren’t using me, while I sleep are you. So how long, have you had the hots for me tell me?” Betty tells him, “that’s what I told the girls. That we are now going steady, so from now on I need you to pretend you’re my boyfriend.” Nicholas is speechless, “oh come on Betty what do you mean? Are you telling everyone, at Eco Moda that were dating?” Betty asks, “and what’s the problem?” Nicholas tells her, “what do you mean by doing this. It will ruin my image, what will the ladies of Eco Moda say. Especially all those models, oh no. Don’t tell me, that Patricia Fernandez overheard that conversation that we’re dating.”

Betty tells him, “she was the first to find out.” Nicholas tells her, “no Betty how could you do this to me. I will be unreachable for her, how could you do this to me.” Betty tells him, “Nicholas I had to do it. I’ve had it that everyone, was making fun of me for not having a boyfriend.” Nicholas sees Betty going towards him, he utters. “No kisses please. No romance, no they won’t laugh at you but of me. He then lies on the bed. No no no this can’t be happening. Did you say, we were very much in love.” Betty smiling tells him, “yes and that you’re crazy in love with me.” Nicholas utters, “no.” Betty tells him, “I told them that you did so many things to romance me. You begged me, you cried for me, they know that I am too much woman for you to handle.” She starts laughing once more, Nicholas utters. “But why?” Betty laughs again and tells him. “Ah it’s all lies, I just wanted to mortify you. They just think that we just like one another, were attracted to one another. But were not in love yet.” Nicholas tells her, “so that means I am not that in love with you.” Betty tells him, “no not yet. That’s why you can’t call, and leave messages with my enemies like Patricia Fernandez. She’s also the best friend of Dona Marcela. They have heard before the name of Terra Moda. They know that were dating, can you image what they will think. What kind of business, I am getting involved with. No it’s just too dangerous, with a stupid mistake like that. They might figure out, what’s going on between the two of us understand.” Nicholas tells her, “yes I understand but with this new role do I have to hug you and kiss you in public.” Betty tells him, “no we’re not going to do that. They burst up laughing, relax you can retain that image of yours.” Nicholas tells her, “oh just look at us both. We are the prize of beauty. They should do a portrait of us in Hola magazine. Oh my god why am I laughing, now you have ruined my relationship with Patricia Fernandez.” Betty tells him, “come on that woman isn’t for you. Just leave that woman in those photos, nothing more. No more leaving messages with her, nor having any conversations. It’s pretty dangerous.” Nicholas tells her, “fine fine message received. I guess I have to forget her. She will have to forget about me. Betty this is going to be quite hard, very hard very hard and he hits his head on the door. Well we will talk tomorrow.” Betty shakes her head, and smiles.

Nicholas returns to the table, Julia tells him. “Sit down and eat, its ready.” Nicholas is miserable, and tells them. “Tonight I won’t eat.” Hermes starts choking, “oh enough with that story sit down.” Nicholas tells him, “I am not playing Don Hermes. Not everything is a game, he goes to the picture. Goodbye my love, rest up and he kisses the picture. I will one day return to you, and he hides the picture in the drawer. Goodbye everyone.” Julia asks, Nicholas “are you alright are you sick son?” Nicholas tells her, “only disillusioned. Oh my dear Hermes, love is such a complicated thing. A really complicated thing, well then till tomorrow. Well not to disappoint you Dona Julia, I’ll take these for the road. Well then till tomorrow. Don’t worry, I’ll be better tomorrow and will be having breakfast with you two once again.” Julia tells him, “your eggs will be ready.” Nicholas tells her, “two eggs please. Or maybe four Dona Julia.” He leaves Hermes tells her, “at least he’s depressed if he wasn’t he would eat both of our plates as well. ”

“Betty writes in her diary:

“Today I failed at being a different woman. I screwed up with the new look in trying to change my appearance. Even though nobody wanted to tell me, I knew it was a disaster. Unfortunately Don Armando, loves me just the way I am. The same one that he fell in love with, that makes me a bit uneasy. Is it that he feel more about me, that goes beyond the admiration that he says he feels for me. What is his obsession over me? Does he desire me? I know that is me just dreaming. You see Armando and Marcela making out. He has a lot of women, like Dona Marcela. Like the models, does he have a bit of desire for me. Aura Maria told me, if he really wanted me. If he’s with me, that means he might desires me. It’s something natural between a couple, that there’s an attraction. That they love one another, but I feel Don Armando doesn’t have those feeling for me. It’s just impossible for me, to find this out Don Armando is my love. But I can’t help watch that he’s a bit distant. Like he doesn’t really belong to me totally. Especially now for security reasons, that we shouldn’t see so much of one another. That will be very difficult for me, not only because I love him but I desire him as well. I want to be with him always. I want to caress him, give him kisses, because sometimes when I am by his side. I feel like I lose control, that I might do something crazy with him. Aura Maria told me, if a man doesn’t take the incentive than one has to do it. But I just can’t get myself to make the first move. To explore, to dig, to go after him. For one thing, I don’t have any experience in this. The second is, I don’t have that temperament nor the audacity to do it.”

DAYS LATER

Armando takes Betty to a club, they dance and Betty holds him tight. Not wanting him to leave her side. When the song is over, Armando slowly removes her hands off him and says. “Let’s go sit down, and he takes her to a table. He gets a drink, and Betty stares at him lovingly. Armando asks, what’s wrong? Betty continues to stare. Armando asks, Betty why are you staring at me like that?” Betty tells him, “no nothing sir.” The staring continues, Armando asks. “Are you sure nothing is wrong? I feel something is wrong.” Betty smiles and laughs, “excuse me sir. I was contemplating  you.” She shyly looks away, Armando tells her. “No I am not annoyed at you, but I was just asking nothing else.” Betty tells him, “relax sir your right. I am a bit prudent just staring at you so intently and for so long.” Armando holds her near, and she’s in heaven. “Come here my naughty girl, don’t get that way. It’s not prudent that you look at me, it’s just that it’s flattering.”

Betty tells him, “sir I just want you to know that it’s been so long since we weren’t alone together. That I wasn’t with you. That I couldn’t look at you, that I couldn’t touch you. She touches his nose, and laughs. Oh I have missed you so much sir. I have missed our time together.” She closes her eyes waiting for a kiss. Armando smiles and tells her, “Betty Betty Betty. Me too you don’t know how much, I have missed you as well. Oh I have tons of truth to share, I am just missing your caresses, your nearness, your kisses.” Betty smiles and laughs, “oh sir I have been counting the days, hours, the minutes, so I can be with you. I know after this night, we will be apart again but I will wait for the time we are alone together once more.” Armando tells her, “oh how incredible we are in sync. Oh I also feel the same way, oh we have the same anxiousness.” She laughs, and goes for a kiss. Armando looks around, then kisses her tenderly. Betty tells him, “I love you sir I love you.” The kissing continues, and overwhelms Armando. He stops her, and then smiles and looks at the watch. “Oh what time is it? Betty utters, it 12:30 sir.” Armando tells her, “good morning Betty.”

She just breaks up laughing. “Well it best we go, Betty is disappointed. Yes of course, I image that that Dona Marcela is waiting for you.” Armando tells her, “yes she’s waiting for me. I have to go to Marcela’s apartment, for me to leave her. I had to tell her that, I would sleep over there. Betty doesn’t like the idea, and she is sad. Armando tells her, now don’t think that we do… ” Betty tells him, “don’t worry sir you don’t have to give me a lot of explanations.” Armando tells her, “I don’t mind all the questions because your my friend my accomplice everything. At the office, were arm and arm. We’re more than that boom.” He then touches her nose, they both laugh then they get up and leave the club. They arrive at Betty’s house, and she tells him. “Sir please don’t stop here.” Armando asks, “but why?” Betty tells him, “but I don’t want to say goodbye to you here. You know that my dad, is probably spying through the window. Go a little bit forward. Armando does what she asks. Here is fine sir.” Armando tells her, “well then.” Betty tells him, “sir thank you very much this night has been so marvelous like always. Then she laughs, and shyly looks down. I will wait for the next night, that were going to alone together once again. Well we can be enjoy, what we have. Your words, your caresses, I will wait anxiously.” Armando tells her, “oh Betty I will be adding that these nights go very quickly.” Then he takes off his glasses, Betty is exuberate and kisses him passionately.

After a few minutes, Armando stops her and tells her. “Oh Betty please stop.” Betty tells him, “oh I am truly sorry sir.” Armando tells her, “no no no don’t apologize or be embarrassed relax. That thing is we have to control ourselves, we shouldn’t lose our horizontal. Remember the last time, we got carried away and your neighbors jumped us. Now your father, might start walking at night. What if he catches us? I am crazy for you my lovely, but we have to control ourselves. We have to behave like adults.” Betty tells him, “yes sir you are correct. If you like reverse the car, and drop me off at my house. I have already said goodbye to you.” She smiles and laughs. Armando tells her, “Betty we will be together soon again alone.” Betty tells him, “yes sir. He goes back and then she says, well sir we will talk tomorrow.” Armando tells her, “yes Betty we will talk tomorrow. I hope that you don’t get into trouble tonight.” Betty tells him, “I don’t think that they will be angry tonight.” Betty gets out and Armando utters, “what aphrodisiac did this woman take during dinner?”

Betty enters her house, and Hermes is waiting once again with a blanket over him. “Hey do you live here?” Betty tells him, “hi dad good evening.” Hermes tells her, “well good evening my dear to you as well. Look at the time, your late once again. Keep this up, I am going to take away that key of yours.” Julia comes down and says. “Now don’t start harassing our girl. Oh dear, it’s past twelve. Happy Birthday my darling. Let god protect you, and take good care of you. Keep you looking so lovely, and may you be in good health.” She hugs Betty and gives her a kiss on the cheek. Betty tells her, “thank you mom.” Hermes gives her a hug, and tells her. “Yes my dear happy birthday, may you always remain here in the loving bosom of your family.” Betty tells him, “thank you dad.” Julia asks, “so how was that cocktail with your boss.” Betty tells her, “fine well it went really long but he was nice to bring me here.” Julia asks, “did your boss congratulate you exactly at 12.”

Betty tells her, “well no he didn’t know it was my birthday.” Julia asks, “why didn’t he know?” Betty tells her, “how could I tell everyone. That today was going to be my birthday its embarrassing.” Hermes tells her, “yes its better that you didn’t say a thing. He’d probably thinks, that you want a present or something. You know that those people, deal with a lot of money. They would have too, you know give you a costly present. It was the proper thing to do, you didn’t get a present but you became queen congratulation. You acted like a true Pinzon.” Julia tells her, “but still it would have been nice if he would have least congratulated her and remembered the date. Since our girl is very important to him.” Betty tells her, “Don Armando is a very busy man. With tons of things on his mind, that he wouldn’t even remember my birthday.” Hermes tells her, “yes Julia an important man like that doesn’t have the time to remember all that.” Julia tells him, “looks who’s talking. Your father used to know, every secretaries birthdays.” Hermes tells her, “don’t start that again come on walk to bed.” Julia tells Betty, “he wouldn’t forget any one of the secretaries birthday. He would get up early and get ready, leave the house smelling like a lot of cologne. He knew the dates by heart.” Betty smiles with her mom, Hermes tells her.” Oh enough now the two of you, off to bed. Come on let the girl go to bed.” Julia tells her, “alright I’m coming. Anyway it would have been nice. If Don Armando, would have remembered your birthday my love yes or no.” Betty says sadly, “I wish he had.” Hermes comes back, “come on off to bed.” Julia tells him, “I’m coming I’m coming goodnight dear.” Betty just sighs.

Armando arrives home, and find Marcela waiting up and drinking. He tells her, “hello love.” Marcela asks, “why is it really late?” Armando gets a drink. Marcela tells him, “you were supposed to come home early.” Armando tells her, “oh come on its only 1 am.” Marcela tells him, “its 1:30.” Armando tells her, “ok its 1:30.” Marcela asks, “and how did things go?” Armando tells her, “fine we closed a really good deal. We were able to save 25% off.” He sits down, Marcela tells him. “Oh thanks to Beatriz.” Armando tells her, “no not only because of Beatriz. Thanks to the deal we did together.” Marcela tells him, “oh a meeting that lasted it 1 in the morning.” Armando tells her, “well it wasn’t easy you know. Or did you think I was with another woman.” Marcela tells him, “no no no I know I know that your reason is pretty entertaining. Oh you’ll say, I was with another woman Marcela. Wth Betty, ha ha ha.” Armando tells her, “you know what no. After the meeting ended, I drove Betty home. Then I left to go to my lover’s house.” Marcela laughs and tells him, “I am so glad that you’re able to return to her.” She puts down her glass angrily, and gets up and Armando angrily follows.

He grabs her, “you know what love. I can’t go back, see everything is closed. I come here, because it’s always open for me. At your house, Marcela laugh and wants to leave he keeps her. I haven’t finished yet Marcee, I haven’t finished yet. You know why I always come here. This house is always, open for me that’s what I love.” Marcela pulls away, and she says. “I don’t want to hear another word.” He goes after her, Armando grabs her once again and tells her. “Tell me one thing, you who knows so much about infidelity. Why don’t you tell me, if a man comes from a lover’s house. Would he want to kiss her like this.” He passionately kisses her, Marcela tells him. “You yes.” Armando tells her, “oh yes he takes off his jacket you will eat your words Marcela Valencia. I will make you eat them.” He takes off his tie next, Marcela asks. “What are you going to do?” Armando tells her, “give you a lesson tonight that is what I’m going to do. He then unbuttons his shirt, and takes off his glasses. A lesson you will never forget in your life. Your body will always want to remember.” He greedily kisses her, Marcela tells him. “Calm down.” Armando tells her, “I can’t calm down. I won’t calm down, not until you tell me her name. That you tell me, where a man that just came from a lover is capable of doing. Everything that I am going to do tonight.” They kiss some more, and she stops and he continues. Then they head to the bedroom.

(Oh Mr. Calente, I guess Betty really did turn him on. He’s just using Marcela, to release his sexual prowess. You’ve seen before, she was always the instigator now she was just the substitute.)

The next morning at Eco Moda, Mariana gives Sandra the paperwork for the week. Sophia arrives, with a new hairstyle. She says, “hello” to everyone. Mariana tells her, “oowee Sophia. Sandra asks, why the elegance?” Sophia tells them, “it’s for my meeting with the lawyer with Elfrain.” Mariana tells her, “oh my god you’re not going to get back with Elfrain.” Sophia tells her, “of course not. I have to see that lawyer, so we can continue with the divorce procedures.” Bertha tells her, “it’s the last chance for them to fix things between the two of them. If they want to separate.” Marian asks, “so Sophia you don’t think. That you might want, to get back together with the cheque.” Sophia tells them, “get back together with Elfrain. No I don’t think so.” Mariana asks, “and then why all so elegant?” Sophia tells her, “oh no I am not going to look like the ugly wife. Like a Magdalena, the battered wife. No sir, I want him to see me. He will see, what he is losing.” Mariana tells her, “yes that’s correct.” Bertha tells her, “yes that’s correct.” Patricia grins, and tells her. “Oh yes, he should look clearer so he can rectify that he made the right decision. Oh Sophia, oh in that hair does birds come out.” Sandra angrily goes to her, Mariana tries to stop her. “Who the hell told you, to open your mouth?” Mario enters, and Sandra stops. “Hey what conversation is this?” Patricia asks, “Mario Mario and do you have my money? Have you talked to your friends? So are you going to give the loan Mario?” You can’t keep on telling me, oh tomorrow tomorrow the day is today.” Mario tells her, “oh yeah well nobody has called me but look. I still need to make some calls. I’ll go right now.” He goes to his office, Patricia doesn’t believe him, and turns and goes to her desk. Sandra tells Sophia, “hey Sophia have you talked to Elfrain. How do you know, he will show up to that hearing?” She just laughs.

ADDITIONAL SCENES

(Elfrain is talking with Jenny in his car. “Listen my dear its an order by the courts I have to go.” Jenny tells him, “but what if you get back with Dona Sophia. What then will happen to me, your going to dump me my sweet love.” Elfrain bursts out laughing, “me go back with her ha ha ha. Why would I do a beastly thing like that. Oh my sweet love, no dear heart. Look its just a meeting, I’ll go we talk, then I’ll make up something to the lawyer. Then we argue, and try to kill one another.”)

Elfrain is outside in the car with Jenny, “look once this is over I’ll come straight home. My love I will be in contact with you. Keep your cell phone on love. Now my beautiful sky you go on, and get to work.” Jenny tells him, “now my love you better call me.” Elfrain tells her, “yes I will call you my dear heart.” Then they kiss, Jenny turns and utters. “Oh dear the bosses have arrived.” Elfrain tells her, “hurry dear.” Jenny gets out of the car, and walks by and tells them. “Good morning.” As Marcela and Armando get out of the car. Wilson is flirting with some models, and Armando tells him. “Oh the king of paradise, park my car.” Wilson salutes and the models enter.

Upstairs Sophia goes to her desk, the girls follow and Ines joins them. “Oh Inesita is it possible if I can borrow some clothes.” Ines tells her, “but of course my dear come to the studio. I’ll find you something to put on.” Sophia tells her, “thank you.” Mariana tells her, “you’re divine.” Sophia utters, “guess who arrived.” Everyone acts busy, when they see Armando. Mariana tells Bertha, “oh I need the folder.” They all say, “good morning” at the same time. Armando tells them, “oh what a lovely chorus get me Mario Calderon.” They all say, “yes sir.” Mariana and Sandra go back to their desks. Jenny comes walking by, and says “good morning.” Sophia smiling and say politely, “yes good morning Jenny.” Ines tells her, “see you later.” Sophia tells Bertha, “oh that wretched one will suffer.”

Armando is by his desk, Mario arrives. “Mr. President, hello. So has the monster arrived.” Armando tells him, “no the monster hasn’t arrived yet.” Mario tells him, “well then I need the complete report from last night. That and your fight with Marcela. What was the magnitude, was their shooting deaths, blood everything.” Armando tells him, “everything went fine thank god. Marcela is very relaxed, everything is fine. What’s wrong is, yes there is something that bothers me. Betty.” Mario asks, “why are you seeing her divine?” Armando tells him, “no not divine no it’s not that. Well the thing is, last night we were kissing and then I felt a weird form of energy. It’s like she went crazy. The next thing I know, she screamed out I love you. I love you what.” Mario tells him, “no.” Armando tells him, “yes.” Mario’s eyes bulge, and he says. “That’s great, that great. Ha ha you won her over brother. He pats him on the shoulders. Oh you’re my hero, that’s great.” Armando tells him, “enough that isn’t what else bothers me. There are worse things that bother me. I felt her last night, more enthusiastic you understand juicier. Well the thing is I had to stop her three times. I had to explain to her, that we couldn’t lose our horizontal. To do that, and more crazy things.” Mario asks, “are you saying that she was passionate? Do you think she wanted to make love?” Armando tells him, “I think so.”

Mario tells him, “well my dear president. I have some bad news to tell you, you’re going to have to make love to her. Take her to bed.” Armando tells him, “Calderon I told you from the very beginning when we started. That I was never going to sleep with her. That never was I going to take Betty to bed. On a chair or anyplace else, you’re morbid.” Mario tells him, “look let’s take into account everything. Are you or are you not, Betty’s boyfriend. You have been working her for months now. Last night she said she loved you. Now you have her at the penalty box, just a few steps inside punishment. Where are you going, to go running. Look brother, we are going through a very delicate position in all this relationship.” Armando tells him, “please Calderon. All this relationship has been delicate, every little step.” Mario tells him, “this moment is the delicate part. We are talking about the maximum of the ego. I am not saying it, but Freud and Darwin and Nietzsche.” He begins to sing, una ventura.

(Una Ventura, I heard this song sung by the mexican group Garibaldi.)

Armando tells him, “no don’t be an idiot this is serious.” Mario tells him, “this is the best demonstration that says that you love her. This is serious, so my dear president. Hear this, prepare emotionally, physiologically, prophylactic because you will have to make love to that monster.” Armando tells him, “oh no no come on don’t do this to me. Don’t do this to me, come on give me a bit of solidarity. Even it’s for generosity. Look this poor Christian, will not make love to the evil creature of the forest.” Mario tells him, “but I’m not doing nothing. She will be doing everything, just tell Betty. Tell her, Betty don’t attack me or make love to me.” Armando seriously tells him, “if that an invitation what your saying is completely ridiculous from your part. I want you to know clearly, no I won’t make love to her.” Mario tells him, “you’re not making love to her you’re going to make horror with her.” Armando nervously, gets a drink of water and spills it.

Mario tells him, “fine tell her Betty do you want to do the horror with me. What you’re going to run away from her? Or are you going to have sex,  hormonal or by insemination.” Armando tells him, “be quiet. Quiet I still have something with Betty. I told her we couldn’t see one another every night. What about a distance between us? If I only see her once and awhile, that way things can cool down understand. The battle won’t be that strong and long. It could be that we can make this last for weeks.” Mario tells him, “brother I just don’t know this territory I’ve never entered. I don’t know how, a woman as ugly as Betty will be sexually. Look she has you naked, in her head and she will continue to insist. You who doesn’t even want to see her. One day I will enter, and you’ll be scratched and clawed and half naked. Crying that you lost your honour.” Armando tells him, “oh no stop looking at me that way. Close your eyes, if that’s going to happen fine how about I take her out every fifteen days. Until her temperature goes down anything.” Mario asks, “and do you think it will come down.” They hear singing, Armando utters. “What is that?”

Outside their singing “Happy Birthday.” The girls, Wilson and Freddy are singing to Betty. Mario tells him, “oh see its Betty’s birthday.” Armando tells him, “I didn’t know she never told me.” Mario tells him, “well then congratulate the girlfriend.” Everyone is hugging and kissing Betty. Mariana tells her, “oh Betty your so sweet.” Armando slowly walks towards them. Armando tells her, “Betty we didn’t know that today was your birthday.” Bertha tells him, “everyone knew except you.” Mario nods his head yes, and utters. “Yes we all knew.” Armando tells Betty very professionally, “Betty permit me. I congratulate you personally on your birthday. He gets near her, happy birthday.” Everyone claps kiss her kiss her. Armando looks over at Mario, takes a deep breath and kisses her cheek. It’s very awkward, and he kisses her head. Everyone just claps, Freddy tells Mario. “Now then let’s continue the celebration, Mr. Mario Calderon why don’t you kiss her as well.” Mario very casually tells her, “of course happy birthday Betty and be very happy.” He goes and kisses her cheek. Hugo and Marcela walk by.

Hugo tells Mario, “oh my god look at this macho Calderon. Have you gone deprived and charitable, what spectacular fright. What is going on in this company?” Ines tells him, “its Betty’s birthday we are just celebrating.” Hugo tells them, “well at last something that we can congratulate her for. Congratulations zzz.” They sing “kiss kiss” he utters. “I have a fire and walks towards Armando. Marcela follows, Hugo asks. So did you kiss Betty as well?” Armando tells him, “yes.” Hugo tells him, “be careful Marg the ugly virus is very contagious. It goes back and forth hitting everyone. Then he pinches both Armando and Mario he utters bye.” Everyone smiles Marcela utters, “congratulates Beatriz.” Betty utters, “thank you Dona Marcela.” Armando tells them, “why if you want. Don’t we get something for later, and celebrate tonight”. Bertha tells him, “don’t worry about it Don Armando. We will take care of it tonight.” Armando tells her, “excuse me well then happy birthday Betty.” Betty tells him, “yes thank you sir.” Mario tells her, “yes congratulations.” Betty tells him, “thank you sir.” Then he and Mario just stand there watching and overhearing their conversation.

Armando feels guilty, Sophia asks. “So what did your boyfriend give you?” Betty tells them, “nothing yet.” Mariana asks, “so did he at least call you early this morning to say happy birthday my love.” Betty tells them, “no.” Sandra asks, “well did he at least give you a lot of kisses.” Betty tells her,” no we haven’t talked yet.” Bertha tells her, “oh no that man he had nothing to give you. He doesn’t know nothing about romance.” Sophia tells her, “didn’t he know that it’s your birthday. Oh is he an idiot or what?” Mariana tells her, “enough Sophia relax they have just started dating. Let’s not ruin Betty’s birthday.” Sandra tells them, “it’s just so sad I just hope at least tonight he might give you something.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh no maybe its best you tell him yourself. Can you image having a boyfriend on your birthday. He has to at least give you something big. Well congratulations.” Mario gives Armando the look, you better give her something.

The melody of “Happy Birthday to You,” comes from the song “Good Morning to All.” Which was written and composed, by American siblings Patty Hill and Mildred J. Hill in 1893.The combination of melody and lyrics, that are in “Happy Birthday to You.” First appeared in print in 1912.

SEVENTY-ONE

Mario tells Armando inside the office, “oh man your filth. Did you hear them, what a disappointed type of man you are. This is the only time, this poor woman has had a boyfriend. Her tender boyfriend, completely ignores her day not giving her a single gift.” Armando tells him, “ah man blasted Calderon  I didn’t know. I didn’t know it was her birthday. How am I supposed to know, I just can’t believe this. I was with her last night, and she never mentioned it.” Mario tells him, “but brother she’s a woman. Maybe she was hoping, that you would remember. Maybe she thought, that last night you were taking her out because you were going to celebrate her birthday. When midnight came around, nothing happened nothing. What might she be feeling and thinking? What she could be thinking about her love? That obsession for her.” Armando tells him, “enough stop criticizing me Calderon. Help me find a solution please.” Mario tells him, “now we must really celebrate this.” Armando tells him, “well then how.”

Mario has an idea, and demonstrates it to him. Mario sings “happy birthday to you” and pretends to strip. Armando tells him, “oh no what horror what horror. You know what Calderon, I prefer one of those details you have hiding in your office. A tacky card, and gift. That would be fine.” Mario tells him, “fine a card and gift. Yes and a handshake, and goodbye and  good luck.” Armando tells him, “well as Freddy says excuse me and forgive me but I don’t have nothing to offer to Betty.” Mario tells him, “how about a nice dinner tonight.” Armando tells him, “an invitation to eat. Blow off Marcela again, so what she can kill me again. Oh no considering how Betty is now oh no.” Mario tells him, “you guys went out and nothing happened. It was midnight, and you didn’t even celebrate. She probably felt like a princess, and you didn’t do absolutely nothing and ruined her night. How is she supposed to forgive you. With one tiny gift.” Armando tells him, “I told you what state Betty is now with that grip that she has of late. Then I’m going to take her out to say happy birthday. If I take her out tonight, I won’t be able to save myself tonight.”

Hugo is with Jenny, trying out a new design. “Ok turn around, Jenny turn around. Come on girl turn, what is wrong with you.  What you almost pushed me. He hits her ass, what is wrong? Jenny howls in pain, what is wrong did your cheque dump you. Wait a minute, someone else took your cheque. Ines excuse me but inspiration hasn’t arrived yet. The girl just isn’t concentrated, what am I going to do.” Ines tells her, “she’s been like that for days.” Hugo tells her, “you never do nothing.” Jenny tells him, “Don Hugo I am just tired.” Hugo tells her, “oh poor little thing. Lady Jenny is really tired. Oh you are young, and look fabulous with those legs. That perfect figure, now you’re tired. What because you’re stuck, just standing there like your ass. Now I am stressed girl. We are going to take 5 minutes recess, so our dame can rest.” Inesita where is Valeria?”  Ines tells him, “she’s by the rack.” Hugo goes to the rack, and tells the girls. “What is it with everyone, are they paralyzed or what.” Ines asks Jenny, “what is wrong with you. Do you want to ruin everything, you have achieved because of your stubbornness.”

Sophia comes by, “Inesita did he leave.” Ines tells her, “yes my dear and here are the clothes I picked they are quite lovely.” Sophia goes towards her with a smile. Ines asks, “how about this one?” Sophia tells her, “it’s just too crème.” Ines asks, “how about this one?” Sophia tells her, “no it has pants.” Ines tells her, “alright how about this one. You can’t say you don’t like this one.” Sophia tells her, “oh this is precious I’ll try it on.” Ines asks, “my dear what time is your meeting?” Sophia tells her, “oh around 12:30.” Ines asks, “what you’re not going to eat with us? We’re going to celebrate Betty’s birthday dear.” Sophia tells her, “no Inesita  I just can’t. I think I’m going to have to eat with Elfrain.” Ines looks over to a curious Jenny. Sophia asks, “how do I look?” Ines tells her, “lovely here’s the skirt.” Sophia tells her, “it’s a bit short.” Ines tells her, “but my dear you said you wanted to look gorgeous. So Elfrain would see you.” Jenny burst out laughing, and says. “This is just funny.” She shows them the magazine. Ines tells her, “take care.” Sophia tells her, “you know what Inesita. I will try it in the bathroom, because your woman might catch me and pull my hair. It’s very lovely.” Ines tells her, “alright and the color is precious its goes good with your skin.” Sophia takes the jacket, “thank you Inesita.” Ines glances over to Jenny, “keep on laughing.” Jenny tells her, “for not crying Inesita.” Ines utters, “yeah right.”

Mario tells him, “it’s your decision. You are touching, a very sensitive part of a woman. That is her soul, you are throwing away everything. That we have worked for thus far. She is probably going to be furious, and angry with you in due time.” He begins to clap, Betty enters he stops. Armando tells him, “do what I asked you to do.” Mario tells him, “I’ll do that right now.” Mario takes off, Betty heads to her office. Armando tells her, “Beatriz why why didn’t you say anything. Why didn’t you tell me? Why didn’t you tell me, it was your birthday Betty. I really feel bad, I didn’t know.” Betty tells him, “oh sir I was embarrassed.” Armando asks, “why would you be embarrassed it’s your birthday Betty. For me it’s an important day. I wanted to share it with you.” Betty tells him, “oh sir I know you’re a person that’s very busy. Very problematic to have something so stupid than this.” She laughs, he tells her. “For me it’s not stupid, that date for me isn’t stupid Beatriz.” Betty tells him, “birthdays have never been a big deal for me sir.” Armando tells her, “for me it is it’s your birthday.” Betty tells him, “no its not.” Armando tells her, “yes it is.” Betty tells her, “no sir.” Then he yells out, “yes it is. Your birthday is very important to me. For me it is.” He then calms down.

Betty tells him, “yes sir.” Armando tells her, “look I’m sorry I yelled at you. Especially today that it’s your birthday. You’re making me nervous, you never even mentioned that it was your birthday.” Betty tells him, “sir if I say no but you shouldn’t feel guilty. The thing is, for me having a birthday really doesn’t mean nothing for me. So why would it mean anything to you.” Armando tells her, “what do you mean it doesn’t mean nothing for you. Explain it to me, I don’t understand.” Betty tells him, “sir when people have birthdays. There’s a big celebration, you invite friends to your house. Sing and dance, but I have never been that excited to do something like that. The only time I did celebrate my birthday, I had one because my parents wanted one. I was fifteen, and it was a complete disaster. It was just awful, after that. I swore never to have another, or to celebrate my birthday. She laughs, and says. Don’t worry about it sir.” She then heads to her office, he feels more guilty than ever.

Patricia is talking with her father over the phone. “But dad please, tell your friends I can pay them back. What is this 10% percent, that is disgraceful. That is a crime, how can I give my car as guarantee. With that little amount of money, but daddy please how am I supposed to go around in. Look dad, I know that you’re not loan shark. Please dad convince him please.” Sophia is heading to the washroom to try on the clothes. Catalina Angel arrives, she says. “Hello” to Sandra and Mariana. They say “good morning Dona Catalina.”  Patricia tells her father. “Oh dad thank you, I’ll call you back. She hangs up the phone, and goes to greet her. Oh Catta, how are you.” Catalina asks, “where is Marcela?” Patricia tells her, “she’s in her office.” Catalina tells her, “I’ll see you later.” Patricia asks, “Catta you don’t by chance have 5000 that you can lend me.” Catalina asks, “are you buying some shares?” Patricia nods, and Catalina tells her. “I have money, but it’s in my office. I was going to sell them, what do you need it right away. Is it really urgent?” Patricia tells her, “yes I promised to pay these people tomorrow. Can you believe they won’t receive a cent.” Catalina asks, “so you’re asking for 5000 right Patricia?” Patricia tells her, “yes.” Catalina tells her, “fine I’ll get someone from my office to get it for you.” She rings someone on her cell. Patricia is ecstatic, and kisses her cheek. “Oh Catta you don’t know how much you’re helping me out. You’re saving me.” Catalina tells her secretary, “Susie I need you to bring me money over to Eco Moda urgently with Jorge. Fast please thank you bye. She’s on her way.” Patricia tells her, “oh what a relief thank you.” She kisses her cheek, Catalina asks. “You do have a way to pay me back right?” Patricia tells her, “its office money I have to pay it back.” Patricia tells her, “why yes I’ll write you a cheque. You don’t think, I have that amount in my purse? What you don’t trust my cheque?” Catalina tells her, “no of course not look contact me. When my messenger arrives.” Patricia smiling tells her, “of course Catta.” She then heads to see Marcela, Patricia sits down and feels guilty for a moment. Then she utters, “I’ll worry about finding money for that cheque.”

(What a sinverguenza, oh this woman has no shame.)

Sophia comes out, and says. “Ladies what do you think?” Sophia does a turn, and the Sandra whistles. Mariana tells her, “oh you look divine Sophia.” Sandra goes “oh mamita.” Patricia turns around, and says. “Yes but you can’t compare yourself to Jenny.” Sandra tells her, “who told you to open your mouth.” Mariana calls her, “snoop.” Sandra tells her, “you better leave.”

Hugo is still fixing the dress on Jenny. Ines he yells out, “Inesita Inesita.” Ines tells him, “yes sir.” Hugo tells her, “I need bigger pins for I am cutting myself with these small ones.” Ines tells him, “I’ll get you some.” Hugo tells Jenny, “I hate small one.” Jenny asks, “Don Hugo do you lend people your clothes?” Hugo tells her, “what are you talking about girl?” Jenny tells him, “if I ever needed one of those outfits. Could I borrow it?” Hugo tells her, “what are you entering the world of drugs are you crazy. How could you say something, as ridiculous like that.” Jenny tells him, “well how come Dona Sophia was able to borrow one.” Hugo tells her, “for one that woman isn’t no Dona of anything. Second of all, which one.” Jenny tells him, “the pink one.” Hugo asks, “who again?” Jenny tells him, “Inesita gave it to her. But please don’t say it was me. I don’t want her to be angry with me. She will end up becoming my enemy. Besides I didn’t know it was forbidden.”

Hugo touches his chest, and Ines returns. Hugo tells her, “thank you these were what I needed. Oh Inesita one thing, oh what happened to that pink outfit. That I perfectly designed.” Ines glances over to Jenny. Ines tells him, “it’s in storage.” Hugo tells her, “really then bring it to me.” Ines glances once again, over to Jenny and tells him. “I lent it to Sophia.” Hugo tells her, “why?” Ines tells him, “she needed it and it wasn’t been used.” Hugo tells her, “well the things I create cannot leave my studio without my authorization. It doesn’t get lent out, too especially to a thing by the name Sophia. Fly fly go take it away, from her this instant.” Ines tells him, “no I won’t take it away from her.” Hugo tells her, “no do I sound boring what am I tiring you.” Ines tells her, “yes you are sir.” Hugo tells her, “oh I can’t believe this attitude this boldness. Oh when do birds shoot the hunter my dear. You stay and rest right here, I will do your job and strip her. Hopefully I won’t die, of fright when I see her.” He then takes off, with a boomerang in his hands. Ines turns to see Jenny. “Are you happy, you gossipy twit?” Jenny tells her, “I may be a lot of things but gossipy I am not.” Ines goes “ahh.” Hugo comes out furious, and finds the three models sitting down. He screams, “what are you bats doing here get back to work.” He goes towards the desks.

Hugo tells Sophia, “take off that dress immediately.” Sophia asks, “what?” Hugo tells her, “what are you deaf shorty? I told you to take off that outfit.” Sophia tells him, “first off it was lent to me. I did not rob it. Secondly I am not going, to strip in the corridor and put on a show just to satisfy you.” Hugo tells her, “yes you’re doing a good service to the community. You are not going to exhibit yourself. Ines comes out of the studio. Take off that outfit!” Ines tells him, “enough Don Hugo if you force this woman. To take off this outfit I will quit.” Hugo tells her, “oh see I’m shaking. What do you think, I’m really afraid of you leaving me.” Ines tells him, “yes.” Hugo tells her, “what you think I won’t be able to create. That I can’t create that magic, fantastical, beautiful person without you.” Ines tells him, “no right now I am leaving this place.” Hugo tells Sophia, “you take that dress to the cleaners and have them disenfect it. Return it to me tomorrow. He calms down and looks over at Ines. Now Madame, my lovely divine love. He kisses Ines’s forehead. Sorry forgive me, but I do lose control sometimes. I sometimes don’t know, who I design for. He looks over at Sophia, and utters. Yuck I am going to get some air, I’ll be right back.” Ines goes over to Sophia and Bertha. Ines goes, “yucky” and laughs. Sophia tells her, “oh thank you Inesita.”

Patricia is by her desk, when the messenger arrives. “Excuse me senorita. The guy asks, I would like to see Catalina Angel.” Patricia tells him, “great you’re the messenger I’ll call her. Marcee inform Catalina, that her messenger arrived.” Patricia tells him, “she’s on her way.” Catalina comes out with Marcela. Catalina tells Marcela, “now the museum would like all the employees to attend this event. This Picasso show, is suppose to be one of democracy. It’s just not for executives but for everyone.” Marcela tells her, “no problem I will give everyone this invitation.” Catta tells Jorge, “oh your here give the money to the senorita.” Patricia is overjoyed, Marcela is disgusted. Marcela asks, “what money?” Catalina tells her, “I gave her some money.” Patricia tells her, “well here is my cheque.” Marcela tells Patricia, “oh excuse me let me see. Oh 5000, Catta would you excuse me for just a second.” She takes Patricia to the side, and Hugo comes by. Catta tells him, “oh look at you Hugo Lombardi you ungrateful so and so.” Hugo gives her a big hug and tells her. “You’re so beautiful, oh I don’t know where to kiss you. I wouldn’t know, where to start. He makes a joke, and says oh it came out bombi.” Over in the corner, is Marcela and Patricia. Patricia is holding for dear life that package. Marcela tells her, “give Catta back that money this instant. You can’t give her a cheque, that will bounce.” Patricia tells her, “oh don’t be that way with me Marcee. I intend to pay her back.” Marcela tells her, “oh no how will you pay it back. I don’t want to have any problems, with Catalina Angel.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee I promise I will pay the money back to her. Including the interest, oh come on Marcee. I have the solution in my hands.”

Marcela tells her, “return that money right now or I am going to asks her. To make sure you have money in that account of yours. Fine you won’t do then, then I will. Oh Catta Catalina.” Patricia with a smiles screams out, “oh Catalina. What do you know, oh I don’t need the money now. She returns the package. Marcela will be getting it for me now.” Catalina tells them, “alright now then where are we going to eat?” Patricia tells her,” oh that sounds great I am starving.” Marcela tells her, “sorry you’re staying we have a lot of work to do. Why don’t you two go.” Hugo tells her, “you’re going to have to take me. I am without a cent.” Hugo tells her, “don’t worry about it I’ll invite you.” Patricia gives Marcela a dirty look. Catalina asks, “you must tell me how the next collection is going. It better be great as the last one.” Hugo tells her, “its getting there outetue in due time. Now how is Pablo doing? If I see him, I always think of Picasso.” Catalina tells him, “now I just dropped of a card of invitations with Marcela. There’s an exhibit being presented, everyone is invited you better show up now.”

ADDITIONAL SCENE

(Patricia is furious, that she wasn’t allowed to go with them. “What is the big thing that we have to do, especially at lunch time.” Marcela tells her, “look we will wait till Armando goes with that Garfield to eat. I am sure that she is going to call him. I have to get something, from those phones.” She returns the cheque, Patricia tells her. “You owe me so much more.” Marcela just smiles.)

(Marcela’s top looks nice, but when she walks. You can see straight through, not a flattering look. )

Ines and girls open the office doors, Ines tells him. “Sir we would like to take Betty for lunch. Would you please, let her go with us?” Armando tells them, “yes Betty Beatriz” he screams. Betty comes out, “yes sir.” Armando tells him, “they are looking for you.” Ines tells her, “dear were treating you for lunch.” Sandra tells her, “oh it’s going to be great were going to our favorite restaurant at the Correntazo.” Mariana asks, “unless that boyfriend of yours invited you someplace else.” Betty tells him, “no he hasn’t called.” Everyone goes “ohhhh.” Armando is overhearing the conversation. Sophia tells her, “oh he’s just a bastard.” Marina tells her, “oh don’t ruin her birthday. Come on Betty, we are inviting.” Betty tells them, “alright you go along I’ll get my things.” Sandra tells them, “hurry up.” Betty tells them, “I’ll be quick.” Then smiles, and Armando tells her. “Beatriz I just wanted, to ask for a favor from you. Don’t make any plans tonight, I want to celebrate your birthday together.” Betty asks, “really sir.” Armando tells her, “yes Betty that’s true.”

Betty tells him, “I just don’t want you getting in trouble. With Dona Marcela, we already went out last night.” Armando tells her, “don’t worry I will take care of Marcela.” Betty tells him, “oh sir I just don’t want you getting into trouble.” Armando tells her, “I am telling you no to relax well then how will we do this then. We are going out, you and I together. Or what, or do you have other plans.” Betty tells him, “oh no no no what makes you think that. We will see one another later tonight.” He touches his fingers to his lips, “oh Betty.” Betty does one of her winks, and enters her office. He opens his mouth, and then Mario pops his head. Mario asks, “where is she going?” Armando tells him, “she’s going to eat with the uglies.” They invited her for lunch, Mario asks. “What you let them invite her? Why didn’t you invite her yourself brother.” Armando tells her, “please be quiet for one minute. We are going out tonight.” Mario claps her hands, “very good very good.” Armando tells him. “Its not what you think, were going to eat at a normal restaurant.” Mario tells him, “a good quiet place.” Armando tells him, “no were going to an expensive open restaurant. No liquor involved, later I’ll drop her off at her place.” Mario just stares at him in disbelief. “Drop her off at her house.” Armando goes “yes.” Mario utters, “well I guess that’s fine.” Armando asks, “did you do me the favour did you get me something for Betty.” Mario tells him, “its going to arrive this afternoon relax.” Armando asks, “what is it?” Betty comes out, and says “excuse me.” Mario tells her, “yes go ahead Betty. It will be a surprise.” Armando tells him, “well then let’s go eat.”

Marcela asks Sophia, “Sophia isn’t this the day you have your meeting with the lawyers?” Sophia tells her, “yes I am going right now. I won’t be eating with them.” Jenny comes by and enters the elevator, and Marcela tells her loudly. “Good luck with your meeting.” Sophia tells her, “thank you Dona Marcela.” The girls don’t have the choice, and are stuck going in the same elevator. Bertha asks Betty, “what took you so long were starving.” Betty tells them, “sorry I got a call from Nicholas.” Everyone squeals. Bertha asks, “so what did he say?” Betty tells them, “oh tonight he’s taking me out so we can celebrate my birthday.” Everyone once again squeals. Jenny is pushed to the front. Patricia tells Marcela, “oh what a big fat deal.” The men come by, and Mario utters. “Oh Patty nobody has called me for that loan. I am anxiously waiting for that call.” Armando presses the button, she utters. “But of course.” Armando tells Marcela, “my love care to join us for our meal  it will only be the three of us.” She looks over at Patricia and she tells them. “No you two can go carefully, we have a lot of work to do.” Patricia just gives her the eye.

They get outside, and Ines asks. “So how will you get there?” Sophia tells her, “I’m going to take a taxi. You don’t mind waiting, while it gets here.” Everyone says, “alright.” Jenny calls Elfrain in front of the girls. “Oh where are you, ah are you just leaving there now. How long will you take doing that problem. Oh you don’t know. Ok ok love, don’t worry call me when your free. I will be eating alone someplace, we will talk later.” Sandra tells her, “I will feed that cell phone to you to shut you up mamita.” Freddy tells them, “oh hello my lovelies. Oh my charming Ines, sympatica Sophia, oh how lovely look at that hairdo bow wow. Beautiful Betty, sympatica Sandra you little giraffe I see you have found your partner. Wilson gives her the eye, Sandra gives him the cold shoulder. Spectacular Bertha, my delicious dark sugar Mariana, he skips Aura Maria and says. Jenny my marvellous natural wonder, how are you today my life.” Jenny tells him, “I am very hungry Freddy. Oh I’m starving, oh who are you eating with? Would you like to eat with me someplace.” Aura Maria is ready to explode, Mariana calms her down.

(Freddy mentions that Wilson is single, but previously Wilson mentioned he had a wife and kids.)

Freddy tells her, “my dear girl. A delicious meal awaits, now my lovely discotheque come over to my motorbike. Here’s your helmet and jacket. Your chair reserved as always. So tell me, will your sweet love be calling.” Jenny tells him, “don’t worry about my sweet love Freddy. My sweet love won’t be bothering us.” Freddy asks, “did you two shut off your cell phone. So that means will be alone you and I, with no more talk of your sweet love.” Jenny tells him, “yes Freddy.” Aura Maria is ready to ring her neck, Freddy tells them all. “My lovely uglies, arrivederci.” Aura Maria screams, “you clown you fool.” Sophia tells her, “leave them be. Let that woman find another fool, that way she can release Elfrain. Oh there’s my taxi, I’ll see you later.” Ines tells her, “see you later and good luck.” Bertha tells them, “ladies I am very worried about Sophia. She seems so excited, about that meeting. It’s as if she’s thinking, Elfrain might come back. We’re going to have to do something.” Ines tells them, “I just hope that god protect her.” Sandra tells them, “she’s silly if she thinks Jenny will let go of cheque.” Mariana tells her, “oh there you go spreading venom.” Aura Maria pulls Betty aside, “so are you going with your boyfriend tonight. Betty just nods, then Aura Maria tells her. Tell me did you go out, with your boyfriend last night right. So was there any action, oh I’m always having to tell you step by step. Did you sleep with one another last night?” Betty is shocked and tells her, “nothing of the sort happened.” Aura Maria tells her, “oh you should celebrate your birthday the way god indented. So you may never forget, now don’t let him take you home like that. Make sure something happens, I’ll tell you the instructions later come on.” Later they head to the restaurant.

(Sometimes I just want to slap Aura Maria, it’s like she’s pushing and pushing Betty when we all know that she’s not ready yet.)

At Betty’s house, “Julia tells Nicholas. Tonight is Betty’s birthday, you have to do something for her day.” Nicholas tells her, “I’ll call her in a minute. It seems you watch, is along that one. Here I am an executive, without a watch.” Julia tells him, “she’ll call here when she returns from her lunch.” Julia utters, “oh this boy” and she heads to the kitchen. Nicholas kisses Patricia’s photo once again. “Oh I just hope, that the miracle repeats itself again.”

At the office, Marcela is snooping around Armando’s office. Patricia tells her, “oh don’t be mean to me. You took from me 5000, you took away my salvation Marcee. For what exchange, for nothing. What you can do, is offer me another loan.” Marcela tells her, “oh no no zero more loans for you.” Patricia tells her, “then what am I going to do. Nobody wants to give me money, nobody helps me with nothing. I feel like I’m all alone in this world.” Marcela tells her, “sell the car and pay off your debts. Buy yourself a cheaper car.” Patricia tells her, “Marcee selling my car is like selling my dignity. It’s like selling my ego, it’s for me to accept that I am poor. Marcela just stares at her, Patricia tells her. Oh Marcee my car, makes me feel like I’m a millionaire again. So my crisis doesn’t show up that much. It’s always been me, and my car. With it, I might get myself a rich guy. What am I going to get, if I take the bus.” Marcela tells her, “one or the other you sell that blasted car or get a rich guy before they steal him. The phone rings, answer that phone.” Patricia tells her, “I can’t even image what Armando will do to me . If he sees me answering his phone.” Patricia gets the phone, and says. “Hello Eco Moda who is this, whom do you want to talk too?” Nicholas tells her, “hello my name is Nicholas Mora is Betty Pinzon there. Who am I talked too?” Patricia smiles shakes her hair and tells him. “Patricia Fernandez.” Nicholas tells her, “are you the same Patricia that talked to me the other day isn’t that right?” Patricia tells him, “yes.” Nicholas tells her, “oh hello how are you.” Patricia tells him, “well well and you.” Nicholas stares at the phone, “fine thank you. So tell me something, where is Betty?”

Patricia tells him, “I don’t know I think she went for lunch. Do you want to leave a message?” Nicholas tells her, “no hold on. He burst into the kitchen, scaring Julia. He screams, Julia why is my tea cold. Has the chauffeur, finished washing the cars yet.” Julia tells him, “Nicholas have you gone crazy.” Nicholas then tells Patricia, “oh Patricia do forgive me for yelling. I’m having a ton of problems with these employees. They never follow my orders.” Patricia tells him, “oh I can image it. Finding good employees, is very difficult.” Nicholas tells her, “yes yes you’re correct.” Then dead silent, both don’t say a word. Nicholas tries to think of something to say. Patricia asks again, “well any message of any sort. Would you like me to tell her, that you called.” Julia watches through the door. Nicholas tells her, “no no  no  I’ll just call her back.” Patricia tells him, “well ok then.” Nicholas tells him, “it was a pleasure talking to you Patricia.” Patricia tells him, “like wise Nicholas.” Nicholas tells her, “oh have a nice afternoon.” Patricia utters, “thank you Nicholas.” He hangs up and he squeals. “We talked, we had a conversation no woman has ever flirted with me.” Then he kisses Patricia’s photo. Julia comes out and asks, “what is going on Nicholas?” Nicholas tells her, “oh nothing I was just kissing my inspiration.” Julia asks, “did you call Betty?” Nicholas tells her, “yes but she went to eat.” Julia tells him, “see I told you. So who were you talking too?” Nicholas tells her, “a friend a girl friend I have many. We were joking around, so its it that time for empanadas.” Julia angrily stares at him, and heads back to the kitchen.

Marcela asks Patricia, “oh so who were you talking too?” Patricia tells her, “oh with Nicholas Mora.” Marcela thinks then utters, “oh Nicholas Mora ahh.” Patricia tells her, “Betty’s boyfriend.” Marcela asks, “so what did he you want. You two talked for a while.” Patricia tells her, “oh nothing special.” Marcela asks, “why then were you flirting with him.” Patricia tells her,  “I wasn’t flirting I was being polite. What did you want me to do, treat him like garbage.” Marcela tells her, “now Patricia the last time he talked you weren’t very friendly. Because you didn’t know that Betty’s boyfriend was rich, but now that you do know your voice changes. Be very careful Patricia, be careful I know you.” Patricia just smiles.

ADDITIONAL SCENES

(Patricia asks, “have you checked the back of the portrait?” Marcela tells her, “well no.” She checks and nods no.”)

The girls are returning from lunch, Sandra tells her. “Now take care of your man, the one that you call him papito, divino, papicito. That one no, the one you have to take care of is one with lots of money. Most women, don’t have any scruples going after men like that zzz. Oh no Aura Maria.” Aura Maria asks, “and why idiot asks me?” Sandra tells her, “if you don’t know who am I to ask. With Bertha here being the only married, we wouldn’t be called the group of uglies but group of spinsters.” Mariana tells her, “enough fresh Sandra. Everyone else laughs. Aura Maria, truly you really do have a lot of experience.” Aura Maria tells them, “yes your right you must take good care of these men. From losers, you must keep him happy ever single night.” Ines tells her, “oh please Aura Maria my dear.” Aura Maria tells her, “but it’s true. You know if you don’t take care of them, another comes along and will steal him away.” Bertha tells them, “that’s so true but nowadays it doesn’t matter if there rich or poor. Look at poor Sophia without even knowing it, she lost her husband just like that. A poor chick stole him.” Ines utters, “yes that’s right.” Mariana asks, “regarding Sophia I wonder how things went. Oh Wilson has Sophia shows up.” Wilson tells her, “no senora I haven’t seen her come in.” Aura Maria asks, “and Freddy.” Wilson tells her, “him either?’ Bertha tells them, “she’s taking advantage that the cheque is busy.” Ines tells them, “oh poor Sophia. I hope everything is going alright. Well everyone back to work again.”

Sophia and Elfrain are at the lawyers and their fighting once more. Sophia tells him, “fine I’ll reconcile and take you back if you dump that slut of yours.” Elfrain tells her, “oh no eye you better respect my Jenny. She isn’t a tramp, you will respect her she is a lady.” Sophia tells her, “a lady of what she’s always wearing those miniskirts. Look I just can’t believe, you being so old and you forgot what a great woman and a whore look like.” Elfrain tells the lawyer, “me an old man don’t make me laugh. I do sit up every morning, I go to the gym every weekend. Then he does push up on the table. Sophia starts laughing. Ok do you think I’m old, how old do you think I am. I must look 35 or 40 right.” The lawyer tells them, “you two calm down.” Elfrain tells her, “that is why this woman and I can’t talk. We don’t have nothing in common, I don’t know what civility are we discussing. She doesn’t even respect, my relationship with a good decent woman.” Sophia tells him, “what respect what respect. What senoria, because that witch isn’t with you she’s with someone else.” The lawyer tells her, “please calm down.” Sophia tells her, “I’m sorry madam.” She sits down, Elfrain tells her. “See how she attacks me.” Sophia tells her, “fine Elfrain use the cell phone. I was stuck paying for, and call that floozy. See where she is, she might not even answer.”

Elfrain tells her, “no Sophia you can’t poison my mind about her. You’ve tried that before, and you haven’t won. This time, you won’t win either.” Sophia tells him, “madam if this fool continues. To be the blinded, imbecile by that woman. I am a grand woman, then there’s nothing for me to do here. Elfrain points to her being crazy. Look he and I don’t want to reconcile. Now then let’s starts the divorce proceedings, and separation of objects. Now the house that I owe, was given to me by my parents. I inherited it, the other was a car that he took from me. Well Elfrain this is where it ends. All I want from you, is for you to help pay economically to our children. Oh you can continue dreaming, that you have a grand woman by your side. When you wake up, you’re going to be alone.” The lawyer calls, “senora senora please come back.” Sophia has left the building. Elfrain tells the lawyer, “I told you she doesn’t listen to reason. Oh excuse me oh this cell phone, is borrowed it’s not mine. Oh the phone is shut off.”  The lawyer just looks at him.

Jenny is with Freddy at a restaurant, and they begin to flirt. Jenny tells him, “oh this food is devious Freddy.” He tells her, “this place was big. Before they served caviar. Tell me something my beautiful fantasy, with the disco balls. Won’t the cheque, become angry that you turned off your cell phone?” Jenny tells him, “I am going to tell you the truth. I am depressed, I’m afraid my sweet love will leave me. That’s why I am eating so much, right now he’s in a meeting with Dona Sophia. To fix things, and see if they’re going to go back together. I would prefer to lose myself, than to leave him alone. You understand that Freddy.” He whistles, “yes as clear as you speak to me in Spanish. Tell me something, if Don cheque is planning to leave you for Sophia. What is going to happen, to you and him and me. Our intimate moments, where we see eye to eye.” Jenny tells him, “I don’t know Freddy. I just don’t know, what I’m going to do. Or where I am going to go, or who could I turn too.”

Freddy tells him, “you can count on me. You can hold on to this hand of friendship, he kisses her hand. With this humble servant, that has women like yourself are made to be loved.” Jenny tells him, “oh you’re so special with me. Oh you’re so beautiful, with you I feel so secure. Protected because, you are the only one that takes care of me if Elfrain leaves me. She then she kisses him, then stops and pushes him and apologizes. Oh Freddy I am so sorry. So very sorry, I am so confused.” Freddy tells her, “oh continue to confide in me. Oh part from me, but hug me. Distance yourself but kiss me, punish me but crush me.”  Jenny touches his face, “oh Freddy its best that we leave.” Freddy asks, “don’t you want to continue being confused. Jenny this mouth of mine is yours.” He sees the bill, “oh boy one week’s salary gone.” He pays it and calls out Jenny.

Armando and Mario arrive, “so how is going anything new?” Sandra tells him, “sir hello yes here are your calls. A closed package came for you, I left it in your office.” Mario takes Armando aside, “I think your girlfriend’s gift has arrived.” Armando tells him, “let’s do one thing bring it to me but discreetly. Discreetly to my office.” Armando heads to his office, and sees Bertha working he asks. “Where is Sophia?” Bertha tells him, “oh she had to go to her lawyer to meet up with the cheque. She should be back any minute now I swear it. She won’t be too long. What is your anxiousness?” Bertha tells him, “I’m not anxious for you sir but what you might do to Sophia.” Armando tells her, “oh I see tell me something Bertha. What kind of face do I have, do I have a face of a killer, or psychopath, executioner or what. So that is my face?” Bertha tells him, “I’m afraid to respond for security reasons.”  He moves closer, “so security reasons you know what Bertha. I have the feeling, I want to strangle you. Like you wouldn’t believe, but I’m holding myself back.” He then heads to his office, Bertha utters. “Well what did I do?”

He then looks at Betty’s door, and sits down. He begins to work, until he sees and hears something. Mario gift it’s a furby, and Mario utters. “Daddy daddy.” Armando tells him, to “shhh.” Mario tells him, “its divine is it not. It’s identical to Betty, You now have a set with Betty, and at night they can play together. They can scare one another, look at it.” Armando tells him, “as long as Betty like it. What it didn’t come with a card or nothing?” Mario tells him, “oh here’s your tacky card.” Armando tells him, “you wrote it.” He reads it and puts it down. Mario tells him, “the important thing is you’re in love with her. Imagination no.” Armando tells him, “oh this is so ridiculous. Oh do me a favour Calderon disappear.” Mario goes, “ah no let me see how you two kiss. Look I pay you, I’ll give you a ticket like they do in the circus.” Armando tells him, “get out.” Mario tells him,  “just a little one.” Armando tells him, “out leave.”  Mario goes “minuscule.” Armando tells him, “no.” Mario does a dance, and leaves. Armando tells him, “shhh.”

(Furbys was a must-have, robotic toy of 1998. Quite frankly I think their hideous)

Armando enters Betty’s office, Betty gets up. Armando tells her, “hello.” Betty tells him, “hello.” Armando tells her, “your gift was late but at last it arrived Beatriz.” He brings out the furby and presses the button. Betty is overjoyed, “ah sir it’s divine.” Armando tells her, “I knew that you’d like it. It’s more your taste.” Betty laughs when she presses it, and it says another saying. Betty tells him, “oh sir I would kiss you right now, but I can’t. I am going to save it for tonight.” Armando tells her, “well I will be anxiously waiting for tonight.” He blows her a kiss, she presses it once more and both laugh. Once he leaves the room, he rolls his eyes and looks annoyed. Betty smiles and reads the card. “This day is another year in your life, but the first that we will live together. Congratulations and Happy Birthday. Armando.”

Armando goes back to work, when Marcela arrives. She tells him, “hello my love.” Armando tells her, “hello.” Marcela tells him, “I received this invitation for a fashion show at Le Nou for tonight.” Armando asks, “what tonight?” Marcela tells him, “yes what’s up or do you have other plans.” Armando tells him, “yes.” Marcela asks, “with whom?” Armando tells her, “with clients my love. It’s very important clients.” Marcela tells him, “fine that’s enough. Next time think of something, more inventive if I take you by surprise.” She throws the invitation at him and storms off. Armando utters, “what an idiot.”

Marcela comes by and Patricia asks. “What’s wrong Marcee?” Marcela tells her, “Armando is making me do something I don’t want to do. He is going to escape tonight. I am sure that he’s going to be with her. We’re going to have to follow him.” Patricia tells her, “oh really. That’s great Marcee, you can count on me. So where is he going?” Marcela says angrily, “Patricia if I knew I wouldn’t have to follow him.” Patricia asks, “Marcee what exactly did he say? What are you being so suspicious, how do you know he’s going to see her?” Marcela tells her, “I invited him to a fashion show and he said no. He had plans, but he couldn’t give me more information. He didn’t give me names, or where he was going.” Patricia asks, “what you pressured him? Did you interrogate him?” Marcela tells her, “no it wasn’t necessary. With this doubt is enough.” Patricia tells her, “well Marcee two things. The first is make peace with him, you can’t warn him of things to come. Second is your going to have to spend money. Look we have to rent a car, or we ask someone to borrow a car.” Marcela utters, “a Fernando Guyton.” Patricia tells her, “that’s good.” Sophia arrives, very calm and collected. Sandra and Mariana, are working they stop and get up. Marcela tells her, “Sophia so how did it go with that lawyer?” Sophia begins to cry, and they all watch her as she heads to her desk.

Bertha asks, “what happened?” Sophia tells her, “everything was a complete disaster. A big disaster.” Bertha utters, “dear lord it’s time for a 911 at our office. Yes it’s me, Bertha from personal you idiot. We have a big 911 emergency. Hurry up it’s about spite, poor Sophia. Hurry up, right now to our office.” Bertha picks her up, and says. “Calm down, and lets go to intensive care dear heart. Breath in and out.” Sophia tells her, “no it’s not morally right. I gave that man my entire life. That bastard Elfrain.”

Betty’s in her office, and gets the phone. Sweet Nicholas sings her, “happy birthday.” Over the phone, and dances all over the house with a pot from the kitchen. Hermes just watches him disapprovingly. Betty tells him, “oh thank you so much Nicholas. I didn’t think, that you’d remember my birthday. It’s a beautiful gesture.” Armando overhears Nicholas’s name, and stops working. Nicholas tells her, “I never forget a friend’s birthday it’s written on my address book. Well since, you’re the only friend I got on my list. How can I resist.” Betty utters, “oh Nicholas.” Nicholas takes a drink, and then says. “Betty the birthday girl, and her executive of Tera Moda. Plus the entire council, want to take you out to a nice restaurant tonight to eat.”

Betty tells him, “oh Terra Moda”. Nicholas tells her, “well its coming from the vice president I mean it’s on my dime. We can’t go to someplace expensive, or else I’ll be ruined. If you want we can come back in a taxi, but it has to be nearby. So we don’t waste that much money. So what time are you coming home?” Betty tells him, “oh to eat tonight.” Nicholas tells him, “yes Betty don’t worry I’m paying don’t get so nervous.” Armando listens intently, Betty tells him. “Well it’s not that, it’s just that my work colleagues. Are taking me out tonight, to celebrate my birthday. I already said, I would go with them.” Nicholas tells her, “oh ok at least you saved me some money. Ok no problem, we can do it next year.” Betty tells him, “oh yes don’t worry about it Nicholas. Oh it’s the thought that counts, thank you so very much.” Nicholas tells her, “hey thanks for saving me some money. Oh it must be a lot of work, pushing a man away with an invitation. Julia gives him more juice. Because if it isn’t me, it’s your father this doesn’t happen all the time.” Betty tells him, “he’ll show up soon don’t you worry.” Nicholas tells her, “ok enjoy your party we will talk later. ”

He hangs up Hermes utters, “hey Nichorats. What is this about, an invitation to dinner tonight? You’ve haven’t asks for our permission.” Julia tells him, “it’s for Betty’s birthday.” Nicholas tells him, “relax you don’t have to thank me. I’m the only one, that invites Betty out to eat but I’m going to have to wait till next year.” Hermes asks, “why can’t she go?” Nicholas tells them, “the ladies at work invited her out to a club.” Hermes tells him, “what?” Nicholas tells him, “they invited her out.” Hermes tells him, “no she isn’t going anywhere Especially with those women.” Julia rolls her eyes, and looks upwards. She tells him, “they did it so they can celebrate.” Hermes tells them, “well then let’s celebrate here. In her proper home, that why she has a nice house. With her family, which is really important.” Julia again looks upward, Nicholas looks at an old fashion plate on the wall. He says, “is this you in the picture?” Hermes asks, “what?” Nicholas tells him,  “I didn’t know it was the eighteenth century.” Hermes tells him, “oh stop with the stupid jokes you baker.” Julia utters, “but Hermes?” Hermes tells her, “no more what I said is what were going to do. Call all her friends, and invite them here for a decent celebration. Invite everyone in the company, all the executives and her boss Don Armando if she wants. We will have some food, and some drinks. Some surprises, but she will enjoy herself here Julia in her home. My daughter won’t go out tonight.” Julia sadly returns to Nicholas. Nicholas sits down and tells her. “Relax Dona Julia, that castle gates is closed.  Well then I guess the fake pumpkins come out again.”

(That joke about the plate on the wall, priceless.)