hi friends ,
Back after a week long vacation. So i jsut thought since JJKN didnt folow the original storyline ,I thought why not continue the summary from the original BLF right from the day betty returns after the makeover.You will see the amazing scenes and imagine a-j in it so here goes the first part right after jassi gets ready to go home and the developments in ecomoda .
don hermes is billo
mario is raj
nicolas is nandu and
daniel is aryan
margarita is ila
julia is betty's mom and
Michael is Purab
Marcela awakes and realizes that Armando is not with her. She calls his name but silence is her reply. She is unaware that Armando has gone once more in search of Betty's family. This time though, he is determined to talk to Don Hermes.
At the Pinzon's home, a noisy Don Hermes is getting his breakfast as the doorbell rings. Nicolas appears. It is breakfast time. Nicolas has hardly been a few minutes at the Pinzon's when the doorbell rings again. Julia reaches for the door and an angry Armando pushes in as he starts yelling that he needs to speak to Hermes. Julia tells Armando to leave while Nicolas threatens him. Completely oblivious to the reason of such hostility, Hermes interferes and asks for an explanation. Armando is accusing Betty and Nicolas of stealing his company. Hermes does not understand a single word. Armando presses on and Nicolas charges against him and hits him on the face. This time is the other side of Armando's bruised face. Armando retreats in pain complaining that he did not have to hit him in the face. To Nicolas, it was sweet revenge. To Armando it is humiliation and more pain. Nicolas kicks Armando out of the house and closes the door on him.
An angry Hermes is seating at the dining table asking for an explanation. Julia insists that Nicolas call Betty to Cartagena to tell her of Armando's visit and give her a full account of the recent events. A shaken Nicolas obliges. Betty is hardly able to get upset when Hermes grabs the phone away from Nicolas and orders his daughter to come back to Bogota "today".
Betty is very upset when she runs into Cata as she tells her that she hates Armando Mendoza and that she has to get back to Bogota. An angry Betty tells Cata that "If Armando Mendoza thinks that I am going to take his company away, he is right. I am going to destroy those people". The humble and submissive Betty is now gone. When Betty and the sea of Cartagena became one, only one of them would change. Like many others before her, Betty came to Cartagena to find herself. The sea retained it emerald-bluish color. Betty is not the same that left Bogota a few days hence.
Cata tries to cool Betty down as she continues to pronounce her sentence against Armando Mendoza and the Valencias. Cata realizes that unless she does something quick, the Betty going back to Bogota will be angry and resentful. In her typical kind and tactful way she tells Betty that they'll go to the social event they have scheduled for the morning and that later in the day, before they depart back to Bogota, they'll go to "Isla del Rosario" to forgive. Betty looks perplexed by the suggestion but by know she is used to Cata's resourcefulness but still manages to ask her who they are going to forgive. Matter-of-factly Cata replies: "Armando Mendoza".
At EcoModa Freddy is asking Armando, who is hurting from the injury inflicted by Nicolas, in what bar he's left his car this time. Freddy by now is used to seeing his former boss, come to work all beat up and half drunk. But this time Armando is sober and his car is safely parked at EcoModa's underground parking garage.
At Marcela's office she and Margarita are talking about the previous night Marcela spent with Armando at her own place. Margarita is hopeful that things will get back on track, her track that is. But Marcela is not 100% convinced as she explains Margarita that Armando still has some feelings for Betty.
In Armando's office, Calderon is awaiting for his friend. In his usual playful mode, Calderon questions Armando about last night and wonders also whether or not Armando was able to talk to Betty's father. Armando ignores Calderon's jokes about him and gets to the point: He was unable to talk to Hermes. Julia got in the way and Nicolas beat him on the face. Calderon cracks another one of his subtle jokes.
At the Pinzones, Nicolas is talking to Sanchez and asks him and his partner to go to Ecomoda and solve the problem any way they can. Hermes is upset beyond belief. He asks Nicolas not to ever return to their house. Nicolas is upset because he'll never be able to see Betty or Julia or the refrigerator. Hermes on his part, storms out to the street as Julia asks him where he is going. Hermes says he's got to run some errand… Julia and Nicolas are clueless as to what is in Hermes' mind. He is going to a place he wished he'd never had to go.
At Armando's office: Marcela is smiling and concerned that Armando's face is now evened up... She is upset that Armando went to Betty's house again arguing that those people are trouble. The tenderness is so obvious that when she leaves the office to get some cotton and disinfectant, Calderon starts singing "amaneci otra vez, entre tus brazos,..." Marcela realizes the sarcasm but Calderon tells the two of them that he is very happy for their renewed relationship.
Patsy Pat sees Marce walk towards the company's kitchen and asks where she is going. Marcela says she is going to get some ice. Patsy Pat wonders if she is now serving him his scotch. Marce gives her a Marce look and says "no."
Don Roberto, Daniel and the lawyers step out of EcoModa's elevator. Daniel introduces Patsy to Dr. Juan Manuel Santa Maria and in his usual derogatory tune, he informs Juan Manuel of all the details regarding Patsy's fate. Patsy is understandably upset as Daniel adds that he wants a cup of coffee with sugar this time.
In Armando's office, Marcela is taking care of Armando's newest facial feature and then asks him if he is ready [for the meeting]. Armando replies with a doubtful "yes" and Marcela adds that "you can count on me for the meeting".. Armando feels the reassurance flowing down his veins.
Juan Manuel starts the conversation by saying that Armando is supposed to have contacted the Pinzones etc. etc. Armando replies that he has not been able to contact them and starts to explain what happened that morning.
The doors of the EcoModa's elevator open at the management floor. A very determined, yet humble Don Hermes emerges as Sandra and Mariana watch in disbelief. He informs them that he's come to talk to Dr. Mendoza. Roberto Mendoza that is. They inform him that he is busy in a meeting but he insists that when he learns who he is, he'll want to talk to him. Patsy Pat gets involved just when Sandra is about to go and interrupt the meeting. After a few exchange of words between Patsy, Mariana and Sandra, Patsy goes to the meeting room to inform of the new visitor.
Don Roberto agrees to meet with him but Marcela tells him that it is not a good idea. Roberto insists and Armando calms Marcela down by saying he'll come out with his father. Marcela feels better.
Armando and Roberto walk towards Hermes and introduce themselves. Hermes shakes Roberto's hand as Armando extends his. Politely Hermes declines and makes it clear that he's come to talk to Roberto. Marcela comes up and tries to find out what Hermes wants. Hermes, again politely, replies that he's come to see Roberto Alone. Roberto agrees and leads him to the company's President's office as preoccupied Armando and Marcela watch. Hermes has come to straighten things up; he is far from knowing the details of his daughter's troubles with these powerful people. He is about to find out that his own daughter, though well educated is also imperfect, but most of all, he's come to the boiling pot of her daughter's troubles for the family's honor.
Roberto invites Hrmes to sit down and he's all ears for what Hrmes has to say (in Armando's office). Hrmes tells him that finds himself very troubled by the problem he's just learned about this morning. Roberto is glad to hear this because he'd like to avoid legal problems and felt that speaking with them would be the best way to do so. Hrmes agrees and feels that this is a situation not for lawyers or judges, but best resolved amongst gentlemen, decent people. "My daughter isn't going to hold on to your business, Doctor. She'll return it to the last penny!"
We see Betty and Catalina along the edge of the sea. C tells her that they'll sit here and they do, settling down into the warm waters of the Caribbean. "That's no problem for me!", says Betty in agreement. Catalina assumes the Lotus position and tells her that they're there—before they go back to all that awaits them in Bogota—for Betty to face all of the things that trouble her, caused her pain... Dr. Armando Mendoza. You need to take control of yourself, to get hold of the hates and find balance. You can continue with the hurts but to find true peace you need to leave vengeance behind, you need to forgive. Close your yes and call to Armando and call for him to come." Betty is ready to do what she says but she's a little confused. "Come where?" "Tell him to come here, that you need to speak with him," instructs Catalina. Betty calls out, "Don Armando, please come. Come Don Armando." Ahead we see this ghostly figure of Armando walking towards her through the water, all dressed in white. Betty opens her eyes and sees him approach and looks a little nervous. "Is he here now?" asks Catalina and Betty shakes her head apprehensively. "Good, tell him to sit down; you need to talk to him." Betty shakes her head in fear, "I can't." "Yes you can! You have to talk with him." "No, I don't want to! I want him to go! I want him to go!" "No, Betty, confront him! Talk to him! Tell him what you've wanted him to know! He has to listen." Betty regroups and he approaches closer still. He smiles sweetly at her and comes to kneel in front of her. "Don Armando," begins Betty, "I've been here several days now and I still don't know why you hurt me so much!" We see Armando's eyes glaze with anguished tears. "Since I met you, you have always caused me much inquietude. Since the first, I've respected you so much. There you were, such an elegant man, who had confidence in me, and I did everything possible to prove to you that I was the person you needed." His eyes are mesmerizing in their intensity as he notes her pain. "In that dark office alongside yours was a woman," Betty continues, "that would die for you and did so much to prove that to you. I would be incapable of betraying you. Didn't you see that? Couldn't you feel that? How could you? How could you be so cold-blooded as to make me fall in love with you?" Armando looks deeply sad and ashamed. "How could you play such a cruel game? If you knew that I felt more and more for you; I came to love you so much! I trusted you, Doctor, and at least you should have had some affection for me," Betty says, sadly. "But you went on with your sinister plan, destroying me, in spite of everything I'd told you about my disastrous love life! At one point I considered forgiving you and continuing to love you but you continued your game up to the last second. You destroyed my life! I'm sorry, but I can't forgive you!" Betty shakes her head and lowers her gaze from the sight of Armando in front of her. We hear Catalina, "Yes, you can forgive him! It's for your good, Betty! If you don't you can't return to Bogota in peace. Run, go on, forgive him!" Betty sidles closer to Armando in the water and reaches up to touch his cheek. "I, BPS, forgive you Don Armando," she begins, as if she were reciting wedding vows. We see his eyes close and he savors her hand caressing that cheek ("Oh that I were a glove upon that hand!") "In spite of the sorrow you've caused me, in the name of the love that I had for you and the life that I've found, I ask my heart not to hat you and leave me in peace. I love you still, and in the middle of all of the sorrow, I don't wish you any harm. I want you to go on your way in peace, but far from me. With all of the love that was born in me, by you, and the sorrow, I forgive and wish that you leave my life without hate and with the same sweetness that I found in you, I wish that you would leave me." She pulls her hand from his face and we see the pensive, heart-in-his-eyes gaze. "You can go now, Don Armando." She reaches to him and hugs him in farewell and backs away from her, leaving her calmly seated. We see him walk away through the shallow water, turning to look back at her. She follows him with her eyes. He turns back and walks away. Betty and Catalina rise to their feet. "He's gone now?" asks Catalina and Betty shakes her head, yes. Catalina tells her that she'll feel much better, she'll see.
Betty and Catalina are by a boat. "You feel better?" "Yes, I feel much better," replies Betty. "I believe I can return now." "Good, let's go." They get on the boat and head back across the sea to Cartagena.
Roberto tells Hrmes that he appreciates his words but actions aren't bearing them out. The last message they had was strange: that they'd have to work it out with lawyers. Hrmes is annoyed and wants to clear up the record. There has been a misunderstanding. It's been his son whose attitude hasn't been so good. Roberto agrees that he knows his son's ways. Hrmes tells him that his daughter has no intention of holding on to his business, or of Terra Moda, that he'd raised her with the highest ethical standards. Roberto nods his head. Hrmes tells him that he worked to those same standards for over 22 years himself in the food industry. Roberto asks him if he'd worked for the Mayorga family and Hrmes agrees that he did, although they still haven't paid him any severance! Hrmes tells him that he can ask any of the family and none will say that Hrmes Pinzn Galarza has done a thing in error. He has always been characterized as a man of honor: at work, in his neighborhood, everywhere. That's the same way he raised his daughter and she has an impeccable resume. Hrmes starts to recite her credentials and Roberto agrees, because he was there at her interview, plus he's gotten good references from Banco Montreal. Hrmes goes on and on: no Pinzn would dream of using hunger as a pretext to cheat another. They're ready to work with their hands! Hard! Roberto thanks him for his words and tells him that he needs his daughter to show her face and help them resolve the situation. "Tell me," he leans forward, "When does she return?" Cut to Armando listening in outside his office door. Ah hah! This is the answer he's been waiting for! We hear him lift up his head as he hears Hrmes say, "Precisely! My daughter returns this afternoon!"
Catalina and Betty leave the hotel and Betty comments expressively how much she'd like to come back to Cartagena. Catalina assures her with a smile that she will when she resolves her issues at home. They get in the van and it pulls away. They drive along the ocean and Betty looks out, pensive. Catalina notes her gaze and smiles, taking her hand. "How do you feel, Betty? Ready to return?" Betty smiles and tells her that she is ready.
Hrmes is still defending Betty and he tells Roberto the thing that bothers him most is that his daughter is being accused of being a thief. The one who's really at fault is Armando, in his eyes. Roberto nods his head. Hrmes continues, acknowledging the blot on his daughter's resume, but Roberto interrupts him. "You have to understand that this hasn't been easy for us either." He wants Hrmes to imagine how they felt to learn that their business has been left with barely a penny and his daughter had disappeared. How does that look? Hrmes understands and assures him that if he had known what was going on, he wouldn't have let this come to pass. He defends Betty by saying that she had felt that the documents she'd left signed would be sufficient, but that wasn't the case. He'll make sure she is there to answer for the consequences. Roberto interrupts again and says that Armando too has been responsible in the matter: that's why he removed him from the presidency. "Never! Never will I forgive him for what he's done to us!" He talks of the 35 years he'd worked honorably to build the business. He's indignant too. Hrmes is somewhat amazed by this show and admits that he knows about the Mendoza family, how respectable they are, etc. He starts to reminisce about the days way back when working in Bogota was a much different place, more "sensorial". The two men sit on the sofa and smile over the old days. Hrmes wonders if he knew his rich uncle. Roberto is wondering how he can get out of this conversation now.
Outside the office, Armando is still eavesdropping when he hears Sofia telling someone else that Betty's father is there. He looks over their way and heads towards the cuartel to hear better. Sandra is recounting the details about the arrival of Don Hrmes and how the Peliteida behaved. Aura Maria is upset because she wants news of Betty and they didn't get any. Sandra wants to know how could they with that toad Peliteida around. Sofia tells them that things are indeed very delicate. They head off chattering and walk smack into Armando, bearing down on them with a determined face. "Ay, Doctor!" Sofia is startled and tries to cover up by telling him that they were just talking office talk. "Office talk or gossip?" he asks firmly. They deny it and he tells them to get back to work.
In the meeting, Daniel is holding court. Armando enters and his mother asks what's going on. He reassures her that they're fine, talking civilly. Daniel hands around papers and Armando takes his seat. Mario leans over for more details. Armando tells him that they're only speaking of the business and it seems like the old man knows nothing of the story between he and Betty. Mario agrees because Armando's still living. "Imagine that," responds Armando.
Roberto and Hrmes leave the office and Hrmes is still going on about the old days versus the status today and Roberto is trying to head him out. He does agree, however, when Hrmes touches on the topic of ethics and admits that he too doesn't understand the ethics that today's youth follow. Hrmes jumps on that and says that's the reason that the country's in the state it is: the people are corrupt. You have to take the children by the hand. He sees the sign plate for the office and comments that the word, "Presidency" clouds the mind. He reminds Roberto, "El diablo es puerco!" shaking his finger. "And has no social class!" Roberto chuckles and agrees. Hrmes tells him it's been a pleasure to meet him, even if under these circumstances and Roberto responds in kind. Hrmes tells him that his daughter's lawyers will be by in the afternoon to clarify what papers really do need to be signed. He asks a favor of Roberto; that he watches over this situation closely. Roberto assures him that he will. Hrmes takes his leave and invites him to his house, for dinner, to enjoy his tango collection. Roberto agrees politely.
Hrmes leaves and Sandra and Mariana jump to see him and ask for news of Betty. They tell him how worried they are for their friend but he's pretty terse and tells them that she's never coming back to that business. He doesn't want to speak any further about this and he hits the elevator button fiercely. The two jump back in surprise. Good afternoon! "What could Betty have done that would make her father act like that?" wonders Mariana.
Roberto enters the meeting and he tells them things are calmer now. It appears that they've been suffering from a war of nerves and now there's no need to proceed legally against Betty. Marcela asks, more than a little tensely, "Why not?" He tells her that he's reached an accord with her father. Armando's eyes light up at this and Daniel turns to look at him. The two exchange a look of animosity. Daniel wonders that he's going to trust those people but Roberto says that he will. "And that woman, what... I she going to stay unseen?" asks Marcela bitterly. Roberto says that this afternoon she's returning to Bogota. Marcela's face reveals alarm and she looks over to Armando for his reaction. He tries to maintain a "...y eso, que?" look of nonchalance.
Betty and Catalina are on the plane heading back at this very moment...
Margarita wants to know when Betty is going to show up and Roberto tells her that she won't, the lawyers will be able to handle everything. We see Marcela and then Mario looking both a bit relieved at this. "We won't have to see her again," continues Roberto. Marcela's eyes shine as she smiles in triumph at Armando. He looks downcast, his eyes dull. Roberto turns back to the topic of paying down debt but Daniel interrupts him. He wants to know about verify that they're going to return the business." "Yes."
On the plane Betty and Catalina savor a glass of wine and we see the coastal islands below.
Julia serves Ncolas some lunch but he tells her not to worry about him. She looks at him like he's grown another head. He continues by saying, "I can't receive another thing from this house!" (He has been banished, you may recall, after today.) "You realize that I'll have to cut my sentimental ties to your cooking too." Julia worries about him but he tells her that he has his dignity. She assumes, then, that he doesn't want the mushroom sauce, nor the eggs and ham, nor his jugo de morita. Well, she'll just take them into the kitchen. He relents. "Consider it a farewell to Ncolas Moda." The door opens and he hides. Hrmes enters and tosses his coat to Julia, asking if Betty has returned. Julia coaxes Ncolas to come out of hiding. Julia tells Hrmes to sit down and he does in front of the plate set for Ncolas. "No, not there, that's for Ncolas. I have yours over here." says Julia, firmly setting the tone. Hrmes looks back at Ncolas with a mocking sneer. Ncolas assures him that it was all Julia's idea, to serve him breakfast. Hrmes barks at him to sit down. He needs to talk to him. Ncolas says he'll sit but not eat. "Don't you know it's a sin to waste food?" counters Hrmes. Ncolas doesn't want to give in. Hrmes takes away the food and Julia returns. Hrmes tells her that Ncolas doesn't want to eat. "Can you wonder? You did eject him from the house," she replies. "Eat!" commands Hrmes and Ncolas gives in. "Well, only half the soup," he says, then adds to the list. Half a juice, half a potato... "Shut up!" barks Hrmes. Julia asks him where he was and when he replies Eco Moda, Ncolas nearly chokes. Julia's eyes bulge in alarm. Hrmes tells her that he went to resolve things and speak like gentlemen. Ncolas tells him that anything that they said to him would be an exaggeration. Hrmes tells him that he spoke with Roberto, a respectable man and resolved the issue of their children. Julia wants to know what they spoke of. "Of the business, of life, of my uncle Lazaro..." Hrmes is off again! Ncolas tells him that he didn't steal a single penny but Hrmes tells him that he participated in the affair and is complicit. He's going to give Betty a piece of his mind when she gets home. Julia pleads for him to recall that this was Armando's idea, not the boy's (Ncolas) nor Betty's. Hrmes tells them that's been resolved too: they've kicked him out of the presidency. Ncolas is happy about the news of this sanction, but he doesn't think everything can be resolved so easily. There are lawyers involved, judges. Hrmes tells him that of course the lawyers will be involved. They'll straighten this all out.
AM and Sofia hear the latest from Sandra and Mariana and are concerned. The elevator opens to reveal Dr. Sanchez and his cohort. He asks for Armando and Sandra points to Patricia as his secretary. The two head over to where she's sitting, leafing through a book. She doesn't even look up at them and tells them he's in a meeting but he asks that she inform him that he and Dr. Rosales are there. She repeats that he's in a meeting and they'll have to come back another day. He tells her that they're the representatives for Terra Moda and her head snaps up, that they've come to work out a peaceable accord, but what a shame she doesn't want to attend to them. (He's bluffing) They turn to leave. Wait! Patricia goes to the office and Rosales admires the view; Sanchez is not impressed and cautions him, pointing out how "antipatica" she is. Rosales tells him that she has to be like that. After they chat, then go out to lunch, get to know each other a bit better, she'll sweeten up.
Patricia, as if it was one of the eleven labors of Hercules, enters the boardroom and excuses herself for her interruption but that the lawyers are there. She hands the cards to Armando and flirts with the lawyer. Roberto dismisses her.
Sofia asks the others if they heard right: that those were Betty's lawyers? They whisper amongst themselves and Aura Maria recalls that she's seen them there before. They were there for something to do with an embargo. This is news to the others. They encourage Sandra to go over and verify the details. She trots over and asks if they'd want anything. Sanchez looks stricken with love at the sight of the tall woman and tells her that they're here to see Armando. She asks if they're Betty's lawyers and she offers to help. We hear Patricia's snotty voice call them to the meeting. As they head in Sanchez enthuses to Rosales about Sandra. Rosales still prefers Patricia. Rosales says that they'll have to do good work there because women like them will cost them a lot of money! LOL Patricia tells them to continue in to the meeting, playing with her hair. They open the door and remove their hats. Everyone turns to look at them. No one stands so Sanchez tells them, "Don't trouble yourselves, stay seated." Roberto, reminded of his manners, asks them to take a seat and greets them. As they get all assembled, Margarita and Marcela look on with a "okay, show me what you got" kind of look. The two introduce themselves most cordially and Daniel points out that they've been there before under the pretext of an insurance audit, when in reality they were there gathering data for the embargo. Mario and Armando look embarrassed but Sanchez isn't. Sanchez says that he never imagined that they would be misunderstood in this regard but continues to explain their purpose there. Daniel cuts off the introduction. Sanchez gets down to brass tacks: they're there at the behest of Dr. Ncolas Mora to fulfill his express instructions. That's to suspend the legal actions proceeding against Eco Moda. Marcela can't believe her ears, nor, apparently can Daniel. Roberto looks pleased and says that's what they'd hoped to hear. He introduces Dr. Santamaria and Sanchez smacks his head. How could he not have recognized him? The two little lawyers effusively greet the eminent Dr. Santamaria and recall a mutual acquaintance. Dr. Santamaria is pleased with this news and he suggests that they proceed with this action tomorrow morning. Sanchez agrees most pleasantly and says that they need only one thing: the physical presence of Betty. Armando looks hopeful.
Betty and Catalina have landed and are finding a taxi at the airport.
At the meeting room
They are trying to decide what to do so that Betty would not have to come to Ecomoda. They talk for awhile and decide that the lawyers and Betty should meet at Santamaria's (Ecomoda's lawyer) office and do the signing. Betty's lawyers leave.
They come out and one of the lawyers goes right to Patty and tells her that if she needs any thing to call him and he gives her, his card. Sandra goes to the other lawyer and tries to get him to tell her what is going on with Betty and the company, but he says is not the right place that she should call him and see what happens. HE kisses her hand and both lawyers go in the elevator.
Outside Betty's house.
Betty and Cata are in the taxi, Betty tells her thank you for everything and Cata tells her that she should only thank herself the hug and Betty comes out of the taxi. Roman and his gang are out there and as they see Betty going out they start to follow her tell her names like "mamita" then they ask her if she is Betty's cousin because she resembles her. She turns around and says that she is Betty, they are all surprised and keep on asking out and yelling names, she tells them to leave her alone and they leave still telling her names and blowing kisses to her.
Inside Betty's house the doorbell rings and Doa Julia answers and she looks at BEtty surprised with her appearance. DOn HErmes goes right ahead with the lecture just after telling her that she knows everything that happened. HE stops for a moment to tell her that he does not recognize her. He keeps going talking about values, morals and typical Hermes from there on. Betty interrupts to say that he tell it like they were criminals and he answers that they knew that Terramoda was only there so the banks won't ask for money. He keeps going. Hermes tells Nicolas something and the phone rings, it is the lawyers saying that they will meet to sign papers tomorrow at Santamarias office. After this Hermes tells Betty that why. Did all this happen? She says that she never meant any harm that she never sis any of this out of personal gain.
In the meeting room
Santamaria recognises that Betty and Nicolas did a great job with Tarragona and that it is a shame that they will have to close Terramoda. HE says that they owe 8 million dollars. And that Terramoda does not have that money. Marcela asks if they have to sell their actives? Roberto answers that everyone will have too that he will sell his apartment in London and the house, and everything and tells Armando, Mario and Daniel that they will have to sell them too. Daniel refuses to do so saying that it is not his fault that Armando did this to Ecomoda and that all his money is on a project and his apartment. Santamaria says that then they should by seeing how much is Daniels apartment worth.
At Betty's house
Hermes is saying that how embarrassing with that family and he keeps going on ... but Betty says that she will not feel sorry for someone that only insulted her that the only person she is sorry with is Roberto. Hermes asks that what made this all happen and she explained that because she and Armando had "roses" she just told the board meeting the truth. Betty asks for forgiveness form his father and tells him that she is glad everything will be over the next day. Hermes says that saying sorry does not cut t that she will have to pay and Betty answers that she paid enough and that she is back "para poner la cara". Nicolas then says and the pretty face you have now. Then she says that she is going to start a new life. And she excuses herself to go to sleep and unpack. Hermes wants to go to her but Doa Julia does not let him.
PART 2
At the meeting room
Santamaria says that the actives is not enough money to pat their debts but that he has a "propuesta" and that he is sure everyone thought about but that no one has said anything. He says that the only way to pay their debts and not have Ecomoda destroyed is to keep TErramoda. Marcela almost dies and says that she will not accept to be in that woman's hand s again (meaning Betty), Margarita says the same Marcela is almost leaving but Roberto stops her.
At Betties room
She is folding clothes and she takes one of her old skirts then Nicolas comes in and asks her that what did she do to herself. She explained how Catalina took her to a salon and that she bought new clothes. Nicolas tells Betty that Doa Julia knows everything including about her relationship with Armando/. She is surprised and Nicolas swears he did not tell her anything. Betty walks to her bed and takes her diary and then says that she probably read her dairy. Nicolas wants to see it both she takes it way from him and says that she is getting rid of it like getting rid of her past. Nicolas asks if she hates Armando she says no but that she will throw away her past even if it will take time to forget Armando.
At the meeting room
Santamaria says that Betty is there only savior and that they should talk to her and ask her to not give the company back. (My little sister turned the TV off here by mistake, by time I turned on the TV it was a commercial.)
At Betty's room
Betty and Nicolas are talking about TErramoda and she tells him that that is not their problem anymore, Nicolas asks her what is she doing after everything is over she tells him that she will continue to work with Catalina. Nicolas says that he will have to keep looking and that it will probably be really hard to find a job because of his face but that she does not have that problem anymore. Betty tells him to still come to the house buy Nicolas tells her that Hermes kicked him out of the house. Betty tells Nicolas that she will talk to her dad the next day. He says thank you for that and Betty asks him if he forgot Patty already he says no and shows her the photograph on his coat.
At the secretarial area
The cuartel is leaving and Patty tells then that where are they going they answer that home because it is 8, she tells them that they cannot go because the board meeting is not over they answer that she is the one that is the presidential secretary no them and they leave. Patty wines of how she is getting to her apartment. Hugo is leaving and Patty goes to him telling him that he has to give her a ride home he answers that his chesito is coming for him and he leaves.
At the meeting room
Santamaria says he will leave so they will decide.
At the secretarial hall
Santamaria comes out and Patty tells him if wants some coffee. She thinks that she needs a boyfriend like Santamaria. She goes for some coffee.
At the meeting room
Roberto says that they have to talk to Betty. Daniel says they should just forget it and leave. Roberto gets mad and tells him that he is tired of his arrogance and that he wills not his company die. Armando says the same thing. Margarita, Armando and Roberto vote to talk to Betty and Mario says the same thing. Marcela says that even if she wants Betty far from here she will do it for the company. And votes to talk to her. Daniel says that they could do whatever they want but that he expects results. Marcela goes out to call Santamaria.
Outside
Patty is with Santamaria Marcela calls him and he goes in. Patty wines and suffers of how he asks god for a boyfriend who can take her home. And suddenly Freddie comes out and Patty says I told a boyfriend with car not motorcycle and after everything he has a girlfriend. Patty asks him if he could give a ride he accepts and they leave.
At the meeting room
Roberto tells Santamaria that they decided to talk to Betty. Mario says that it would not be right for someone Betty does not even know to talk to her. HE says he will accept gratefully but Betty hates his guts Daniel says they are totally enemies. Margarita says they barely talked one, Marcela says the only time she talked to her was to insult her. (Freeze Frame)
Everyone looks over at Armando as the person to approach Beatriz about helping EcoModa. Armando replies, "Don't count with me. All of you know the hate that she must be feeling for me nowadays." Daniel, of course, asks what caused that hate, but before Armando has to answer, Roberto steps in and says that he will be the one to talk to Betty since it seemed to him that she respected him (due to her apology to him at the board meeting where she resigned), and tells Santamara to begin figuring out what steps they must follow regarding the banks, that way they will have a plan of action if Beatriz decides not to help them out. The board meeting concludes and everyone starts to exit the boardroom. When Marcela reaches the corridor, she is surprised to find that Patty is not still at her desk ... she supposed that she would be waiting for her to give her a ride home.
Outside EcoModa, Freddy impatiently waits for his passenger (Patricia, jejeje) to put on her helmet. Patricia gives him a myriad excuses as to why she can't put it on, from the fact that Aura Mara has worn it to the limp excuse that it would mess up her hair, but Freddy reminds her that it's not an option, it's the law. He further tells her that if she doesn't put it on, he won't be able to give her a ride home. As Patricia is about to make further protests, Daniel exits EcoModa talking on his cell phone. Upon hearing his voice, Patricia becomes anxious and puts the helmet on just so that he won't recognize her. She immediately gets on Freddy's bike and begs him to get her out of there before someone else comes out. She also makes Freddy promise not to tell a soul that he took her home :o). As Freddy pulls out, Daniel notices the legs of the rear passenger of the bike and recognizes them as belonging to Patricia. He immediately starts to laugh and says, "Ay, Patricia Fernndez, peliteida ..." I wonder when Daniel will throw this in Patty's face? It probably won't be long. :o)
Back inside EcoModa, Armando thanks Santamara for his help and sees him to the elevator. Marcela asks him whether he is coming with her or if he's leaving on his own. Before he can answer she adds sarcastically that she knows he must be very anxious because of Betty's required appearance at EcoModa and asks him if he will seek her out. Armando responds that he was perfectly clear at the meeting with regard to Betty ... he has nothing to speak to her about and she hates him. Armando then tells an unconvinced Marcela to gather her stuff because he's leaving with her to the apartment.
At the Pinzn's, Julia goes in to Betty's room ... Betty is holding her diary. Upon seeing her, Betty asks her mother why she read something so private and sacred to her. Betty asks her daughter to forgive her, but to her her daughter's wellbeing is even more sacred. Furthermore, she needed to find out what was going on with her because they've always been friends and confidantes and she was extremely worried about everything that was going on. Betty tells her mother that Don Armando was conducting "ugly business" that no one must know about and even though Nicols knew about this business, he wasn't aware of how intimate her relationship with Don Armando was. Julia tells her daughter that if she would have confided in her from day one everything would have turned out differently. They then hug tenderly. The subject of the diary is dropped and Doa Julia questions Betty on her new look. Betty tells her that she felt the need to change, to leave the old Betty behind and see a new Betty in the mirror ... a Betty that rose up from ashes. She promises her mother that she will overcome this latest tragedy in her life and will forget Armando Mendoza. Betty, I don't think you believe that one, do you?
Armando and Marcela arrive at Marce's apartment. Marcela can't let go of the subject of Betty's return and the fact that Armando will see her again, especially under the present circumstances where they are asking for Betty's help. Armando tells Marcela that he's trying to forget about all of that and leave it behind ... and for that he needs her help. Marcela backs down a little and confesses that she's very afraid and hugs Armando.
The following morning, Betty receives a call from her lawyer, Sanchez. He tells her that her meeting with Santamara has been cancelled ... he doesn't know the reason behind this and she should wait for them to get in touch with her. Betty finds this turn of events very strange; she wants to get this over and done with.
Armando and Marcela arrive at EcoModa and, as they exit the elevator, kiss and hug in the presence of Sandra and Mariana. As they leave to their respective offices, Mariana and Sandra can't help but comment on the apparent reconciliation and how long it will last.
Armando stops at Mario's office first. He finds him getting an eyeful of pictures of pretty women from his computer. Some things never change! :o)
Armando -- Geez, Caldern, I'm very worried because it seems that the only solution for saving this company is asking for Beatriz's help again.
Mario -- Yes, yes, I'm also worried, but what do you think? Will "Vampirn" help us out or not?
Armando -- Well, it's already a miracle that Betty, with all of the hate she must be feeling toward me, didn't keep the company. But now to ask her to come in and help us ... I think that will be very difficult.
Mario -- Well, and you, are you tempted to speak to her?
Armando -- Of course I'm tempted, Caldern!!!! God, the only obsession that I've had for days is to talk ... to talk to Betty. This has been especially difficult, Caldern, since I learned that she came back to Bogot ... I already knew she was here.
Mario -- Well, what did you expect?
Armando -- It's Marcela, Caldern. Marcela is very afraid that I'll run back to Betty and at this point in time I can't let her down. I asked her for another chance, it wouldn't be fair to her.
Mario -- Man, I think that's very responsible on your part!
Armando -- Furthermore, Caldern, I don't know ... talking to Betty at this precise moment, when things are so difficult with her ... she hates me!!!! It would be like setting her feelings even more against me and then having to ask for her help ... I don't know, I'm confused, I think my father is the correct person to talk to her without me getting involved at all.
Roberto comes in and asks Armando for Betty's phone number. As Armando jots it down [from memory, might I add :o)], Roberto tells them that he will wait for them in the boardroom to discuss the details of his conversation with Betty. As Roberto leaves his office, Mario makes the sign of the cross, wishing him luck. :o)
At the Pinzn's, Hermes is being his usual grouchy self and reproaching Julia about his undercooked eggs. As Julia rolls her eyes, Hermes asks who called earlier. Julia informs him that it was the lawyer for Terra Moda. Betty comes in, all dressed up, and Hermes goes off on that tangent ... Betty's "daring" clothing and her makeup. He tells her that she doesn't need all of that because she's as beautiful as his aunt, Florencia Pinzn. Julia stops him in his tracks and tells Betty that she resembles her aunt, Rosalinda Solano. While Hermes and Julia argue about Betty's gene pool, Nicols arrives and he informs Betty that Dr. Sanchez called him and told him that the meeting with Santamara was off for today. After his message is delivered, Nicols acts hurt because he is not allowed to set foot in this house and says goodbye, but Betty tells him to stop acting so immaturely and orders him to sit down. :o) The phone rings, Julia picks up and tells Betty it's for her. When Betty asks who it is, Julia just hands her the phone and asks her to answer the call.
Betty -- Hello?
Roberto -- Good morning, Beatriz, it's Roberto Mendoza.
Betty -- How are you, Dr. Mendoza?
Roberto -- Well, you can imagine how I am, I'm very worried ...
Betty -- Well, I don't understand why, doctor. I know that my father, Nicols, the lawyers, everyone's told you that I have no intention of doing you harm. As a matter of fact, I was going to sign some papers today in court, but the cancelled my appointment.
Roberto -- Yes, Beatriz, I was the one that asked that it be cancelled. Beatriz, in any event, I want to tell you that I appreciate your attitude in all of this mess. Getting back to what we were talking about, I asked that the meeting be cancelled because I must speak with you personally ... and alone.
Betty -- With me? Why?
Roberto -- I need to tell you some things and I need to ask your opinion about them. You know that we're really in a hurry. Could it be today?
Betty -- Well, yes doctor, where would you like to meet?
Roberto -- Could it be here at EcoModa? In 'presidencia'?
Betty -- At EcoModa?!?! I don't think it would be very wise if I showed my face there again, doctor.
Roberto -- On the contrary, Beatriz! I think it's what makes the most sense. After you and I talk, I have to take a series of decisions and I need the approval of the full board. I don't want to keep delaying this matter, I want to resolve it once and for all and know what the future of EcoModa will be. Beatriz, please listen to me ... I'm begging you to come in and talk to me.
Betty -- If you consider that's a wise move, then we'll see each other at EcoModa, doctor.
Roberto -- Thank you very much, Beatriz. I'll be waiting for you.
PART 3
After Roberto hangs up, he walks over to the boardroom. Margarita immediately asks him if he was able to speak to Betty. Roberto confirms that he did and Marcela sarcastically asks whether she made herself easily accessible or whether she put on airs and acted "like a star". Roberto promptly puts Marcela in her place and tells her that they spoke and she is on her way over (to EcoModa). Marcela overreacts again, this time her fear showing, and says, "She's coming here?!? To EcoModa?!?" Margarita doesn't like this either and asks Roberto why he asked her to come here. Roberto tells them that he had no alternative and that he surely couldn't tell her that none of them wanted to see her and then ask for her help ... he couldn't very well ask her to meet him at her house or at a restaurant when the business they have to discuss has to be resolved immediately. He chastises them all and reminds them of what Santamara said ... they have to put their pride aside and can't continue to stop Betty from having access to EcoModa if they want her help ... she's on her way over and they are going to resolve the matter once and for all. Upon hearing that, Marcela gets up as if to leave, but Roberto stops her and says that he would like to ask a favor from all of them ... if yesterday they agreed that to save the company they would have to ask for Beatriz's help, then that (and he points to Marcela) is not the attitude that they must take. He reminds them that it hasn't been easy for him to beg Betty to help them, as a matter of fact, it was a sacrifice, but they all have to pitch in. And, he adds to Marcela, this is not the way to do it! Marcela acknowledges that she is not acting as she should, but excuses herself nonetheless with the excuse that she's not feeling well and leaves the room.
Back at the Pinzns', Betty tells her parents and Nicols what she agreed to with Roberto Mendoza. Don Hermes offers to take her over to EcoModa in his car, but she turns him down and tells him that she will go alone and face the music, especially if it's only Don Roberto she's got to see. The phone rings again ... this time it's Cata calling from a clothing boutique. Betty tells her about her meeting with Roberto at EcoModa and Cata immediately asks her how she's dressed. Betty tells her she's got the gray sweater set on and brown pants. Cata suggests that Betty meet her at the store before heading over to EcoModa; Betty accedes. Don Hermes insists on driving her daughter, but as Betty tries to decline again, Julia intercedes and convinces Betty to let him. Nicols wishes her luck and sends his regards to Patricia :o). Doa Julia asks her daughter if she's ready (emotionally) to set foot again in EcoModa and to see "him" again. Betty firmly responds that she thinks she is. As Betty follows Don Hermes out, she is immediately surrounded by Romn and his gang, who even call Don Hermes "father-in-law"! Don Hermes doesn't like all of this attention one bit, gets angry, and chases them all away. After they leave, he chastises Betty her new clothes and her makeup again. :o)
In the boardroom at EcoModa, the board members remember their last encounter with Betty ... the day she left. Armando reminds them that, one way or another, they were never able to treat Betty with dignity. Way to go, Armando!!!
Betty meets Cata and the first thing Cata remarks upon are her broken glasses. Betty tells her that she fell asleep with them on the night before and she's got to get them fixed. Cata tells her she knows just the place and off they go.
At EcoModa, Margarita goes in to Marcela's office to see how she's doing. Upon seeing her, Marcela asks if Betty has arrived yet and Margarita tells her that she has not. Marcela once again sarcastically remarks how Betty is making herself out to be so important. She even remarks to Margarita that she will take vengeance on them all and adds that she can't believe that Roberto asked her to come here, especially when he knows that no one wants to see her. Margarita tells her she understands, but neither Robert nor Daniel are aware of what happened between Betty and Armando ... she never thought it opportune to make a comment regarding that, but she will if Marcela wants her to. Marcela becomes even more flustered and begs Margarita not to. She tells her that she doesn't want her intimacy to be discussed by Daniel and what's worse, she wouldn't ever want Robert to find out ... it's already enough with everything that's happened. Margarita hugs her and tells her that she has to get emotionally ready and has to calm down and relax ... she can't fall apart when she sees Betty because if that happens, not only would Marcela lose, but they would all lose.
As Betty and Cata walk into an eyeglass place, Cata tells Betty that she can't lose her composure when she goes to EcoModa ... she has to remember that she forgave Armando. Betty assures Cata that she has, in fact, forgiven Armando and that they feel more hate toward her than she toward them. As Cata shows Betty's glasses to the attendant, she "accidentally" breaks off the remaining leg. Cata sorrowfully looks over at Betty, apologizes, and tells her that the only solution is to buy new glasses. Betty tells her that she doesn't have the money right now, but Cata reminds her that she will need them ... to better get a look at Armando Mendoza.
In the meantime, our galn goes in to Betty's old office and he is assaulted by the memories of the last time he saw Betty. He remembers when Betty reproached him the intentions he and Mario had to send her far away so that she wouldn't mess up his wedding with Marcela, how he insisted that she hear him out and let him explain, and how in a last desperate attempt he hugged her, almost like a drowning man, but was interrupted by Marcela and had to let her go. Mario walks in and interrupts the walk down memory lane and asks him what he is doing in Betty's office. Armando replies that he is remembering the last time he saw Betty. Mario sarcastically says, "Ay! How horrible! The memory, that is, not Betty!" Aaaaaay, Mario, baaaaaaad boy!!!!! As Armando rolls his eyes and walks out of Betty's office, Mario tells him not to get so upset over everything, he's sure that when he sees her, he will see her in a different light, more coldly, and will realize that he was just the victim of circumstances, that he did it all in order to save the company and that now nothing else exists between him and Betty. Armando asks Mario to clarify what he means by "seeing her more coldly" ... does that mean that he will see her as an ugly woman? Mario is funny as heck with his response and says, "Ugly, ugly, no ... let's just say she is aesthetically unfortunate". What a dog!!!! Armando advises Mario to stop being so stupid and assures him that he will see Betty just as he feels her. Way to go again, Armando!!!!
Out in the hallway, Aura Mara and Sofa discuss the fact that Bertha is running late and that, at this rate, Aura Mara may never get back to the reception area. Gutierrez walks out of his office, asks after Bertha, and when he finds out she's not there yet, tells them that he has just found a motive to replace her and he will fire her. Sofa and Aura Mara don't like this threat at all and ask Daniel, who is standing in the hallway talking on his cell phone, to intervene on Bertha's behalf. But Daniel, instead of helping Bertha out, tells Gutierrez: "Listen, Gutierrez, if you're going to hire a new one, make a good choice and don't hire someone like Beatriz." Gutierrez defends himself and reminds Daniel that he didn't make that choice, Don Armando did. And upon saying that, he smiles to himself just thinking of all of the beautiful candidates he will interview to fill Bertha's position.
A stressed-out Patty barges into Marcela's office and asks her for $10,000 pesos to pay her taxi driver. In order to get rid of her, Marcela gives her the money but warns her that she will not lend her one more peso. Patty asks Marcela why she's in such a bad mood and Marcela confesses that Beatriz is about to come back to EcoModa. After her initial shock, Patty tells Marce, "Why are you so afraid, Marce? You look great and with only one look you can humiliate her." Patricia walks out promising to pay Marce the money as soon as she receives her next paycheck. Yeah, right!
Betty arrives at EcoModa!!!
Wilson looks at her but doesn't recognize her. He asks her if he can help her. Betty says "Hello Wilson". Wilson is surprised and can't believe it is actually Betty. Betty informs him that she has an appointment with Roberto Mendoza. Wilson makes his way to the phone and informs Betty that he has to call it in first because Marcela Valencia has barred her from entering EcoModa. Betty replies, "Yes, of course…………."
Freddy and Aura Maria are putting her belongings in boxes to take them to reception. Patty runs in giving Freddy money to pay her taxi. Daniel is nearby and makes sure to tell everyone that he saw Patty on Freddy's motorbike. This upsets Aura Maria. Daniel tells Aura Maria to keep an eye on Freddy before Patsy Pat steals him!
Bertha arrives with her baby daughter. Patty asks Bertha how many tons the baby weighs?! The phone rings and when Patty answers it, it is Wilson announcing Betty's visit. Patsy-Pat asks Roberto if he is waiting for Betty and he replies in the affirmative, and tells Patty to have her go to the president's office. Roberto goes to Armando's office and informs him that he is going to see Betty there so Armando and Mario exit the office. Mario asks Armando if he wants to see Betty and Armando tells him that the time isn't right.
Patty gives the ok for Betty to come up. Wilson exclaims "Que linda" (how beautiful)! On the way to see Don Roberto, Betty runs into Aura Maria and Freddy, but they don't recognize her! Finally, they recognize her and Freddy asks her if it hurt! Betty tells Freddy to stop being a pest. Aura Maria tells her she turned out "remamita."
Betty arrives on the second floor and says hello to Mariana and Sandra who also do not recognize her. Patty interrupts her and asks if she can help her. Betty informs her that she has an appointment with Roberto Mendoza. Patty informs her that that isn't possible because Dr. Mendoza is waiting for someone else. Betty insists and Patty looks up at her. Patty says that she recognizes that horrid voice. Patty says "Betty, is that you?" Betty replies, "The one and only." Mariana and Sandra realize it is Betty and are overjoyed. Just then Marcela walks over to Patty's desk and asks her if stupid Betty has arrived. Marcela stares right at Betty without realizing who she is looking at. Patty responds, "It's her, Marce." Marcela is dumbfounded and says "BEATRIZ?!" Betty replies, "Good day Dona Marcela." "Dr. Mendoza is waiting for me." Marcela replies, "Yes, he's waiting for you." Both Patty and Marcela look at Betty from head to toe. They can't believe their eyes! Mariana and Sandra are very happy to see her. Betty tells them that she has an appointment and excuses herself. Patricia is beside herself and tells Marcela, "She's stolen all of the company's assets and spent them on a plastic surgeon!!" Patty just says, "I hate her Marce, I hate her……….." Betty sees Bertha, Sofia and Gutierrez who also don't recognize her. She promises to talk to everyone and fill them in when she is done with Roberto Mendoza.
Roberto's back is to Betty when she enters and he receives quite a surprise when he turns around.
ROBERTO: Thank you for coming.
BETTY: There's no need to thank me. You can count on me to do whatever is necessary so that we can get out of this mess as soon as possible.
ROBERTO: I'm glad to hear that you are here to collaborate with me and that I can count on you. The only thing I am not in agreement with is that we will be able to be done with this in a short period of time. Betty, we have studied this problem from every angle and we've come to the same conclusion that I am sure you have come to. If you give TerraModa back to us, it will be the end of EcoModa.
BETTY: Surely there are other formulas to help save the company.
ROBERTO: We have studied every single one of them and none is viable. The moment you turn TerraModa over to us, the banks will exercise their rights and we will only have pieces to pick up. Betty asks Don Roberto to talk to the banks himself, but he tells her that he doesn't have the nerve to do that. That he spoke to those same banks assuring them that his company was in good hands with his son when he retired. He informs her that she is the only option open to them.
ROBERTO: Please don't return TerraModa to us.
BETTY: What?! What are you saying? It's absurd?!
ROBERTO: We need to continue things the way you had set them up for at least six months until we have paid all our debts. The same way we have been doing up until now.
BETTY: Don Roberto, please don't ask me to do this! We need to be done with this once and for all. I realize that I shouldn't have allowed myself to be dragged into this by Don Armando, but I have paid in blood! I am paying with my life! You made me leave through the backdoor, something I had never experienced and didn't believe I deserved. Then on top of that, Don Armando went to my house and told my father that I wanted to steal the company!! He told my father!! My father who is sacred to me!! I am here to respond for what I did and I do it because I have had you on my conscience. It tore me apart to see your face the day of the board meeting when you found out what we had done to your company! But PLEASE don't ask me to continue with this nightmare!! I don't think this can be good for anyone……………
ROBERTO: I am sure it's not good for you, but we need you Betty. I too, would like for all of this to end as soon as possible! The last thing I ever imagined was that I would have to call on you and ask you, beg you not to return the company to us!
BETTY: Don Roberto, I am sure there are many things you are unaware of that transpired here at EcoModa. Perhaps you are convinced that this is the best solution, but I had a lot of problems with Dona Marcela, Don Armando and Don Daniel.
ROBERTO: I do know, and they are all aware that you are the only solution and are currently awaiting your response. They are waiting for you to accept. For the love of God Betty!! You have accepted your share of the guilt yet you want to wash your hands of this?! If it is true that your conscience is bothering you, that you don't want to disappoint me, you have to help us. This is the only way you can redeem yourself, because otherwise I am going to believe that you are that woman everyone is talking about and not the woman your father described to me! Do something good for the company you helped destroy. We are all stuck in this infernal situation. Let's try to make it as bearable as possible and see how we can get out of this situation.
BETTY: Well, if everyone else is in agreement and you feel this is the only way of redeeming myself, I accept.
ROBERTO: It's the best decision you could have made Betty. I have to let them know what you have decided. They have been anxiously awaiting your response.
BETTY: I'd like to talk to my father and the attorneys first. I promised them I'd consult them before doing anything.
ROBERTO: Go ahead and call your attorneys. As for your dad, don't worry; I'll handle that. I'll wait for you in the boardroom.
BETTY: The boardroom!!!!
ROBERTO: Yes, Betty. We are going to deal with this as your dad said, "between gentlemen." We are going to forget old hurts and put all our cards on the table. Of course, I'll expect for you to be present. Go ahead and make your phone call, then meet me in the boardroom.
Roberto tells everyone that Betty accepted his proposition. He tells Margarita to call Marcela. Daniel asks Roberto what Betty's attitude was. He tells Daniel that it wasn't easy to convince her. Betty has a great deal of resentment, that there's still a lot of hurt. Daniel turns around and faces Armando. With each of Don Roberto's words, Armando and Mario look at each other as if wondering whether his father is talking about the personal side of what happened.
Betty finishes talking to Sanchez who is on his way to EcoModa. She takes a deep breath and stands in front of the cave (her former office). She opens the door and stares at the interior, remembering the kisses she received from Armando Mendoza, the day she packed up her black bag filled with cards and gifts and Marcela threatening to call security if she didn't show her the contents of the bag……………………………..
Patty and Marcela are talking. Marcela is sure Betty is there to get back at them. Margarita comes in and tells Marcela what Betty has decided and that she is needed in the boardroom. Marcela is scared and doesn't want to go. Margarita convinces her and leaves. Patty encourages Marce.
The cuartel is trying to figure out why Betty is back. Bertha decides she'll try to find out even if the assignment is as difficult as "Mission Impossible." Marcela catches them talking about how surprised she (Marce) and Patty were when they saw Betty's new look and makes them get back to work. Bertha admonishes Sandra for not being a good lookout and tells her that she's the antenna for EcoModa! She should have seen Dona Marcela coming!! (Very funny)
Betty talks to her mom who reminds her that she is a new woman and that she should hold her head high. Betty's head is still filled with memories. She remembers the day that Daniel Valencia was so cruel to her because of her first "new look." Betty enters the boardroom.
BETTY: Good afternoon. (Her voice cracks)
(Armando turns to look at her and is stupefied. He and Calderon exchange confused glances).
ROBERTO: Betty please sit down.
Betty sits close to Marcela, but across from Calderon and Armando. Armando can't take his eyes off of her. She looks at him for briefly. Marcela realizes what is happening and gives Armando a killer look (poor Armandito). Roberto asks that they leave aside old resentments and think of the next six months of hard work they have ahead of them in order to pull the company out of the hole.
DANIEL: And now, the million dollar question, Dra. Pinzon. What are your conditions in order to help us get out of the predicament you and Armando put us in?
BETTY: Conditions?? I'd prefer to wait for my attorneys to arrive and let us know what it is we have to do.
MARCELA: Of course!! I want Dr. Santamaria to be here also.
ROBERTO: Don't worry, he is on his way.
Betty and Armando keep exchanging glances.
Sanchez and Rosales arrive. (These two are always grooming themselves!!!) They bring candy for Sandra and Patsy-Pat. They seem impressed by these two "Amazons!" hahahaha Patty doesn't want to tell Betty her attorneys are there so Sandra offers to do it. They get into a little verbal confrontation. Patsy-Pat finally goes into the boardroom and tells Betty that her attorneys are there and that she needs to go outside to see them. Roberto tells Patsy-Pat to let the gentlemen in; they're expected. Sanchez and Rosales enter the boardroom looking for Betty but don't recognize her. She finally tells them that it's her. Patty comes in and says that Dr. Santamaria has arrived. Roberto introduces Betty to Santamaria and tells him what has transpired up to the moment. Sanchez informs everyone (in a round about way) that TerraModa must continue to exist and that Betty must still continue to be at the helm of the company.
Behind the closed doors of the executive conference room the fate of Eco Moda is still under discussion. Dona Margarita doesn't quite understand what the Terra Moda attorneys are saying. They suggest that attorney Santamaria might be better able to explain it to her. Attorney Santamaria tells Dona Margarita that Terra Mora has taken over Eco Moda and that Terra Mora legally belongs to Betty. Daniel asks if Betty is willing to let Terra Moda continue as long as she has management of the Company. (Armando sitting in his chair, as quite as a mouse, looks at Betty).
Betty hurriedly informs the group that she wants no part of it. Betty's attorneys are in agreement with her desire to cooperate with Eco Moda, however, does she really want to resign from a company that has her name. Her attorney turns to the group and tells them that this is an opportunity to make sure that the Company is being run on the up and up. "In the end", he says, "it is her company." (While her attorney is speaking, attorney Santamaria is looking at Betty and trying to read her thoughts.) He continues to say that it is her name that is being put in front of the banks and the law. (Armando looks back and forth from Betty to her attorneys, still not saying a word.)
Marcela questions there proposal. The attorney explains that what he is trying to say is that Betty has the right to inspect how the Company is being operated, while it is being operated under her name. The attorney, directing his question to Don Roberto, asks if he is incorrect. Don Roberto agrees that Betty would be in her rights. (Armando turns his head and looks down at the floor and then up at the ceiling.)
Betty informs the group that those are not her aspirations and that she has no problem for the company to continue as is. Daniel, relieved, stands up and says that it is perfect, they will continue and they will provide reports to Betty on a regular basis.
Armando finally finds his tongue in order to clarify that Terra Moda is not just a paper company. Its name is on the bank accounts of Eco Moda and that, he explains, is how Terra Moda has been able to make payments on behalf of Eco Moda. (Armando glances towards Betty. Betty looks down.) Daniel staring at Betty, asks if she would be the legal representative in order for Eco Moda to continue. Armando tries to explain to Daniel in words that he may be able to understand, "the President of Terra Moda is much more important than the President of Eco Moda". (As he speaks these words, he looks at Betty and has a small grin. Betty looking uncomfortable turns away from him. Daniel continues to stare at her. Marcela turns to stare at her and gives her the look that Patricia had previously advised her to give. Mario stares.) The room is silent and Betty's attorneys look at her and shake their head in agreement.
Freddy is down at the receptionist desk processing his devotion for Aura Mario and finally asking if there is any information on Betty. In walks Jenny with er "Buenas" and wearing a load pair of zebra stripped pants, halter top with a deep tan underneath and a fresh head of red hair. Freddy immediately changes his tune and falls all over himself greeting her and calling for the elevator. Jenny has come to Eco Moda to receive her last paycheck which, according to her is being denied by Sophia on person. Aura Maria informs her that she is not authorized and must first be announced. While Jenny is waiting for authorization she begins to fix Freddy's name badge and Aura Maria immediately tells her to take her hands off of Freddy. Upon hearing Aura Maria's news, Sophia asks that Aura Maria pass the message that her paycheck is not ready and that she would return another day, in the evening at that, to pick it up. Jenny becomes upset and decides to continue up to the executive floor. After Aura Maria hangs up she lets Freddy have it for not being respectful by flirting with Jenny. Freddy, for his part, tries to hide behind the plant that is located by the elevator.
Jenny upon making her way past Mariana, Sandra and Patricia has words in regards to the paycheck. (Mariana, Sandra and Patricia are at the other end holding on to each other while they witness the argument.) Jenny informs Sophia that she plans on staying until she has the opportunity to speak to one of the executives regarding her paycheck. As she heads towards the waiting area, Mariana, Sandra, and Patricia realize that they are holding on to each other and quickly release and go there separate ways.
Daniel has taken the lead in the meeting and recommends that since Betty is in favor of the group managing the company, they select a new president. Betty states that as owner of Terra Mora she wishes for Don Roberto to continue as President. Marcela comments that Betty has finally said something intelligent and she is in agreement for Don Roberto to remain as President.
He speaks for a second time, Armando reminds everyone that the President will have to face the bankers and the suppliers. Don Roberto angrily gets up and says that he won't do it. He will not face the suppliers, the banks and much less the Bank of Montreal. He has had enough with the nightmare that he has been living knowing that he is having to support a company that has come to these extremes. He reminds everyone that he is only the interim president and that day they are to elect a new president in order for Betty to get Eco Moda out of the mess that it is in. Dona Margarita, worried about Don Roberto quickly rises and tries to calm him down. She informs the executives that her husband can not do this and another name will need to be selected.
Attorney Santamaria advises that the company must continue in the same manner since Armando turned over to Betty and before she left. He states that it is time to put the house in order. Daniel tells him that it out of the question to continue with the previous management. Attorney Santamaria begins to lose his patience and tells Daniel that is the way it has to be. It is imperative that Betty continue to be in charge of the company. (Another silence comes over the group.) Attorney Santamaria says that the company cannot continue with more crisis. (Marcela directs another stare at Betty.) He continues to explain that electing a new president and a legal representative is just adding more crises. "The company needs to continue through the same course."
Daniel asks Santamaria if he is recommending that Betty stay in charge of the company. Betty immediately refuses. She does not want to be a part of it. Santamaria tells her that she has to continue. She needs to be in front of the banks and suppliers. (Armando again stares at Betty.) Santamaria tells her to remember that she can not be replaced from one day to the next. Attorney Santamaria tells Don Roberto that he spoke to the banks, per his request, and as long as Betty is in front of the company they take it as a guarantee that they will be paid. However, if she is removed they would proceed to go after their money. Betty protests and states that she will not be an employee of Eco Moda and rises to leave. Attorney Santamaria places a hand on hers to stop her and tells her that she will not be an employee and that her conditions need to change.
Marcela would like to know what he means. Daniel explains that Santamaria is suggesting that Betty head the company. The group becomes silent. Santamaria quickly tells them not to look at him as though he is the enemy. They are the ones that brought him in to find a solution to their problem. Betty says that she cannot except it and Daniel tells her not worry because no one plans on accepting it. Santamaria becomes upset, rises and apologizes for not being able to come up with a solution and he wishes them the best in finding a solution.
Don Roberto stops him from leaving and asks that if anyone has a better plan it is time for them to speak up, now. The room becomes silent. (Betty won't make eye contact with anyone and Armando continues to stare at her.) Since no one offers a better solution, Don Roberto orders that Santamaria's proposal of Betty becoming the temporary President be accepted. Marcela immediately turns in her resignation. Before Marcela has an opportunity to exit, Betty tells her that it is not necessary. She is not asking for her resignation. Marcela interrupts her and tells her that she realizes that this is the only solution to save the company, but she does not plan on staying and begging her to help. (Mario puts his head down. Armando seems to get a little worried as the conversation continues between the two and looks from one to the other.) Marcela tells her to stay and she will leave. She reminds her that they both know why she is leaving and of their pact.
As Marcela heads to her office, Jenny and Patricia try to speak to her. Marcela angrily lets them know that she does not care to speak to anyone at the moment. Mariana and Sandra look on in amazement.
Back in the boardroom Betty repeatedly says that this is not what she wants. She rises and leaves the room. Dona Margarita tells Don Roberto that she can't believe that he is in agreement with this plan. She will not allow Marcela to resign in order for Betty to take over their company. Don Roberto tells her that he is not in agreement, but this is there only option. He tells her that Betty will not be allowed to run the company as she pleases and that Armando, Mario and Daniel will be there to make sure that she doesn't. He states that Marcela will not be allowed to resign. (Daniel has stood up and is pacing in front of his chair. He rubs his chin, stares at Betty and is obvious that he is trying to figure out what is going on.)
Don Roberto finds Betty sitting on the coach in Armando's old but still present office. He asks if she does not believe that she is capable of running the company. She says "not under these conditions." She doesn't care to see Armando or Mario. She goes on to say how she is hated by everyone and that running Eco Moda would be hell for her. She tells him that she realizes that Dona Margarita would die before seeing her in that position and she can see the pain that it is causing him. He agrees that it will be hell, but that this is the only solution to the mess that she assisted in creating. It's a hell that she is going to have to pay.
He tells her that assuming the presidency is not a reward. It is responsibility that she has to accept to help them out as promised. He asks what it is that she needs. He asks if she hates Eco Moda that much. She quickly responds that she does not hate Eco Moda., "Eco Moda was my life" and she has many great friends there and knows it perfectly. Don Roberto wants to know her conditions. Betty asks to be excused in order to make some telephone calls. Don Roberto grants her request and asks that she pass on a message to her father for him to give him a call.
Nicolas arrives at Betty's and wants to know if there is any news. Dona Julia tells her that all that she knows is that they don't want her to return the company. Nicolas becomes excited and says that he knew it and that Betty will end up running the company. Dona Julia orders him to stop staying such ridiculous things.
The telephone rings and it is Betty informing her mother of the events at Eco Moda. Her mother can't believe it. Betty tells her that she doesn't want to it. Betty tells her that she doesn't want to see Armando or Mario. Betty tells her mother in a whiny voice that everyone hates her. Her mother tells her that she realizes that, but she has to face up to it and help as she promised. Her mother goes on to advise her that this is her opportunity to show them who she is, her titles, her studies. Show them that she is not just a little girl painted on the wall. Show them who is Beatriz Pinson Solano.
Nicolas talks to Betty and advises her to think it over. He asks her if she wants someone else to run a company that has her name and that they worked so hard at forming and making successful. He asks if she wants to remain being Dona Catalina's assistant. He thinks not. He knows that she is capable of running that company and this is their dream. He tells her that her bringing a company out of trouble will look great. He asks that she do it for both of them. "Do it for yourself", he says, "You have suffered so much."
Don Hermes appears wearing his shirt, tie and sweater. Along with plastic cleaning gloves and a sink stopper. Nicolas tells him that he is becoming domesticated. Don Hermes asks if that is Betty on the line and Nicolas answers no that it is his daughter. Upon hearing the news, he asks if she has started drinking. When Betty tells him that Don Roberto asks to speak to him he wants to know if those people have gone made. After speaking to her, Don Hermes has a look of great pride that his daughter will be the new president. Nicolas wants to know why he is so surprised when they have her degrees on the wall to show how her capabilities. Nicolas tells him that she didn't become president because of her looks and it is obvious that she didn't get them from him. However, by what he can tell she is improving.
Don Hermes suggests that his mother may be looking for him at the bakery.
Betty returns to the boardroom. (Armando stares at her as she walks in.) Betty informs them that she has spoken to her family and that she will accept the position. Daniel slaps Armando on the back and says "what happiness". "Should we give her out thanks," he continues. (Armando is still staring with a small grin.) Don Roberto tells Daniel to be quiet. Betty informs Daniel that her staying is not a pleasure for her, especially when she has begun a new life. (Daniel looks down in some embarrassment as Betty stands up to him.)
Don Roberto asks for her demands. Betty tells the group that she has no interest in staying for six months and wants to get the company back on its feet as soon as possible. In order to accomplish this, she needs total autonomy to design new business plans. She doesn't want to depend on anyone. She doesn't want to take orders from Armando or Mario. (Armando stares at Mario. Mario stares at Betty.)
Daniel gives a small laugh. He says that they are there to solve the company's problems. Betty quickly lets Daniel know that she will not allow him to humiliate her. (Daniel becomes quite and stares at her.) Daniel asks if she wants to boss everyone around and do whatever she feels like. Don Robert speaks up and says that all she is saying that she won't put up with his humiliating her. Don Roberto tells Betty that Daniel is in rights to review her work. Betty says that she has no problem with the review. All that she asks is that he respect her. (Daniel looks down at the table and raises an eyebrow.)
Betty goes on with her requests and says that if she is going to be in charge of the company she will need to reorganize the executive floor. (Armando stares at her in puzzlement. Mario just stares and bites his bottom lip.) She also wants to hire Nicolas. Attorney Santamaria is very pleased and goes on to praise Nicolas for the great economist that he is. (Armando is taking a little aback by this request. Mario quickly turns to look at Armando) Her last request is that Marcela stay on with the company. If she leaves, she will not accept the presidency. (Armando looks away with a worried look coming across his face.) The room becomes quite.
Don Roberto tells her that he is not in disagreement with her, but he would like to know what the pact is between them. (Armando is getting ready to hang on to her every word.) Betty tells him that they have had many problems from the beginning. (Mario looks at Armando, Armando looks at Mario and Daniel looks at both them - maybe realizing that there is more to this.) Betty tells him that this is not the time to discuss this. She tells her that she respects her and needs her as an executive. Dona Margarita wants to know what the pact consists of and Betty tells her it has to do with her last day at Eco Moda. Betty begins to remember the conversation between the two.
Marcela is in her office remembering the same conversation. Don Robert has gone in to visit with Marcela, who appears to be packing her desk. (All she has is a store bag with handles that obviously is not going to hold much. Therefore, probably not real serious about leaving.) Don Roberto asks how long she has been working there. She answers 9 years, did he forget. He says of course he does. He begins his story about the time when she first started working, officially at Eco Moda. He gives her dates of her graduation and the date of her first day on the job. Marcela is very surprised and moved that he would remember. Don Roberto goes back in time when she was a little girl and would go to the company after school and play designer, etc. He tells the story of the conversations that he had with her father in where her father told him with pride that their life has arrived, Marcela. Her father realized that the person show loved their company more than both of them it was Marcela. (Marcela is crying.) To Daniel, it was just another business and to Beatriz, well she was just out having fun. He commented to her that her father knew that when he passed, he could go in peace because he knew that his company would be safe with her. Marcela asks him to stop. He tells her that he doesn't believe that her father would ever have imagined that she would throw it all away for another woman.
Marcela tells him that he doesn't what is behind all of this and what all has happed between them. She tells him that she won't discuss it with him. He says that he also doesn't want to discuss it and neither does Betty. Don Roberto tells her of Betty's request for her to stay. Marcela is certain that Betty wants to see her on her knees and begging. He doesn't believe so and he tells her that Betty had stated that she respected Marcela and needed her as an executive. He is in total agreement with Betty. He goes on to tell her that he can't allow her to leave and Betty to assume the presidency. It would be like giving the company as a gift to her. He tells her that her father, wherever he is, would suffer more than he. Marcela says that she can't do that to her father or to Don Roberto.
Don Hermes calls for Don Roberto. Patricia informs him that he is in a meeting. Don Roberto approaches her and she wants to know if he would like for her to get rid of him. Don Roberto tells her not to even think about it. Don Roberto asks for him to come to the office and without us being able to hear tells him his plan.
Patricia wants to know why she has been crying. Don Roberto comes to get Marcela to go back into the meeting. Jenny approaches Don Roberto about her paycheck, but he tells her that he can't speak to her at the moment. Don Roberto hears Bertha's baby cry. He comes over to greet the baby and tells her to take the baby home. Bertha explains that she didn't have anyone to take care of the baby. Don Roberto tells her not worry about it. Don Roberto asks Patricia to track down Hugo and Guiterrez and inform them that they are wanted in the boardroom.
Betty's attorneys are telling a story, which no one seems to have an interest and Betty seems to be a bit embarrassed. Her attorneys inform that they need to meet before the judge. They will be present with Betty, but when they ask who will appear for Eco Moda, Daniel states that it will be the sad celebrity Armando. (Armando stares at him.) Armando says that he has no objection and gives a sideways glance at Betty.
Marcela and Don Armando walk in and Dona Margarita explains how happy she is that Marcela has decided to remain. Marcela says that she is staying because she has a mission and Don Roberto asked her, not because Betty asked. Betty tells her that she didn't ask for herself, but for the company. (Armando gives a slow looks towards Betty.)
Betty's attorneys invite Santamaria out for a drink. It is obvious that Santamaria does not want to join them. Betty's attorney's agree that it would not have been a good idea, because it would have been too expensive.
On their way out the door, Santamaria stops to speak to Patricia and suggests that they go out for dinner sometime. Patricia tells him that she would like to, but that she needs enough notice in order to consult her calendar. While they are talking, one of Betty's attorneys interrupts and tells her that he is leaving, but that he will be calling and that they will go out. Patricia is surprised. Santamaria is laughing. The attorney asks if she liked his gift, what gift she asks. He reminds her of the candy. Santamaria tells her that he understands that she needs to consult her calendar because of the tiny details that has. He tells her that he will call tomorrow.
Sandra tries to get information from Betty's other attorney and he would like her to join him for a drink. Mariana is having difficulty holding his laughter. Sandra tells him that she can't make it because it will still be awhile before she can leave. Sandra is not happy about the situation. The attorney leaves with a promise to call her.
While all the attorneys are waiting for the elevator, the door opens and out comes Hugo and Inesita. Hugo is complaining that if he does not find another model like Jenny he will not design. Hugo immediately notices Santamaria and gives him a quick look over. He also notices Betty's attorneys and asks Inesita if they are looking for a bonsai tree to hang their swings. Inesita tries to keep from laughing and tries to get Hugo to stop talking.
Patricia tells Hugo that Don Roberto wants him to join the meeting. Hugo wants to know why.......
Eco Moda 2nd Floor Reception
Call 911 and have the paramedics on hand… Hugo is about to come face to face with the new and improved Betty! Patricia tells him that Betty is in the sala de juntas with the executives and she's been asked to send him and Gutierrez in immediately. He wants to know what's going on but since she doesn't know she tells him that she's not given to gossiping. He asks if her contact lenses aren't in right and she responds to his retreating back that those eyes are hers from the crib. Jenny grabs hold of Hugo and tries to bug him about her check, how Sofia won't give it to her, how Sofia always speaks ill of Hugo… He asks her if she's still without work and she pouts that she is, that she's wasting away. He has her spin for him and admires her figure. Gutierrez approaches the sala and we hear the baby cry. Hugo asks about the noise and Berta begs 'perdn'. Hugo wants nothing to do with babies! Jenny applies to Gutierrez too for her check and Sofia reacts angrily, but Gutierrez promises to attend to her later. She's happy as a clam and swishes away. Gutierrez, admiring the view, swishes too and backs into Hugo who reacts playfully.
Sala de Juntas
Hugo and Gutierrez enter and Hugo asks where 'la moscorrofio esa' Betty is. Roberto greets him and asks him to sit and Betty says hello. Hugo draws back in horror, "What did you take? Are you possessed?" Roberto calls him to order and tells him that he and Gutierrez are there to learn about the new direction that Eco Moda is going to take. "Great! Just whatever we do, I'm ready, as long as I don't have to see that woman!" "Hugo," says Roberto, "Betty is the new president of Eco Moda." "Eeee…! Okay, I get it, this is black humor," says Hugo, "Okay, the joke is over now… Who is it? Really?" Daniel responds, deadly serious, "Beatriz Pinzn Solano." "Be serious!" laughs Hugo, nervously. He looks around the table at the execs and counts, "Eeeny, meeny, miney, moe…" He's greeted with silence. He looks expectantly at Marcela, "Maaahhrge…" he starts softly, "Is it you?" The stoney-faced Marcela shakes her head 'no'. He starts to feel palpitations and calls for his valerian, then offers to quit. Roberto reins him in. "Sit!" Hugo looks at Margarita, shocked, "Does he yell at you like this?" "Never!" she replies, firmly. Roberto continues explaining that he needs their solidarity in this difficult period and that Betty will occupy the post of president for a short time. He is tired and can't stay on; he wants to go rest.
Daniel is still fighting this turn of events. He wants to clarify the situation with Betty changing the executives and employees at Eco Moda. Roberto tells him that Betty will be making those decisions and they'll have to respect her decisions. Armando puts forth that he has been president in the meeting and company during this troubled time in order to help them navigate through the problems but now that things look to be resolving, he offers to step aside. Mario offers to do the same. Margarita doesn't like this, "Wait a minute!" She reminds them that they're still stockholders and must have a voice in what transpires. Daniel cynically commends her maternal impulses but asks her "stockholders of what company." She replies, "The pieces that remain." Armando protests but Betty interjects that Armando should remain because he'll maintain a legal position within the company as president/figurehead; the same for Mario as representative for the minor stockholders. Roberto agrees with this sound decision and decides that Betty should draw a salary equal to that Armando drew as president. Marcela can't hold back an angry protest but Betty says that there's one point she's clear on: she won't accept the same salary she took as secretary! Armando shakes his head in agreement. Marcela continues, "So, Armando won't have a salary, fine, but what will Maria Beatriz live on? And what about Daniel? Or you and Margarita, Roberto?" Margarita looks troubled.
Eco Moda 2nd Floor Reception
The elevator opens and Hrmes exits. He greets Sandra and Mariana most cordially and asks for Roberto, who has invited him to call. Sandra calls the Peliteida to order and tells her that Hrmes is there to see Roberto. Patricia wants to know who Sandra is to be giving her orders and she tells Hrmes that Roberto is in a meeting. He responds quite acerbicly that he knows, 'descolorada' and he's there to be part of that meeting. She's pretty miffed at this presumption, but grudgingly walks over to the sala to verify the appointment with him.
Sala de Juntas
Betty addresses the issues of the monthly stipends and though it will be difficult, they'd made allowances even in their difficulties to ensure those payments. Daniel is most annoyed with this: it means that after all the screwing up Armando has done he won't have to suffer financially! Armando responds calmly but angrily to this. He rejects the need to pay him anything; indeed, he offers any and all of his shares in Eco Moda to help the business if need be to help them resolve the difficulties. "I don't want anything!" He walks towards the door and stands behind Mario, placing a hand on his shoulder in a silent command. Mario, picking up on the hint, chimes in that he'll do the same. At that moment, the door opens and Patricia thrusts herself into the room, announcing the arrival of Hrmes.
PART 4
Roberto tells him to enter and Hrmes appears behind her. He greets the room confidently and upon his introduction by Roberto, Hugo jokes that he could tell that he was related to Betty. Hrmes shakes hands with Daniel and Roberto tells the room that he asked Hrmes to join them. He tells the shocked room that Hrmes will handle the overseeing of the accounting for the two businesses. Margarita exclaims, "Why? Isn't it enough that his daughter is here? That he has to work here too?" Roberto explains that Hrmes won't be working for Betty, he'll be working for him; kind of as his fiscal eyes and ears. He tells the room that he and Hrmes share similar approaches to running a business. Armando looks more than mildly alarmed at the idea of Betty's father present all the time at Eco Moda. Hrmes starts to make a typical speech, thanking Roberto for his confidence… how he'll work to organize things… etc. Roberto thanks him and takes his leave, telling Margarita that he'll see her at home. Gutierrez starts to excuse himself to go make the official announcement to the employees, but Roberto heads out. He walks past Armando without even a look or comment. Betty takes the role of head of the meeting and nervously suggests that they meet again tomorrow morning. She acknowledges their feelings and recognizes that they're unhappy with the way things have been resolved but hopes that they'll be able to put those sentiments aside and work together with her. "Let's go, papa." Hrmes tells the group remaining that he, Hrmes Pinzn Galarza guarantees that his daughter will work in an unreproachable fashion for the company and they can rest assured that it's in capable hands. A quick pan around the table shows faces hard and inflexible, uncertain. Father and daughter exit the room and Hrmes tells Armando, "Hasta luego." We see Marcela's petrified stone-face last.
Eco Moda 2nd Floor Reception
Betty tells Hrmes that she didn't know that Roberto would ask him to take this role and he admits he's equally surprised. Berta sees that they're out of the meeting and urges Sofia to go speak with her and Sofia rushes up to do so. Betty and Hrmes are still reviewing their plans and she asks him what he wants to do. He'd like to get started immediately reviewing the financial statements but as they haven't worked out the details of an office for him, Betty suggests tomorrow would be soon enough. He doesn't like to put off til tomorrow what can be done today but accedes.
Sala de Juntas
Hugo is still in shock: he can't believe that as of tomorrow he'll have to take orders from 'that woman'! He threatens to quit but Marcela tells him he's not quitting. He can deal with her. Gutierrez, before heading out, wants to know which office she'll have. To conflicting emotions it's decided that as president, she'll occupy the official office of the president. Armando is nearly emotionless at this decision and Marcela is increasingly bitter but resigned to the new situation.
Eco Moda 2nd Floor Reception
Aura Maria gets off the elevator and joins the cuartel for news of Betty but no one has heard anything yet. They see Betty and her father approach and Berta begs them, "No more!" She can't live with the uncertainty of what's happening. Sofia reproaches her, "Don't be cruel!" They've all been waiting so long. Aura Maria chimes in that they've had no news of her and now she show up looking so pretty. Mariana adds, "What stress…!" Patricia horns in and mocks them for not working. Sandra responds testily and asks her if she doesn't have any coffee to serve. Patricia continues trying to sound important, telling them to get back to work. This makes no impression on the women and Patricia tells Betty that she know's that she'll leave and never set another foot at Eco Moda. Trying to avoid a fight, Betty tells Patricia to relax, she's leaving. Patricia bows ostentatiously and thanks her excessively. Hrmes won't have anyone dissing Betty and tells the 'descolorada' that she must respect his daughter. "Hah!" This is a laugh, thinks Patricia. Sandra is ready to slap her and defend Betty, but Gutierrez approaches at this moment and wants to know what's going on. Sandra explains that Patricia is being most disrespectful to Betty and her father who are invited guests of the company and Patricia snottily responds that she's defending Eco Moda against the insulting presence of Betty. Gutierrez chastises Patricia and tell her that she should not speak that way about her new boss. "Qu!?!" Gutierrez takes the moment to make the formal announcement to all present that Betty is the new president of Eco Moda and Patricia swoons into his arms. "Noooo…!" she wails. "It isn't true! This is serious!" Gutierrez continues on that it true and that now she's no longer secretary to Roberto, she's secretary to Betty. Betty smiles a little at this turn of events and Patricia's discomfort. Ines asks Betty if indeed it is true and when she smiles and nods her head 'yes', the cuartel mob her and shriek in unified joy. Patricia can only cry, "Imbeciles!" as she rushes off to verify the news.
Sala de Juntas
Inside the meeting room the noise made by the cuartel startles those present. Mario is about to see what it's all about but Patricia barges in and demands to know the truth. Marcela confirms that it is true and Patricia makes a fool of herself. "What is this? April Fool's Day? Don't be cruel! Where are the hidden cameras?" We see her search the room wildly with her tear-stained eyes for the hidden camera. "Where are the hidden cameras? This isn't a dream, this is a nightmare!," she asks Hugo to pinch her, "Ouch!" Armando watches this tantrum calmly, his chin resting on his hand… Patricia wants to know what power Betty will have and Marcela tells her that she'll have as much as she wants. This is horrifying news for Patricia: Betty will fire her! "Marc, you can't leave me in her hands!" She turns and sees Daniel and tells him not to mock her. Marcela tells her to wait, tomorrow there will be a meeting and they'll know more then.
Eco Moda 2nd Floor Reception
Things are marginally calmer now; the baby is asleep (!) and Bert asks for more information and Ines too, but Betty can only say that she'll explain more later, this isn't the time and place. Sofia gleefully asks if this means that Betty will now be in charge over even Marcela and relishes what this means. Once again, she's busted as Marcela and Patricia walk up behind her, overhearing her wicked joy at the idea that Betty can now lord it over Marcela. Marcela gets in a pointed barb, "…in novelas there are gossips too!" LOL Sofia frets a bit that she's been caught yet again being indiscreet but Sandra wonders why she bothers; after all, Betty, their pal, is now the president! Hrmes is ready to go but Betty tells him that she has a few things to attend to. He cautions her to not let being president go to her head: remember the devil is a pig. Besides he has a bad feeling about the place. After he leaves the cuartel again mob Betty jubilantly.
Mario's Office
Mario and Armando enter as if in shock. Mario wants to know what the new plan is but Armando has no answers. He's still dazed by the appearance of the new Betty: it's another Betty. "Yes, but she's buenissima!" smirks Mario. Armando can only repeat that she's different, that she's another woman. Mario wants some details: could Armando see that woman hidden beneath when he was with Betty before? Was he holding out on him? Armando is disgusted but Mario pressures him to get working. Armando responds in frustration, "Don't be ridiculous! She detests me and she won't let me near her! Besides, have you forgotten about Marcela?" They have more to worry about, like Betty kicking them out. Mario continues on in the same vein and Armando responds angrily, "Shut up! For the first time in your life shut up! I don't want any more of your advice!" Mario knows when he's not wanted; he leaves Armando alone to 'rest'.
Marcela's Office
Patricia begs a troubled Marcela to help her but she can only respond that Patricia will have to wait until tomorrow to find out what Betty has in store for her. The door opening hesitantly interrupts Patricia's rant and it's Betty. Patricia jumps up and snootily asks her what she wants, then remembers the new status quo and amends that to, "what can I offer you?" Betty quietly asks to speak with Marcela, alone. She repeats her request and Patricia leaves the two women alone. "I'm listening," says Marcela, acidly. Betty has come to 'put her cards on the table' in light of the change of the rules. "From now on, the two of them will be working together closely as part of a team." She wants to clear up a few things but Marcela also has things to say, "I didn't stay because you asked me to; I'm staying because Roberto begged me to and because there's no way I'm leaving my family's company in your hands!" Betty is a little taken aback at her vehemence but respects Marcela's candor. "Good." Marcela tells her that she feels that Betty's actions are all part of a vengeance plot—that she just wants to get even with them for what happened to her—but Betty tries to set her straight. She tells Marcela that if that was the case then she wouldn't be trying to return the business. "I don't want vengeance, least of all on you. I asked you to stay because—in spite of our differences—I respect you professionally and feel that you're fundamental to this business." She goes on to tell her that she knows that Marcela has always despised her and Marcela finds something she can agree with. "I've never wanted you here, not as secretary and certainly not once you became Armando's 'celestina'" She's seen nothing since to change her mind about hating Betty. "Don't expect me to retract my words." Betty actually understands this and because of her own guilt explains that she doesn't expect any retractions. Marcela won't back down and adds to her recriminations, insulting Betty for the idiocy of being involved with Armando and still certain that Betty wants vengeance for that. Betty sadly tells her that she can't know what it's like to be in her skin. She asks about her and Armando and Marcela makes a point to tell her that she and Armando are trying to rebuild what Betty destroyed. This shakes Betty for a second. She regroups and tells Marcela that she'd hoped that's what they would do. Marcela doesn't feel reassured by this and wants to know how Betty can prevent anything similar from happening again. Betty reminds her that she has in her possession a letter that if she rereads it will prove to her that Armando feels nothing but disgust for Betty. That should be reassurance enough. She's trying to pick up the pieces and she tells Marcela that she's going to do her best to stay as far away from Armando as possible. Marcela isn't pleased, but she'll drop this issue. But, before Betty leaves there's one more thing: she doesn't want any of the cuartel to find out a single thing of the sorry business between Betty, Armando and Mario, and certainly not any of the shameful business between her and Armando. On this they're in agreement. Betty is offended that Marcela could even bring this up because if there's one thing she's clear about it's that she'll never discuss this because she will never allow herself to be the subject of mockery ever again.
Eco Moda 2nd Floor Reception
Patricia struts and frets to the enjoyment of Sandra and Mariana. They laugh at how someone will soon be out of work but she responds that she won't be without money. She has rich friends, and job offers, and she'll leave there to go home and sit in the jacuzzi, have a glass of wine, maybe a bubble bath… Margarita walks up asking for Marcela and Patricia tells her that she's in her office with the 'garfio' (Betty), probably trying to save her job. Betty walks out and Sandra tells her that Patricia is worried that she'll be fired. "Will you?" Betty tells her that tomorrow they'll figure these things out. Sandra and Mariana tell her that the cuartel want her to come out with them to celebrate her new role but Betty demurs. Mariana chides her for her attitude and Sandra warns her not to speak so to the new president. Betty tells them not to be silly and allows herself to be persuaded.
Marcela's Office
Patricia asks Marcela when she has to hand in her resignation but Marcela can't deal with her now. Margarita suggests that they need to go and chat and Patricia agrees, inviting herself along. Margarita tells her that she needs to figure out what path she's going to take, it's a new era for her, for Armando, and for this woman. "You need to figure out how to proceed." Marcela buries her head in her hands and tearfully confesses her fear.
Eco Moda 2nd Floor Reception
Betty is still chatting with Sandra and Mariana when they hear Jenny and Sofia kicking up another fuss. Betty heads over to see what's happening. Jenny is trying to get in to see Gutierrez and Sofia's trying to prevent her. He comes out and invites her in. He'll help her; how about they go someplace quiet and talk about how he can help her… Betty asks for a clarification and Sofia explains that with her gone and Armando mired in the problems there's been no one to sign checks. Betty calmly explains that if Jenny will come back tomorrow she'll make sure that Jenny gets her check. This makes Jenny very happy and she thanks Betty. Hugo has walked up and notes this last interaction. He asks her why she's still there and, striking a blow at the new president, he offers Jenny a job. "Show up tomorrow and report for work!"
Hugo wants Jenny back because he doesn't like the bodies of the fitting models he currently has. Sofia says she's sorry but there's no way that Jenny comes back to EM. Hugo wants to know what authority she thinks she has to say something like that. Sofia says he needs to get Betty's authorization. Hugo says that he has autonomy over his area and that Betty knows that very well. Jenny will come back or he is quitting. He goes to leave but before he does he tells "El Cuartel" that Betty may be president of EM but that does not make each of them a VP. Sofia tell Betty she can't let Hugo go over her head. Jenny asks to make a phone call and calls "el cheque" who asks to talk to Sofia. He gives Sofia a sob story about losing his job and his car and being on the verge of starvation and manages to make sofia relent. Betty tells Jenny to come tomorrow and they'll fix her situation. Gutierrez is left disappointed because his plans for Jenny were thwarted.
Marcela is arriving at the area near the elevators as Jenny is leaving and says "see you tomorrow." Marcela is baffled. Armando comes out of Mario's office looking depressed. (Armando has a definite air of being down in the dumps during this entire conversation)
Marcela: Hi. I was going to look for you. Are you leaving?
Armando: Yes. I have nothing more to do here.
Marcela: And what are you going to do?
Armando: (with a very I don't care, I'm sad attitude) I don't know. I didn't have a set plan. I was going to go see what your plans were.
Marcela: oh really?
Armando: yes.
Marcela: Well, your mom invited me out to dinner with Patricia, afterwards I'm heading to my apartment. If you like I'll call you when I leave the restaurant.
Armando: Yes. That sounds fine.
Marcela: Mmmm. and what are you going to do while I'm at dinner.
Armando: I don't know. Perhaps I'll go to my apartment or maybe I'll go somewhere with Mario for a drink.
Marcela: Mmmmm.
Enter "El Cuartel" Inesita is stating that she fears the type of places Aura Maria chooses. As soon as Betty comes in, Armando fixes his eyes on her. Betty looks back but is uncomfortable and looks away. Marcela turns to Armando and says "Well, my love, I'll call you then." While Marcela is speaking Armando doesn't turn to look at her he continues to stare at Betty. Marcela places a hand behind Armando's neck and give him a soft kiss (more of a peck really) on the lips. Armando barely glances at Marcela before turning back to stare at Betty. While Marcela is kissing him, Armando's lips don't move, and his eyes remain fixed on Betty (It was like Marcela was kissing a statue, if she noticed that though she gave no outward indication). Mariana comments to Betty that those two are in a romance again. Betty says between clenched teeth, "I'm glad" (it was obvious it hurt to see Marcela kissing Armando). Marcela turns to enter the elevator and Armando removes his glasses and is suddenly very preoccupied with cleaning them. Marcela asks the cuartel if they're coming and they all get in the elevator. Armando continues to follow Betty with his eyes. Betty also looks at him as she's getting in the elevator. Marcela asks Armando if he's coming and Armando says he'll go down later thanks.
Downstairs Freddy is asking Aura Maria where she's going and wants to join the celebration but Aura Maria tells him that it's a women only celebration. Freddy asks if they're going out to a male strip joint and AM asks for more respect and says they're merely going to a restaurant with good atmosphere. The cuartel comes out of the elevator and Bertha wants to know where they're going so she can tell her gordito, Freddy also wants to know, and AM reluctantly tells them the name of the place is "El Santuario." There's a discussion about how they're getting there, AM comments on Betty's lack of car. Betty says they should take a cab. Berta offers to have her hubby drive them but AM says no way. Armando comes out of the elevator and is surprised to find the girls still in the lobby. When he spots Betty he once again fixes his eyes on her. Betty catches his eye an uncomfortably says, let's go. Freddy wants to know the address of the place so he can come by later to pick AM up but AM gets upset, then tells him not to worry and that she'll see him the next day. Freddy is left saying "I don't like this, I don't like this (4X) night makes women act strangely." Freddy needs to vent and since Armando is still there he starts venting to him. Armando listens attentively as Freddy tells him about the girls' plans to go out celebrating. Armando is suddenly very interested now. He casually asks Freddy if he knows the address of the "Santuario" (the wheels in his brain seem to be turning) Freddy says no. Armando asks Freddy what his plans are and if he wants to go out for a drink with him. Freddy agrees and they decide to take Armando's car.
Marcela, Patricia and Margarita arrive at a fancy restaurant discussing Armando's plans. Marcela states that Armando didn't want to get in the elevator when all the "cuartel" got in. Margarita feels sorry for Armando's uncomfortable situation. Patricia says he deserves it and that Marcela should have dragged him in the elevator and then planted a big kiss on him in front of Betty. Marcela says she did give him a kiss but that she feels ridiculous playing such games. The waiter comes and they order dinner. Patricia orders enough food to feed an army. Margarita comments that eating a big meal at night adds a lot of pounds to which Patricia replies not to worry because she has a very rigorous diet. Margarita wants to know what kind of diet and Patricia says it's called being the secretary for the president of EM. Marcela tells Patricia not to be unjust because she earns a lot better pay than her position merits, with her salary she could pay for three secretaries. She goes on to tell Margarita that the problem is Pat owes money to (long list of things here) and that's not counting the money she owes her. Patty gets upset at Marcela and tells her she should try to help her. She goes on to lament her uncertain future at EM now that Betty is president.
The cuartel arrive at "El Santuario" which turns out to be not a restaurant but a club where food is served. Bertha worries what her hubby will think. Sofia suggests Betty should pay the cab, Betty says she's almost as broke as Patricia Fernandez but she'll chip in. They want to know why. They tell her she should ask for a car and a cell phone now that she's the prez. Sofia says Betty should help all of them get financing for cars and should lend them the money to which Betty replies that she can't use EM's money that way. Betty goes off to call home.
In Betty's house Don Hermes is very upset because Betty isn't home yet. The phone rings and it's Betty. DH wants to know where she is etc. etc. Betty explains her friends took her out to celebrate. She manages to avoid giving the details of where she is and asks to speak to Nicolas. DH hands Nicolas the phone but not before going off on one of his lectures first, this time about respecting the rules of the house. Betty tells Nicolas she has appointed him the new VP in charge of finances at EM. Nicolas is elated kissing and hugging everyone, telling Betty he loves her, saying he has to get new business cards etc. etc. Betty and Nico agree that he will be at Betty's house early the next morning and dressed in one of the expensive suits he bought earlier. Doa Julia tells DH that Betty is an important woman now and he has to get used to the fact that she no longer depends on him.
Betty and "el cuartel" are seated inside "El Santuario" and Betty is telling them that it doesn't matter if she's president of EM, she could be president of the nation but her father would continue to look at her as a little girl. AM says Betty should move out and get her own bachelorette pad. Betty says she's never thought of leaving her house because she knows she's destined to be single the rest of her life. The interrogation starts, they want to know everything. Betty tells them she can't say much because there's a lot of sensitive information involved but they want specifics. Betty tries to answer as much as possible as vaguely as possible, Inez tells them they need to respect that Betty can't answer all their questions. Two guys show up and ask AM and Betty to dance. AM stands up and readily accepts, Betty declines. Inez tells AM that she can't leave because she's with them, Berta tells her that the interrogation isn't over. AM decides to stay and the two guys agree to come back later. (In case anyone is interested the song Bomba from Azul Azul is what was being played only it was a live version. Very fitting as that song is currently being played a lot at antros) The interrogation of an uncomfortable Betty continues.
Armando and Freddy are at a bar. Freddy is pretty drunk but Armando is quite sober (seems he's been drinking his whiskey very slowly). Freddy is asking Armando why he's not back as president and Armando is saying that life goes in cycles and now it is time for Betty to be president but not to worry because he's sure that Betty will do a fine job. Freddy states that the rumor is that Don Armando really screwed up, Armando agrees that this is true, he made many mistakes but he doesn't want to talk about his mistakes right now. Freddy asks how he could be so dumb and says that Armando should have asked for his advice. He goes on to tell Armando that he needs to stop being so stubborn and that he has a temper and he should learn to listen to people because no advisor could withstand such conditions (During all this tirade Armando isn't sure if he should be offended or amused by Freddy, he listens to Freddy very calmly considering the insults he's getting). Freddy tells Armando he has his unconditional support, and he should attempt to regain the presidency. Armando wants to know if Freddy has something against Betty (to me it looked like he didn't like the idea of someone having something against Betty). Freddy says no (Armando looks glad to hear this) especially now that she looks so good and she has been named president (Armando isn't thrilled to be hearing another man compliment Betty, but he's willing to let it go). Freddy leans closer to Armando and says "listen, just between you and me. Have you seen the good hand that Don Nicolas got. Have you looked at her closely, because I have, and with a magnifying glass, and let me tell you that dish is absolutely exquisite 'il bocato di cardinale.'" Armando is not very happy to hear Betty being talked about in this manner. He is quietly fuming, between clenched teeth he asks Freddy "Oh really, you think so?" Freddy notices that Armando didn't like what he said about Betty and asks Armando if he thinks he is being impertinent and disrespectful in the manner in which he spoke of Betty. To which Armando replies that yes, he thinks so. Freddy say, "Me too" and tells Don Armando not to get mad and to forgive him for letting the animal within him show through. Freddy then goes on to say he has nothing against Betty, well actually he's scared of her. Armando wants to know why. Freddy tells him it's not what he thinks, especially now that she looks so good, but rather it's the fear of what she can produce in the others and he goes on to tell Armando about the time the girls went out to celebrate Betty's previous promotion and the time the went to celebrate because Betty's boyfriend had lent her the car and now they are out celebrating Betty's new position as president. Armando seems amused and asks Freddy if he is implying that Betty could be a bad influence on AM. Freddy says "or vice versa. Dr. it worries me." Upon realizing that AM could indeed have an influence on Betty, Armando gets a worried look on his face and says "It worries me too." He asks Freddy wordily "Listen, and do you think they're out partying right now?" Freddy says, "I don't know. I don't even want to imagine it." Armando, still worried, "Me neither." Armando goes on to say (grasping at straws in an effort to calm his worries) "Well they can't stay out too late because they have to work early tomorrow morning." Some woman comes by to say hi to Armando and he politely says hi back but it's obvious his mind is still worried about what Betty might be up to while under the influence of AM. Freddy talks about wanting to know what "his queen" is doing and wanting to see her, to talk to her, and to love her. While Freddy is talking we are seeing Armando's face apparently thinking the same thoughts about Betty. Then Armando seems to get an idea. He asks Freddy if he wants to see what "his queen" is up to. Freddy says, yes and you? Armando says "yes me too" longingly before he realizes what he's saying then he reacts and says he doesn't care what those women are up to right now, what's it to him? Armando tells Freddy he will show him what a great boss he is and drive him over to see what AM is doing. Freddy thanks him and the Armando tells him to go find a phone book to look for the address of "El Santuario" but quickly because he's in a hurry and doesn't have much time.
Betty is still being interrogated about EM. They want to know what Nicolas, her Dad and her lawyers were doing at EM. Betty spins a yarn about being reluctant to come back and sending Nico and her dad in her stead and then having the lawyers come to look over the contract she had to sign when she became president. They change topics and want to know what her leaving and the whole mess at EM had to do with the cancellation of the famous wedding. She says how should she know this happened after she left. The various women offer opinions about what it could have been. The reconciliation comes up and Betty wants to know how long before Marcela and Armando got back together. They tell her not too long, at first they were distant but then one they showed up together as if nothing had happened. Betty is saddened to hear this. AM makes some crass remarks about the reconciliation and what must have happened the night before. Inesita scolds them and tells them not to talk about them in such a manner, that they are a couple with problems, like most others but if in the end they get married it will be a happy ending because love will have triumphed. We see Betty's sad face and were those tears in her eyes?
Inesita reprimands the girls for giving Betty the third degree and discussing and making speculations about Armando and Marcela's relationship. She tells them that the relationship has to have a happy ending since they have been through so much to keep it going. Betty seems sad to hear her words.
Over at the restaurant where Marcela, Patricia and Margarita are having dinner (well, Marcela and Margarita are having dinner; Patricia is pigging out, jejeje), Marcela reminds her cohorts that Betty is extremely hurt by everything Armando did and she has no clue and would not believe that Armando fell in love with her. Margarita comments on Betty's changed looks and how beautiful she looks now. Patricia tries to boots Marcela's confidence by telling her that no matter what Betty did, Marcela still looks better than Betty ... and starts routing off all of Marcela's virtues. But Marcela is realistic and she tells Patricia that Margarita is right ... Betty indeed does look beautiful ... and tells Patricia that she shouldn't dwell too much on the subject. They then discuss the horrible letter of instruction written by Mario and how difficult it would be for Betty to believe in Armando once again. Furthermore, Marcela adds, the last straw was the fact that she told Betty that she and Armando had gotten back together. As a result, Betty doesn't want to work with him or see him anymore. Patricia chimes in that the possibility exists that Mario could tell Betty the entire truth, but Marcela reminds her that Mario himself wrote the letter and therefore he would have no credibility with Betty ... as a matter of fact, she adds, now Armando has no witnesses (as to the fact that he fell in love with Betty). Margarita reminds Marcela that Armando does, in fact, have witnesses, the three of them. But they all conclude that none of them would ever tell Betty the truth. Patricia then makes Marcela uncomfortable by asking how sure she is that Armando won't go near Betty again, and Margarita interjects that Marcela must believe in Armando and in the promises that he made to her of staying away from Betty. She also reminds the other two that Betty wants nothing to do with him and that Marcela should take advantage of this abyss between them to consolidate the relationship.
Freddy and Armando arrive at "El Santuario" ... what looks like a mariachi bar from all the neon signs flashing outside. Freddy is not too happy to see that this is where his 'reinita' went because he can just imagine what she must be doing in there. Armando tells Freddy he must go in and find Aura Maria, but says that he'll stay outside. He gives Freddy some money so that he can catch a taxi and take Aura Maria home ... he also reminds him not to tell anyone that he brought him.
Inside the bar, the members of El Cuartel (some of which have had too much to drink by now, like Sandra) reproach Betty the fact that she never told them where she was going and never bothered to get in touch with them after she left EcoModa. Betty responds that she needed to get away totally and completely for a while to rest and think. The two men that had approached the table previously return and ask Betty and Aura Maria to dance again. Betty, of course, turns them down, but Aura Maria immediately accepts. Inesita steps in and reminds Aura Maria that she owes Freddy some respect and, as an example, tells her to follow Betty's lead ... she is showing respect for her boyfriend, Nicols. Betty jumps in and tells them that she broke up with Nicols but assures them they parted on good terms and remained good friends. Aura Maria goes off to dance with her 'churrasco' and his friend sits down at the table next to Betty. A few seconds later, Freddy walks up to the table, surprising everyone. He asks after Aura Maria, of course, and Sandra immediately tells him that she's in the bathroom and that the bathroom is really far away. As the guy sitting next to Betty asks her to dance again, we see Armando walk up to the table. Everyone stands up on seeing him ... Betty is shocked and El Cuartel asks him why he's there. Armando tells them that he drove Freddy here and Freddy confirms it. Freddy then goes off in search of Aura Maria. The guy next to Betty is extremely persistent and asks her to dance again. Betty firmly tells him that she's not in the mood and asks her to leave her alone. The guy replies, "Feisty, huh?" And Armando steps right up and tells him, with a look that could kill and holding his anger, that she is feisty and that he must respect her wishes. The guy finally gets the point and walks away ... Betty suggests that they leave. At that moment, we see Freddy set eyes on his 'reinita' who is happily dancing away. Freddy walks up to them and demands to know what's going on. Aura Maria comes up with the story that he is her distant cousin, but she and the guy get all mixed up as to where he's supposed to be from. But Freddy is no dummy and tells Aura Maria that he is extremely hurt by her behavior and that their relationship is over. Aura Maria, with tears in her eyes, begins to plead with Freddy and tries to explain, but Freddy is no longer listening. He goes over to El Cuartel's table and calls them all traitors. :o) Betty tells Freddy that he and Aura Maria can resolve their problem outside, this is not the proper place, and once again insists that it's time for them to leave. They all say goodbye to Armando and start to file out, leaving him all alone.
Outside, Freddy and Aura Maria continue their argument and Aura Maria even reminds him of the time that he took Patricia home on his motorcycle. Freddy tells her not to compare ... that this is way worse. Armando also makes it outside as everyone is heading for a taxi, but Armando asks Betty to stay because he needs to talk to her. Betty tries to say no, that they have nothing to say to each other, but El Cuartel, who has heard Armando make his request, tells Betty that she is being bad-mannered and she should listen to Don Armando. A reticent Betty finally acquiesces and:
Armando -- Betty, since you left EcoModa, we haven't been able to talk, you haven't let me.
Betty -- We've already discussed everything we had to discuss at the board meeting ... there's nothing else to say.
Armando -- You know that's not true. I think there are many unresolved matters, many matters that have to be cleared up and, believe me, I've been anxiously waiting for this moment.
Betty -- You came here to bring Freddy, not to talk to me.
Armando -- I came to bring Freddy because I knew that you were here. Beatriz, I'm not going to explain every single statement of that sinister letter of instruction that ended up in your hands, I simply wanted you to know that I didn't write it.
Betty -- I know that you didn't write that letter, just like you didn't write the cards that you gave me every day ... the words ... the phrases you told me were not yours. That's very clear to me, doctor.
Armando -- That's not the way it is, Beatriz.
Betty -- Then it was all made up by Dr. Caldern. Look, Don Armando, you don't have to try so hard, really, your company is safe. If I'm going to manage it now is because that's the decisions you reached. And as soon as all the debts are paid off, I'll give it back. You don't have to make up excuses and explanations for which I haven't asked. Goodbye, doctor.
Armando -- Beatriz, I haven't finished speaking, please ...
Betty -- But I have!
Armando (stops her from leaving again) -- Beatriz, I know you must be hating me, I understand everything you feel against me, but we are going to have to spend the next 6 months together. Let's come to an understanding.
Betty -- The understanding has already been reached, doctor. We will see each other every time there's a board meeting where I have to report the status of the company.
Armando -- No, Beatriz! That's not the way it will be. I won't stay away from the company, I'm not going to stand by and do nothing.
Betty -- Then what do you aspire to, doctor?
Armando (with big, soulful, pleading brown eyes) -- I know it's hard, but I'm hoping that you don't hate me. I'm aware of all my mistakes, Beatriz. I know I behaved like an imbecile, very arrogantly ... like a madman. I know that by reason of trying to reach my goals I walked over everybody. Only God knows how much it horrifies me to think how far I could have gone. The worst part of it is when I think about all of the hurt I caused you and the hurt I ended up inflicting on myself. Beatriz, I crashed against the world. Maybe I needed it, but I crashed against the world and now I'm paying in the most horrible manner all of my sins and crimes. And in the midst of that, you know ... you know that probably crashing against the world was the best thing that could happen to me, even if I brought down too many people with me, the people that I love.
Betty (totally calm, despite having heard Armando's admission) -- Before I came back to Bogot to face all of this, I forgave you. I don't feel hate for you anymore. Even after all of the hurt that you caused me, I forgave you ... your games, your words, the illusion, your caresses, your cards. I forgave the fact that I was blamed and that they made me leave through the back door of EcoModa. As a matter of fact, right now I'm forgiving you for the fact that you went to my house to scream at my father that I was going to steal your company.
Armando -- Betty, I didn't know where you were. I didn't have news, I was crazed!!! What else did you want me to do?!?
Betty -- I forgive the fact you that you brought my family into all of this for they are sacred to me. But I forgive you with one condition: that you stay away from me, that you let me live in peace.
Armando -- I will let you live in peace. I know now that you forgave me, but you have to know one more thing ... you are facing a brand new man, a changed man. Beatriz, look, I don't want you to remember me as the man that hurt you. I want you to see me as the man that is learning probably the hardest lesson of his life.
Betty -- I'm not interested in meeting that man, doctor. The only thing that I want is that no one find out that you were here, and that no one know of this coversation ... please, doctor.
Armando (looking at El Cuartel) -- I think that's going to be difficult. This is a first, but we have witnesses.
Betty -- I will talk to them. The only thing that I ask of you, doctor, is that Doa Marcela never find out that you were here. I don't want to hurt her anymore or to cause her to feel fear because the story between you and me may repeat itself. I don't want you to risk your relationship because of me ... I can imagine it was difficult to go back with her and for her to accept you.
Armando -- Things are not what they seem!
Betty -- Please, doctor, don't give me any more explanations. I'm not asking for any. We'll see each other in court tomorrow and we'll talk.
Armando (almost desperately now) -- No, look Betty, you have to listen to me!! Damn it, Beatriz!!! What I'm going to tell you may sound ridiculous, maybe cynical and maybe I shouldn't tell you ... but you have to know. I still love you with all of the stregth of my soul!!!!
Betty (not conceding one inch, despite the look of anguish on her face) -- You know what? It didn't sound strange, just cynical. And that shows me that you haven't changed at all, that you're still the same person.
Armando (pleading) -- Betty, please, you must be thinking that with Marcela ...
Armando's cell phone rings, but Armando doesn't answer, he stares at Betty instead ...
Betty -- Answer it, doctor. It must be her. Please don't hurt her any more ... and leave me alone.
Freddy calls Betty because their taxis have arrived.
Armando (as Betty turns away) -- I love you!! I love you!!!!!
Betty looks at Armando one last time over her shoulder and walks over to where El Cuartel is, by the taxis. Armando answers the phone and tells Marcela that he's with Mario Caldern and then asks Marcela where she is. Marcela tells him they're now leaving the restaurant and she's heading for her apartment. Armando tells her that he'll meet her there. He hangs up, resigned to his fate ... a fate that he has created.
Margarita, Marcela and a Patty with indigestion :o) get up from the table and get ready to leave the restaurant. Patricia asks Marcela if Armando is behaving, and Marce responds that it seems that he is.
Betty ask El Cuartel to please be discreet about Armando's presence here tonight. When they ask why (after all, they're under the impression that he came here only for Freddy's sake), Betty tells them that his presence at a bar might create problems with Doa Marcela since they have just gotten back together. They agree not to say a word. Armando watches Betty sadly get into one of the taxis.
PART 5
Betty arrives home to find Don Hermes waiting up for her wrapped in his usual blanket :o). He begins to chastise Betty for getting home so late and reminds her that as long as she lives under his roof she still has to follow his rules ... rules which are unbreakable. Betty just looks at him patiently while Doa Julia appears and asks him to leave Betty alone. Don Hermes does as he's asked and remarks that at least now he can rest at ease since his little girl came home safe and sound. Once alone, Doa Julia and Betty discuss the happenings at EcoModa. Betty gives her mother all of the details of the day ... she even tells her that Don Armando and Doa Marcela got back together and it probably won't be long before they get married. Doa Julia, upon noticing her daughter's anguished face, tells her that the coming months will be extremely difficult and advises Betty to stay as far away from Don Armando as possible. And then:
Betty -- Of course, tonight he came to the place where I was celebrating with my friends.
Doa Julia -- What do you mean he came there? What was that all about?
Betty -- He told me that he had brought Freddy, the messenger, to get his girlfriend, Aura Maria ... (sarcastically) do you believe that story? Well, the fact of the matter is that he told me he had to talk to me, that since I had left EcoModa there were many things that had been left unclear, that he had changed a lot, that he knew that he had made mistakes, he told me he still loved me ...
Doa Julia -- And why did that man say those things to you? Is he crazy?!? Or do you think that he ...
Betty -- No mom!! You don't know him. He's a manipulator. He probably said all of those things because he still thinks that I'm in love with him, it's his way of making sure that I don't do anything to harm him or his company ... because after all, the company and his future are in my hands and he must be afraid that I hate him and that I want to take revenge.
Doa Julia -- Then even with more reason ... stay far away from that man!!! That man will not leave you in peace Betty. (Then with a knowing look at Betty): You still love him, isn't that right?
Betty remains quiet, but her eyes and her gestures give her away. She slowly nods her head, a little ashamed, I think.
Armando arrives at Marcela's apartment. He looks like a totally defeated man. He slowly walks in the direction of Marcela's bedroom ... and it shows he doesn't want to but he is somehow doing his duty. Marcela begins her usual interrogation and Armando tells her that he was with Mario Caldern. Armando is able to interject a question of his own and asks Marcela what she, Patricia and his mother talked about. Marcela, a little evilly it seemed to me, confesses that they were discussing him ... and the effect Beatriz's return would have on him. Armando gets upset at the fact that his intimacy is now in the claws of Patricia Fernndez. But Marcela reminds him that that's not as bad as her intimacy having been in hands of Mario Caldern (tit for tat, huh, Marcela?). Marcela tells Armando that Margarita is very worried about Beatriz's return and her proximity to Armando ... especially because she came back so changed, so beautiful. And ...
Marcela -- And what did you feel when you saw her walk in?
Armando doesn't answer, he remains silent and looks down at the bed.
Marcela (persistent) -- I just want to know where I stand with you, how everything has changed. I never thought that she would work at EcoModa or in proximity to you.
Armando -- Nothing has changed, Marcela, nothing. You know perfectly well that I can't go back with her, that things between us didn't work out, that terrible things happened, things that are unforgivable. And you also know that she now wants us (referring to himself and Mario) far away from EcoModa. What is the problem?
Marcela -- Does that mean you already gave up the idea of getting her back?
Armando (extremely hesitantly) – Ye .. ee ... s. (He didn't sound too convincing; he must still have it at the back of his mind).
Marcela -- Okay, I believe you. Would you like something to eat?
Armando -- I'm not hungry ...
Marcela -- Okay. Well, then let me finish putting away and organizing all this stuff and then we'll continue talking.
Armando -- Organizing what?
Marcela -- The wedding things ... the veil, the trousseau, some gifts that I never gave back and they were just laying around and I decided to organize them. Of course, I could have also thrown them in the garbage, since it seems that all of the effort is on my part ...
Armando (not very happy with the subject of the wedding, feeling the guilt trip that Marcela is trying to lay) -- No, Marce, no Marce, I ...
Marcela -- Don't worry about it, relax and rest. (After you said all of that, Marcela??)
Marcela pushes him back on the bed and starts kissing him. Armando's eyes are open at all times and he barely responds ... it looks like this whole scene is nauseating him and he wants Marcela off of him. Armando moves his face to the side, trying to avoid Marcela's kisses. As that scene is developing, we hear the overplay of Betty's voice as she's writing in her diary ...
"It was demolishing to me to know that Don Armando went back with her. I thought that I was ready to receive those news, somehow I knew it would happen, that Don Armando, after that disaster with the letter would put all of his effort in trying to get Doa Marcela back ... yes I knew it would happen! It's the logical thing, but the brain can never rule the heart, because the heart is not rational and mine, where he is concerned, has no dignity. (We switch over to Betty writing in her diary). Tonight it beat, beat like it hadn't done for a long time, just by looking at him, by only listening to his voice I felt so weak. My heart doesn't want to accept the logic of the disaster. If I were immune to everything that Don Armando does to me … but my heart's a traitor that keeps beating when I see him and is not able to distinguish another traitor when he's in front of me. I know I have to be strong, like my mother told me. It will be 6 infernal months. I have to stay far away from him because I want to keep my promises to her (Marcela) and also somehow regain some dignity. I just beg that he back down from his words, his looks ... they hurt me so much. I beg that he understand that, above all things, I buried any possibility of renewing my relationship with him ..."
Morning has dawned in Bogot and we find an elegantly dressed Betty putting on makeup in front of her mirror. Doa Julia walks in and asks her if she will see Don Armando today and Betty answers that she will ... they have to go to court for the conciliation. Betty asserts (as if her mother had asked her and trying to convince herself at the same time) that she is not dressing up for Don Armando's benefit ... it's because of her new job as President (right, Betty!!!). Doa Julia tells Betty that Nicols and her father are waiting for her downstairs and Betty says that all she needs to do is change her things to her new bag. As she begins to do that, Julia notices the picture that Betty took with Michel in Cartagena and, of course, asks who the man in the picture is. Betty tells him it's a Frenchman, a friend of Doa Catalina's that she met in Cartagena ... that he was very nice to her. Doa Julia tells her daughter that she should put the picture away in a safe place because if Don Hermes sees it, he'll have a fit. She also tells her that she should put away her diary in a more guarded place because, like her, Don Hermes might be tempted to read it. Betty takes the diary and puts it in her bag, along with the picture. Oh-oh ...
Over in Marcela's apartment, we see Armando in front of the bathroom mirror splashing on the cologne ... he looks positively dashing! He's got on a brown suit with a white shirt and pink (maybe peach) tie. Upon noticing the way he's dressed today (dressed to impress, most certainly!) Marcela asks him where he's going. Armando reminds her that he's got to go to court today for the conciliation. He gives her a peck on the cheek and tells her he'll see her later ... he doesn't know where because he's unsure as to whether he'll go to EcoModa today. As he leaves, Marcela looks after him with a worried look on her face ...
Downstairs at the Pinzn household, Nicols shows off his suite to Don Hermes and reminds him that he's dressing the part as the new vice president of finance of EcoModa. Nicols doesn't let the opportunity go by and criticizes Don Hermes "only suit". Don Hermes tells him that he doesn't only have one suit, he has a few. Nicols retorts, "And they all look the same, right, Don Hermes?" LOL! Betty finally makes it down, just when Don Hermes threatens to let Nicols make his way to court by bus and not in his car. With that, Don Hermes goes outside to warm up the engine. Once Nico and Betty are alone, Betty tells Nicols that she told El Cuartel that he is no longer her boyfriend. Nico responds, tongue in cheek, "Now that fixed yourself you don't want me anymore?" Betty laughs and tells him that she told everyone that they had broken up in good terms and had remained good friends. They exit the house on their way to court.
It is morning and Betty and Nicolas are getting ready for their first day of work. Nicolas asks Betty to tell him if he's dressed like a Vice President, and Betty smiling replies by asking him if what he wants to know is whether he looks good for la peliteida, then the answer is yes, he looks good! Oh, that's good, because she hates me, Nicolas says, but I still have to project a good image so that she can see what she missed, an elegant man who was there for an elegant and distinguished woman. Smiling they both exit Betty's house.
A SIDEWALK IN BOGOTA
Patricia is whining to herself, as she walks up an overpass. She is talking outloud wondering how she is going to get to Ecomoda, since she hardly has any money. Her cellular phone rings, and it startles her. It is Marcela.
Patricia-Marce, how do scare me like this, Marce?
Marcela-Where are you?
Patricia-Here, on a dangerous overpass, wondering how I'm going to get to Ecomoda
Marcela-I'm very sorry, but you can no longer have the luxury of getting late to work. Look don't give Beatriz a reason to get rid of you. At least come early today. You could do that when we were running the company, but if you wanto to keep your job now, don't get here late!
Patricia- But Marce, the money I have is not enough!, you are going to have to give me some for a taxi!
Marcela- Ah no!, everyday I give you money for a taxi.
Patricia-But Marce, all I have is coins, I would have to go by bus!
Marcela-Perfect, come by bus! and she hangs up.
Patricia-Marce, Marce!. She looks at her phone and then says, "Me in a bus?"
THE HALLS OF THE COURTHOUSE
Santamaria is talking to Armando and to Betty's lawyers. Santamaria explains that he has already given the paperwork to the judge, and that now he (Armando) Beatriz, and Mr. Mora need to talk to the judge. Betty's lawyer Sanchez explains (after bragging about how good a friend he is of the judge) that the judge is very upset because he does not understand what they are trying to do. Armando asks Sanchez to explain further but in clear words, because he is nervous about this; is the judge not going to accept the conciliation? Armando asks. Sanchez-ok I will explain. In the far background you can see Betty, Don Hermes and Nicolas approaching. Betty is dressed very much like an executive. She is wearing a gray suit, with a pale blue blouse. She is wearing clear hoses and high heels. As she walks towards the group, in a typical Betty Pinzon move, she stumbles a bit, having to hold to Don Hermes' arm, she does a little one of her laughs but quietly, as she looks at her father. Don Hermes also smiles as he holds her! By this point the are right behind Sanchez. Armando and Santamaria are facing them. Sanchez hearing them, turns around and says-Dra. Pinzon, what a pleasure!, how are you? as he shakes her hand.
Betty-How are you? she shakes his hand and then his partners'.
Sanchez then introduces himself to Don Hermes as they also exchange handshakes. While these greetings are going on. A SEMI-DRAMATIC MUSIC IS HEARD, A CLOSE UP ON ARMANDO'S FACE. HE IS MESMERIZED BY BETTY!. HE IS LOOKING AT HER, CLEARLY MOVED BY HER APPEARANCE. BETTY ALSO LOOKS AT HIM NERVOUSLY, AS SHE TRIES TO AVOID HIS EYES. AS SHE IS LOOKING AT THE OTHERS THERE IS A CLOSE UP ON HER FACE AND ONE CAN SEE THAT SHE IS VERY AWARE THAT ARMANDO'S EYES ARE UPON HER. ARMANDO WHO HAS BEEN QUIET UNTIL NOW SAYS:
Armando-Betty, Hello!
Betty-Good morning doctor. (she takes a quick deep breath)
Armando eyes move from her face downward, as he stares in obvious admiration. Don Hermes is noticing, and Armando senses this, as he adds.
Armando-Good morning Don Hermes
Don Hermes-How are you sir?
Armando-Fine, but I think we are going to have problems. The judge is undecided about our reconciliation.
Betty-Why?
Sanchez-Excuse me doctors, as he steps between Armando and Santamaria literally pushing them a bit. Excuse me, (he continues) but I want to explain to the little doctorcita (Betty) Pinzon- As I was saying earlier, I am a friend of the honorable judge that's running this case, and he feels that your are playing with the judicial system. He doesn't understand what's happening here, but I think the best thing to do here is to go inside and explain things to him, I've been a very good friend of his for many years, so I could convince him, I have had many cases with him previously...(as he is glorifying himself Betty is clearly not very convinced by his words, neither is Armando as he asks
Armando-and have you won those cases?
Sanchez-Ehhh Ehhhh, well let's hope we have better luck with this one. Let's go inside, let's go.
They all go to see the judge and Sanchez pulls his partner to the side and asks him why he has been so quiet and has not helped him. The partner explains that he is very distracted thinking of Patricia. Sanchez explains that to be able to continue to see those two beautiful women at Ecomoda they have to keep this case.
THE OVERPASS
Patricia is talking to her self outloud. She is asking why, why she has to ride a bus. Then she wonders which bus she has to take. A stranger passes by her and she asks him to explain how to get to Ecomoda. The guy doesn't even know what Ecomoda is. She then explains the area of town and he indicates which bus she should take. As such bus is arriving she has to run (in her high heels) to get the bus. She cuts in line in front of everybody, disregarding them, and she then has to ask how much it costs. She begins to talk loudly complaining about "how expensive" it is. She is holding the line of people trying to get on the bus and the driver tells her so. She pays, and the bus driver tells her to go to the back as he touches her leg. She gets very upset with him threatening to sue him. She is bumping into other people (because the bus is really full) as she puts a face of panic!.
JUDGE'S CHAMBER
They are all sitting facing the judge who sits behind his desk. Betty and Armando are sitting next to each other in the front. The judge is looking over papers as he says:
Judge-Definitely I don't understand either one of you representatives of either side.
Armando looks at Betty, as she is focusing on the judge, who continues...
Judge-Terramoda uses the courts for justice. It asks this office to go on with the process, and as we are about to enter the "remate" phase, you come here and ask for a reconciliation?, Please!
Betty's attorneys in the background begin to speak at the same time, and the judge is clearly not happy as he motions with his hands for some order. Betty and Armando give them a look also. The men soon quiet when a lady comes in and begins to give them each some coffee. Armando turns back to face the judge and says.
Armando-Your Honor, we have reached an agreement. We want to have a reconciliation.
Judge-Yes, I know, you want it for six months. Looking at Betty. Are you sure?
Betty-Yes Your Honor, Mr. Armando and I reached an agreement.
Judge-Well, then in the next six months Ecomoda is in the obligation to pay Terramoda every month it's responsibilities that were made in the agreement.
Sanchez-Definitively, I agree...
Judge-Excuse me Doctor (talking to Sanchez) I'm talking.
Sanchez-Doctor forgive me. (as he sits, Sanchez pours booze into his coffee).
Judge-Thank you, very kind of you. He then continues. Should you have any additional problems, or try to use the court to do your job, there will be no more exceptions and there will be no more reconciliations and the court will do the "remate".
Betty's lawyers and Don Hermes all begin to talk at the same time, trying to assure the judge that that won't be the case. Betty and Armando seem a bit exhasperated by their behavior, as Armando looks back at the judge and says.
Armando-Your Honor, we have simply gotten to an agreement, that we consider will be definite. And we have gotten to an agreement with LA DOCTORA PINZON... (he has difficulty saying this words, he kind of stumbles on the words as he looks at Betty) He then moves his hands which he has been using while he talks towards the arm rest of his chair and ACCIDENTALLY TOUCHES BETTY'S HAND. AS IF HIT BY ELECTRICITY BETTY RETIRES HER HAND QUICKLY PLACING IT OVER HER LAPS. ARMANDO QUICKLY LOOKS AT THEIR HANDS AND BACK AT THE JUDGE AS HE CONTINUES...
Armando ...and I think this is definite, right? He asks Betty.
Betty- (now it is she who speaks kind of hesitant at first) Yes, both of us reached agreements, which are clear and definite.
(Don Hermes pats Betty's shoulder showing his support)
Judge-Well in that case I will not delay this any longer.
They all get up to leave, except Betty and Armando who are kind of staring at the judge, as Sanchez is trying to invite the judge out to lunch. The judge explains to Sanchez that he has a hallway full of cases waiting. Betty and Armando get up simultaneously, and Armando lets Betty walk in fron of him.
STAIRWAY IN THE COURTHOUSE
Betty and Armando head the group as they come down the steps. Sanchez (who sounds tipsy) says:
Sanchez-I hope the judge's decision has remained absolutly clear to both of you. There must be lots of peace! Lots of Love among you!
He stops them at the middle of the stairs, as the rest of the group continue pass them.
Sanchez-Reconciling is a golden rule of the modern laws... Right Don Hermes? (Don Hermes is passing by Betty at this point, and he says yes, yes, but hearing that SAnchez is like giving a sermon, Don Hermens continues walking away from them. Armando is quiet listening, as Betty is also looking in disbelief at Sanchez who is inspired, giving them the lecture
Sanchez-...The reconciliation should be among both of you a sacred act!, an act of faith!, and act of comprehension that should be translated into an act of mutual respect!
Both Armando and Betty keep looking at Sanchez and then in front of them (avoiding each other's eyes). They are both silent.
Sanchez- ...We only have six more months to get out of this my dear doctors, thus, lots of peace, lots of love, lots of love!
Betty-(looking at Sanchez) yes, yes, Doctor, thank you veery much for everything, everything is going to end well. She turns to leave as she kind of widens her eyes, and Sanchez stops her
Sanchez-Excuse me my dear little doctora, am I sensing a kind of good-bye here? Betty stops and looks at him seriously.
Sanchez-With all the respect you deserve me, I want to remind you that as long as this case is opened, I continue being the attorney of this noble cause!
Armando continues just standing there at the stairs staring at Betty. Betty continues looking at Sanchez waiting for the point to be made.
Sanchez-...therefore, I respectfully will need to remind you that I will need to continue to be given my humble payments.
Betty-Of course doctor!, she assures him.
Sanchez-Well good, my dear doctora, although you are not giving me an upfront payment today, to continue matters (Armando looks at him in disbelief widening his eyes) ...but it's ok, no problem, everything is fine!
Betty turns to leave once again and this time her other lawyer Rosales, stops her.
Rosales-My dear doctora, I would like to ask you a favor, could you take this small present to that blonde you have as a secretary?
Betty-(taking a small box with a card) Ah, Patricia Fernandez?
Rosales-Yes, exactly her!. Please tell her that it is sent by Jose Ambrosio Rosales, and that my card is included with all my phone numbers. Betty is speechless as she smiles a bit, and he excuses himself to leave.
Betty-Yes you are excused, go on.
Rosales goes and grabs Sanches by the arm as he updates him on what he has just done. Sanchez then tells him that he is going to have to catch up by trying to do something sweet for his dear Amazone woman.(Sandra), but now, lets dedicate ourselves to celebrate (go drinking) because we are still employed. They both leave kind of arguing about who is going to pay.
Santamaria approaches Armando smiling.
Santamaria-Well Dr.Armando, if you need anything, I will be at my office.
Armando-Thank you
Santamaria-Dra.Pinzon, lots of luck!
Betty-Thank you.
He leaves as he says goodbyes to Nicolas and Don Hermes. Don Hermes, Betty and Nicolas get ready to also leave as Armando who is still there calls.
Armando-Betty, could I speak a moment with you?
Betty looks at him with doub in her face
Armando-...it's about some business matters of Ecomoda.
Betty-Yes, of course.
Don Hermes doesn't look very happy but he and Nicolas politely leave their side.
Armando- I will not speak to you about anything personal, because last night our situation became very clear...
Betty nods in agreement
Armando...I simply want to speak to you about my situation at Ecomoda. I know you don't want to see me over there...
Betty interrupts- It's for the best, as she turns to leave.
Armando- OK, Betty, OK. I only want to tell you that I can't remain with just my arms crossed (doing nothing) Beatriz, I have to help regain the capital, to pay the debts...
Betty-I know perfectly well what I have to do, Doctor. Thank you very much! She turns to leave again
Armando-raising his voice ARE YOU GOING TO LET ME TALK? Don Hermes and Nicolas hear him and look at him. Betty stops and looks at them and then at Armando who realizes what he's done and he adds.
Armando-I'm sorry! He calms down and continues as Betty is listening again.
Armando-Beatriz, I wanted to say that this financial disaster was created by me!
Betty-Doctor, I have never denied my responsibility in all this, nor in having accepted all the proposals you made to me.
Armando-No, but I am not talking about your responsibilities, I am talking about my responsibilities. (by now Don Hermes has come to stand behind Betty and he is listening)
Armando-...that is why I need you to help me (Don Hermes goes back to talk to Nico)...I have a business plan a strategy that I know will work, but I am going to need your support at first. I need to have physical access to Ecomoda.(Don Hermes comes back to stand behind Betty)... I need you to lend me an office for a few days, while I find a space elsewhere.
Betty- Do you want your office?
Armando-No, of course not, I was thinking of Mario's office, and if you could lend me a secretary for a few days, maybe Sandra, I would appreciate it.
Betty-And would Dr. Calderon also be there?
Armando-(hesitating on his answer), yes, I am going to need him.
Betty- Well, I really can't deny you entry at Ecomoda, Doctor. You are still an associate and... Betty-(with a sigh) Look Doctor, take Calderon's office, but (and she looks back to make sure Nicolas and Don Hermes are not listening, she lowers her voice adding) I implore to you, that you remain away from me, please. (she turns to leave again)
Armando-I assure you we will only talk whatever is absolutely necessary.
Bettty-(coming back towards Armando with an afterthought) Oh you know what Doctor, I want to tell you something. You have a business strategy and I have another one, that I am going to propose today in the meeting at Ecomoda, I don't want to wait six months to solve this situation, I want to do it in half the time. The idea is to put both strategies to work together so we can get rid of this "karma"(?) as soon as possible.
Armando-Yes, don't worry, I am going to try to liberate us from all this as soon as possible!
Betty-I'll expect you at the meeting.
Armando-Thank you very much. Excuse me!
Don Hermes- You are excused GENTLEMAN! (then looking at Betty) my daughter, shall we leave?
Betty-Yes, of course father.
Don Hermes- I will go for the car (looking at Nicolas)take care of her!
Nicolas-What did that gentleman want? (refering to Armando)
Betty-I'll tell you later, but the case is that I'm not going to be as far away from him as I wanted to.
Nicolas_And what is that? A gift?
Betty-Ah, it's a small present for your peliteida (and she laughs-her funny laugh). lol
Nicolas-How is that?
Betty smiles at him
Nicolas-Betty how is this tie? Does it look good on me?
Betty-(smiling and speaking dearly to Nicolas) I already told you that she is going to love your tie.
Nicolas-(pulling out his tie from the suit) and what if she uses it to strangle me?
Betty-(getting serious she puts her hand in Nicolas' arm as they begin to leave) Today I have to decide on the future of the peliteida!
PART 6
CID
