Original subtitles

I told you, an image is worth a thousand words.

- Raúl! - Tomorrow the photo of Princess Grace

leaving the store will be in all the papers.

At this rate, we'll have made our investment back within the month.

- Let's focus on the new collection. - First we need to find a new designer.

- Raúl de la Riva is too expensive. - I can't allow you to let him go.

No, you're the manager. It's your obligation, not ours.

I know you made the decision.

Alberto was just your front man.

I won't charge you a penny

until my designs are selling like hot cakes.

I know a woman.

She has a small boutique in Silva Street.

Doña Aurora, I've brought you this dress.

The store called a few hours ago. They've sold your dress.

Three more dresses for tomorrow.

She asked for the designer's name. You'll have to invent one.

Phillipe Ray.

Manolito's mother is taking him to Germany.

She can't just take him away whenever she fancies.

- Yes she can. She's his mother. - You're his father.

Come here.

Pedro kissed you?

Just like that, out of the blue.

Manolito called me.

He sounded sad. He said he missed me.

- Are you going to Germany? - Rita.

- I wanted to tell you something. - What?

I love you!

- Who are you meeting for dinner? - Sergio Casals, an admirer.

And he's a film producer too.

- Good news? - Yes.

Sergio got me an audition for an ad.

It's time to celebrate.

I'm sick of girls like her, Mateo.

Getting you hot and bothered like a cheap whore--

I used to think like you,

that it was best not to define things. But I've never felt this way before.

It turns out I love you.

Clara, you're a wonderful girl.

And I've done things for you I've never done for any woman.

- Why isn't that enough for you? - Maybe I was mistaken about you.

I have a wedding coming up, I need a date.

That and... I can't live without you.

- Are you OK? - I've skipped two periods.

Are you pregnant?

Luisa, why did you leave like that?

- She's pregnant. - What?

I'm sorry, Luisa. I couldn't help it.

But, why should I? It's good news.

- No. No, it's not. - Luisa,

sometimes things don't go as planned.

We can't change them, but we have to look on the bright side.

Maybe we can change them.

Doña Paulina, it's Luisa. I have the money.

Let's play a game. We each have to ask a question.

But you have to be 100% honest, that's the point.

Shoot.

Why did your father send you to study in London?

Because I fell in love with the wrong girl.

It seems I wasn't his first love.

His father decided the girl wasn't a suitable match.

That's why he sent him to London.

You asked Gloria to be Matron of honour?

- Gloria's your mother. - Gloria's not my mother,

and she's the last person I want at the altar.

Let's talk about this at the club later.

I don't like that club or those people! It's your world, Cristina, not mine.

We may have to cancel the wedding. We've never fought like this before.

It's probably just pre-wedding jitters, it's normal.

Alberto is like all men.

He needs his space, his habits

and his little secrets.

Alberto?

Things are changing. My life was always the store and you.

The one time I left the store was to go to Paris with you.

I forgot how well we got along.

Alberto?

Cristina.

Here you are.

Is this a private party I'm missing?

We just wanted some fresh air.

Well I hope you've got enough because your public is waiting for you.

The toast!

Cristina!

Let's go!

Where were you?

We've been waiting for you.

They say that when a daughter gets married, you don't lose her,

rather you gain a son.

With Alberto, I'm not just gaining a son.

I'm also gaining a partner.

But the most important thing tonight

isn't the long awaited union between the families Otegui and Márquez,

it's that my darling daughter's dream has finally come true.

I hope that all the days you have together

are as happy as this one.

To Cristina and Alberto.

To the bride and groom!

No, no, don't run off!

A few words from the bride and groom.

- I can do it if you like. - No.

Thank you, Dad.

I'm speechless.

"Compassionate Lies"

It's OK.

I'm sorry, it's just...

I'm a silly crybaby.

Thank you so much for coming. Thank you so much, all of you.

Thank you.

Thank you. Good night.

I went to get some fresh air. I bumped into Ana.

I wanted to thank her for everything her and Raúl have done.

That's all.

It's her, isn't it?

What?

Her. Your first love. The reason you went to London.

- What's that got to do with it? - You haven't answered me.

Because it's irrelevant. Ana and I were just talking.

And since when are you so intimate with a seamstress?

I'd never imagined you were so close.

You're mistaken.

Alberto, don't lie to me.

As I told you in Paris, I'll accept anything except lies.

Don't ever lie to me.

I want the truth.

Tell me truth now or I swear I'll go back in there

and she'll be the one doing the explaining.

Fine.

- She caught you in the act? - What happened?

Cristina saw us together.

I'll leave you alone.

Great! Perfect!

And now you're waiting for everything to blow up

so you can get back together with him, aren't you?

- What? - If this gets out it'll be good for you.

Bankrupt, everyone will lose their jobs but the way will be clear for you.

I gave up Alberto for the good of the store.

Believe it or not I have no interest in this getting out.

Would you sacrifice yourself for your friend like I have?

We'll see about that.

Thank God you're here!

- What's going on here? - An absurd misunderstanding.

The worst thing is it had to happen for me to have the courage

to tell the truth.

- What truth? - Ana and I.

We're together.

I've acted like an idiot all this time.

Trying to deny something that's as real as life itself.

I'm in love with Ana.

Totally and completely in love with Ana.

So...

He...

He was your boyfriend?

- Cristina, please. - No, no.

That's it. All done.

Everything looks fine.

If you have some bleeding, don't worry.

It's normal.

No, no, don't move.

I'll find my way out.

You need to rest.

I almost ruined everything.

I acted like a hysterical, jealous bride.

That's not me, Alberto, it's just I'm so nervous.

This wedding is driving us all crazy.

I was about to...

about to call it all off.

But then I imagined my life without you.

And I couldn't do it.

I can't live without you, darling.

Please,

promise me we'll always be together.

Promise me, please.

We're getting married.

What more promises do you need?

Ana!

Ana! Rita!

Goodness!

Everything was so calm before Don Alberto came back from London...

Why should I get caught up in all this?

And with Mateo. He can't stand me.

I don't think you're going to be the only victim of this farce.

My sister. She's head over heels in love with him and...

And?

They're sort of together. She's not going to like this, Ana.

This is going to cause big problems, let me tell you.

And you haven't told me the most important thing.

Why were you kissing again?

Luisa?

Luisa! Luisa! Luisa, oh my God!

- Help! - Oh my God!

Luisa!

- Luisa, answer me. - Doña Blanca!

- What are you shouting about, Rita? - Luisa is...

- What about Luisa? - Come with me, please.

What's going on?

What happened?

Rita, call a doctor. Everyone back to their rooms!

- Doña Blanca, Luisa is pregnant. - Not anymore I'm afraid.

We have to get her out of here. Help me.

Luisa.

The doctor.

Leave us alone, please.

Come on, please leave.

Rita.

Thank you, doctor.

How is she, Doña Blanca?

How long had you known?

- With all due respect, I don't think-- - I don't care what you think.

If this gets out how will it look? I'm responsible for you!

- We're not children. - Oh, really?

Your friend almost bled to death. How could you have let this happen?

How could you think doing something like that was a good idea?

Something like what?

Can we see her now?

Five minutes. That's all.

You scared us to death.

I'm sorry.

Now you just need to get well.

- Why didn't you say anything? - Rita, now's not the time.

No, she's right. I should have told you, but...

you seemed so happy for me.

I couldn't live with this.

It would've been too hard to even look at the child.

- I'm sorry - It's over now.

I wanted to be a mother, but not like this. Not like this.

- Luisa. - Come in.

How are you?

Fine, I'm better. Thanks.

If you need anything...

I've got my two nurses here.

Then I'll let you rest.

The truth is I'd rather...

- Be alone? - Yes.

We'll come back later, OK?

Thank you.

I'm going to have a shower, wake myself up,

I haven't slept a wink all night.

Well, not all night.

What? With everything with Pedro and then Luisa...

I can't stop thinking about it.

But what about Pedro?

He already said he loved you.

No. I don't know.

He said something, but we don't know what.

I don't want to get my hopes up, Ana,

maybe he said "wait for me" meaning he doesn't want me to get another boyfriend,

as if the offers were flooding in.

Or maybe "wait for me" meaning come to pick me up at the station.

Life's complicated!

Indeed.

But look at us,

we live in a store, and we're poor and single.

Things aren't exactly on our side.

It might be hard, but we can do it! I know we can!

Is something wrong, Doña Blanca?

No, nothing. One of my seamstresses

is unwell.

I just came to ask you

to get all your workers together first thing in the morning.

We're starting a new season

and I wanted to speak to the staff.

Very well.

Don Emilio.

With Don Alberto's wedding just around the corner

today's a very busy day.

Especially without Pedro here to do the deliveries.

Don't worry, I'll tell Lucas

to come down here and help you however he can.

I was thinking of Maximiliano, if it's not a problem for you.

Last night he gave me a hand in the workroom and he was very efficient.

As you wish.

Thank you. I'll let the girls know.

In a few minutes we'll be opening Velvet's doors.

All eyes are on us again,

so any mistake,

no matter how small, will be impossible to cover up.

Therefore,

we will be needing even more

from each and every one of you.

Don't forget it.

Don Alberto, I didn't know you were here.

Perhaps you wanted to say something.

No, Don Emilio. I couldn't have done it better myself.

Watching you I realized how many mistakes I've made during this time.

I thought my attitude and my new ideas

would count more than my inexperience.

But I was wrong.

The circumstances weren't good.

You inherited a ruined business.

My father always said that life makes sure

to turn everything upside down.

After everything that's happened, I suppose he was right.

I hope to see you at the church tomorrow.

Thank you.

Ana.

Don't say anything, Alberto.

You're getting married tomorrow.

You were looking for me?

Yes.

As of today you'll be taking over Pedro's duties as porter.

Very well.

I'm glad you're happy about it.

I don't think your colleagues would be so pleased to find themselves in your shoes.

Why wouldn't I be, Doña Blanca?

Do you think this is going to be easy?

Follow me.

Take these fabrics to the storeroom

and order them by name and date of arrival.

I want it done before midday.

And I hope you'll have delivered the morning's mail

that's in the office by then.

Here are the addresses where you have to deliver the parcels.

Parcels too?

What did you think a porter did?

Lounge around all day?

The wedding's tomorrow and all these orders need to be delivered today.

- Come and pick them up later. - Anything else, Doña Blanca?

Of course. This is just the beginning.

So then Luisa's OK?

Yes. It was just a scare. But what a scare.

Listen, Rita,

I was wondering, could you lend me some money?

Again?

It's a matter of life and death. I need a dress.

Sure, the typical life or death dress.

- You've got a nerve, Clara. - It's for the wedding.

What wedding?

Tomorrow! Don Alberto's wedding.

I'm going with Don Mateo!

With Don Mateo?

Like boyfriend and girlfriend?

Yes! Last night we made up.

He asked me to go with him and I said yes.

Aren't you going to say anything?

No, I'm just surprised.

I wouldn't have expected Don Mateo to behave so properly.

Have you spoken to him today?

No, not yet. Why would I have spoken to him?

Because that's what couples do. They talk.

Why can't you just be happy for me?

So I've seen a gorgeous dress in the window of Doña Aurorita's shop.

- It's by a Phillipe Ray, I think. - Don't waste your money.

- I can fix you something. - You're impossible.

Talk to Mateo, Clara.

Communication is so important in a couple.

Ladies, I'm very sorry,

but the position of secretary has already been filled.

Excuse the inconvenience and thank you for coming.

Miss Montesinos.

Don Mateo.

I'll let you off today but don't get carried away.

- I'm so excited about tomorrow. - Tomorrow?

The wedding.

Oh, the wedding. Yes.

I want to look beautiful and elegant for the occasion.

You'd be beautiful with a paper bag on your head.

I won't give you any excuse

to keep me hidden away during the wedding.

Now you mention it, I wanted to talk to you about the wedding.

Good morning, Clara.

- Good morning, Don Alberto. - I'm glad to see round here again.

And I'm not the only one.

Mateo, I want to talk to you, please.

I'm going to get my things.

What's the matter?

Don't you think we should talk about yesterday?

You're welcome. Save your gratitude.

Are you serious?

I saved yours and Ana's skin and practically

everyone else's who works here.

- What are you doing here, Raúl? - Excuse me?

I think you're confusing me with the old Raúl de la Riva,

the designer who used to work for you whose salary was as big as his ego.

- I think it's the same one. - No. No.

You're looking at Velvet's new designer.

Your future father-in-law, Gerardo Otegui, has hired me

- to create the new collection. - Are you serious?

- How did you convince him? - By the only way

one can convince a businessman, with money.

I'm not going to take a salary.

What have you done with Raúl de la Riva?

I came back to Spain to become a success.

And success isn't measured by money, it's measured by others' opinion of you.

That's what I want to achieve.

You did, you're the best.

No, not here.

My mother is going to be proud of me, and my father is going to eat his words.

He always thought this to be frivolous. But I'm not going to stop until

I'm someone much more important than him in this country.

That really is an ego.

On that day I'll be happy.

As will the rest of us.

Thank you, Raúl.

I'll go down myself and tell them the news in the workroom.

Good idea.

Mateo with the seamstress?

Ana!

Her name's Ana.

Yes, they're together. I saw them kissing with my own eyes.

I knew Mateo was a ladies' man,

but her?

Bárbara, please, don't be so mean.

Ana's a lovely girl.

It's about time someone got that party boy to settle down.

Apparently they've been together for a while, but in secret.

Only Alberto knew.

What?

Nothing.

Bárbara.

Well, don't you find it a bit of a coincidence?

Just when you discover Alberto and Ana together,

- all this with Mateo comes out? - No, no.

Don't start because I'm not going to listen to you.

Thanks to you and your wild imagination

I almost called off my wedding and gave up the man of my dreams.

You're right. I'm sorry.

I don't have much faith in men, but what do you expect?

- It's not my fault. It's your brother's. - Yes, Enrique's fault.

But not all men are like him,

even if I do always assume the worst.

But knowing Mateo,

I can't believe he's serious about that seamstress.

I mean about Ana.

You wouldn't be saying that if you'd seen how they were kissing.

Come in.

Good morning.

Good morning.

I'll finish these reports then send them off.

Ladies,

- I'll leave you in his good company. - One moment, Mateo.

I wanted to apologize for my behaviour last night.

The green eyed monster? Don't worry. It's all forgotten.

Even so, I'd like to make it up to you, to both of you,

with a dinner.

- Dinner? - Yes!

The three couples. Tonight.

- What do you think, Bárbara? - Perfect.

It's not every day

that Mateo Ruiz Lagasca gets engaged.

- Now so much is becoming clear... - Yes, well...

Why so fast? I mean...

We're not even engaged.

- But you eat dinner, I suppose. - Of course, at home.

But to be honest, we prefer to be more discrete.

Mateo, when you're in love, you want to shout it from the rooftops.

Maybe if you are a fifty-year old spinster,

but that's not the case.

Mateo, Mateo, Mateo...

You're not hiding anything?

Cristina, I think you should get some rest.

We're getting married tomorrow. And Bárbara, please...

- For the sake of the baby. - Of course, the baby.

I think it's better if we leave it

- until after the honeymoon. - Much better.

No, definitely not.

If I go home alone I'm going to be thinking about the wedding.

I won't be able to sleep. I'll get too nervous.

What I need is to distract myself.

And you can tell us all about it.

Ana is very... modest.

I doubt she'd feel comfortable in a situation like that.

Oh, please! Don't be silly! I'm a very friendly person!

I don't think we should force the situation.

- If Mateo is sure that Ana... - No, no, no.

Ana just needs a little push, and I'm going to give it to her.

Ladies, I hope you're ready

for what's coming your way.

Because we're headed for great success.

Grace will take back her words.

Coco will kill to visit our workroom.

Balenciaga will pay millions just for one of our patterns.

Because from now on,

together we're going to turn Velvet into something huge.

Working hand in hand, with the professionalism that characterizes us.

Ladies, it's an honour to announce

that from today, I will not only be your designer,

but also a member of this crew.

Captain,

you're in charge of the ship.

Very well.

I don't want you taking this as an excuse to dillydally, OK?

We all know what we have to do and how to do it.

So back to work!

- Good morning. - Good morning, Cristina.

Bárbara!

Please excuse me, I have a lot to do.

Ana, the bride!

Hello, Ana. How are you?

- Hello. - Are the alterations finished?

Yes, everything's ready for the final fitting.

Perfect. But first,

I want to make you a proposition.

Me?

Miss Cristina,

I don't think all going for dinner is such a good idea.

Don't worry, we won't go anywhere expensive.

We thought we could dine at the Márquez's.

But why not?

I think it's time that you start enjoying

your relationship in public.

It must have been so hard until now,

what with your different social classes and Mateo's lunacy!

But it doesn't matter anymore, does it?

- I really don't think it's a good idea. - How about this?

Think about it. Talk to Mateo or whomever you like,

but I warn you, I'm not going to let up until you agree!

Ana,

you may not consider me a friend of yours, but I do.

And you being with Alberto's best friend,

for me is simply perfect.

Where are you going?

I'm going to use my lunch break to buy that dress I told you about.

I've borrowed some money from Rita.

Wait. I need to talk to you about the wedding.

It's important.

Mateo, I'll only be ten minutes.

- If not, someone else will buy it-- - No, wait. Listen.

Thank you. Hello, Ana.

Hello, Clara.

I suppose you know we're the couple of the moment.

You think this is funny, Don Mateo? I don't.

Not so formal, darling.

This has gone too far. We have to stop this soon.

Do you know what will happen

if Cristina finds out? And all because of you!

All because of me?

Your friend has nothing to do with this of course.

- I didn't say that. - No, but you think it.

I know you don't like me. I don't like you either

but we won't be having dinner anywhere,

because maybe you haven't thought about Clara's feelings, but I have.

You should have thought twice

before leaving that letter in his office. Cristina's father found it.

He knows that Alberto had a lover and he's been pressuring him ever since.

How do you think he'll react if Cristina cancels the wedding?

Maybe I am selfish,

but I'm risking my relationship with Clara to fix your mistakes.

Going for dinner

is the least you can do for him, for you and for everybody.

Booked. Dinner for six tonight.

For six?

- Ana agreed. - What?

You know how convincing your future wife can be.

This dinner is not going to go well. How can it?

It'll be worse if we don't go. Believe me.

This dinner isn't the worst of our problems.

It's a disaster.

Gentlemen .

Alberto, I want you to have a look at these names.

Cristóbal Balenciaga,

Yves Saint Laurent, Coco Chanel... What's this for?

I've made a few calls to my French friends.

I think we should hire one of these designers.

- Is something wrong? - No.

They're very good designers.

Very good, Enrique, but they're a bit out of our league.

Anyway, Velvet already has a a great designer, Raúl de la Riva.

Yes, but Mr De la Riva doesn't work here anymore.

Haven't you talked to your father?

It was Gerardo himself who closed the deal.

- What deal? - A bargain of a deal.

But if you can get Balenciaga to work for free,

then I'll think about it.

Well,

there's no need to get upset.

After all, I'm just trying to get a handle on the business.

Shipping and fashion don't have much in common I'm afraid.

Indeed.

I'm glad you can see the difference.

Of course.

Which is why I've decided to come in every day

and work with you side by side.

Although obviously I'll need my own office.

An office?

Yes. I see all the rooms are occupied,

although I'm sure you'll find a space for me.

And if not,

you've got some extra room here.

We'll find you an office.

Then I won't bother you anymore.

Good morning, Enrique.

Good morning, Patricia.

"Miss Márquez", please Cristóbal.

- Lourdes. - Good morning, Miss Márquez.

It is a good morning. How different everything looks.

I'd almost forgotten.

It's only two days off. Nothing else has changed.

Today I'm a customer. That changes everything.

Miss Márquez,

they're waiting for you in the workroom.

Much better!

I like it, but I want you to take the waist in a few inches more.

More?

I can't guarantee you won't faint in the middle of the ceremony, my dear.

With all due respect, I think it will make the dress too tight.

I don't. Come on.

How's the collection going?

Fine. I haven't done any sketches yet,

but I have a feeling.

I get it all the time.

I see a pattern filled with rhombuses,

like a delirium of rhombuses.

A dramatic geometry!

Dramatic geometry? What do you think?

That you're right.

- Yes! All rhombus! - No, no,

I can't breathe in this, please.

I told you.

And the rhombuses,

I don't know.

Our customers didn't like the Japanese influence.

I can't see them wanting to look like Harlequins now.

Harlequins! They'll look divine, dear.

As divine as you if we take this skirt up a bit.

Rita, bring me some pins.

The telephone.

- The pins? - The pins!

- The telephone! - Rita, for God's sake.

I'm expecting a call. I have to answer it!

So answer it, woman!

Pedro Stores, this is Velvet. I mean Rita! Hello?

Hello?

They hung up!

What's that?

Don't rest on your laurels,

If you want the afternoon off tomorrow, we have six orders from the collection,

and four dresses for the wedding.

Including the bride's. How's it looking, Ana?

Practically finished.

How have you cut this?

No smile, Maximiliano?

- There's a call for... - For me!

No, it's for Ana Rivera.

What's going on with the telephone today?

- Who is it? - I don't know.

- Just a moment. - Go! Go!

Don't hold up the line for too long!

Don't be long, Ana.

- Hello. - I've run out of dresses.

They've all been snapped up.

- Seriously? - Yes.

A girl from your store just bought the last one.

- The last one? - The last one.

And I have another order, from another customer.

The Ribó model.

I need it tomorrow morning.

Tomorrow?

That's impossible. We've got too much work on here.

Ana, I turned down other suppliers for you.

If you can't do it, just say. I'll find someone else who can.

No, I can do it.

But I'll need an assistant.

I have the perfect girl, but you know what that means?

Are you raising your price?

It's the only way to finish everything on time.

You may have other suppliers, but there's only one Phillipe Ray.

Deliver the dress

- and we'll discuss the money. - Thank you!

- Rita. - Yes.

Have I ever told you you're the best seamstress here?

What do you want?

Who called you?

Why are we whispering?

Doña Aurorita is going to pay me more for each dress.

- So I can hire an assistant. - Me?

You'll have to start tonight.

I have to deliver a dress tomorrow but I have this stupid dinner. I can't do it.

But Ana, it's like I'm your partner in crime.

Like Bonnie and Clyde?

If Doña Blanca finds out, we're dead.

Think about it.

You could save to go to that city you always wanted to, Stuttgart.

You know me too well, you scheming minx.

Thank you! I'm going to tell my uncle.

Uncle.

Uncle?

What are you doing here?

I came to tell you that Rita is going to help with Doña Aurorita's dresses.

Alberto gave it to me this morning.

At my age I could easily invent

some excuse about my health.

I'm sure nobody would question me!

It's the owner of this store's wedding.

Don Rafael would want you to be there.

Go and enjoy yourself, uncle.

Are you sure?

Yes.

Ana.

Careful Rita doesn't let slip about

Doña Aurora's dresses, or we could get in a lot of trouble.

Don't worry, she won't.

Come in, don't be silly, I'm awake.

Doña Blanca, sorry. I thought it was Ana and Rita.

Your friends don't even have time to tie their shoes today.

- Here. I brought you some soup. - I'm not hungry.

You may be in bed but you're still at work.

I'm in charge. Eat it.

Thank you for everything.

I don't remember a thing.

- Some things are better forgotten. - Yes.

The truth is I'm scared I'll remember and regret it.

But I couldn't live not knowing whether my child was

Juan's or...

Sometimes we have to make painful decisions.

You feel trapped,

as if there's no alternative.

Luisa,

what you did doesn't make you a bad person.

You mustn't feel guilty.

Don't let it affect the rest of your life.

I'll come back later for the tray.

Thank you.

It might just be the most beautiful dress in the world.

And not just because I say so, all the society papers will be talking about it.

Do you want some privacy.

Yes, yes.

But not for what you think.

Sure?

I'm sure. Listen.

Something's happened.

- It's the wedding. - What?

- They're not getting married? - Yes, yes.

It's serious.

Mateo, get to the point.

Trust me, you can tell me anything.

Are you sure?

What?

Why do I have to make all the sacrifices?

Lower your voice, please?

If Cristina finds out, there'll be no wedding

and there'll be no store. Don't you understand?

Yes. I understand perfectly.

This is humiliating and unfair.

It's unfair to me to, but it's just a couple of days for show and then--

Show? Do you have any idea what I spent on that dress?

How much? I'll pay for the dress, no problem.

You're so insensitive.

And I'm a fool for believing you.

Where is she? Where's that bitch?

Clara, calm down.

Calm down?

You knew about Mateo and Ana, that's why you won't lend me the money.

I... Yes.

No. Yes and no.

I don't know what to say!

You don't know and you don't care.

You're ruining my life!

You by being her friend

and she by poking her nose in other people's business.

- And I'm the one with the bad reputation. - Ana isn't poking her nose in.

She hates this as much as you.

Tell her not to worry. I'm going to tell Miss Cristina right now.

Are you crazy?

If you tell her there'll be no wedding and there'll be no store

And we'll have to go back to the village. Is that what you want?

Maybe. I don't know.

Rita, this is so unfair.

But I'm an idiot

for buying a dress. What was I thinking?

You didn't take money from the tin under the bed?

Yes. I'm sorry.

Is money the only thing you care about? Here.

- Wait. - Rita! Come on!

I'll be right there.

Please, don't do anything silly. Everything will be OK. Trust me.

The first born Otegui children have always been boys.

I think this will be the tenth generation.

I hope I don't spoil the Otegui's ten year good run.

But you can't deny there's nothing like a daughter to take care of you.

Of course.

All we want is for the baby to arrive safely.

Isn't that right, darling?

Darling, are you OK?

Yes, yes. Of course.

But I have to admit that I'm hoping for something else...

That it looks like you.

Time's caught up with us.

We'd better get going.

Yes. I have to go to the bathroom first.

Let me help you.

- Are you OK? - Yes.

Yes, it's just a contraction.

- Do you want me to go with you? - No. I'm fine. Thank you.

She's due in a couple of days, isn't she?

According to the doctor.

If you're worried about leaving her alone the first few weeks, you can go with her.

I'm a businessman, father.

Her and her mother can take care of the baby.

Bárbara will go back to San Sebastian with the baby.

I want to focus

on trying to get our ideas in place at the store.

But I think it's going to be more difficult than I anticipated.

Especially if my father is planning to boycott me at every step.

I know I should have warned you,

but Raúl de la Riva offered to work for free.

Who in their right mind would refuse such an offer?

It's not about that, father.

I want them to realize my worth.

What you did undermined me in front of those two.

Alberto sees De la Riva's return

as a personal triumph.

And we shouldn't give him that pleasure.

I'm ready.

Darling.

Have I told you how beautiful you are today?

Oh, you!

Well, how do I look?

If I were Alberto, I'd send that Cristina

from here to Timbuktu.

You're such an ass!

Are you nervous?

Apart from the fact that your sister probably hates me, no.

Really?

It's not the first time I have dinner in that house.

And it's not the first time I share a table with Alberto and Cristina either.

Yes, but it is the first time you pretend to be Mateo's girlfriend.

Mateo's speciality is lying

and sweet-talking, so I'm in good hands.

What if they ask how long you've been together?

Or when you met? What his favourite colour is?

What are you going to say?

Oh, I don't know Rita.

- It's going to be a disaster. - No, no, don't be silly. It'll be fine.

But you just said--

I'm just a poor seamstress who's going to spend the night sewing

and waiting for the phone to ring. Ignore me.

Do you know how hard it's been to have him include me in his life?

- Clara. - All for nothing.

I'm sorry. I have no choice.

No? Well you got yourself in this mess,

so get yourself out without dragging us all down with you.

It's not fair the rest of us have to pay for your mistakes.

Good evening, Don Mateo.

- Not so formal, darling. - Mateo, this isn't a game for me.

Nor is it for me. Don't be mistaken.

Right now, we have to put on our best smiles,

forget everything that's happened and pretend I'm the love of your life,

because they're going to be monitoring every word we say.

Understood?

Let's go.

Look, here they are.

Ana, this is my brother, Enrique.

- Nice to meet to you. - A pleasure.

And this is Ana, Mateo's girlfriend.

If we've never met, why do I recognize your face?

She's the girl who put on the show with Raúl last night at the country club.

Oh, and she's the girl who's making your sister's wedding dress.

What a talent!

She can sing, dance, sew.

Did you expect me to settle for just any old girl?

- No. - Ana, your dress is beautiful.

Did you make it?

No, I bought it at Doña Aurorita's boutique.

"Doña Aurorita"!

How cute!

It sounds... tiny.

- Is that where you buy your clothes? - Yes.

Shall we carry on this conversation at home?

- Elvira will be waiting. - Yes, please. I'm starving.

I've been getting contractions all afternoon.

Are you OK?

No.

I'm getting one now.

My waters broke!

- What do you mean? - I mean my waters broke. Look!

- You still have two days! - Darling, can you call a cab,

- or should I give birth right here? - I'll get the car.

- Look, a taxi. - Taxi!

It's OK. Breathe.

The taxi's almost here.

- Slowly. - Another one, another one!

- Here it is. - Just two more steps.

There you go.

- I'm coming with you. - No, stay here.

No, no, let me come, I can help you with the--

Tomorrow's your wedding day. You need to rest.

Breathe, sweetie. Everything will be OK.

Enrique, promise to call me as soon as you know something.

Start the engine.

Don't worry, everything will be fine. You'll see.

Well then...

That's that.

I suppose dinner's off after all that?

I think so.

Yes, there's no point now.

No, no, please.

I'm so nervous. Don't leave me on my own.

Let's go for dinner.

Yes.

Yes, I still have to move all my things in.

I don't know what Elvira's cooking,

but it smells exquisite, doesn't it darling?

Yes.

With Elvira's hands in the kitchen here,

I'm not going to Dolores.

What time is it, Mateo?

Enrique would have called if the baby had been born.

Yes I know, I just can't help think...

What if something's wrong and I'm here?

Stop worrying.

My mother always tells me I took more than thirty hours to be born.

You might be a wife before you're an aunt.

Well, well.

What an unexpected party.

Good evening, Gloria.

Couples night.

Ah, couples night.

- Marvellous! - Gloria, this is Ana.

I do believe we've already met.

Aren't you a seamstress at the store?

A very pretty girl. Congratulations, Mateo.

- Thank you. I know. - Won't you join us, Gloria?

No, no.

This is couple's night. It's not the place for me.

I'd rather go to sleep. Tomorrow's a very important day.

- Don't stay up too late. - No.

- Good night. - Good night.

- Dinner is served. - Thank you.

Please.

Have you decided where you're going on your honeymoon?

- To Rome. - Rome.

Very good choice.

Everyone thinks Paris is the most romantic city in the world,

but that's because they've never been to Rome.

We've already been to Paris together.

So, tomorrow I suppose we'll have to save you

a seat next to Mateo.

No. We talked about it and it's better if he goes alone.

But why?

Now your relationship's out in the open,

I don't see why you have to keep hiding.

Because neither his family nor my uncle know yet and--

Her uncle. Don Emilio.

I don't fancy being interrogated by that man.

Let's change the subject.

- Yes, change the subject. - No, no, no.

The reason for this dinner

was to help me relax about tomorrow.

If we spend the whole night talking about the wedding I'm going to go crazy.

So no,

it's your turn.

How long have you been together?

- Two months. - Four months.

It depends when we start counting from, my darling.

- Do you like going to the cinema? - No.

Yes. It's just I always go with my girlfriends, never with him.

Have you had any romantic getaways?

- In Mallorca. - In Chinchón.

Don't you remember going to my uncle's village?

Oh yes, of course.

I'd forgotten.

So how did you fall for Mateo?

- Cristina, please. - What?

The truth is I'm a bit embarrassed.

I can't speak for Ana but if you like,

I can speak for me.

You want me to tell you when I fell in love with her?

Of course.

Now I've gone all nervous!

It was a very busy morning in the store.

I was running late,

as usual,

and...

A group of seamstresses were dressing the mannequins.

She was talking to a workmate, smiling...

Look, she has the most beautiful smile in the world.

And...

I just knew. So I did it..

What?

I pulled the button off my jacket.

It was the perfect excuse to be alone with her.

I asked her if she'd sew it for me.

As she was sewing, I knew.

You can see the same person every day, talk to them...

know their name, but not see them.

But I saw her.

And I assure you,

that this is much more than just love at first sight.

So now you know, let's make a toast.

No! Save it.

One moment, Mateo. A couple of minutes.

I want to call the clinic. Perhaps with a bit of luck,

we can toast to someone else besides us four.

Excuse me.

Well, I'm going to...

Who cares?

Behave yourselves.

This is ridiculous.

When she told me you were coming, I couldn't believe it.

Me neither.

Well, as long as everything turns out OK,

I'm willing to hold that idiot friend of yours' hand and call him sweetheart.

Thank you.

Alberto.

When Cristina saw us together yesterday,

had you stopped to think what would have happened

if she'd found out everything?

No news. She's still in the delivery room.

Everything will be OK. Don't worry.

A toast?

Please.

For... love.

It's too soon for you to be up and about.

For goodness sake!

I'm tired of lying in bed all day.

No, back to bed. That's enough for today.

That's it, slowly.

You'll be better soon.

And...

there you go.

Cover yourself.

Give it time, Luisa.

My mother says wounds of the soul take the longest to heal.

Change the subject, please.

It's all I think about and it's driving me crazy.

Fine.

- What do you want to talk about? - I don't know.

Tell me...

about Pedro. Have you heard from him?

If I start on him I won't stop.

Well,

before he left, he said something to me.

- Something, but I didn't hear. - What?

- He didn't tell you he loved you? - No, no, no.

He told me something,

but I couldn't hear him and now I don't know,

maybe he's my boyfriend and I'm still thinking I'm a singleton.

He hasn't called either. But I'm OK.

It'll be a while before he rings.

He has to take the train to Berlin

then another one to "Strugart",

then a taxi to Rosa Mari's house, a kiss for Manolito

It'll be a while before he rings.

I don't know, Luisa.

You do ask some questions!

I'm nervous.

Rita, finally! You've got a phone call.

Out the way!

- Pedro? - Hello.

Hello! How are you?

Good! I learnt some German!

"Guten... Guten Morgen".

This place is huge.

And so green, Rita, really green.

It reminds me of my uncle's village in Asturias.

Although much bigger, of course.

Why did you take so long to call?

The taxi driver went round "Sgurtan" in circles.

I know it off by heart by now! There are so many cars here,

you wouldn't believe. It's so much more modern here.

I wish I'd brought more sweaters, it's freezing here...

Have you seen Manolito?

Rita, he's so cute...

I could just eat him up.

He's so big now .

But you saw him not long ago!

I wanted to talk to you about something.

But he's going through a growth spurt.

Now he really loves

looking at meteor showers.

I've never seen one...

One second.

He told me to send you lots of love,

he hopes to see you soon.

Same to him, but what you said in the taxi before you left...

Hold on, Rita.

- What did you say? - Hang on, Rita...

Rita, I have to go, there's a...

A strange man here.

- I have to go... - No!

I'll call you another day.

We really need to talk. I'll call you back.

Pedro, please, don't leave me like this!

Where are you going?

My shift finished half an hour ago.

Not when it's a double shift.

You didn't say--

You still need to tidy the office and fill in the delivery notes.

And clean your shoes?

- While I'm at it. - What did you say?

I don't want to hear any complaints, Maximiliano.

Staff take orders and keep quiet. That's the only thing you need to do.

Yes, that's crystal clear.

Anything else?

Go on, say it. Although I warn you

another word could cost you your position.

Don Emilio.

- If you're going to say I was too-- - God forbid, Doña Blanca.

Maximiliano is in your charge, you decide.

I thought you were happy with him.

- I am. - Doña Blanca.

If you don't have any plans tomorrow afternoon,

I'd like you to accompany me to Mr Márquez's wedding.

Don't worry, I'm not trying to court you at this late stage!

Don Emilio, the truth is--

I wouldn't like to give up my invitation

just so as not to find myself alone among all those people.

Think about it.

I didn't think we'd survive the dinner.

But we did.

When you get back from your honeymoon,

Ana and I will have broken up and I'll start my penance with Clara.

- Thanks for everything, Mateo. - You're welcome.

A favour for a friend.

But that kiss wasn't absolutely necessary.

Do I tell you how to behave with your girlfriend?

Don't tell me how to behave with mine.

You're getting married tomorrow.

Yes. I'm getting married tomorrow.

In sickness and in health, for richer, for poorer, until death--

I know, I know.

Your last toast as a bachelor.

This time tomorrow I'll be flying to Paris.

- Rome. - What?

You're going on honeymoon to Rome.

Yes, Rome.

What's wrong?

Alberto, don't hold it in.

Tell me now we're out of earshot.

It's Cristina.

She's the perfect woman.

Something in my head tells me I'm doing the right thing

- but I feel... - How?

I feel strange.

Alberto, that's normal.

Your whole life you've imagined this moment with another woman,

but life never turns out how we imagine when we're young.

It's hard. More so for some people than others.

What?

I didn't know you were such a good marriage councillor.

I always have been, though I'm better after a few drinks.

- Sorry to bother you, Cristina. - Yes?

I want to give you something.

I thought for the something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,

you might like to wear this.

I know the Maid of honour usually organizes these things,

but I haven't seen Patricia

and I couldn't help it.

It's beautiful. Is it yours?

No.

No, Alberto's mother wore it

on her wedding day.

And my husband kept it all this time.

You should wear it, Cristina.

Look, Ana.

Isn't it perfect for the dress?

Yes.

I love it, Gloria.

Thank you so much.

Hello.

Hello.

Look how beautiful.

It was your mother's.

She wore it on her wedding day.

I found it going through my jewellery.

I think the woman of your dreams should be wearing it at the altar.

What a nice gesture.

- It's my pleasure. - I should take you home, Ana.

Mateo,

could you drop me off at the clinic?

- No, no, Cristina. - No.

I can't wait anymore.

And I'm too nervous to go home. I want to be with my brother.

I'll come with you.

OK .

Ana, can you take this to put with the dress,

- please? - Of course.

Thank you.

Thank you, Gloria.

- Good night. - Good night.

Pepita, don't worry. Really, I'm fine.

Sure? You don't look well.

I didn't look this ill, Luisa.

Because I lost a lot of blood,

but the doctor said I'd be better soon.

I feel guilty.

I wish I'd never given you the number.

You never know what can happen.

But Doña Paulina should've stayed to make sure everything was OK.

Yes, well.

It's not your fault.

Help me get up. I need the bathroom.

Of course.

It's OK, I can go on my own.

Pepita? What are you doing roaming the corridors?

Doña Blanca.

I need to talk to you.

It's about...

what happened to Luisa.

Yes, Inspector. That's her number.

Her name is Paulina, but that's all I know.

No, no, I don't know anything else.

She's putting these girls' lives at risk.

One of them will never be able to have children again.

There was no need for you to come.

Stop saying that. This is more important.

Any news?

The nurse told us it would still be a while.

Let's hope it's over in time for the wedding.

Will you stay here while father and I go for a drink?

Of course. Go.

I'm surprised your brother's so calm.

What if he's not here when the baby's born?

Well,

there's not much a man can do in these situations, is there?

I wouldn't leave until I made sure my wife and baby were OK.

Do you remember Ricardo Blázquez?

Agustín's son. Of course.

Didn't he move to Paris?

He's here on holiday.

I thought his contacts there could be useful.

De la Riva isn't the designer for us.

Listen, Enrique,

I understand you were offended by what happened this morning,

but we can't cut off our nose to spite our face.

I don't trust him.

So what?

The store is losing money on a daily basis

and De la Riva is going to work for free.

There's no more to say.

Come on, let's get a coffee.

- Thanks for the lift . - You're welcome.

Your performance left a lot to be desired.

Good thing I told my story.

Your story?

Don't get carried away.

You weren't very affectionate with me tonight.

I didn't feel like smooching.

By the way, don't ever do that again.

You think I wanted to? Who do you think you are?

One of those film stars you love watching so much?

Enough.

Enough.

This has been the worst night of both our lives.

But can we stop arguing now?

Fine.

Truce?

What?

Don't you think there's another fire you should be putting out?

I saw Clara before dinner and she was very upset.

Ana, don't worry,

I'll take care of Clara.

Thank you.

- What do you want? - Can I come in?

No. Say what you have to say from there.

Clara, I'm so sorry you're suffering because of this farce.

Mateo and I fight like cat and dog. I don't know what you see in him.

Do you want a hot chocolate? They say it's good for love sickness.

Then you probably won't have enough for me.

Don't worry.

I have enough for an army of spinsters! Come in.

- The Otegui family? - Yes, here.

Three and a half kilos. Fifty centimetres long.

And although it was a bit more complicated than expected,

mother and daughter are doing well.

It's a girl?

- Congratulations. - No, not me...

- She's so beautiful. - Hello.

Beautiful.

You're here, little one.

- What is it? - A girl.

A beautiful girl, Enrique, just like her mother.

Congratulations.

The Otegui tradition has been broken.

- Father! - How's my wife?

Resting.

Just as the baby should be.

Yes, yes.

Just give me a minute.

Isn't it just the most wonderful thing that can happen to a person?

I can't wait until it's our turn.

It won't be long.

It won't be long.

Ana.

Don't forget this.

Will you be OK tomorrow?

Do you want the truth or a lie?

Whichever you prefer.

It's going to be the best day of my life.

Isn't it a bit late to be delivering this morning's mail?

I didn't have time before.

Being a porter is harder than it looks, isn't it?

When is Pedro coming back, Don Emilio?

Wait, I have a letter for you.

Thank you.

Turn off the lights, please!

Dear Emilio,

I wanted you to be the first to know:

I'm coming back to Spain.

I know it's a surprise, but I've made up my mind.

If not I'll regret it the rest of my life.

It's time I faced up to what I've been running from for so long.

I want to see my son Alberto.

It's beautiful, I know,

but you won't believe what happened tonight, Ana.

After waiting all day, Pedro finally called.

And he said...

What?

- Was the dinner that bad? - The dress, Rita.

What? I think it looks fine.

If you're going to be

- such a demanding boss-- - Not that one.

Cristina's wedding dress.

It's disappeared.

Lights out, ladies!

- Don Emilio! - Yes, I'm coming.

Sorry to bother you so late,

- but it's urgent. - What's going on?

It's Doña Cristina's dress, we've lost it.

- What? - This can't be happening.

It's nothing but problems working in this store.

We have to find a solution. All of us.

There's not much we can do except tell Miss Cristina.

She's going to be crushed. She might call off the wedding.

I'd like to reserve a room, please.

Isabel Navarro.

From tomorrow.

I'd also like a drink.

Clara, I wasn't trying it on with those girls.

I want my drink!

Clara, we both know that drink

- is going to end up in my face. - I promise it won't.

I've been waiting for you all night in my room.

I want to work things out and you're here partying.

He's an idiot and I'm a fool for falling in love with a ladies' man.

I'm going to end up the most cheated on woman in all Madrid.

- What's going on. - I got pregnant and I had an abortion.

A natural one or...?

What difference does that make?

- No, she's right. - What do you mean she's right?

You didn't have the baby because you couldn't,

not because you're a loose woman.

I didn't have it because I didn't know

if it was Juan's or Don Francisco's.

- I heard you split up. - And why the sudden interest.

All pretty girls interest me.

I know why you behave the way you do.

Now I understand.

You're drowning in your own prejudices.

but you'll make the move.

It's funny how life changes, isn't it?