Desert Dreamers XI

Previously: Despite consistent work in front of the camera, Ana discovered that her fledgling celebrity only gets her so far. Meanwhile, Rafael tasted online fame, much to his father's disappointment, and Gabriela, sensing an opening in the favorite child department, joined the scouts.



It's official: Ana has been cast in her first prime time role. It's a sitcom, so she's got to brush up on her comedic delivery ASAP because this is a chance she cannot blow.


Unfortunately, as usual, everyone in the nightclub seems to be too enamored with the other, slightly bigger celebrity on the premises to pay attention to her set. It's one thing to be overshadowed in Del Sol Valley but another thing entirely to be upstaged on her own turf.


Oh my god, wait! He's actually bringing the audience to her by voicing his support. I'm not used to celebrities propping up anyone other than themselves, and I'm not sure Ana knows what to do with this new development either.


Ana: You like me? You really, really like me?!?

The back of her head might even appear in a tabloid photo soon! This night just keeps getting better and better.


Ana: *is entirely overcome* I think I could die happy right here, right now.


Gracie was watching from the back so as not to make Ana nervous, but now she makes her way through the crowd to give her a huge congratulatory embrace.


Then they retreat to a private corner of the club for their favorite romantic activity: couch cuddling.


These various romantic shots probably aren't necessary, but I can't help myself from swooning over every interaction. (Also, I like that they're taking things slowly instead of being engaged after a Sim week. It's a nice change of pace!)


Rafael is enough of an online name now that companies are starting to come to him for content. I can't say that cooking videos are his forte, but he'll certainly try his best!


Rafael: What's up, world? Today, I'm trying something a little bit different. Every gamer needs snacks to fuel his, her, or their play, so I'm here to teach you some quick recipes that will get you out of the kitchen and into the game fast.
Ana: Wait, wait, wait, are you actually cooking right now?!?


Rafael: Oh my god, how many times do I have to tell you people to back off while I'm recording?!?


Ana: Hold on, just let me snap one picture first so I can make fun of you on Simstagram later.


Rafael: Anyway, pardon the rude interruption... These go into the oven for twelve minutes at 425 degrees, at least I think... Hold on, let me double-check this recipe.


Rafael: Wow, these look perfect. In your face, sis! I bet you feel pretty stupid for laughing at me now... Oh, she's gone.


Sorry, Rafe. As much as she'd love to keep insulting you, Ana's got better things to do, like nail her first sitcom role. She and I both are very pleased with the choice of a red-headed wig.


I'm assuming the socks and sandals thing is a character decision because the rest of this outfit is actually pretty banging.


Ana: Hey, friend! Sorry to see you've been demoted! I guess it's understandable they wouldn't trust a commercial director with a network sitcom, though.
New Director: Oh, I like her already!


New Director: My, my, you're quite the little fire-starter, aren't you? And so adorable to boot!


Ana: Sorry, I've already got a girlfriend! But I'm so excited for this opportunity! I really think this could be my breakout!
New Director: Girlfriend, you say? Ah, yes... You will be perfect.


Turns out this is a very progressive sitcom with a lesbian love arc. I don't know if Ana could tell from the script that this role would require her to flirt with a beautiful woman, but I don't think she's complaining.


New Director: Wonderful, ladies. Absolutely stunning work. But can we run that take again, just for... posterity's sake?


Everyone there knows she just wants to see some extra make-out action. I can't blame her.


I love this woman's commitment to ladies loving ladies! Can she direct everything from now on?


By the end of this shoot, Ana is feeling extra pumped. This is the first role she really feels like she's been able to bring her real world experience into, and it definitely showed in the quality of her performance.


New Director: Now, you, young lady, demonstrate real promise. Consider yourself cast in my next project!


She is moving on up the ranks, and it feels so good!


Back at the house, this strange girl is taking selfies in front of their front door for no apparent reason. Has Ana acquired her first overly obsessed fan?


Rafael: Oh, you must be here for my sister.
Fan: No, actually, I'm here for you! I just love your videos. I'm a gamer, too, and it's so refreshing to see a guy who embraces female players instead of trashing them. I would be honored to play a game with you.
Rafael: Really?!? I... um... okay... come on inside, then!


Rafael: *under his breath* Play it cool. Play it cool. You've got this!
Fátima: You go, son! Show that girl a good time! I'm so proud of you!

I see she still hasn't learned to keep her nosiness in check.


Fan: All right, no more of this bullshit nice girl act. My name is Delilah, and I am here to obliterate you!


Rafael: You know what? That's actually... kind of hot.


Delilah: Smooth move, but let's save the cuddles for after the ass-kicking, okay?

It's too soon to tell, but I think a teenage romance may be brewing...