Hopping on her bike, our girl rides through Willow Creek, reminiscing on her move there. She and Summer had a rocky start due to her lack of filter, but that grew to be something she loved.
Ophelia doesn't want to think about Summer right now. It hurts too much.
Well, she apparently can't stop, because Ophelia ends up at Summer's house, just a few streets over from the BFF house. She's only been over a couple of times, all off-screen. The guilt gnaws at her heartstrings, desperate to get her to fall apart.
Ophelia: I'm a bad friend.
Having a breakdown in front of the house of a mourning family isn't ideal, so Ophelia walks and walks and walks until she comes across an odd looking tree.
She recognizes this tree. When she, Summer and Libby would go on Hot Girl Walks, Summer always said it was weird, but cool.
Maybe that's why Ophelia notices how blurry the pixels are. Poor tree must need some water.
It's something to keep her mind off of things. Xander's probably getting Wren some lunch, so hopefully she can get back to them soon.
Ophelia: There you go, big fella. That probably feels good, right?
When the realization dawns on her that she's talking to a damn tree, Ophelia's mood worsens.
Ophelia: Summer's never going to see her family again and I'm wasting time doing this?
Before she even has a chance to register what's happening, the bark of the tree starts sliding away, forming an… opening? What is this?
Well, she's looking for adventure. Guess this as good a place as any to start.
Ophelia can't begin to describe whatever… plane she's in. The sky seems endless, the plants sparkle with an ethereal aura, and the only sounds are that of running water and Ophelia's footsteps on the grass.
Ophelia: Huh. It's bigger on the inside.
Her eyes are drawn to a gorgeous waterfall, which she spends what feels like eons taking in.
To think, this paradise was under her nose this whole time. Ophelia walked past that tree with her friends a ton… She has to tell them! Summer will-
Oh.
She can't tell Summer.
Ophelia will never get to talk to her friend ever again. Summer never got to see this place. She never will. Ophelia's cried plenty the past few weeks, but this is the hardest. It finally feels real.
It's not fair. It's not 𝙁𝘼𝙄𝙍!
With no tears left to cry, Ophelia remembers what Xander says and attempts to clear her head. It's a tragedy and she'll miss Summer for the rest of her life, but she wouldn't want her falling to pieces like this.
This is a perfect place for a moment of clarity.
Summer's gone, but the impact her friendship has had won't soon be forgotten.
Wherever Summer is, Ophelia hopes she remembers her too.
Wren's aging up soon, and Ophelia's going to get as much time with her baby in as possible. Time's arrow keeps moving forward, gotta make the most of it.
Wren's wanted to 'treasure hunt' more, but she needs help to find good stuff like crystals. Super Mom to the rescue!
Wren: Thanks for letting me take off school, Mom!
Ophelia: Hey, you only live once.
These two could use some quality time together. Wren's good at entertaining herself but being the youngest of four doesn't leave a lot of alone time with your parents.
Finding rocks to excavate is a lot less fruitful than Ophelia expected. They've only found two so far. This park is huge! Why aren't there more??
Ophelia's not about to let her baby down, but it feels like they're wasting precious time searching for these damn things.
Wren: Are you okay? Your face is all frowny.
Ophelia: We've only found two in this whole park! Why aren't more spawning?
Despite her difficulties reading faces, Wren can feel the obvious tension coming from her mom. She's having fun, why isn't Mom? Does she hate this?
Wren: We don't have to do this, we could do something else if you're not having fun.
Ophelia: Honey, of course I'm having fun.
Wren: You don't LOOK like you're having fun.
All she wants is to give her daughter a great day, but it's just going all wrong.
Xander's tagged along too, but he's spending his day off fishing. He's really gotten into it lately. Maybe it's just something dads automatically have to be interested in when they get to a certain age.
Ophelia: This is a total disaster. I've barely found any rocks. This was supposed to help me bond with Wren and do something adventurous but I keep circling the park and nothing! There's so much we need to do but-
Xander: It isn't a race. We have all day.
Ophelia: I-I just want to engage in one of Wren's special interests. I can't knit, she doesn't really like to sing or play any instruments, this is something I can do with her and she's probably disappointed!
Yeah, she's heartbroken.
He's not new here, he's not going to let her spiral.
Xander: Look, I think you need a second to clear your head. I'll take Wren to Desert Bloom, you can meet us there.
Ophelia: But-
Xander: 𝙊𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙖 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙚.
He can't use his Dad Voice on her, that's not allowed!
With a sigh, Ophelia surrenders.
Ophelia: Fine. I'll go for a bike ride.
Xander: Don't get stuck on some random spot and ride around in circles.
It's cruel of him to have her make a promise she can't keep.
Supernova Eyes are soft default replacement eyes that are evocative of my Clover Eyes for The Sims 4. To complement the defaults, I also created 4 new eye highlights that add extra depth.
4 new highlights (found in eye highlights category)
1 recolorable channel
Adjustable opacity
CTRL + click on the thumbnail if it's not generated (this is a Paralives bug)
*Log in to Steam or Paralives to view. Steam Workshop allows for easy downloading of mods and custom content for Paralives. It also enables creators to easily update any uploaded content, which in turn makes it easier for you to track the status of your mods. And, it's free!
**Your support means that I can continue publishing my custom content for free. Follow me: Patreon / Tumblr / Instagram / Bluesky
Happy Paralives release day! I'm extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to play Paralives ahead of the release day - big thanks to the team for sharing the game code with me.
To celebrate, I'm sharing some of my favorite tattoo designs as custom tattoos for Paralives. I originally created this artwork for The Sims 4, but now your Paras can also enjoy it. The beautiful thing about tattoos in Paralives is that you can control the scale, the placement, and the rotation of the tattoo decal, so you can be quite creative with your choices!
Download for free on Steam Workshop* / Support me**
What's included:
6 tattoo designs
Fully recolorable (1 recolorable channel)
Adjustable opacity
Available for ages that support tattoos
*Log in to Steam or Paralives to view. Steam Workshop allows for easy downloading of mods and custom content for Paralives. It also enables creators to easily update any uploaded content, which in turn makes it easier for you to track the status of your mods. And, it's free!
**Your support means that I can continue publishing my custom content for free. Follow me: Patreon / Tumblr / Instagram / Bluesky
Gemma comes in for a shift at Taste of Tartosa, greeted by the one and only Bree Springston.
Bree: Gemma!
Gemma: Hey, Bree! What are you doing here?
Bree: Mommy brought me to visit Nana! And to eat the food scraps but I'm not s'pose to tell people that.
Greta comes down the steps, sighing in relief when she sees her daughter.
Greta: There you are. You gotta stop running away from Mommy, bug.
Bree: But cousin Gemma's here!
Gemma: Ah, right. Capitalism takes another victim.
As Bree runs off to go find her Nana Hilary, Greta greets her cousin.
Greta: My mom's not working you too hard, right?
Gemma: It's not so bad. After tonight's shift, I'll have finally paid off my horse debt.
Greta: Oh, look at you. So tonight's your last night?
Gemma: I dunno. I'm trying out for the chess club at school, so I'll be a little busier, but having my own money is nice.
Greta: Eh, whatever makes you happy, kid. Speaking of, I gotta wrangle my wild child. Later!
After saying their goodbyes, the Springston girls leave when Hilary gets some texts.
Gemma: Everything okay, Aunt Hil?
Hilary: Yes, just putting out fires as usual. Looks like Jesminder's running late, but I just sat a family in her section.
Hilary: Gemma, sweetheart, could you do me a favor and go take their orders?
Gemma had covered for waiters before, so it's not like she had no experience. She didn't love talking to strangers, but learning how to has helped her anxiety a little.
Gemma: Sure thing!
Gemma goes to the table her aunt specified, only to find she doesn't have to worry about talking to new people, considering she knows these patrons very well.
What are the Espositos doing here? What are the odds?
This was not planned, they just showed up. Watcher's honor!
Gemma: Hi! What are you guys doing here?
Trent: Gemma, hey! Claudia told us we might see you.
Marina: Hehe, she sure did.
Claudia: Shh!
Trent: I was selling some nectar at a farmer's market in town and I thought we'd go out for dinner. We all need a break from my cooking.
As she takes their orders, Gemma internally cringes at the fact Claudia's seeing her in her dishwasher uniform. Claudia's so effortlessly beautiful, and Gemma's pretty sure she's got dish soap in her hair. They haven't had a proper "what are we?" talk but this doesn't help.
Gemma: Alright, I'll get those orders in for you. Aaaand it looks like Jesminder's here, she'll take care of you guys the rest of the night.
Trent: Perfect, thanks, Gem.
Gemma: My pleasure.
Marina: Claudia's too.
Claudia: Shut uuuup!
Before she leaves, Gemma can't help herself.
Gemma: Your hair looks really pretty like that, Claudia.
Claudia: Oh! Thank you. I-I like your hair up like that.
Quickly turning around so they can't see her face flush, Gemma goes to scrub some toilets or something.
After she's gone, Trent gives his sister a knowing look.
Trent: When are you two going to make things official?
Claudia: Trent!
Trent: What? It's so obvious. And you've kissed twice-
Claudia: Wha-Who told yo- MARINA!
Marina: Hehe, sorry.
Claudia: Focus on your own love life! It's been so long since you've been laid, your virginity's probably grown back!
Trent: Claudia Ingrid! I-You-No dessert! For the rest of your life!
Marina: You two are gay disasters.
Trent: No dessert for you either, Marina Beatrix!
Marina: Claudie's right, you work too much. There's a ton of guys out there who'd love to date a cowboy.
Trent: I-I'll have time for that stuff later. I've gotta get you two set for college, then I'll fool around with that.
Claudia: Hehe, fool around.
Trent: Honestly, you two.
Their food might have arrived, but the conversation hasn't stopped.
Claudia: Well, I'm busy too! I've got homework, student council, my chores on the farm. I… I do want to take the next step, but I want to make sure I give her the time she deserves.
After Gemma's shift, her aunt stops her before she leaves.
Hilary: I'll get your next paycheck to you by the end of the week.
Gemma: Everything okay? You seem bummed.
Hilary: Oh, I'll just miss seeing you here, is all. That, and one of my waitresses accidentally got deleted.
Hilary: She had less shifts than the others anyway, but I'm dreading the interview process.
Maybe there's a simple solution.
Gemma: What if I took her spot?
Hilary: Really? I thought you'd be done working now that you paid your parents back.
Gemma: I dunno, it's kinda fun.
Gemma: I mean, if you think I could do a good job. Or you'd want me to, that is.
Breaking out in a huge smile, Hilary breathes a sigh of relief.
Hilary: I think you'd do a fantastic job, dear! I have the upmost confidence in you. I'd love to have you continue working here.
Gemma and Hilary have grown closer during Gemma's time as a dishwasher, and they'll surely bond even more during Gemma's time as a waitress!
Congratulations on the promotion, Gemma! It was only a little bit because of nepotism!
As Gemma sets off to walk home, someone calls out for her.
Claudia: Hey, Gem, can we talk?
Despite the butterflies in her stomach, Gemma agrees.
As she takes Gemma's hands and hopes she doesn't notice the sweat on hers, Claudia lets out a sigh.
Claudia: I… I care about you a lot. You're my best friend, and the best rival a girl could ask for.
Gemma doesn't know what to say in response.
Claudia: We've had a lot of fun together, and I think there's a lot we need to talk about… But just know, you mean a lot to me. Things are kinda crazy for me right now, but I… just want you to know that.
Gemma: You mean a lot to me too.
As much as Gemma was anticipating something more for the moment, she's glad said moment didn't happen while she was wearing her grody dishwashing clothes.
Ophelia's determined to see more of the world, get the most out of her limited time in this realm (and as legacy founder), so she pops over to Henford-on-Bagley to take a scenic bike ride. Her camping trip got cut short so some more fresh air will be nice.
As she rides along the riverside, a little white fox dashes up and runs alongside her.
Ophelia: Why, hello there, little friend! Are you joining me on my ride?
Pure white, just like Marshmallow. Maybe this is her saying hello from the great beyond.
Ophelia's had to confront death several times in her life, with her grandparents, parents, and her precious kitty, but they all died of old age (well, Jane fell off a cliff but she was still an elder) and had lived long lives. Summer was in her prime. It's not fair.
Her fox friend diverges from her bike path and goes a different direction. Ophelia hardly notices, deep in thought.
She could have spent so much more time with Summer, but life got so busy. Things were simpler when they were young and had all the time in the world.
As the sun begins to set, it starts to get a little chilly, but the cold never bothered her, anyway.
Or at least it hasn't since she got the Iceproof trait.
Feeling revitalized and determined, Ophelia takes in the beauty of her surroundings. The grief is still there, but things seem less grim. Any day can be your last, but she'll make the most of each day she's blessed with.
After going to the bathroom. Getting old sucks.
Staying in shape is important to both Ophelia and Xander, so while the kids are in school the next day, they dedicate some time to working out together. Summer might not have died due to her health, but having a close friend pass makes you think about your mortality more.
Xander: You know, you do a lot of cardio, but it's good to mix some weight training in there. Why don't I… help you out?
Ophelia laughs. Xander's clearly in a flirty mood. She can't say no to that face, not that she'd ever want to.
Ophelia: I really don't think this is proper form.
Xander: I don't care. Do you?
Ophelia: No.
Looking up at her adoringly, Xander sighs.
Ophelia: You okay?
Xander: Never leave me.
Ophelia: What? Xander, of course I-
Xander: I don't know what I'd do if I lost you. We need to grow old together.
Oh. That kind of leaving. Xander didn't know Summer as well, but her death clearly struck a nerve with him too.
As she pulls down on the bar, panting heavily, Ophelia huffs out reassurances.
Ophelia: Lucky for you, I can't live without you either. We're gonna live so long, we'll be all wrinkly and saggy.
Xander: That's so hot.
For these two, and their high woohoo drives, one thing always leads to another…
Well, that's one reason to want to live as long as possible. Time to hit the showers. They should probably share a shower though. Y'know, to save water.
The camping trip was cut short so Ophelia could help plan the funeral and take some of the burden off of Summer's husband, Mark, and their daughter Riley.
Summer had been trying to get mood milk for a dish for her catering company, but the cowplant was the only diner that night.
The funeral was a couple days ago, but Summer's loved ones are still devasted, including the members of Hot Girls Only. Ophelia, who had known Summer the longest of them, is taking it the hardest. Hilary walks over from home to check on her sister-in-law.
Hilary: Oh, sweetie.
She pulls Ophelia close, allowing her to cry on her shoulder.
Ophelia: She was so young… How could the Watcher let her get taken by Neighborhood Stories? Why wouldn't they turn it off?
Hilary: The Watcher works in mysterious ways, my dear.
Ophelia: She was the first person in my friend group I met. Out last conversation was her asking me to take that yoga class with her an-and I went for a massage instead because I'm a stupid, selfish-
Hilary: No, you can't do that to yourself, Ophelia. She knew you loved her.
Ophelia: I've been so busy with the kids and my career, I kept rejecting invites to hang out, I-I thought we'd have more time. I thought we'd grow old together, brag about our grandkids. This… this wasn't supposed to happen.
No matter how much she says it, it still happened.
Hilary: We'll all get through this together. Some of the girls are bringing Mark and Riley homemade meals today. Would you like to join us?
Ophelia can't bare the thought of seeing Riley right now. The poor girl sobbing at her mother's funeral is forever scarred in her memories.
Ophelia: No, I-I can't. Can you get a gift card for groceries or something to send from me? I'll pay you back.
Hilary: Of course, dear. Just… I'm always here for you. Don't hesitate to call if you need anything.
Ophelia's alive, asking for anything else feels selfish.
After Hilary walks away, Ophelia goes back to fishing. Xander told her it was like meditating, it might help her take her mind off of things. It's not.
Ophelia: Hey, do you mind? I'm kind of not in the mood.
The paparazzi ignores her, continuing to snap photos of her misery.
Ophelia: Are you deaf, old woman? I said leave me alone.
Paparazzi: It's public property, lady.
Ophelia: Look, one of my best friends just died, I don't need this.
Paparazzi: Well I need a new TV, tough luck, toots.
That's the straw that broke the camel's back. Ophelia throws her fishing rod aside and lunges for the shutterbug.
Ophelia: I said leave me 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙁𝙐𝘾𝙆 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚!
It's all a (literal) blur, but Ophelia takes out all her anger, her heartbreak, her 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 out on this paparazzi. The fact that it's an elderly woman isn't a good look, especially not to Ashton.
Ashton: No wonder her daughter's so rude! Animals, all of them!
Ophelia comes out triumphant, it would have been kind of pathetic if she hadn't, but watching her target stagger away as fast as she could without falling into the riviera feels a little hollow.
She's been so devoted to her job and look where that got Summer! There's so much she'll never get to see and never get to do… and there's so much out there Ophelia hasn't seen or done either.
If she wasn't already having a midlife crisis, she's definitely having one now.
Ophelia: Screw it! If tomorrow isn't guaranteed, I'm going to life life to the fullest today!
There's more to life than the shallow comfort a celebrity status brings. Time to get out there and find out.
Lulu joins her brother for a round of horseshoes to get out of that humiliating conversation.
Lulu: It was, like, SO awk, Jay. I don't want to talk to Mom about WooHoo! Ew!
Jaden: Consider yourself lucky, I had to watch Dad put a condom on a zucchini.
Lulu: Yikes. Speaking of, any boys you like?
Jaden: How'd you know I'm gay?
Lulu: Because everyone in this save is but me. Come on, spill!
Jaden: Well, there is this one guy… I dunno, he's probably out of my league.
As she takes her next turn, Lulu continues the conversation.
Lulu: We're legacy Sims, bro. We're the ones out of everyone else's leagues. It's not any of my boy toys, is it?
Jaden: No.
Lulu: Then you should go for him! What the worst that could happen?
Oooh, don't say that.
Wren rides her bike through the forest when she stumbles upon what looks like a cave. Oooh, maybe there's some treasure in there!
Huh, it's a lot deeper than she thought. What's in here?
Wren emerges into a long-forgotten grotto and sees a man fishing by himself. Wait, is that…? She'd heard of the Hermit of Granite Falls, but she thought he was a myth! She's gotta check!
Wren: Hiiii! Do you live here? This place is so cool! How do you get Zoomers delivered?
The Hermit would usually scare off strangers who barged in on his hideaway, but he could never do that to a child. Besides, he can sense she might be a little offbeat, just like him.
Hermit: Why, hello there. Don't get many visitors around these parts. What's your name?
Wren: I'm Wren! What's your name?
Hermit: Honestly, it's been so long, I don't remember, kiddo. What do you think my name should be?
Wren: …Herbert.
Herbert: Eh, sounds good to me. Wanna hear about some of my adventures as a youngin'?
Sounds fun!
It's nice to meet another erratic Sim. Herbert has all kinds of amazing stories!
Granted, he'd probably just be telling them to himself if she wasn't here, but she's glad she was!
He says she's welcome to search for treasure and bugs while she's here.
Herbert: It's gettin' dark, youngin'. You should go back to your kin.
Wren: Thanks for the stories and the bugs!
Herbert: Hey, anything for my erratic brethren. Don't let The Man keep you down!
Wren doesn't know which man he means, but she'll keep that in mind.
When Wren reemerges and meets back up with her family, her mom sighs in relief.
Ophelia: Wren, there you are! Where did you go? I looked everywhere.
Wren: I went in a cave and met a hermit!
Ophelia: Aww, that's nice, sweetie.
What an active imagination this kid has.
There were hiccups, but this was a successful first day of the camping trip.
Ophelia's so glad they did this. She can't wait to talk to her friends about everything that happened when she gets home.
The day might be over, but the night is still young. These two need a little… alone time. Thankfully, Ophelia booked a cabin with a hot tub. They spin into their swimwear and unwind.
Xander: We should do this more often. Wren's aging up soon. Time is flying.
Ophelia: I know. We get so caught up in the motions, but this is what matters, the people we love. We've made a nice little life for ourselves.
Xander: I wouldn't call our lives 'little', our house is so big, the game lags. It is pretty amazing though.
There's only one thing that could make it more amazing…
One thing leads to another and suddenly, they're recreating their honeymoon… just a little spicier, this time.
Ophelia's phone rings, and she ignores it at first, but it won't stop.
Xander: That's really distracting, babe.
He says that between kisses, because Ophelia just wants more of him.
When she sees it's Travis calling, her gut tells her something's wrong. With five kids, Travis is so busy, he usually just texts. And when he does, it's not at 1 AM.
Ophelia: Hello? Travis?
She can hear someone crying in the background. It sounds like his wife Becca.
She doesn't even have the courage to ask, so she just waits for him to say something.
Travis: O, it's… It's Summer. Mark told us she was doing something for work, a-and I don't know all the details, but… she's-
On their first excursion away from the house, Lulu makes a tragic discovery.
Lulu: Mom, there's no service! What if one of my baes needs to talk to me?
Ophelia: I'm sure they'll survive.
Wren hunts for treasure while Xander offers to teach Gemma how to fish. Ignore the furry.
It's not treasure, but it sure is beautiful! Wren never sees bugs like this in Tartosa. These butterflies are so pretty. Maybe if she's quick…
Got it! She even snagged it a friend!
Even if it involves laying in dirt, Lulu enjoys cloudgazing with her mom. It is kind of nice to get away from it all and do something simple.
Despite her career worries, Ophelia loves the family she's built, the friends she's made. On her hiatus, she'll have more time with them!
After batting some mosquitos away, the two sit down to chat.
Ophelia: I've been so busy lately, we need to catch up! Tell me, how's school?
Lulu: It's boring but I'm doing okay.
Ophelia: And who are these 'baes' you were talking about earlier?
Lulu: Let's see. There's Damien. And Tanner. Oh, and maybe Ronnie. Donny still has a shot, I think. I'm hoping I can rule Moss out but no promises, don't tell Magnolia-
Ophelia: Oh. Wow, you sure are… popular!
Lulu: It's kind of been my whole thing, Mom.
Ophelia can't deny her kids are eventually going to start… experimenting. She'd already had The Talk with Gemma, and she wasn't looking forward to it again, but it sounds like she might need to do it fast.
Ophelia: Honey, I want you to know you can come to me for anything.
Ophelia: You're becoming a woman, and someday, you might want to… be more… intimate with one of these boys. These feelings are perfectly natural, and-
Lulu: MOM! You're giving me the WooHoo Talk? NOW? Are you trying to make me hate camping?
Ophelia: Sweetie, this is important! Just, don't be afraid to talk to me, okay? I want you to be safe. If you want to start birth control or need condoms, just tell me!
Lulu: If I promise, can we be done with this conversation?
That weekend, the Lemons pack their bags, and plenty of bug spray, and make their way to Granite Falls. The air is fresh and the sounds of nature surround them.
Lulu thinks it stinks. Literally.
Lulu: It smells like dirt here!
Ophelia: There's dirt in Tartosa too, sweetheart.
Ophelia: Come on, Lu, take in the fresh air! Doesn't it make you feel revitalized?
Lulu: It makes me want to drown myself in the lake.
Ophelia: Oh, don't be that way! This is the perfect place to meditate! No distractions, nothing but nature all around you.
Ophelia: Just give it a shot for me, okay?
Despite the rumors, Lulu does have a heart. Her mom's clearly excited, and she's part of the reason they live so comfortably (how Lulu deserves), so she can stomach it for a couple of days.
Lulu: Okay. I'll go get my yoga mat.
The other members of the Lemon family are giving it more of a shot, at least. Jaden and Xander break in the ping pong table while Gemma and Wren play a round of horseshoes.
Gemma: This is making me miss Maple.
Wren: Maybe she's at the stable throwing your shoes around.
Lulu lays out her yoga mat and gets in the zen zone. She hates to admit it, but her mom was right. This really is wonderful, even if she doesn't have her crystals with her.
She needs to get her mind off all the boys she's romancing. It's so stressful being her!
Gemma's not as good as she thought she'd be. Wren mocking her doesn't help.
Wren: Aren't you a perfectionist? Why do you suck so bad?
That struck a nerve, so Gemma strikes back.
Gemma: At least I didn't wet the bed until I was 12!
Wren: You said you wouldn't tell anyone!
Ophelia: Gemma Nicole, you knock that off! You're the oldest. You know better than that.
Getting called out never feels good, especially to people-pleasing Gemma. Will this go on her permanent record?
Wren: Yeah, 𝘎𝘦𝘔𝘮𝘈 𝘕𝘪𝘊𝘰𝘓𝘦
Ophelia: Don't act so innocent, young lady. You were mean first. You're not a baby anymore, you know better than that too.
Wren: But-
Ophelia: No buts, Wren Esme. We're here to bond, not fight.
Gemma: Yeah, 𝘸𝘙𝘦𝘕 𝘦𝘚𝘮𝘌
Wren: Okaaaay, I'm sorry, Gem.
She really wasn't trying to be mean, she just took her teasing a little too far. Then again, Gemma could have reacted better.
Gemma: Yeah, I'm sorry too, Wrennie. Hand me some of that watermelon?
Let's hope these campers stay happy!
Look at Jaden being the only one not being a menace, reliving his Scout days and bonding with his dad. Plus he leveled up in fishing. Yippie!
Xander's going into work soon, and Ophelia has the day off, so the two enjoy some quiet time together while their horde of children are off at school.
Xander: Huh.
Ophelia: What?
Xander: Libby and Drew went camping.
Ophelia: What? Libby hates outdoorsy stuff.
Xander: See for yourself.
It's true. Drew somehow managed to convince their partner to experience the wonder of nature with them. Drew's more of a city Sim themselves, but the two have been everywhere else, why not Granite Falls?
Once she spots the pic Drew posted on their story of Libby fending off a horde of mosquitos, Ophelia bursts out laughing.
She's had more free time to travel with Drew since pursuing freelance writing, but that means she can't say no to Drew's schemes because she has work.
Ophelia: I'm sure it's not all bad. It looks kind of fun.
Xander: Yeah, I haven't been camping in years.
Come to think of it, Ophelia hasn't either. They've been on family vacations, but mostly to Sulani, since they have the beach house. A change of scenery would be nice.
Xander: A camping trip? Sounds fun. I know work has been stressing you out lately.
Ophelia: It's not that I'm stressed, I'm just… worried. I love singing, I love performing, but lately it's felt like… work. I… I don't want to not love it anymore.
Xander: I get that.
Xander: What you need is to take a break. The bar makes good money, and a couple bottles of nectar cover our bills. Take your time.
Ophelia: You are the most supportive husband ever.
Xander: I know.
Ophelia: And the most humble.
After Xander leaves for work, Ophelia has some lunch and tries to think. She's been a performer for a long time. Her last hiatus worked out well for her, maybe she can take a more lengthy one this time to figure things out.
One of the maids is making her usual rounds when Ophelia stops her for a moment.
Ophelia: Iona, I really appreciate all that you do for us. We make a LOT of dirty laundry. Here's a little something extra.
Iona: Oh, that's very generous, Mrs. Lemon! Thank you.
Iona: I know you're very busy, it's my pleasure.
Ophelia: Well, I'm about to be less busy. Don't worry, you'll still have a job, but I'm going on a hiatus.
Iona: Oh, that'll be nice. Any particular reason?
Ophelia: I don't know, I think I want to try something different.
Iona: What did you have in mind?
Ophelia: Well, that's the thing, I don't quite know yet. It'd have to be something I'm passionate about. Like you must get a lot of fulfillment from your job, right?
Iona: Uh, with all due respect, Mrs. Lemon, I don't scrub your toilets because it's my greatest passion in life. I don't have the privilege to take a hiatus to pursue a more fulfilling career. I have to worry about fulfilling my rent payments.
Oof, called out, and by an NPC.
Iona: I-I'm sorry, that was rude-
Ophelia: No, no, you read me for filth and I deserved it. I think I've been a celebrity for too long.
Maybe she needs to do something a little more humbling. And also tip Iona another 100 simoleons.
Before the kids get home, Ophelia books a cabin that can accommodate them all for that weekend. Some fresh air and a chance for them to relax and bond as a family will be good for everyone.
Except Lulu, who will surely hate it, but she's not in charge, no matter what she says.
Summer invites the girls (and Moses) to another Hot Girls Only meeting. It's been too long. Also I guess now that Paisley’s married again she’s not worried about shaving her legs.
Ophelia opts out of working out or taking a yoga class and gets a massage instead. She's been kind of tense. Thankfully, it's the first good massage she's ever gotten! Thanks, Doli!
While Gemma and Jaden have had their own journeys, Paisley's been on a bit of a side quest herself.
She graduated from med school and to celebrate, Ophelia is taking her to her cousin's new bakery. It's near the hospital she just got hired at. Convenient!
Apparently Ophelia's cousin, Lena, was a contestant on some dating show. While Paisley's usually a reality show junkie, studying to become a surgeon doesn't leave much time for binge watching. She thinks she's heard of the show, though. Johnny Wants a Wife?
After the two settle down, a woman beelines toward them, who Paisley presumes is Lena.
Lena: Ophelia! Thanks for stopping by.
Lena's a bit of a star in her own right. Even if she didn't win Johnny Zest's heart, she gained a ton of Simstagram followers, which is equally good.
Ophelia: Lena, this is my friend Paisley. She hasn't watched #JWAW so don't worry, she won't ask about the gerbil suit.
Lena: Thanks for bringing that up. Well, any friend of Ophelia's is a friend of mine. Let me grab some cake slices, on the house!
While they wait, Paisley tells Ophelia all about her new job. Becoming a surgeon has always been her dream. Thankfully, her parents lived long enough to see her graduate, though she wishes she could have shared some of her newfound salary with them before they passed.
Lena drops off their cake before she has to take another customer's order.
Paisley: Your cousin seems really nice.
Ophelia: She's a sweetheart, and she's so much more confident now. I guess if you can admit you're into anal on international television, you can do anything.
The Slice of Life Bakery is walking distance from the hospital, so she makes a habit of grabbing a coffee before her shifts. And during her lunch breaks. And after her shifts. Being a surgeon is hard, okay?
Paisley tends to arrive right at opening for her first mocha of the day, so she's usually the only one there besides Lena and her assistants as they prep the day's baked goods.
Lena: Hey Dr. Pickles, we're trying a new bagel recipe. Want to be our tester?
Lena isn't the most outgoing Sim, but when you get to know her, she's so much fun. She has all kinds of funny stories from the set of Johnny Wants a Wife. Even if she didn't win, she does seem to be happy for Johnny and his bride. She'll find her perfect Sim someday.
Lena: You've dyed your hair since I last saw you.
It's true, now that she's making good money, Paisley can afford to go blonde again.
Paisley: You like it?
Lena: Absolutely! Guess I have a thing for blondes…
Paisley: Oh really? Well, guess I'll have to keep it up if I want to keep getting free bagels.
Lena: Guess so!
Paisley's always been a girl's girl, but she's never considered herself attracted to women. She thought she was straight, but there's something about Lena…
And so, the two make a habit of having fresh bagels together every morning, and their friendship continues to grow. At least Paisley thinks it's friendship. It feels… different, though. They exchange flirty little quips but this feels different than it did with Juan.
The two even meet for breakfast when the bakery isn't open that day, or Paisley doesn't have a shift. It's getting harder and harder to deny there's something going on between them. Lena's admitted to her that she's bisexual, and Paisley is starting to think maybe she is too.
Paisley: You've outdone yourself again, Chef Lemon.
Lena: Why thank you, Dr. Pickles.
Paisley: Thank Watcher I have you, I'm absolutely useless in the kitchen. My mom did all the cooking. I've tried making her halo-halo but I can never get it right.
Lena: Seriously? You can't crush ice and pour milk but they trust you to do brain surgery? Well, lucky for you, my mom's half-Filipina, so I know just how to make it.
Paisley: OMW, thank you!
Lena: Don't thank me, cuz you're going to help me make it.
Paisley complies, but she honestly isn't much help. She's a great taste tester, though!
Being alone with Lena in the kitchen, her safe space, the place she's most comfortable, it feels oddly intimate. Even Ophelia's never been back here before.
Paisley hates cooking more than anything, but seeing how much Lena is enjoying herself makes this awful task worth it.
She really can't deny it anymore. She has feelings for Lena… and she's confident Lena feels the same way.
Was it worth the risk to shoot her shot?
Paisley: Thanks for doing this. You really are something, y'know?
Lena: I hope you mean that in a good way!
Paisley: I mean it in the best way. I feel like we have a real connection, y'know? Maybe I'm overstepping but…
Lena: I've told you about my sloppy drunk hookup at a fake prom with a man that dumped me on TV. I think we're past the point of overstepping.
Paisley: I really like being with you. Do… Do you want to go on a date?
Lena: Hmm. I was kind of under the assumption this is a date.
Lena inches closer, her hands resting on Paisley's shoulders. It feels so natural, like they've known each other their entire lives. Paisley's wasted enough time on a man that treated her like garbage. She deserves to be bold.
Paisley: Then I guess you won't mind if I do this…
Lena, in fact, does not mind. In fact, she's been wanting this to happen for a while.
The halo-halo the two made is melting, but they can't be bothered to care.
Lena may not have become Johnny's wife, but maybe that's because she was meant to find a future wife of her own.
Jaden, as usual, is woken up by the sound of his honorary twin puttering around outside his bedroom door. She always was an early bird, which basically means Jaden has to be too.
Oh well. Time to start the day.
Jaden flinches when he sees his own reflection, because damn, puberty hit him like a sack of bricks.
He's been getting a little peach fuzz but it's really starting to get noticeable now. Most teen boys would be excited for this much facial hair but Jaden's not having it.
Gemma pops in, homework in hand because of course she does, to check on her best brother (not that there's much competition).
Jaden: Do you have a razor?
Gemma: Yeah but you're not gonna want to use it on your face.
Jaden: Gross.
Gemma: You're the one who asked!
When Gemma and Jaden come upstairs for breakfast, Ophelia does a double take when she notices Jaden's stubble.
Ophelia: Well, good morning, young man! Do you know where my baby boy went?
Jaden: Hilarious, Mom. You should quit music and become a comedian.
Ophelia: Oh, hush!
Lulu: PFFT HAHA you look so weird with a beard! With that scraggly hair, you look like a hobo!
There's a reason the Lemon kids aren't rude to each other more often… at least not in front of their Loyal mom.
Ophelia: Lucia! Don't tease your brother!
Lulu: Ugh, fine! Sorry!
Considering he already wasn't loving how he looked with facial hair, the mockery doesn't exactly help Jaden's mood. He needs to shave this thing off, fast.
Thankfully, Jaden doesn't try to just do it himself, considering he likes his face to not be bleeding.
Xander: Alright, first step, use shaving cream or soap and water. Dear Watcher, NEVER shave dry. You'll want to shave against the grain for a close shave, but be careful.
Xander: I need to trim anyways. Why don't you watch me?
Jaden: Okay.
He quietly watches, but the teen's eyes constantly drift back towards his own reflection in the mirror.
Xander: Everything okay, short-stack?
Jaden: Yeah, yeah, I just… It's stupid, I guess.
Xander: I'm sure I've said something stupider. Out with it, kiddo.
With a deep sigh, Jaden continues contemplating his reflection.
Jaden: I don't know. Do you ever feel like your face is… wrong?
It's not stupid, but it's certainly not what Xander was expecting him to ask.
Xander: What do you mean by 'wrong'? Like, ugly? No, no, you're a handsome guy, Jay.
He knows his dad is trying to be nice but he still can't stand being called handsome.
Jaden: No, like… I dunno. It's hard to describe. I just feel like… I should look different.
Xander: If you're trying to compare yourself to those bodybuilding thirst-trappers you follow on Simstagram, don't. That's all steroids and CAStic surgery.
Jaden really needs to get a Fimsta. He's never felt like he needed to "come out" but now he supposes he doesn't have to.
As Jaden starts shaving his own face, Xander tries to reassure him.
Xander: Look, this is a weird time for everyone at this age. You're perfect just the way you are, okay?
Jaden: …Okay. Thanks, Dad.
After his dad leaves, Jaden glumly reflects on their conversation, and his own reflection looking back at him. He wishes he did a better job explaining what he meant. It's hard to explain. His face, his body… Why does the Jaden looking back at him not feel like the real Jaden?
Lulu: Oh! Hi, Damien. Funny running into you here.
Damien: In the library, during my free study period? Yeah, what are the odds?
Lulu and Damien have a lot in common, mainly the Self-Absorbed trait. Maybe that insight into his mind is the reason our girl's got her first crush!
Damien: I'm supposed to be studying right now… but how about you and I study chemistry, since we have so much of it?
Lulu knows that's a pick-up line because nobody ever asks for her help studying.
Lulu: I must warn you, I'm very hands-on.
First crush, first kiss!
Damien doesn't seem like he's looking for anything serious right now, but when a boy's that good of a kisser, Lulu will deal with it. What's wrong with a little teen fun?
Thankfully, the librarian never busted them.
And then there's Tanner. As the daughter of a musician, Lulu appreciates creativity, even if she can barely draw a stick man or hold a guitar.
There's just something about his performance at the ThrifTea near school that makes Lulu all tingly.
As a thanks for the (very) generous tip she left, Tanner buys Lulu a boba tea as the two talk.
Tanner: I can't believe you're talking to me. You're, like, one of the hottest girls in school, y'know.
Lulu: Aww, did the Watcher make you say that?
Tanner: Autonomous, I swear!
Tanner is nothing like Damien. He's a lot edgier, and nowhere near as conceited. He just has this charm to him that Lulu can't resist.
Looks like we've got our second crush.
It looks like Tanner's also crushin' pretty bad on our future yoga queen!
This kiss is a lot more passionate than the frisky fun she had with Damien. Tanner's making her heart do more flips than she does at pep rallies!
This is just the beginning of Lulu's romantic conquest.
Lulu loves her family, not matter how much she denies it, but just existing around them lately is getting annoying. Let's see what Lulu has been getting up to while avoiding her siblings.
Hint: it involves a lot of flirting with a lot of dudes.
Before class one day, she caught up with upperclassman Donny after he finished practicing for the basketball team.
Lulu: I'll dedicate a cheer to you at your next game.
Donny: You being there is enough for me.
Too bad he bailed on the conversation to go to stupid class. Rude!
One day, while skipping class, she caught Kelly, the school bad boy, in the amphitheater, so she decided to strike up a conversation.
Lulu: Shouldn't you be in class?
Kelly: Shouldn't you?
Lulu: Touché. Wanna not be in class together?
The two sat and talked for a while. Lulu talked about her favorite subject: herself. When she'd take a second to breathe between attempts to fish for compliments, Kelly would talk about his philosophies, his passions in life, his many attempts at sticking it to the man.
Hmm. Doesn't seem like Lulu's very impressed. Sorry Kelly, I'm sure there's some girl out there who would love to fawn over your individuality, but unfortunately for you, Lulu's about as deep as a puddle. Kelly's hot, but she just doesn't feel much of a spark.
Her classmate Duncan helped her with her homework, so the least she can do is indulge him in one of his favorite hobbies: chess.
Lulu: I'm gonna move my horsey here.
Duncan: Hmm, interesting choice.
Very nice way to say she has no idea what she's doing, Duncan!
Lulu: Look over there! A distraction!
Duncan: Huh?
When Duncan has his back turned, Lulu switches some of the pieces around. She's not actually sure if she accomplished anything, but she thinks she might have given herself an advantage.
Duncan: I didn't see any-
Duncan: Did you move something around?
Lulu: Noooo…
Duncan: Lulu, this isn't Chutes and Ladders, this is a game of skill and cunning, cheating only belittles the great art of-
Ugh, this dude has a lot of nerve being unpopular AND boring Lulu to tears. Sorry, Duncan. I tried.
For his art class, Ashton asked Lulu to be his muse, which she was more than happy to do for him. He's cute, charming, and certainly knows how to flatter a girl.
Too bad he absolutely sucks at painting.
Lulu: Is this some kind of joke?
Ashton: It's Art 101. I think I did okay for a beginner!
Lulu: Yeah, maybe if that beginning was in preschool! That's not even the pose I was doing! And my hair looks WAY better than that pathetic scribble!
Ashton: You don't have to be rude about it!
Lulu: I kind of do. This is an insult to me AND my eyeballs!
Ashton: I could have picked ANY girl to be my model-
Lulu: You're lucky you didn't or you would have destroyed that poor girl's self esteem with this DeviantArt crap!
Uh oh. Lulu's autonomous mockery hit a little too hard. I think the Lashton ship might be sunk. That, or Ashton just realized he could find a girl that's pretty AND doesn't treat him like garbage.
Time to butter Dorian up for help on her Simlish homework.
Lulu: Hi, Dory! Snazzy vest!
Dorian: Hey! I drafted up your next book report. Y'know you're not doing yourself any favors in life by-
Lulu: You can tell your friends we kissed!
Dorian: Pleasure doing business with ya!
Of course, not all of Lulu's endeavors with the opposite sex have led to festering grudge sentiments. The star of the drama club, Ronnie, seems to have taken quite a liking to her.
Ronnie: Are you a magician? Because whenever I look at you, everyone else disappears!
Ronnie isn't the type she'd usually go for, but she can't say she doesn't love the attention he gives her. All the corny pickup lines and the little serenades between classes really boost her already healthy ego. What Ronnie lacks in muscles, he makes up for with rizz!
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