Growing Up - Jenna Ortega x Fem Reader

53.

January 15th

The morning of the Emmys dawned bright and early. You woke up to the sound of your phone buzzing on the nightstand. Bleary-eyed, you reached for it and saw a text from Jenna.

Jenna: Morning! Big day today. Wish you were here with me.

You smiled at the message, your heart warming at the thought of Jenna. You quickly typed a reply.

You: Good morning! You're going to be amazing tonight. Text me if you need anything.

The day passed in a blur of anticipation and nerves. You tried to keep yourself busy, but your thoughts kept drifting back to Jenna and the big night ahead. You imagined her getting ready, the excitement and nervousness she must be feeling.

Later that afternoon, as you were lounging on the couch in your pajamas, your phone buzzed again. It was a video call from Jenna. You quickly answered, your breath catching as her face appeared on the screen.

As you looked at Jenna through the video call, you couldn't help but marvel at her dress. She was wearing a stunning, strapless gown adorned with delicate floral appliques and intricate latticework. The sheer overlay showcased her silhouette, blending elegance with a touch of allure. Her hair cascaded softly around her shoulders, and her confident smile lit up the screen, making her the center of your attention even from afar. Her mom, Natalie, was right beside her, looking proud and radiant.

"Hey," the brunette on the screen greeted you with a bright smile. "How do I look?"

You felt a lump in your throat as you took in her appearance. "You look absolutely stunning," you said, your voice filled with genuine admiration. "And your mom looks fabulous too."

"Thank you," Jenna replied, a hint of shyness in her voice. "I'm a bit nervous, though."

"You'll do great," you assured her. "I'm sure you'll be amazing tonight."

Natalie chimed in, her voice warm and supportive. "We're just about to head out. Wish us luck!"

"Good luck!" you said, your heart swelling with pride. "I'll be cheering for you from here."

The call ended, and you felt a mix of emotions. You were incredibly proud of Jenna but deep down wished you could be there with her. You settled back on the couch, anxiously waiting for the broadcast to begin.

When it began, your heart skipped a beat as you saw Jenna walking the red carpet and her mom, Nat, following shortly after.

You watched with bated breath as the night progressed, your eyes glued to the screen. When the presenter announced the winner for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series, your heart skipped a beat. As Quinta Brunson's name was called for Abbott Elementary, you saw Jenna smile graciously, her expression betraying nothing but happiness for the winner. However, deep down, you knew how much she had been hoping to win that award. Her composed demeanor was a testament to her acting skills, but you could sense the disappointment she was masking.

A little while later, your phone buzzed. It was a text from her.

Jenna: I didn't win... Do you mind if I come over?

You quickly replied, your heart aching for her.

You: I'm sorry, Jen. Not at all, I'll be here.

A while later, you heard a soft knock on your door. You opened it to find Jenna standing there, her dress slightly wrinkled, her hair a bit tousled, and her feet adorned with hotel slippers. She looked tired, but the moment she saw you, a small, weary smile spread across her face.

Without a word, you pulled her into a hug, holding her close. "Come in," you murmured, leading her inside.

She sighed as she sat down on the couch, kicking off the slippers. "Those heels sucked ass today" she muttered, rubbing the sole of her feet.

You chuckled softly. "You looked beautiful, though."

She smiled tiredly. "Thanks. It was... a lot."

You went to your bedroom and returned with an oversized t-shirt and shorts. "Here, something more comfortable."

She accepted it gratefully, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "You always know how to make me feel better."

As Jenna changed into the comfortable clothes, you prepared a cup of tea for her. When she returned, you handed her the warm mug and sat beside her on the couch. She took a sip, letting out a contented sigh.

"Thanks," she said softly. "I really needed this."

You looked at her, concern etched on your face. "How are you feeling?"

Her smile faded, replaced by a look of vulnerability. "I'm... disappointed," she admitted. "I know it's silly to feel this way. I mean, just being nominated is such an honor, but..."

"It's not silly," you interrupted gently. "It's okay to be upset. You worked so hard for this."

She nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I just wanted it so badly, you know? And seeing everyone else so happy and celebrating... it just made me feel like I wasn't good enough."

You reached out, taking her hand in yours. "You are more than good enough, Jen. You're incredible. And I know it's hard, but this one award doesn't define your talent or your worth."

She squeezed your hand, a tear finally escaping and rolling down her cheek. "Thank you for always being here for me," she whispered.

You shook your head, leaning in to kiss her forehead. "Anytime."

She rested her head on your shoulder, finding comfort in your presence. "Looks like I'll need to step up my game on season 2 to win that award next year," she said with a playful grin. "And maybe a bit more to win you back, too."

You chuckled softly. "Well, you've got your work cut out for you on both fronts."

She smiled, her eyes sparkling with a mix of determination and affection. "I got this."

You smiled back, but kept your tone steady. "We'll see."

As the night went on, you both stayed curled up on the couch, talking and comforting each other. You made her laugh with silly stories and reassured her whenever she needed it. Eventually, Jenna's eyes grew heavy, and she drifted off to sleep on the couch.

You looked down at her, feeling a mix of emotions. She was strong, talented, and beautiful inside and out, and you admired her resilience. Despite your lingering hurt, you knew she had the potential to prove herself over time.

As the city lights of LA twinkled outside the window, you gently adjusted your position, careful not to disturb her. You watched her sleep, feeling a sense of gratitude for the moments you shared, even as you remained cautious about the future.

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A/N: kind of another filler of them picking up the pieces of their broken love slowly. I promise there is a hugeeeee chapter coming and something tells me you all will love it. ;)