Fleeting Flames - Jenna Ortega x Fem Reader

Part 17

The slow rebuilding of your relationship with Jenna wasn't deliberate—it simply unfolded. She slipped back into your life in quiet, unassuming ways, grounding herself in moments that felt too natural to question. No grand gestures, no apologies—just her presence, steady and undeniable as your walls slowly started to crumble. 

It was a Monday evening when the air felt heavier than usual, the kind of night that called for an escape. After a long day at work, you walked into the apartment, giving Jenna a brief nod before heading straight to your room. The shower was quick, more about rinsing off the day than relaxation. You pulled on a worn t-shirt and jeans, adding your favorite leather jacket to the mix. As you adjusted the collar in the mirror, a rare flicker of excitement danced in your chest. Tonight would be simple: football, beers, and some light conversation with coworkers. A necessary break from the tension simmering within these walls.

You grabbed your wallet and phone just as Jenna appeared in the doorway. She leaned casually against the frame, arms crossed, her gaze trailing over your outfit with thinly veiled curiosity.

"You're going out?" she asked, her voice calm but laced with an undercurrent you couldn't quite place.

"Yeah," you replied, slipping your phone into your pocket. "Just meeting some friends to watch  football game."

Her brow lifted, skepticism creeping into her expression. "Football? Since when are you into that?"

You shrugged, keeping your tone as neutral as possible. "It's more about getting out."

Her eyes lingered on you for a moment longer, as if searching for the truth beneath your words. But you didn't give her anything to find.

Her eyes flicked over you, lingering a beat too long. "Hmm. Sounds... fun."

"It will be," you shot back, smirking as you brushed past her.

Jenna trailed after you into the living room, her bare feet padding softly on the hardwood floor. "You know," she began, "I've never been to a game bar here. I could tag along. Just for research."

You sighed, pulling on your shoes. "It's not a big deal. Just coworkers. And I doubt you'd enjoy it."

Her eyes gleamed with mischief. "Are you saying I can't have fun?"

"No," you said slowly, lacing your sneakers. "I'm saying you're not a fan of sweaty crowds and overpriced beer."

Jenna's lips curved into a pout. "Maybe I want to experience the local culture. Be a good friend."

You groaned, already sensing where this was headed. "Jenna, you're not jealous, are you?"

She gasped, feigning offense. "Me? Jealous? Of your coworkers? Please."

You couldn't help but chuckle at her dramatic flair. "Alright, if you want to come, get ready. But I'm leaving in ten."

Her face lit up with triumph. "I'll be ready in five."

Fifteen minutes later, Jenna reappeared in your living room, now dressed in a cropped hoodie and ripped jeans, sneakers to match. She gave a little twirl. "See? Totally game-ready."

You shook your head, grabbing your keys. "Let's go, drama queen."

She bumped your shoulder as you headed out. "You're just mad I made your night ten times better."

"Sure. Whatever helps you sleep at night."

Her laughter echoed in the hallway as you locked the door, the night already promising to be more interesting than planned.

---

The bar was buzzing with energy, a mix of cheers and groans from football fans filling the air. You nursed a cold beer, eyes focused on the game, doing your best to block out Jenna's presence next to you. She'd stuck to you like glue since you arrived, her arm casually brushing yours, her fingers playing with the hem of your sleeve.