Fanfic: 10 Facts about Ben & Leslie
Title: 10 Facts about Ben & Leslie
Pairing: Leslie/Ben
Word Count: approx. 1,750
Summary: This is in response to the “ 10 Facts Challenge,” set by Cypanache.
1. Ben sometimes fears he was truly becoming the monster everyone saw him as; though in Pawnee he was quickly beginning to see the light. He had been in similar situations many times over the years and no matter how many people argued with him…Ben knew the facts and numbers never lied. It may not seem like it now, but what he was doing would ultimately benefit the people in the long term and would never waste their resources. Sure people would be hurt and plans were cut in the process, but that was part of life. Yet as Ben stood in the cheerfully decorated field, his stubbornness began to waver. Leslie Knope and her team of misfits had done all this amazing work and the children of Pawnee would soon be arriving for a concert that he’d inadvertently spoiled. He’s still not completely sure why he did it, but there was just something about her dazzling smile, firer spirit and bright blond hair that made him want to do something ridiculous yet heartfelt …even if it wasn’t economically the most efficient.
2. Leslie was not so work focused that she didn’t notice the way Mean-Ben had been turning into one of her closest allies and supporters. She may have been high on flu medicine during the Chamber of Commerce meeting, but she still felt every touch and odd smile Ben gave her. After quite a bit of struggling Leslie lets Tom take her into the hallway and onto a nearby bench while Ben finishes answering questions inside. Her mind had been getting foggier by the moment and there was a good chance she might pass-out until she feels strong arms around her middle left her from the seat. Still disoriented but suddenly feeling secure and at peace, she looks into Ben’s concerned eyes staring back at her from mere inches away. Not having the energy to yell at him in this moment, she simply lays her head on his shoulder. She is quickly and easily guided to a waiting car where Ben whispers to her that everything will be ok. Then much to her surprise he holds her hand the entire way to the hospital. Sadly she knows she will not remember any of this the next day, but for now she takes comfort in her new friend. This extremely cute guy that has helped her with everything she’s needed for the Harvest festival, didn’t close the Parks Department, saved the Freddy Spaghetti concert and most importantly is taking care of her.
3. Ben never lets himself get too close or attached to people, but every insufferable yet enjoyable moment he spent with Leslie made him want more. Every time Leslie was around him his heartbeat faster and his smile become brighter. It was impossible to explain, but he was just happy to be around her and helping her in any way he could …even when she was continually arguing with him at the pizza joint the night before. This is why he went to see the police chief on his own and why he was now determined to spend as much time with her as she would allow. He simply wanted to soak up as much of her positive energy as he could before he was required to leave. There was no harm in that. Leslie surly had no interest in him and while his feelings were uncertain at the moment, he was perfectly content to at least ask her to a casual dinner and see where things go from there.
4. Leslie’s future always revolved around her career, but every so often plans for her personal life slipped in there. Driving home from Indianapolis with Ann, Leslie mentally began to develop ways to keep in touch with Ben after he left. There was a well-equipped rest stop about halfway that could be a perfect meeting place and really the entire drive to Indianapolis wasn’t that bad. As soon as these thoughts began to surface, she was surprised and confused as to where these thoughts were coming from. If she was being honest with herself though, she knew she did not want to lose contact with her new friend.
5. Ben had known for months that his feelings for Leslie and Pawnee Indian had been growing exponentially, but it wasn’t until the Harvest Festival that he discovered just how enamored he’d become. He couldn’t help but walk around the Harvest Festival in amazement at the beautiful sights around him. After attaching himself to Leslie’s side on the day of his return, he finally had a moment to simple walk through the stands and take everything in. The warm and inviting ambiance of the festival embodied everything that was Pawnee Indiana and in respect Leslie Knope. The sea of smiling face and sound of laughter only made him love them both even more. All he could hope was that these images and feelings to go away…but he knew he’d do whatever was needed to make them last forever.
6. Leslie had never been flirtation or outgoing with men before, but Ben’s heartfelt smiles and easy laugh made her take chances she’d never had the courage to before. She felt Ben jog up behind her after the staff meeting and as always their conversation flowed with ease. He was just so adorable in that obnoxious plaid shirt and tight pants. While she had noticed the way he blatantly seemed to hover near her, she also knew that with his rocky history he was not the type of person to take chances. And Leslie didn’t want to wait months for something that could be perfect right now. Surprisingly it was Andy and April that taught her that lesson in relationships and life. So she decided to ask him to dinner by the end of this conversation. What was the worst that could happen…he was never going to turn her down?
7. Ben didn’t realize how truly lost he’d been until he went on the blind date Chris had set-up for him. He didn’t want to be cruel to the nice women sitting across from him or the man he once thought was his closest friend, but this was just not an enjoyable experience. He would rather be babysitting Andy and April, camping with Ron or even discussing “the ritual” with Tom. And really he would much-much-much rather be sitting across the table from Leslie right now. Sure Cindy was pretty and nice, but she just didn’t exude sunshine and kindness like his other new friends here in Pawnee. Maybe a year ago he would have been ok with this situation, but now Ben knew better and has seen how happy he could be.
8. Ben had always considered himself a Gentleman and while he wanted to treaty Leslie like a Queen, it was getting extremely difficult to not jump her-adorable-self. The entire week he felt like the universe was simply torturing him. First he discovered proof that the incredibly wonderful and beautiful Leslie Knope actually liked him, but he was powerless to do anything about it. Then he finds out they’d be going on a road trip together and alone, yet he was still unable to plan any of the fantasies he’d been dreaming of for months. And of course this all brings Ben to the moment he finds himself right now, staring at an adorable sweatshirt-wearing Leslie Knope sitting cross-legged in a government issued minivan. He had always wanted to know what she looked like on weekends lounging around the house and just as he imagined she was even cuter and lovable in a shirt without a collar. There was no doubt the unsexy outfit and car were suppose to ease the tension, but his mind was already planning ways to get them somewhere private so he could pull her into the large backseat. He may be in love with her, but he was still a guy.
9. Leslie was never a person to enjoy cuddling until she’d felt Ben’s arms around her. Now she couldn’t fathom how she’d slept before. After what could only be described as one of the best nights of her life, Leslie laid contently half draped across an equally content Ben Wyatt. Though she felt the urge to stay right where she was forever, she knew it was imperative she freshen up and make herself presentable in case Ben woke up before her in the morning. As she began to climb out of bed, she feels Ben’s arms reach up quickly and bring her back into his arms. With his face buried in her hair she hears him mumble something about not allowing her to leave. She can’t help but giggle and playful fights him for control before melting back into his arms. She was at least able to settle down on her side facing Ben with her arms wrapped around him. Though his eyes had stayed shut, the undeniably adorable smile on his face let her know that he knew exactly what was going on around him. Leslie had never felt so blissful in her entire life and as she nuzzled into his neck she never wanted to leave the bubble they had created.
10. Leslie was not going to let anything come between her and Ben…even her own ambitions. As she stared into Ben’s concerned gaze, her head simmered with a million exciting and terrifying possibilities. Everything she had ever dreamed of had just been offered to her for the taking, but she also knew this could result in her losing the one thing she’d never planned on. Ben’s expression became even more uneasy as he excused himself and began to make his way towards her. While he momentarily left her sight, Leslie needed to make a decision. These past couple weeks had been the best of the entire life and she could imagine giving them up. But on the other hand this was her dream since childhood and more importantly she knew she could make a difference for the better in her town. Suddenly Ben was kneeling beside her, his hand gently coming to rest on hers and his eyes shining with love. At the sight, her eyes unexpectedly filled with tears of happiness. It wasn’t going to be easy but she was determined to make this work and together they would have it all.
Pairing: Leslie/Ben
Word Count: approx. 1,750
Summary: This is in response to the “ 10 Facts Challenge,” set by Cypanache.
1. Ben sometimes fears he was truly becoming the monster everyone saw him as; though in Pawnee he was quickly beginning to see the light. He had been in similar situations many times over the years and no matter how many people argued with him…Ben knew the facts and numbers never lied. It may not seem like it now, but what he was doing would ultimately benefit the people in the long term and would never waste their resources. Sure people would be hurt and plans were cut in the process, but that was part of life. Yet as Ben stood in the cheerfully decorated field, his stubbornness began to waver. Leslie Knope and her team of misfits had done all this amazing work and the children of Pawnee would soon be arriving for a concert that he’d inadvertently spoiled. He’s still not completely sure why he did it, but there was just something about her dazzling smile, firer spirit and bright blond hair that made him want to do something ridiculous yet heartfelt …even if it wasn’t economically the most efficient.
2. Leslie was not so work focused that she didn’t notice the way Mean-Ben had been turning into one of her closest allies and supporters. She may have been high on flu medicine during the Chamber of Commerce meeting, but she still felt every touch and odd smile Ben gave her. After quite a bit of struggling Leslie lets Tom take her into the hallway and onto a nearby bench while Ben finishes answering questions inside. Her mind had been getting foggier by the moment and there was a good chance she might pass-out until she feels strong arms around her middle left her from the seat. Still disoriented but suddenly feeling secure and at peace, she looks into Ben’s concerned eyes staring back at her from mere inches away. Not having the energy to yell at him in this moment, she simply lays her head on his shoulder. She is quickly and easily guided to a waiting car where Ben whispers to her that everything will be ok. Then much to her surprise he holds her hand the entire way to the hospital. Sadly she knows she will not remember any of this the next day, but for now she takes comfort in her new friend. This extremely cute guy that has helped her with everything she’s needed for the Harvest festival, didn’t close the Parks Department, saved the Freddy Spaghetti concert and most importantly is taking care of her.
3. Ben never lets himself get too close or attached to people, but every insufferable yet enjoyable moment he spent with Leslie made him want more. Every time Leslie was around him his heartbeat faster and his smile become brighter. It was impossible to explain, but he was just happy to be around her and helping her in any way he could …even when she was continually arguing with him at the pizza joint the night before. This is why he went to see the police chief on his own and why he was now determined to spend as much time with her as she would allow. He simply wanted to soak up as much of her positive energy as he could before he was required to leave. There was no harm in that. Leslie surly had no interest in him and while his feelings were uncertain at the moment, he was perfectly content to at least ask her to a casual dinner and see where things go from there.
4. Leslie’s future always revolved around her career, but every so often plans for her personal life slipped in there. Driving home from Indianapolis with Ann, Leslie mentally began to develop ways to keep in touch with Ben after he left. There was a well-equipped rest stop about halfway that could be a perfect meeting place and really the entire drive to Indianapolis wasn’t that bad. As soon as these thoughts began to surface, she was surprised and confused as to where these thoughts were coming from. If she was being honest with herself though, she knew she did not want to lose contact with her new friend.
5. Ben had known for months that his feelings for Leslie and Pawnee Indian had been growing exponentially, but it wasn’t until the Harvest Festival that he discovered just how enamored he’d become. He couldn’t help but walk around the Harvest Festival in amazement at the beautiful sights around him. After attaching himself to Leslie’s side on the day of his return, he finally had a moment to simple walk through the stands and take everything in. The warm and inviting ambiance of the festival embodied everything that was Pawnee Indiana and in respect Leslie Knope. The sea of smiling face and sound of laughter only made him love them both even more. All he could hope was that these images and feelings to go away…but he knew he’d do whatever was needed to make them last forever.
6. Leslie had never been flirtation or outgoing with men before, but Ben’s heartfelt smiles and easy laugh made her take chances she’d never had the courage to before. She felt Ben jog up behind her after the staff meeting and as always their conversation flowed with ease. He was just so adorable in that obnoxious plaid shirt and tight pants. While she had noticed the way he blatantly seemed to hover near her, she also knew that with his rocky history he was not the type of person to take chances. And Leslie didn’t want to wait months for something that could be perfect right now. Surprisingly it was Andy and April that taught her that lesson in relationships and life. So she decided to ask him to dinner by the end of this conversation. What was the worst that could happen…he was never going to turn her down?
7. Ben didn’t realize how truly lost he’d been until he went on the blind date Chris had set-up for him. He didn’t want to be cruel to the nice women sitting across from him or the man he once thought was his closest friend, but this was just not an enjoyable experience. He would rather be babysitting Andy and April, camping with Ron or even discussing “the ritual” with Tom. And really he would much-much-much rather be sitting across the table from Leslie right now. Sure Cindy was pretty and nice, but she just didn’t exude sunshine and kindness like his other new friends here in Pawnee. Maybe a year ago he would have been ok with this situation, but now Ben knew better and has seen how happy he could be.
8. Ben had always considered himself a Gentleman and while he wanted to treaty Leslie like a Queen, it was getting extremely difficult to not jump her-adorable-self. The entire week he felt like the universe was simply torturing him. First he discovered proof that the incredibly wonderful and beautiful Leslie Knope actually liked him, but he was powerless to do anything about it. Then he finds out they’d be going on a road trip together and alone, yet he was still unable to plan any of the fantasies he’d been dreaming of for months. And of course this all brings Ben to the moment he finds himself right now, staring at an adorable sweatshirt-wearing Leslie Knope sitting cross-legged in a government issued minivan. He had always wanted to know what she looked like on weekends lounging around the house and just as he imagined she was even cuter and lovable in a shirt without a collar. There was no doubt the unsexy outfit and car were suppose to ease the tension, but his mind was already planning ways to get them somewhere private so he could pull her into the large backseat. He may be in love with her, but he was still a guy.
9. Leslie was never a person to enjoy cuddling until she’d felt Ben’s arms around her. Now she couldn’t fathom how she’d slept before. After what could only be described as one of the best nights of her life, Leslie laid contently half draped across an equally content Ben Wyatt. Though she felt the urge to stay right where she was forever, she knew it was imperative she freshen up and make herself presentable in case Ben woke up before her in the morning. As she began to climb out of bed, she feels Ben’s arms reach up quickly and bring her back into his arms. With his face buried in her hair she hears him mumble something about not allowing her to leave. She can’t help but giggle and playful fights him for control before melting back into his arms. She was at least able to settle down on her side facing Ben with her arms wrapped around him. Though his eyes had stayed shut, the undeniably adorable smile on his face let her know that he knew exactly what was going on around him. Leslie had never felt so blissful in her entire life and as she nuzzled into his neck she never wanted to leave the bubble they had created.
10. Leslie was not going to let anything come between her and Ben…even her own ambitions. As she stared into Ben’s concerned gaze, her head simmered with a million exciting and terrifying possibilities. Everything she had ever dreamed of had just been offered to her for the taking, but she also knew this could result in her losing the one thing she’d never planned on. Ben’s expression became even more uneasy as he excused himself and began to make his way towards her. While he momentarily left her sight, Leslie needed to make a decision. These past couple weeks had been the best of the entire life and she could imagine giving them up. But on the other hand this was her dream since childhood and more importantly she knew she could make a difference for the better in her town. Suddenly Ben was kneeling beside her, his hand gently coming to rest on hers and his eyes shining with love. At the sight, her eyes unexpectedly filled with tears of happiness. It wasn’t going to be easy but she was determined to make this work and together they would have it all.