A/N- Round 2!

Disclaimer- I own nothing but Charlotte Hope.

Please R/R!

Charlotte stepped into the holodeck, dressed in a dark blue tunic and black leggings. Wesley, looking immaculate as always, led her over to a table and got her a drink.

She leaned against the table and sipped her punch, looking around. A breeze whispered through the trees, bringing the scent of flowers with it. The sun shone, and the ground was covered in soft grass. Groups of senior officers stood around, admiring the setting or making conversation. Wesley had wandered off to talk to someone from engineering. Charlotte sighed with contentment.

It was interesting to think that she was acquainted with some of the Enterprise's senior officers. Charlotte had never imagined that her efforts to see the Bridge would end up in a friendship with the crew. She had made a micro-camera and gotten Wes to attach it to Lieutenant-Commander Data in an attempt to get a look at the Bridge, but the camera was discovered and left in the Observation Lounge. When she had attempted to retrieve it she was discovered by Captain Picard and Commander Riker. Before the Captain had gotten mad, Riker convinced him to let her have a look around the Bridge.

Charlotte smiled. The day before, the Captain had decided to have a get-together for the senior officers. Dr Crusher had asked to bring Wesley and Wes had asked to bring her. The Captain had agreed. But even though Captain Picard seemed amiable now, she knew that he wasn't good with kids. He was just so awkward around her and Wes.

Charlotte put down her empty glass and studied the table, wondering what to eat. That Bolian pie looked a little strange. That spikey fruit just looked plain weird. And was that Gakh? Charlotte made a face and reached for the pie.

"Hello, Charlotte," said Councillor Troi, walking up.

Charlotte smiled. "Hello, Councillor." Since seeing the Bridge, she and Deanna had become pretty friendly.

Deanna filled her glass and looked at her over the top of it as Commander Data walked by. Charlotte watched him, aware that Deanna was watching her, but unable to take her eyes away.

The older woman smiled. "Charlotte, may I speak to you about a personal matter?"

Charlotte tore her eyes from Data and bit her lip. "Yes."

"As you know, I am a Batazoid, and I can sense other people's emotions. I have noticed that when you see Commander Data, you become somewhat agitated. Do you have feelings for him?"

"I…" Charlotte blushed. "Yes. What should I do?"

"Talk to him. Asked him on a date. Get to know him. Do what you'd do with any man."

"But… I couldn't. I'm scared, Councillor."

Deanna took her hand. "If it's any conciliation, it might be easier with Data because he's an android. Just try it."

"But I…"

"Go." Deanna pushed her in his direction and stepped back. "You'll be fine."

Charlotte looked over at Data, who was examining a flower. Taking a deep breath that failed to quiet her heart, she approached him. "Hello, Commander."

"Miss Hope."

"Oh, please call me Charlotte."

"Very well. Would you like to speak to me?"

"I would, actually. I was wondering…" she swallowed nervously, "would you… I mean, if you'd like… to join me on the holodeck next week?" she said in a rush.

Data looked at her quizzically. "I will come. At what time to you require my presence?"

"Is 1500 hours a good time?"

"Yes."

Charlotte could hardly contain her surprise and excitement. "Well, I'll see you there, then." She smiled at him and quickly re-joined Deanna at the table.

"I can sense how hard that was for you. Congratulations!"

Charlotte filled her glass. "Now I just have to choose a setting."

"You'll do fine." Deanna patted her arm encouragingly.

Charlotte sighed. "Yeah."