Although Sam had a wonderful Christmas, she still had sadness in her heart. Sadness that wasn't from missing her family. It was for the family that would
never get the chance to it around a tree and open gifts again. Because they were dead. She'd realized the day before, that this would be the first Christmas
since she'd been rescued.
Data knew something was up, and He had A feeling he knew what it was. This made him even more determined to distract her. Counselor Troi knew exactly
what was bothering her, and encouraged Data to continue, along with everyone else.
Sam enjoyed playing Guinea pig for Captain Picard, Riker, and Dr. Crusher, who all replicated some of their old family treats and snacks for the holidays. She
liked everything, and even made everyone laugh as She puckered her lips trying Captain Picard's lemon tarts.
"They're yummy, though!" She said. Sam loved anything fruity, but lemons weren't on her top ten favorites.
After Data replicated a piano, they all gathered around, singing Christmas carols. Data even tried getting SAM to sing Silent Night, but she refused.
"I cannot sing!" she said, blushing as she looked At Wesley.
All In all, it was A wonderful Christmas. everyone Congratulates Data on A job well done, AND hugged Samantha goodbye as They left for their own quarters.
after cleaning up the tree, insisting Sam sit on the sofa, Data joined her for a cup of tea and some Lunch.
"I Do hope You have enjoyed yourself." He said, smiling slightly. Sam nodded, and hugged him tightly.
"You are the sweetest, most amazing father figure anyone could ever ask for." she said. Data hugged her back. Spot, having hid the whole morning, came
prancing out of the bedroom, and hopped up onto Sam's lap.
"Hi, Spot." Data greeted her. Spot made herself comfortable between them and began purring contentedly.
Sam giggled and tickled her forehead. Suddenly she remembered she had gotten something for Spot."Oh!" She picked up her wand and waved it. A small lump
wrapped in purple paper came out of her trunk."It has catnip in it, so I put it in there so she wouldn't smell it."
the rest of the day was spent relaxing, and playing games, including quidditch on the holodeck. Sam enjoyed the entire day , except for the sadness she held
in her heart for Emily and her parents.
"You and I both know what will happen if Samantha sees this letter, Mr. Data."
Captain Picard said, holding the folded piece of parchment. He sat, with HIS second officer, and Counselor Troi, in the observation lounge.
Data had been receiving several letters from Ginny Weasley, and even one from the twins. They were mostly short , and sweet. but the last one, From Ginny,
sent chills down Data's spine, and instead of bringing it to Samantha, he brought it to Counselor Troi first. After the last scare, he made sure he got the letters
first..
"I do not agree with withholding something from her that is rightfully hers, however I understand it is for her own safety." Data said. Counselor Troi could
sense his conflicting emotions.
"Data, her mother, and headmaster gave you explicit orders to keep her under you care until it was safe to return her to Earth." Picard held up the letter
"It's obvious from this that things have gotten much worse."
"I understand, sir. I know what I must do," Data nodded solemnly.