"I chose to convey my gratitude at this time because I am unsure about how to proceed with our social lessons," Seven stated.
"What do you mean?" There was a hint of panic in the Doctor's voice. Did she want to end the lessons? Was she uncomfortable with continuing?
"As you certainly know we have already covered various aspects of romance. The psychological, the social, and even the philosophical aspects of it."
"Yes, I am aware of that."
"However, I am still lacking experiences with the physical aspects of love."
The Doctor gulped. He was becoming slightly nervous about the route this conversation was taking.
"So?" he asked, unable to come up with a more meaningful reply.
Seven's gaze that was usually strictly focused on whoever she was talking to flickered away from him for a second. Whatever it was that she wanted to talk about, it was apparently making her insecure, too.
"So I wanted to ask you for your guidance."
It was very rare that the Doctor was at loss for words, but this was one of those occasions. For a moment he just stood there, staring at her and not saying anything, until he finally found his voice again:
"I beg your pardon?"
Seven avoided his gaze, apparently taken aback by his response. "I am sorry. I should have known that this request was inappropriate. I should not have asked."
"No! No, wait. Please. That's not what I wanted to say. I was just... surprised that you asked something like that from me. I would be glad to be your teacher. What... what are the aspects you're especially interested in?"
"I wish to learn about everything that is part of a romantic relationship."
"And you want to practise that... with me?" He wasn't sure if his holoprogram was still running or if his auditory subroutines were malfunctioning but he could hardly believe what he had just heard.
"Yes. But only if you have the time to spare. I don't want to disrupt your duties. You have already taught me so much-"
"No, it's fine, please don't worry. As I said, it would be a pleasure for me to teach you these... things."
"Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate your efforts. What was it that you wanted to discuss with me?"
"I... Oh, that was basically what I wanted to talk to you about. How you would like to continue with the lessons I mean. But I suppose that has now been taken care of."
"I see. I will report back to my duty now. As soon as you find the time, please provide me with a plan for our next lessons."
"Yes, of course."
"Thank you."
And with these words she turned on her heels and left, leaving the Doctor behind who just gazed after her, still wondering if all of this was real or just one of his daydreams. Seven of Nine wanted to practise the physical aspects of love with him, whatever that might mean. He wasn't yet sure what to expect but even the thought of it made him nervous. However, he had agreed to help her. And maybe this was the chance to finally have what he had been dreaming of for so long... On the other hand, she was his student and he was her teacher. He didn't know what would be appropriate and what would not. There was one thing he wanted to avoid at all costs and that was taking advantage of her. She wanted to learn how to become more human and he wanted to teach her. But he had to think of a way to let her be in control all of the time. To never be at risk of violating her boundaries. He had to come up with an idea.