A/N: Thank you all for kind reviews, kudos, and support. C/W: This chapter includes discussion about an alleged sexual assault surrounding the polywater incident. It's a misunderstanding between two characters and, in this story, no assault took place. There are no details or descriptions.
I've had a couple of questions from folks re: the regulations. Starfleet Regulation 1138 is canon to the Trek universe. However (within canon), it has been interpreted as to only apply in circumstances where it impacts Starfleet members' duty. The one exception to that interpretation, is the Commanding Officer or Captain. *sighs in Picard/Crusher what-ifs*
Yes, Picard is struggling with this. He's human. And far from perfect and I hope this chapter clears up a little bit of the reasons why Jean-Luc is acting this way. He's worried about his friends.
If you like my work or want to dive deeper with my comics, art (including "Data and Geordi's Holodeck Adventures") or like to discuss writing in general like & follow the Tartan Tart on Facebook or Twitter TheTartanTart.
Data was seated cross legged on the sofa in Tasha's quarters. PADD in hand, he was finishing his log entry on their experience meeting Portal 63. They were out of the Delphi Ardu system and en route to Gamma Tauri IV with the T-9 Energy Converter they had recovered from the Ferengi.
Following their return to the Enterprise, the team had set a course to get them safely away from the Ferengi. Then they had sat through a one hour debrief in the observation lounge. Captain Picard was concerned after their first encounter with the Ferengi. Now that they had a visual and scan of a Ferengi ship, the Captain had tasked Data with reviewing Starfleet records for any other possible previous encounters.
The door slid open and steam rolled out from Tasha's lavvy. She stepped out into the main part of her quarters and wrapped a towel around her wet hair.
Before they knew they'd be beaming down to meet with a 600,000-year-old Guardian of the Tkon Empire, they had planned to spend the evening together. No, they had no grand romantic night planned, just a casual evening.
The two had been planning a replicated dinner and then Tasha would read to Data from the latest terror novel she'd been interested in. Data confessed that having someone read to him was extremely beneficial to his understanding of the human equation. It allowed him to pick up on the natural emotion and intonation that his own quick-read analysis and processing did not register automatically.
Tasha was happy to oblige and Data enjoyed listening to her narrate. There was an undeniable chemistry between them. They were taking things slowly, proceeding with caution. Aside from his sexual history, Data had no experience of intimate relationships outside of that. He'd never had a partner before.
Tasha was not a fan of the term 'girlfriend' and was reluctant to put a word on it. 'Partner' seemed very formal and serious at this stage.
Tasha had always kept her relationships casual. As a security officer, she knew every day could be a risk. She never wanted to get too attached to anyone for fear of something happening. It was a lesson she had learned first-hand. Her first few years out of the academy found her moving around a lot. Her longest stint was three years on the USS Crazy Horse.
It was on the Crazy Horse that she'd gotten involved with Alfie. Lieutenant Alfie O'Conner had been a medical officer aboard the Crazy Horse. He was sweet, a little shy, and he enjoyed climbing. And above all, he was very patient. They'd struck up a comfortable banter and soon become good friends.
After a year, things got flirty.
And after a particularly rough day, in which a failed rescue and evacuation mission had gone wrong, a hug and tears led to a kiss that became a much-needed intimate evening.
She fell hard.
They had a year together before he died on an away mission trying to save a dog.
Tasha still felt a twinge of frustration over that. But it would quickly subside- because that was Alfie. It didn't matter who or what it was, if it was a lifeform in danger then he was the first to jump into action.
Trubian III was a Federation colony. It had put out a call for help after record flooding swept through the colony. The Crazy Horse had responded. Ensign Grove had told her they'd warned Alfie to leave the dog behind. But the elderly colonist that owned the dog was distraught. They reasoned Alfie thought it would keep the party moving to the evac point if he went back for the dog.
He'd been less than 2 meters away from the rest of the team, cradling the large furry dog, when he lost his footing and was swept away by the rising flood waters. Tasha learned it only takes sixty seconds for an adult human to drown. They were unable to lock onto his transporter signal as the current carried him off. Tasha had been furious at the team for failing to go after him. But she knew deep down her expectation was unrealistic.
A few hours later his body had stopped, and they were able to lock on and beam him aboard. Per his request, Alfie had been honoured with a small holodeck service where he had delivered pre-recorded messages for his friends.
"No tears," Alfie said. "Only happy memories."
In the aftermath, Tasha had poured herself into her work. Life had seemed so fragile. She recorded her own holodeck funeral messages for friends on the Crazy Horse and set out to volunteer for every dangerous away mission she could.
As a security officer with no significant other or family, she felt she had a responsibility to take on the dangerous assignments.
Because if she died on an away mission it meant there wasn't someone back onboard waiting for a loved one who wouldn't be coming home. It was one less relationship, one less family torn apart.
Ironically, it had been this skewed sense of duty and disregard for her own safety that had led her into a dangerous mission to liberate Bajoran workers in a Cardassian forced labour camp and her reunion with Jean-Luc Picard - whom she had met years earlier in a Carnelian minefield.
During their first encounter, her refusal to leave behind a single colonist had so impressed Jean-Luc Picard that he knew to keep his eye on this young woman.
Years later, their reunion on the mission following Alfie's death had been a turning point.
Jean-Luc was once again amazed at her abilities and Tasha had been ready for a change.
He had requested that she be transferred to his ship the Atreides. He wanted to promote her to Chief Security Officer and requested Tasha help him assemble a crew for their next assignment to the newly commissioned Enterprise-D.
So, she surmised that in some strange way, Alfie had led her to Data.
Data's hand brought her back as she realised she'd been standing there lost in her own thoughts.
"Tasha?" he asked as he took her hand.
"Sorry," she replied. "Daydreaming."
"Do you feel more rested after the experience?" Data asked, his eyebrows raised.
Tasha looked at him for a moment confused by the question. Realisation dawned on her.
"No Data," she replied with a smile. "You know how sometimes your brain focuses on one topic but then starts to wander?"
"A brain cannot physically leave the space in which it exists without-" he stopped talking when he saw Tasha shake her head.
"Do you remember earlier on the Bridge when I asked about primary colours and you began to rattle off the various Earth nations and the colours of their historical flags?" she asked.
"Ah! Yes. The Captain became quite agitated. I do tend to babble. However, sometimes my neural net begins to explore related information files or calculate possible outcomes in scenarios of-" he stopped.
Data cocked his head to the side as he pieced together Tasha's statement.
"Are you saying I have experienced daydreaming?" he asked her.
Tasha nodded.
"Yeah, Data," she said.
"I have experienced daydreaming," Data said as he stared off at nothing in wonder.
Tasha couldn't help but feel a little satisfied with herself knowing that the simplest of things could still bring awe to the ever-knowledgeable android.
"I have experienced daydreaming," he repeated as the corner of his mouth curled up into a small smile.
Tasha grabbed a cuppa from the replicator and asked Data if she could get him anything. He smiled and declined. He didn't have a biological need to consume, aside from the occasional supplement. However, he greatly appreciated the offer.
It made him feel human.
Settling on Tasha's sofa, Data sat properly at one end and Tasha got cosy on the other. She grabbed her PADD and selected the next chapter of the horror novel.
She cleared her throat and began to read from the PADD.
"As they played the recording recovered from the wreck of the ship, they could hear the panicked screams of the missing crew. Someone or something had attacked the Erebus. The lights flickered and Colonel Bridges could hear the low growl in the distance. Approaching the door-" she narrated.
She was watching Data closely. His eyes were wide, pupils blown, and he was hanging on her every word. As she went on, she noticed his respiratory program seemed to be operating at an increased pace. Using this to her advantage, she really dove into the part as she described the fictional protagonist creeping down the hallway.
Tasha could see the anticipation building in Data's face. She knew he had a vivid imagination. His passion for stories, adventure, and discovery could not be overlooked. Anyone that thought Data lacked an imaginative faculty was sorely mistaken.
"Colonel Bridges gripped his phaser tightly. As he waved the door open the lights flickered again before they went out," Tasha read dramatically.
Data was so engrossed in the story he didn't notice as she slowly slid her foot along the sofa, stopping inches away from his leg.
"Another growl ripped through the darkness, only much closer than before," she said in the scariest voice she could muster. "When BAM!"
She poked Data in the leg with her foot and, much to her delight, he jumped.
Tasha let her head fell back, laughing. Data's hand clutched his chest as the panic left his eyes. He dropped his head and smiled sheepishly up at her.
It melted her heart.
"I believe that I now understand why you enjoy scary stories," he said. "The thrill is most pleasing."
It had initially been a source of confusion for Data when he had learned Tasha like fictional horror novels. She had tried to explain that sometimes humans enjoyed a little scare knowing they were in no real danger.
She set the PADD down on the sill of the window and leaned toward him.
"You're really cute. Do you know that?" she said with a grin.
"You seem to be of that opinion," he stated.
"Would you like to continue?" she asked.
He nodded. She pulled the PADD off the sill but didn't move away.
"Is this acceptable?" he asked as he wrapped an arm around her.
"It's brilliant," she replied as she leaned back into his chest and continued with the story.
Across the ship Miles and Geordi were enjoying a synthesised pint at Ten Forward. It had been a long day and the two were relieved that it was a slow night at the lounge.
"Chief, did you really beam over a whole box of those finger traps?" Geordi asked Miles.
"Aye," Miles said with a sly grin.
"I can't believe we got Data with it!" Geordi said. "I mean he was really, truly stuck."
"Do you think it's got summat to do with his neural net being preoccupied?" Miles winked.
Geordi smiled.
"He actually called our mission today 'something to write home about.' It was very human," Geordi explained as he recounted Data's offhand comment.
Miles contemplated the statement as he took a sip of his pint.
"We'll I fer one am just glad he's met somebody," Miles said.
"Our little boy's all grown up," Geordi teased.
Suddenly Miles shot Geordi a look.
"Look alive, nine o'clock headed straight for you, mate," Miles said in a low voice.
Geordi looked over to see Professor Keiko Ishikawa making a beeline toward their table.
"Looks like she's got her eye on you," Miles said with a smile.
Geordi bit back a laugh. Data must have taken the initiative to tell Keiko about Miles following their poker game.
"Hi, are you Chief O'Brien?" Keiko asked as she sat down between Geordi and Miles.
Miles nodded.
"I'm Keiko. Keiko Ishikawa. It seems we have a mutual friend or two," she said as her and Geordi exchanged a smile.
Realisation had yet to hit Miles as he reached for his pint.
"I was wondering if you'd like to get a drink with me Friday?" Keiko said.
Miles choked on his pint.
The ever-composed Miles suddenly found himself at a loss for words.
A woman, an attractive woman, was asking him to a drink.
"I, erm, aye," Miles said as he awkwardly cleared his throat.
"Great! How does 21:00 sound?" Keiko asked.
Miles nodded and gave her a small nod.
"I'll see you then," Miles managed to say.
Keiko agreed and bid the pair a goodnight as she headed out of Ten Forward. For her part, she had been slightly taken aback when Data had approached her about the matter. Data had gone so far as to tell her a little bit about Chief O'Brien. It seemed they both had a passion for a music and Data had 'calculated' an 86.23% chance that their personalities were 'compatible.'
But the more Data shared, the more Keiko thought that Miles O'Brien seemed like a guy worth having a drink with – at the very least she might meet someone new.
As soon as she was gone, Miles cleared his throat and scratched the back of his head.
"Smooth, very smooth," Geordi teased.
"Jaysus," Miles exclaimed softly. "Radiant."
"Radiant?" Geordi repeated back.
"Aye. And feisty, that one. I just sense it coming off her," Miles said.
Geordi cocked his head.
"And I like it," Miles confessed as he turned to Geordi.
"He couldn't be certain, but something told him the creature was still out there," Tasha said as she finished the chapter and set down the PADD on the windowsill.
She looked up at Data. His eyes were closed, lost in the story as he absorbed the experience.
"Thank you," he said.
From the built-in shelf across the room, Tasha's combadge pinged.
"Captain Picard for Lieutenant Yar," it said as the Captain's voice carried through her quarters.
Tasha got up from the sofa with a sigh at the loss of contact with Data. She had been quite comfortable.
"Yar here," she replied, tapping the combadge.
"Could you please come to my Ready Room?" Picard asked.
"Acknowledged, on my way," she replied, casting Data an apologetic look.
Data assured her it was quite alright.
Tasha grinned. She gave him a quick peck on the cheek before he was on his way.
"I enjoy your presence," he explained. "But I understand it is impractical to expect your company at all times even if that would be preferable."
"I'll see you tomorrow," she replied as he headed out the door.
Standing in the doorframe watching him leave, she shook her head. She was pleased they were taking things slow. But she couldn't deny that presently her thoughts were fixed on how well he filled out his uniform.
After quickly changing into her own uniform, Tasha made her way up to the Captain's Ready room. She wasn't sure what the Captain needed to see her about, but she had a suspicion it was regarding Data.
"Come in," Picard called.
She entered stiffly and he motioned for her to take a seat.
"Thank you, Tasha," he replied.
"I apologise as I had hoped to speak with you sooner, but our most recent mission took priority," the Captain explained.
Tasha nodded in understanding.
"I am aware of your relationship with Mr Data. What you do outside of your shift is none of my concern. I am delighted. But as your Captain, I need to know that this will not impact your duties as Chief Security Officer," Picard explained.
"Sir, I can assure you that it has no impact on my duty to Starfleet," Tasha explained confidently. "We're both capable of separating our responsibilities to the Enterprise from our personal feelings."
"Thank you, Tasha," Picard said as he took a sip of Earl Gray.
Setting his saucer down, Captain Picard leaned forward in his chair and met Tasha's gaze.
"If we could remove ourselves from our roles as Captain and Chief Security Officer for a moment, I'd like to ask you a personal question if I may?" Picard asked.
Tasha gave a shallow nod as unease crept into the pit of her stomach.
"In the time we've served together, I have come to consider Mr Data a trusted Second Officer and exceptional person," Picard said. "And I have observed that, as of late, he appears to be exhibiting human emotion."
"Because he is," Tasha replied.
"In the time I've known him, I have come to regard Mr Data as a dear friend," Picard said. "And I think very highly of you, Tasha."
"Thank you, Sir," Tasha replied as she eyed the Captain carefully.
She wasn't sure where he was going with his statement. It hinted at neither a blessing nor a disapproval.
"And as his friend, I know that while he is certainly more intelligent than any of us could ever hope to aspire to be, he lacks an emotional intelligence that humans develop as they grow and interact," Picard said.
Jean-Luc couldn't deny he had concerns about this relationship. He was aware of Tasha's adolescence on the violent Turkana IV. He greatly admired his Chief Security Officer. But he'd also observed she had a tendency to avoid getting too close to anyone on the ship.
He tried to convey to Tasha that, as much as their relationship was none of his business, he was concerned that Data's expectations may not align with her expectations.
"Forgive me, Tasha but I can't dance around this," Picard stated. "I'm aware of the circumstances of the polywater incident. Please let me finish-"
Tasha had opened her mouth to cut him off, but Picard raised his hand gently.
"I was also affected, Tasha. I hold no judgement for your actions. I think you should be aware that he misunderstood your desire to consider the event 'water under the Bridge'. In fact, he was so deeply troubled he tried to resign," Picard explained.
"I'm aware, Sir," Tasha replied.
Picard's thoughts drifted back to a conversation he had never expected to have with his Second Officer.
Jean-Luc had grown to consider Data a wonderful friend. They shared a mutual love for literature, philosophy, and art. The man was genuinely intriguing.
Furthermore, he found Data's perspective to be refreshingly honest.
Despite this, at times it was painfully obvious that since Data missed 'growing up' as a human would, he lacked certain awareness in social situations.
Stardate 41209.3
"Data, forgive me, but my King has been in check for the last three turns," Picard said.
Picard was curious as to what Data was planning. The topic of conversation had been Voltaire, the wine a synthesised Demaine Leroy Richebourg Grand Cru. Data had just finished 'Candide' and had been eager to discuss it with the Captain.
And although Data's senses did not afford him taste in the same respect as Captain Picard, he had come to appreciate the Captain's vast knowledge on the subject of wine.
Since coming aboard, the two men had started a weekly chess game. It was entirely social, and Picard greatly enjoyed Data's company.
Data looked down, almost sheepishly, before pulling his head up to make eye contact with the Captain.
"Sir, I regret to inform you that I must resign from Starfleet," Data stated.
Jean-Luc was dumbstruck.
"I was hoping to draw the game out for my own benefit. I have greatly enjoyed these evenings during my time here," Data explained. "However, I did not anticipate you would expose your King so easily."
While many would have taken the observation as an insult, Picard did not. He was genuinely worried.
There was something in Data's face, almost like a hint of sadness.
"During the events of the Tsiolkovsky mission I engaged in behaviour that violated Starfleet regulations," Data began to say, but Picard stopped him.
"The polywater affected all of us, Mr Data. You hold no responsibility for what happened," Picard explained.
"Respectfully, Sir, I chose to engage in this behaviour prior to the polywater infection," Data stated bluntly. "At the time, I did not realise that my actions were harmful to a fellow crew member. However, I now understand what I have done."
Picard was unsure of what to say.
There had been some injuries reported following the incident. There had been a few fights among the crew, two young ensigns had attempted a medieval joust on the holodeck with the safety protocols disabled, and a Lieutenant had attempted to jump off the platform above the warp core in Main Engineering.
But not one of those incidents had reported Data as an involved party.
"What do you mean, Data?" Picard asked. "What happened?"
"I cannot say. I gave my word, Sir," Data said simply. "You will find my resignation has been sent to your files."
Picard stood up and began to pace back and forth across his Ready Room.
"This is unacceptable, Mr Data," Picard said after a moment.
"I do regret that I permitted my judgement to lapse. It has been an honour to serve under your command," Data said as he began to reset the chess board.
"Data, I order you to tell me what happened," Picard said as he stopped pacing and looked at Data.
"Sir, I gave my word that I would never mention it," Data said in an almost pleading tone.
Data had never before disregarded a direct order.
"That is an order, Mr Data," Picard repeated.
Data looked uncomfortable. He took a deep breath before proceeding, as if he were struggling for words.
"I violated Starfleet Regulations under section 17.43 regarding the Code of Conduct during the polywater incident," Data said flatly. "I knowingly did so prior to the polywater intoxication influence on my neural net."
Picard eyed Data carefully.
"As I said, my actions have caused harm to a crewmember and based on my-" Data tried explaining but Picard was not accepting of this explanation.
"What happened Data?" Picard asked sternly.
"As I am trying to explain, Sir. I violated the Code of Conduct and-"
"Data!" Picard snapped as his tolerance for Data's babble wore thin.
It took Data 0.014 seconds to calculate that Captain Picard would accept nothing short of a full explanation for his actions.
So, Data told him.
"You ordered me to escort Lieutenant Yar to sickbay. While I technically complied with the order eventually, I did not comply with the, as you would say, 'spirit' of the order, Sir," Data said.
Picard waved his hand to indicate he was growing impatient waiting for Data's explanation.
"You see, for some time I have found that I prefer to be in the presence of a specific crewmember. Although I am incapable of experiencing emotion, I believe you would call this 'desire'," Data cast his eyes downward as if he were ashamed.
"And before Escorting Lieutenant Yar to sickbay, I agreed to the advances of this crewmember. I took advantage of the situation for my own," Data paused and swallowed hard before continuing, "pleasure."
Picard sat down as he contemplated Data's confession.
"Data, I could care less if you kissed someone in a turbolift," Picard said.
Of course, he didn't mean that literally but this was lost on Data.
"Sir, during the incident I disregarded my duty for 71 minutes to engage in what I thought was a mutually consensual act of sexual intercourse. But after the fact the individual-" Data began to say but Picard cut him off.
"Data, the polywater only lowered the inhibitions of those infected-" it was Data who cut off the Captain at this time.
"And yet other crew members made better choices than I," Data replied. "But it is irrelevant, Sir. The crew member in question has made clear she is uncomfortable with my presence. I told her I understood should she wish to press charges against me. She declined, but I advised should she speak with Counsellor Troi and change her mind, I will I confess my guilt readily and accept whatever punishment Starfleet issues."
Picard could see this was deeply troubling his Second Officer.
"Did this member of the crew request you leave the Enterprise?" Picard asked as he tried to assess the situation.
If a member of the crew had been harmed, Jean-Luc knew he had a responsibility to ensure their safety and pursue any legal charges they felt were warranted.
"No," Data said.
"Did this crew member make any request of you? To avoid their presence? To transfer to a different department or shift? Did this crew member state that they felt you committed a crime?" Picard questioned.
"No. They denied the event had occurred. Later, I approached them for an additional explanation and offered both my apologies and my willingness to follow any requests or consequences they felt were appropriate," Data explained.
Picard pondered this as he leaned back in his chair.
"She reiterated that the event did not occur and asked that I promise to not speak of it to anyone," Data said.
He went on to explain to the Captain that he considered the possibility the polywater had impacted his memory engrams. However, after conducting several diagnostic tests, he had confirmed this was not the case. His memory of the event was intact without error.
Data's next step had been to examine human behaviour, sexual consent, and Tasha's personnel file. Data's research led him to the conclusion that Tasha was managing the trauma by pretending the incident had never happened. In his mind, Data concluded that Tasha was coping by acting as if the assault had never taken place.
"I have observed this individual's behaviour has changed significantly since the interaction. They have detached from their usual routine. I believe they are coping by ignoring the trauma. I fear this is not healthy. The safest choice is for me to resign and I only ask that I be permitted to ask Counsellor Troi, privately, to ensure the future wellbeing of the person I have harmed," Data said.
Picard tried as gently as he could to explain that sometimes humans felt embarrassment or regret following sexual encounters. However, he informed Data he would be looking into the incident and would keep his resignation on 'hold' for the time being.
"Who is the crew member?" Picard asked.
"Sir, they requested that I never speak of the incident to anyone," Data repeated.
"Data, I have to investigate this," Picard explained. "The name?"
"I would like it noted that I do so under protest," Data said.
He looked down to the floor for a moment as if he were collecting his thoughts.
"Sir-" Data objected.
"Data!" Picard replied sharply.
"Tasha," Data said simply, unable to look at the Captain.
"Lieutenant Yar?" Picard asked in disbelief.
"For some time I have observed signs that I interpreted as attraction. Therefore, when she..." Data paused momentarily before adding, "Given my lack of social awareness it would appear my conclusion was inaccurate."
Picard noted Data looked as if he were describing a painful memory. It was so human.
He asked Data to go and wait in Picard's own private quarters and then sealed the door. He instructed Data to remain there until he came to collect him.
Picard immediately ordered Counsellor Troi to his Ready Room. She arrived several minutes later. He instructed her to sit in on his meeting with Lieutenant Yar.
Jean-Luc had been vague with Counsellor Troi and she had picked up on it immediately. Picard explained that he was concerned something had occurred during the polywater incident and it was possible Lieutenant Yar had withheld information to 'protect' a crewmate.
"I want to be clear that I do not believe Tasha has committed any violation of Starfleet protocol. But it is possible she omitted certain events. If so, I need to be aware of her motivation for doing so," Picard explained.
Deanna nodded in understanding. Once that was settled, he summoned Lieutenant Yar to his Ready Room. She arrived several moments later and took a seat next to Deanna.
With pleasantries out of the way, he dove into the heart of the matter.
"Lieutenant, I wanted to ask you about our recent mission involving the Tsiolkovsky," Picard said as he yanked down his uniform shirt.
"Yes, Sir. I want to apologise for my behaviour," Tasha stated.
"You have nothing to apologise for, Lieutenant," Picard assured her. "I was affected as well. I read through your report."
Tasha had submitted her report as Chief Security Officer earlier that day. Although she had documented the fights the security teams had broken up, several instances of break-ins into secured areas, and one instance in which a crew member had to be detained following destruction of a panel, there had been no mention of her own incident aside from her noted absence from duty due to the infection.
"Are you alright?" Picard asked genuinely.
"Yes, Sir," Tasha said firmly. "Just embarrassed as I am sure many of us are."
"Naturally," Picard replied. "But you did nothing wrong. Lieutenant."
"I know that, Sir. But the polywater lowered our inhibitions and I regret that I chose to make some poor choices during the incident. The next time we encounter a possible infection I will follow quarantine protocols. I won't make that mistake again," she said as she tried to instill an air of confidence in her voice.
"Is there anything else you wish to report?" Picard asked as he held her gaze.
"No, Sir," Tasha replied.
"I was anonymously informed there may have been a sexual assault during the incident," Picard stated. "And if that is the case, I have a duty to investigate that."
Tasha was shocked.
"Sir, I will open an investigation into this immediately," Tasha said. "What can you tell me about this assault? Do we know if the victim is willing to speak with me? I will keep the matter confidential."
Picard could hear Deanna's voice inside his head.
'She is genuinely surprised. I do not believe she was aware of this. She is not hiding any information on this matter,' Deanna communicated telepathically to the Captain.
"Nothing has been reported to security?" Picard pressed.
"No, sir. What can you tell me about the incident?" Tasha repeated.
She was concerned. If only she hadn't allowed herself to give into such a basic desire that day, she might have been on duty to prevent it.
"You feel guilty," Deanna said aloud.
"I should have been on duty that day. I feel horrible for enjoying-" Tasha stopped. "I put my own amusement above my responsibility to the Enterprise and now someone's been hurt."
"We don't know that for sure," Picard replied. "This anonymous tip came from someone that was concerned. Before I went any further, I wanted to know if anything had been officially reported."
"No, sir," Tasha repeated.
"I don't want to dodge the issue here," Picard said. "In your opinion as Chief Security Officer, do you think there would be legal standing for an assault charge with the polywater?"
"Absolutely," Tasha said fiercely. "I can only speak to my own experience with the polywater. And while I certainly felt like my inhibitions were lowered, I was still in control of my actions because of it. I don't see any way someone could claim polywater intoxication as an excuse for rape. From my own experience, I made some poor choices but they were my own choices."
"If I may," Deanna said, stepping into the conversation in her official capacity, "it is really up to the crewmember to make the decision whether the interaction was consensual or not."
"Counsellor Troi is right," Tasha said in agreement. "Do you know who the crewmember is? Perhaps Counsellor Troi would be the best person to make first contact?"
"That is a good idea," Picard nodded. "If anything comes of this, we will let you know, Lieutenant Yar."
He dismissed Lieutenant Yar but requested Deanna remain behind to give her assessment of the conversation.
Deanna advised that she sensed Tasha was genuinely surprised to learn there had been possible assault during the polywater incident. Furthermore, her feelings of guilt were specific to a sense of failing her duty during the incident and not that she was withholding anything.
"And how do you read her feelings regarding the incident itself?" Picard asked the Counsellor.
"Enjoyment. Pleasure. Satisfaction. And a sense of guilt as if she is ashamed of her behaviour," Deanna said as she began to piece together what was happening. "It's Tasha."
Picard did not answer.
He didn't have to. Deanna could read it in his body language.
"You think Tasha is the victim," Deanna repeated. "I don't sense that from her. I get the impression she feels a little foolish, but not victimised."
"Agreed," Picard concurred. "I wanted to assess…well it is unimportant now."
Picard thanked Deanna and sent her on her way. Before leaving, she advised she would keep her eye on Tasha to ensure she was alright. But she gave the Captain a stern warning that any information stated during a counselling session was confidential.
After collecting his thoughts, Picard had summoned Data back into his Ready Room.
"Data, I think it is time we have a conversation that my father had with me when I was a young man," Picard said stiffly as he invited Data to take a seat.
Picard had awkwardly explained the concept of casual sexual encounters to Data and the desire, by some, to never acknowledge the act again.
Data had tried to explain that he understood the nature of such encounters, but this was not the same.
Picard had instructed him it would be best to respect Tasha's wishes and act as if the event had never happened. He also advised it may be best to give Lieutenant Yar some space.
He felt for his Android friend. A first heartbreak was never easy. The situation would be sweet had it not led to this. Although he knew Data couldn't feel emotion, he would experience it in his own way.
Present
Picard couldn't help but remember how deeply the situation had impacted Data.
"It was a simple misunderstanding of a human idiom. You intended to assure him there was no concern but, in some ways, Data is quite naïve," Picard went on.
Tasha didn't like where this was going. She knew the Captain had the best of intentions, but she also knew that he was underestimating Data.
Picard sighed.
"I'm dancing around this. Forgive me, Tasha, but you're an independent person and I don't want to see a friend have his heart broken because he falls in love with the first woman that shows him attention," Picard said.
"Well, I'm far from the first person to show him that kind of attention. Even if I happen to be one of the only people on this ship that treats him like the person he is, rather than treating him like a child," Tasha said a little more defensively than she'd intended. "Captain, I told him it never happened because I was afraid of how much...I keep my relationships casual because I can't handle the thought of losing someone again."
Tasha regretted her words as soon as she said them. Captain Picard's eyes were full of remorse. He knew she'd lost someone dear only a few years earlier.
"I owe you an apology Tasha," Picard said. "I have underestimated both you and Mr Data."
"A lot of people underestimate him, Sir," Tasha said. "There is so much more to him than people realise."
"That is most correct," Picard said with a small smile.
"He picks up on a lot more that we know," Tasha went on. "I thought he was naïve too, but he's far from it. He does feel things. And he's capable of having those feelings hurt even if he doesn't show it."
"You have my sincere apology, Tasha," Picard said. "And I will apologise to Mr Data in the morning."
"I'm sure he'll appreciate that, Sir," Tasha said with a smile.
She couldn't put her finger on it, but it felt good to have stood up for Data.
As she headed back to her quarters, she also couldn't push the thought from her mind – she had strong feelings for Data. Stronger, perhaps, than she had previously been ready to acknowledge.
Tasha stopped. Instead of hopping on the turbolift, she turned left and made her way to Data's quarters.
"Enter," Data called.
Tasha came in and found him seated at his workstation. He paused his music and set down his PADD.
"Tasha?" he said with a small smile, surprised at her arrival.
Tasha bit her lip.
"Is everything alright? Did your meeting with Captain go well? Has something happened?" Data asked her as his smile dropped.
"Would you like to meet me tomorrow in Ten Forward for a drink?" she asked.
"I believe I would find that enjoyable," Data said as he agreed.
"Great," Tasha said as she flashed him a million-watt smile.
The next evening at 20:00, Data met Tasha in Ten Forward as planned. He had arrived early and chosen a table in the corner. Tasha arrived a few moments later. She grinned when she saw him.
The other day she had mentioned, offhand, that he looked good with his hair a little tousled.
Much to her delight, his usually impeccable hair was slightly tousled. It made him look a little softer, a little more casual. He gave a her a small wave and he was pleasantly surprised when she sat next to him, rather than across from him at the table.
Across the lounge, Geordi and Miles were sitting in the opposite corner.
"Well, would you look at that," Geordi said in a low voice as they observed the pair.
Miles smirked as he and Geordi raised their glasses in a small toast.
Geordi felt a small burst of pride as he watched his friends.
Unbeknownst to them, Geordi and Miles weren't the only spectators.
Sitting at the bar, Deanna had noticed Data enter earlier with his hair looking different that usual.
He styled his hair? Deanna had thought to herself with amusement.
She had never known Data to change his appearance before aside from holodeck programs. When she saw Tasha enter a few moments later, it was evident he had done so for her benefit.
Deanna could sense great joy emanating from Tasha.
She watched them for a time and noted the subtle intimacy that likely went unnoticed by the rest of the lounge's patrons – Tasha smiling and gently touching Data's arm as he was speaking, Data's gaze as he watched her laugh, their subtle body language.
Eventually, Deanna noticed his hand slipped under the table and rested on her knee. Deanna smiled as she saw Tasha's hand come down to rest on top of his.
It was getting late and Deanna was looking forward to finishing the last few chapters of her latest Western novel, so she decided it was probably best to call it an evening.
Before she left Ten Forward, she decided to stop by their table and bid them a good evening.
"Counsellor," Data said as she approached their table.
"I don't mean to intrude," Deanna said.
It was a lie and she felt slightly guilty about it, but her curiosity had gotten the better of her.
"You two look like you're having a good time," Deanna said knowingly.
"Yes, Counsellor," Data replied. "We are discussing our recent encounter with the Ferengi."
It struck Deanna that she wasn't just picking up on feelings from Tasha.
There was a strong emotional output coming from Data.
He was content and amused. But there was also a hint of lust.
Deanna smiled inwardly.
"I just came to see if the two of you would be attending poker night tomorrow?" she asked.
"I intend to," Data replied.
"I'll be there," Tasha said as she gave Deanna a look.
Taking the cue, Deanna bid them a goodnight and made her exit.
"I wonder if we are anticipating lower than normal attendance?" Data thought aloud. "If Counsellor Troi is concerned about attendance at the game perhaps we should ensure the rest of our regular crew will be attending."
Tasha snorted.
Data cocked his head to the right and looked at her quizzically.
"Data she was just using that as a ruse," Tasha said as she reached out and her fingers brushed his forearm coyly.
Data said nothing but looked down at his arm and then back up into her eyes.
"She was curious about us," Tasha explained. "She wanted to know how our night was going."
"And do you believe this evening was successful?" Data asked in earnest.
"What makes you think it's over?" Tasha said as she increased her grip on his hand that rested on her knee.
Data felt warm as his positronic brain began dedicating additional space to process the sensory input of Tasha's hand atop his own.
The tone of her voice made his breath hitch. If he had to pinpoint the emotion, he would classify it as 'desire.' The squeeze on his hand seemed to reinforce his assessment. His sensors registered a slight increase in her body temperature.
"What are you suggesting?" Data asked as he felt his neural net skip a beat.
"C'mon. Let's get out of here," Tasha said as she squeezed his hand.
He met her eyes and felt his pulse race. Data felt like she was inviting him to join her back in her quarters, but somewhere a nagging insecurity cautioned him that he should proceed carefully.
He leaned in close to Tasha.
"Is this an invitation to return to your quarters for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity?" Data whispered.
Tasha looked back at him. With a small grin, she nodded.
Data raised his eyebrows slowly and cocked his head to the left.
"I see," he replied as his eyes widened almost imperceptibly.
It took six minutes and nine seconds for them to reach Tasha's door. Data first realised his neural net was processing more rapidly than normal when they stepped on to the turbolift. His typical ability to process numerous thoughts simultaneously was instead overwhelmed with memories of the last time he'd seen Tasha in this state.
Deciding to take the advice of his best friend Geordi, Data decided to 'lean into it.'
He shut down unnecessary systems and focused his processing on a series of more basic commands.
Breathe to maintain temperature.
They stepped off the turbolift.
Focus.
There were thirty-nine steps between turbolift eight and Tasha's quarters.
Walk forward. Left then right. One foot in front of the other.
They were at her door.
As it slid aside, Tasha stepped inside. She left the lights off. She glanced back over her shoulder at Data who stood frozen in the doorway.
For a moment, Data felt his neural net overload with an unfamiliar sensation.
Before that moment, he had called his preference for certain activities or behaviours a 'want' or 'like.'
But he had never felt such a strong urge to touch and smell and feel.
"Are you just gonna stand in the doorway?" Tasha said bold as brass as she turned around to face him.
Data turned his head quickly to the left as if he were 'rebooting' his thoughts.
He stepped into her quarters and the door closed behind him.
"May I kiss you?" he asked.
There was trepidation in his voice but desire in his eyes.
"I was hoping you would," Tasha retorted.
He was at her in two paces.
Data took her face in his hands as he planted an ardent, yet chaste kiss on her lips.
Feel. He told himself as he savoured the sensation.
Data deepened the kiss as his left hand moved back through her hair. He clasped the back of her neck. His right hand slipped down and settled in the small of her back to pull her closer.
Tasha relished in the feeling as she ran her hands up his chest and onto his shoulders. She found his long arms attractive, especially when they were holding her tight.
Data broke the kiss but didn't let go of holding her against him.
Tasha could see he was breathing heavier than normal.
"You are beautiful," Data said as he removed his hand from the back of her neck and stroked her cheek softly with his thumb.
Tasha took his hand between her own and brought it to her lips. She placed a small kiss on each of his digits and then the inside of his wrist.
It was intentional and one that she hoped would elicit a specific memory of when he had done the same to her the first time they'd been intimate. She observed him as she went along, noting the look of awe on his face as he recalled the memory.
"I'd like you to stay the night," Tasha said as she pulled him down to plant a kiss on him.
"If that is your wish," Data said softly looking down at her as he rested his hands on her hips.
Tasha traced his jaw with her finger. Data's eyes closed as he soaked in the sensation.
Tasha snaked her arms around his frame and gently scratched his back.
He did not have a biological need to itch as his bioplast did not experience this sensation. It meant that Data had never felt the compulsion to experience scratching.
But the tender sensation of her nails gently running along his spine and over his shoulder blades felt both pleasurable and intimate.
"This feels-ah-," Data struggled to formulate words.
Tasha stopped scratching and pulled him against her.
"C'mon," she said as she placed a kiss on the tip of his nose.
They had made love slowly.
Tasha was content to oblige as Data explored the sensations that accompanied his newfound feelings.
And although Data had catalogued to memory the way Tasha bit her lip at the peak of climax, Data had never felt the way he did in observing it before that night.
Later, they laid awake in a tangle of limbs. Data was resting his back against the headboard and Tasha had laid back against him. He had one arm wrapped across her chest as the other was intertwined with her own hand.
With her back against his torso, she could feel the rise and fall of his chest with each breath. Even though she knew that he needed to maintain atmospheric intake in order to sustain his temperature regulation, it was so human that she marvelled at his creation.
"I think it would be wise if you were to get some rest," Data stated as he kissed the top of her head.
"Will you stay?" she asked.
She was warm and enjoying the post-coital glow that she felt.
"I am quite content," Data replied.
Snuggling down into the covers, Tasha planted her head on her pillow. Data curled up behind her and she felt a wave of relief.
This felt right.
"Humans say 'sweet dreams' or 'sleep tight.' Betazoids say 'I will hold you through the night.' And the people of Riveetu III say 'may the stars keep you in their light'," Data whispered softly.
Tasha's eyes grew heavy as she listened to Data explain the various ways different cultures bid goodnight.
"Have you ever watched a moonbeam as it slid across a windowpane? Or struggled with a bit of rain?" Data went on softly as Tasha drifted off to dreamland.