"So then, when Ard'rian kissed me, it was indicative of her romantic attraction to me?" Data asked Riker in Ten Forward.
"Yes, I'd say so, from what you've already told me."
"Then why did she not state her feelings directly? Perhaps then I would have not misconstrued her action."
Riker was thinking of how to respond when Geordi walked over to their table. "Hey, Geordi, we were just talking about romantic attraction," Riker offered.
"Oh boy," Geordi said, taking a seat.
"I was explaining to Commander Riker that I do not understand why individuals do not simply indicate romantic or sexual interest verbally," Data said.
Geordi sighed. "Relationships are complicated, Data. But I guess the reason that people flirt..." He trailed off.
"They're trying to gauge interest," Riker attempted to explain. "Rejection hurts."
"Rejection is not something I fear," Data said matter-of-factly. "But it seems that Ard'rian did fear my own rejection of her."
Riker nodded. "It is a very human emotion, fear, and it comes in many forms."
"You could say that again," Geordi added.
Data nodded. "It was just an intriguing situation that I have not found myself in before. Most humans do not seem romantically or sexually interested in me."
Riker laughed despite himself. "Someone likes you and you find it 'intriguing,' Data?"
"Yes."
Geordi placed a hand on Data's shoulder. "Don't worry about it, Data. Romantic relationships tend to be more trouble than they're worth, anyway."
"If you say so, Geordi."