Data walked along the corridor of deck eight towards Rina's quarters. She had left early because of a headache. He hoped it was nothing bad. She had not been in sickbay. He rang her chime – no answer.
When she did not react to the third chime he opened the doors with his override and entered.
She lay on her sofa with her eyes closed. He stepped closer to her, watching her closely.
She seemed to be asleep so he turned to leave her alone as she griped his wrist and opened her eyes.
Her eyes moved around as if she was thinking about something.
Finally her gaze went to him.
"Hey, what are you doing here?" She asked with a small smile.
"I came by to make sure you are not ill. What is the matter?"
Her smile grew wider. "That's so sweet of you. Don't worry I'm fine. It's just a telepathic call from my family. I've spent the time arguing with my mother's sister."
She put her hand on her temple with a grimace. "And she just won't stop."
"What is she saying?"
Rina thought a moment then jumped up and took a pen and paper out of a drawer. She laid them on the table as she sat down.
She flicked her hand, followed by a flash of teal light and locked her eyes with his.
The pen began to write:
*The pen will write down everything of the conversation. Ready?*
He nodded.
Her eyes closed again.
*Katharina, you know how much I hate it when you cut the connection.*
*Oh sorry, Narzissa. You're not the only person in my life.*
*Don't get sarcastic with me! You've spent too much time with humans. Sarah should not have left this planet!*
*I'm glad she did. Otherwise I wouldn't exist.*
*But look at you. You don't fit among humans. Why don't you come back here? Here lives your family and a man who would gladly marry you.*
*I DON'T want to marry! Not now. Especially not a man I don't know and who would treat me like a piece of meat.*
*I am married and it's not that bad. Jacque is generous and we have four wonderful children.*
*Yeah he only tried to get rid of me when he had the chance. That's certainly not what I would consider family.*
*You mustn't take such a narrow view. You talk like a Terran girl.*
*I AM a Terran girl! I wish to choose my husband myself!*
*What will you choose? Another human? Or that robot of yours?*
*Data is an android not a robot. And he would be a better husband than this nobleman you have in mind.*
*Katharina, you put deep shame on this family.*
*I do? I thought I already am a shame for the family ever since the little half-human bastard I was has been born.*
*Katharina, please…*
*No! I'm sick and tired of all of you! Leave me alone! I will live my life the way I want. Bye.*
She sighed. "Sorry for that."
"There is no reason for apologizing. Are you alright?"
"Yes. I'm used to this. They didn't like my mother and they don't like me either."
"Do you really think I would make a good husband?"
"Why not? You are kind, sweet, trustworthy and honest. Good qualities in a marriage."
"As you said I am an android. I do not believe that there is a woman who would marry me."
She smiled and hugged him, rubbing his back. "You sell yourself short. I believe somewhere out there is the right partner for everyone. Even for us."
He hugged her back. "Thank you. That is kind of you to say."
She nuzzled his shoulder. "You're welcome. That's what friends are for."
"Yes, they are. I am grateful that you are my friend."
"Even if our relationship on a not professional level is only two days old?"
"That does not change anything."
"You're right. I'm glad to have someone like you as my friend too." She kissed his cheek.
"Thanks for checking on me."
"You are welcome. However, that was not my only reason for coming."
She raised an eyebrow. "How so?"
He pulled a small box out of his pocket and opened it. "I have noticed that you have pierced ears. One earring on the right and two on the left but you almost never wear three earrings. I hope you like this small gift with belated birthday greetings."
In the box was a small, silver ring with three tiny blue, diamond-like stones.
Rina blinked, completely speechless. When she spoke it was impossible not to notice that she was touched.
"Thank you. You're the first outside my family who gives me a present. I know I'm repeating myself but that's so very sweet of you."
"I am glad you like it. May I?"
She nodded and turned so that he had easy access to her left ear. He took the earing and fastened it in the right spot.
She smiled at him brightly and hugged him enthusiastically, kissing his cheek once more.
He put his arms around her and then hesitated a moment before placing a soft and gentle kiss on her cheek.
He felt her smile and the blush.
"Thanks."
"Do not mention it."
She scooted even closer and they sat like this the entire evening.