Chapter 4
Over the course of the next week, Haley became more and more withdrawn. Deanna had, of course, been the first to notice. She no longer sensed the turmoil Haley had been going through but this was worse. Deanna sensed nothing - no emotion - coming from Haley. It was as if Haley was the one with the emotion chip and she had just clicked it off. Deanna did her best to try to help Haley but the security chief was more interested in throwing herself into her duties and immersing herself in reading tactical and security protocols. No one, not even Data, could break the force field Haley had enveloped herself in.
It took a formal order from Commander Riker to get Haley to accompany him to the lounge.
"You are going to have a good time tonight, Lieutenant Foster. And that's an order too," he informed her and, for once, he was not joking. It took an hour and most of his best jokes before he was able to get a hint of a smile to cross her lips. A couple more jokes later and he was able to elicit a laugh.
"Well, that's an improvement," Will smiled as he moved his chair closer to Haley's. "Haley, we've all been very worried about you. Let us help you with whatever it is that you're going through."
"I am so lucky to have such wonderful friends," Haley smiled at Will, "but I'm fine. Really."
Will gave Haley a look of disbelief but did not press her further, deciding she was just not ready to talk. He put his arm around Haley to give her a comforting hug as Haley rested her head on Will's shoulder for a moment. It was then that a voice came from behind Haley.
"Am I disturbing you?" the voice asked hesitantly.
"No, of course not, Data. Sit down. Haley and I were just talking." Will moved his arm back to his side and repositioned his chair to its original place.
"It is very nice to see you smile again, Haley," Data commented. He meant his words but was extremely disappointed it was Commander Riker who had achieved this and not himself. He had also noticed the uncomfortable feeling he had experienced at the ball had returned when he saw the commander's arm around Haley.
The friends were soon joined at their table by Deanna. As the group broke up for the evening, Haley was forced to admit she had enjoyed herself. Deanna gave her a comforting hug before she left and reminded Haley she was available any time to talk.
"Thank you, Will. It was really good to -"
"-rejoin the land of the living?" Will finished.
"Yes." Haley laughed giving Will a gentle squeeze of the elbow. She turned to Data and smiled. "Good night, Data."
"Good night, Haley." Data smiled back but his eyes showed his worry. Throughout the evening, whenever he had moved to touch Haley, she had moved away and he did not understand why.
Data decided to determine conclusively if Haley had been avoiding him, or simply showing a preference for Commander Riker's touch. Data invited Haley to lunch two days after the evening in the lounge. Unfortunately, Haley had other plans for that afternoon, namely a flushing of a unit that fed into the force field generator in the brig.
"I am still concerned you are over working yourself, Haley. Will you have dinner with me tonight?" Data asked, trying again.
"I really can't, Data. I have to go over the unauthorized entry protocol drill scores for tomorrow. Starfleet will be expecting my report by Thursday and I haven't even started it." Haley shrugged and smiled, but again as Data reached to touch her hand, Haley suddenly needed some information from science station two and moved quickly to retrieve it.
Data tried three more times before he concluded that experimenting during a meal with Haley was not necessary. Not only was Haley avoiding his touch, she was avoiding him completely.
Data talked to Geordi, but his friend did not have any answers. "I know she's been busy, but I've not noticed her being distant to me, Data. Have you done something to upset her recently?" Geordi asked.
"Not that I am aware of. Would she not tell me if I have offended her?" Data questioned.
"My gut says yes. She's never been one to play mind games. Haley's always been cut and dry in her ways. I'd say you need to talk to her, Data." Geordi shrugged, helplessly.
"I have tried to talk to her. She will not, as they say, give me the time of day," Data confided. In the end, his friend could offer up no other advice.
Data knew Commander Riker would be the next logical person to speak to, but his emotions regarding Haley, and Riker touching her, however irrational, caused Data reluctance in this instance.
Left with few options, Data made an appointment with Counselor Troi.
Counselor Troi's appointment schedule was full for that day so Deanna would not be able to see him until early the next afternoon. During the rest of his shift and while he was getting ready for his dinner date that evening with Lieutenant Sandra DesLauriers, Haley was in Data's thoughts. He missed spending time with her. He missed her smile, her laugh, everything about her. She had not even attended the last two poker nights, which had never happened before.
Data arrived at the lounge with Sandra at 1900. They were engaged in conversation when Data saw Haley arrive with a PADD in hand and sit at a table with Commander Riker. Data tried to concentrate on Sandra but found he could not stop himself from taking quick glances towards his friends' table. He knew Commander Riker's behavior towards Haley was no different from countless other evenings the friends had spent together. Yet with each smile they exchanged, each burst of laughter, each warm touch between friends, each time the commander would put his hand on the back of her chair or leaned over to look at the information on the PADD, that uncomfortable feeling returned for Data.
When Data and Sandra were ready to leave the lounge, Data glanced once more towards Haley. She and the commander were still going over the scores from the drills that had been held. Haley glanced up to see Data looking over. She gave him a quick smile before turning back to her work.
As Data and Sandra waited at the turbolift, he found he was unable to continue with their date.
"Sandra, I am afraid I must end our date early this evening. Please forgive me. May I take you to lunch tomorrow to make up for it?" he asked.
"Sure, Data. You seemed rather preoccupied this evening so it's probably for the best," Sandra replied. Data escorted the lieutenant back to her quarters, giving her a quick kiss before departing.
When he reached his quarters, Data was at a loss as to why he was feeling the way he was. He was looking forward to speaking with the counselor even more now.
The next day began quite ordinarily and stayed uneventful throughout the morning. Data could not stop himself from taking a glimpse at Haley each time he left his ops station.
The time had come for Data's lunch date with Sandra. Sandra was already at a table in the lounge when Data arrived. As he went to join her, Data noticed Haley having lunch with Lieutenant Gerard, one of the security officers under her command. Once again, that uncomfortable feeling returned.
Lunch with Sandra was not going well. She found herself having to repeat herself a number of times as Data became more and more distracted. His constant glances away had brought her to a slow boil.
"Earth to Data." The sarcasm in Sandra's voice was evident, even to Data.
"I am sorry for not being as attentive as I should be, however, I find myself to be a-"
"-little distracted?" Sandra finished with a hint of anger in her voice. "Data, you obviously don't want to be with me so why don't we just end it now."
"But Sandra-" Data replied confused.
"Don't 'but Sandra' me," she snapped back. "This is the second date in a row we've had where you have been much more interested in the events at other tables than in me. So why don't we stop wasting each other's time and call it quits? Goodbye, Data." With that, Sandra threw her napkin on the table and left the lounge. Data sat silently trying to analyze what had just happened. He slowly rose from the table to go for his appointment with Counselor Troi.
I hope the counselor will be able to help me understand what is happening, Data thought as he made his way to the door of the lounge. As he passed, he found himself glancing over to Haley's table. Her laughter seemed to taunt him as he exited the room.
While Deanna hated to see it happen as it was, she could tell from the moment Data walked into her office that this situation with Haley was coming to a head. Data was very upset and from what she had heard from Will and Geordi, it was his flirting teacher that brought him to Deanna's office this time.
Troi wasted no time in asking Data to start from the beginning and tell her what was on his mind.
"A number of things, Counselor. But it would be fair to state they all involve Haley. I have found her lessons to me on dating to be invaluable. I still do not seem to be capable of maintaining a relationship for an extended period of time..." Data decided he did not want to lament over the ruined date with Sandra. It had been entirely his fault, but Haley the reason. Best to start there.
"Pardon me, Counselor. I wish to begin again. I am here because I have somehow offended a cherished friend and I need assistance in rectifying my error."
"What's going on, Data?" Deanna asking, wanting to see how he would phrase it.
"Haley seems to be avoiding my individual company and, I believe, any tactile encounter with me. I miss her." His expression was so like the sweet, lost face Deanna had seen on him before the chip. She wished she could wave her hand and make the pain and confusion disappear, but this once, Data had to find on his own.
"Why do you think she's avoiding you, Data?" Deanna asked, softly.
"Her reason? I do not know. We have not quarreled. She has not expressed any displeasure with any of my actions, to my knowledge. I cannot conceive of what I may have done to upset her." Data had been looking at his own hands, but paused here to meet the counselor's black eyes. What he saw there unnerved him.
"I do not know, but you do. Is that not correct, Counselor?" Data asked, trying to keep the accusation out of his voice.
"I am Haley's counselor too, Data. Anything she has told me, I can't reveal to you, just as anything you say here, will not get back to her." Deanna did her best to keep her tone factual.
Data lowered his head once more. It had still been there in her eyes. The knowledge. "I believe you have told me all I needed to know, Counselor. I am indeed the cause of the rift between Haley and myself." Data rose to a stand. "Thank you for your time, Counselor. I now know what I must do." Without another word, Data headed for the door.
Deanna wanted to call him back, but there really was very little she could say that would not betray Haley. Now all there was to do was wait and see.
Time was not on Data's side for the next thirty-one hours. It took that long for Data to be free at the same time he could be sure Haley was alone, in her quarters and awake. It felt close to unethical to trap her like this, but he had been left with few options and he could not allow her to remain upset by him. Still struggling with his ethics, Data rang for admittance at Haley's door.
The smile she had been wearing faded to an uncomfortable and obviously forced one as soon as Haley saw who it was that had rang for her.
"It's getting late, Data. I really can't-" she stammered.
"It is only 2100 hours, Haley and my need to speak with you is quite urgent. May I please enter?" Unknowingly, Data hit on the exact right expression to gain admittance. Looking very nervous, Haley stepped back and allowed him room to enter. "I have done or said something to bring you distress. I know not what, however I will do whatever necessary to achieve your forgiveness. You are my friend, Haley, and I very much miss that friendship." Looking like a puppy with his tail between his legs, Data slowly reached out to take hold of her hand, but Haley took another step backward so she was, once again, out of reach.
What Data now saw in her eyes alarmed him to his very center. Haley looked afraid of him. Suddenly, Data felt he was in a panic. Memories of words and images raced though his head at a speed only he could decipher. Images of Lieutenant Reed dancing with Haley or Commander Riker putting his arm around her chair, the odd feeling Data had experienced in his chest, Haley avoiding him. Fear he would lose her...touch her...see her being touched...
All at once, pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place. Data realized he did not like seeing other men touch Haley. If Counselor Troi touched her, the action had no effect on Data. He was jealous. It was a most unbecoming emotion, but now that the thought was there, he knew it was the right one. He was jealous of any man touching her because he wanted to be the one touching her.
But why did she fear his touch?
"You must know I will never hurt you, Haley. I care too deeply to wish to hurt you in any way. I am only now coming to realize just how much you mean to me. I now see what I was looking for with the other women I dated. They did not have it, but you do."
"Data, what are you saying?" Haley whispered.
"All of the qualities I have looked for in others, you possess. I cherish the time we spend together. You understand me and communicate with me better than anyone I have known. You fascinate and intrigue me like no other." Data started to take a step forward but stopped, fearing Haley would once again move away. "I have missed your smile, your laugh, the sparkle in your eyes. I have missed you so much, Haley."
Haley's expression softened considerably and the fear in her eyes vanished, much to Data's relief.
"Haley, please, take my hand," Data reached his hand out to her. Haley stared at Data's hand before slowly raising her own. She started to reach out but pulled her hand back quickly.
"Haley, please. You are the only woman I want to be with. Please," Data pleaded, his hand still outstretched.
Haley once again started to slowly raise her hand, only this time she did not pull back. She reached out allowing Data to take her hand in his. He moved towards Haley slowly until he was close enough to wrap his arms around her.
"Counselor Troi was correct when she told me that sometimes when you are looking too hard for something you miss what is right in front of you," Data whispered in Haley's ear. "I was guilty of doing exactly that however I desperately wish to rectify the situation now."
Data gently cupped Haley's face in his hands. Staring into her eyes, he smiled as he pressed his lips to hers, kissing Haley with a passion he had never felt before.
Haley wondered when this wonderful dream would end and she would wake up alone in her bed. Her dreams had not been haunted by images of Data in weeks. His trying to see her alone must have caused their return, she reasoned.
This was too much, her mind screamed. She could not endure seeing Data in the morning if this dream continued. Breaking their kiss and holding Data back, Haley pleaded with her subconscious. "Wake up. I can't do this again. No more dreams," she begged in a breaking voice.
Data was at a loss to understand what was happening. Did Haley truly believe she was dreaming this? Why was she so distressed?
"Haley, you are not dreaming. I promise you, you are awake. Please, tell me what is wrong?" Data urged her. The panic in her eyes caused him great alarm.
"This is a dream. This can't be real," she insisted, pulling completely away from him.
"Why? Why can this not be real?" he asked her, beginning to fear for her sanity.
Haley turned from Data, moving to hug the wall behind her. In a very broken voice, she uttered, "Because you're not looking for me. I'm just your teacher. You practice with me so someone else will want you. I love you but you are looking for someone else's love – not mine." The tears began to flow freely from her eyes now. Funny, she never remembered crying in her dreams before.
"You love me?" asked a very small and confused male voice.
Haley turned from the wall, wiping tears for her eyes, to face him once again. She could see tears also running down Data's cheeks. For the first time, Haley considered the possibility this was not a dream.
Ever so slowly, Haley lifted her hand to touch Data's face. She brushed a finger across his cheek, capturing a tear on the tip. Her mind raced for a way to prove if this was indeed reality. In a flash, it came to her. If this was a dream, she would be able to undress him right here and now, but she doubted she could if this was real.
Moving closer to him, Haley reached up and began to unfasten the closure of his uniform jacket. This ripped Data out of his own fog. He removed Haley's hands from his uniform and held them in his.
"What are you doing?" he asked confused.
"Undressing you. If this is a dream, you'll let me," she told him almost defiantly.
Still holding her hands, Data knew he could not allow her to proceed. Not now. Not until she believed it was truly him who held her.
"I am not a dream, Haley. I cannot allow you to remove my uniform. I have a modesty program that cautions me against such behavior. I must convince you I am, in fact, before you." His eyes began to move in the way Haley knew meant he was processing information. Suddenly, she thought it was very cute, but she had never dreamt of him doing this. She had also never heard of a modesty program.
"Why do you have a modesty program? What does it do?" she asked.
Data's eyes stopped moving and he released her hands. Looking her in the eyes, he blushed slightly. "I was informed by my mother a few years ago that when I was first activated I saw no reason to cover my body as I do not suffer from the elements." Data's blush turned to crimson here. "The colonists fiercely objected to an anatomically correct full size male android appearing before them naked."
To Data's astonishment, Haley laughed. Tilting his head to the side, he studied her expression. Reluctantly, he accepted she was laughing at the thought of him running around naked as various colonists gasped in shock and outrage. It was an exceedingly embarrassing image, however, for the first time, Data could see the humor in this. With cheeks still aglow with embarrassment, Data grinned at Haley.
"Did you do this more than once? Run around naked, I mean," she asked, with barely contained mirth.
Data nodded slowly. The grin was growing wider on his face as well. "It was why the program was written. I have no memory of these events-"
"That may be a blessing," Haley interjected with a giggle.
"-but she did indicate I continually refused to dress until the program was installed."
Haley could not hold it back any longer. She exploded in laughter. "Oh my God. I can't imagine you doing anything like that, Data. Anyone on this ship before you," she gasped between guffaws. But the truth of her words soon hit her. Slapping her hands over her mouth, she gasped in shock now.
"What it is?" Data asked, reaching out to grasp her shoulders, protectively.
"This can't be a dream. Never in even my wildest dreams would I have thought up a story like the one you just told. I could never conceive of you doing something so undignified."
Data blushed again before he slowly smiled. "Then I am pleased I told you that story, but may I ask you to keep it between us?" he asked her.
"You've never told anyone before?" she asked, lowering her hands from her face.
"Geordi has heard it from my mother herself, but I have not told anyone else before now."
"I'll never tell a soul," she vowed.
Data smiled. "Thank you. Do you believe I am truly here and this is not a dream?"
She slowly nodded, but still looked uncertain.
Data was not sure if this would convince her, but he had to do it anyway. Pulling her back into his arms, he lifted her chin enough so he could kiss her. This time, he did explore the lips and mouth of the woman he kissed, with growing hunger.
Data hoped now Haley was completely convinced this was real. He looked deeply into her eyes with an expression on his face she had not seen before. It was a look she had seen others exchange but had not seen firsthand before. Some would call it the look of love. The reality of the situation was now so clear to Haley.
This is real. Data is here, holding me, kissing me, wanting me, Haley thought as Data held her closely, his arms around her as if he never wanted to let her go. She looked up at Data and smiled. It was the smile he had missed so much.
This time it was Haley's turn to initiate a kiss. She moved her arms around Data's neck and pulled him to her. Haley released all of the pent up emotions she had for Data as their lips met. Data's eyes widened for a moment before he was completely swept up in the fire blazing between them. This time, it was Data who moaned in pleasure from the passion they shared.
"I have never made love with a woman. I have not had the desire to do so until now," Data gently caressed Haley's cheek as he spoke. He reached to undo the closure on her uniform.
Suddenly a voice came from their comm badges, "Red Alert - senior officers report to the bridge!"
"DAMN!" Data said so forcefully Haley could not help but giggle.
"It's okay, Data," Haley said reassuringly as she fastened the closure on her uniform. She reached towards Data and fastened the closure on his uniform before wrapping her arms around his waist. "We have all the time in the world to be together now."
Unfortunately for the raiders who attacked Starbase 154, they also seemed to feel they had all the time in the world to steal a dilithium shipment. The Enterprise quickly proved this thought wrong.
Their ship was now in the Enterprise shuttle bay and its six-man complement were complaining in Haley's brig. After his duties had been completed, Data headed for the brig to check on Haley. She was going over the inventory manifest from the raider's ship.
As Data came up beside her, she pointed to the list. "It seems these guys have been very busy. We've downloaded their cargo manifest and cross-referenced it with reported thefts. These guys are responsible for thefts in three sectors...so far," she told Data with a raised eyebrow.
"Impressive, if not troublesome. We will be arriving at the detention base tomorrow at 1000. Will you have this report ready for the captain prior to that time?" Data asked, feeling the need to be the officer before he could relax and be what he most wanted to be - with Haley.
"Actually, I'm almost done. Why? Did you have something in mind?" she asked, raising the other eyebrow at him.
Since officially they were both off duty, Data touched her arm. "I have a few, but I am not the expert," he teased with a grin.
Haley looked into his eyes and frowned a bit. "Data, this may not be the place but I want you to know...this is hard for me. I've been holding what I feel for you back for a while. I just can't go from being your sexual instructor to being your sexual partner in a matter of hours. I need to adjust. Can you understand that?" she asked him, gently.
Data nodded, taking her hands in his own. "Yes. I too am still adjusting to my feelings. It was only yesterday I realized what I truly feel for you. As you said before, we have the time. I will let you complete your work. Good night." Data smiled as he gave her hand a gentle squeeze.
"Good night, Data," Haley smiled.
Data turned to leave but stopped suddenly, turning back to Haley.
"Haley, will you have lunch with me tomorrow?" Data asked.
"I'd love to," Haley beamed.
"Wonderful. I am looking forward to our first date tomorrow," Data grinned before leaving.
Haley went back to finishing her report but Data's parting words interrupted her thoughts a number of times.
Our first date. The mere thought made Haley smile. She had been certain she would never hear those words from Data.
When she was completely satisfied with the report, she found Captain Picard was still in his ready room. As she made her way to see the captain, she felt as if she was walking on air. Outside the ready room, Haley pressed the door chimes.
"Come," the captain's voice called from inside. Haley entered and approached his desk.
"I have my report on tonight's incident for you, sir," Haley spoke confidently.
"Excellent. Please sit, Lieutenant." Picard motioned to the chair before taking the PADD from Haley.
Haley sat quietly as the captain reviewed the information.
"It seems our 'guests' have been busy," he commented as he read.
"Yes, sir. Quite," Haley responded.
"Excellent work, Lieutenant, and I don't mean just the report."
"Thank you, sir." Haley could not help but smile.
"I am glad we have this opportunity to speak as there is a matter I need to discuss with you." The captain sounded very serious, which worried Haley. "Starfleet, in all of its wisdom, recently decided that certain department head positions on board the larger classes of starships should be held by an officer with the minimum rank of lieutenant commander. They have included Security Chief in this edict."
Haley was sure all of the color from her face had drained.
"Commander Riker and I have discussed this regulation change extensively and I have made my recommendations to Starfleet Command on this matter. Lieutenant...Haley, your performance as Chief of Security has been exemplary." The captain paused, and Haley braced herself waiting for the 'but'. "In order to comply with Starfleet regulations, I am pleased to inform you that your promotion to the rank of lieutenant commander has been approved. Congratulations."
The captain stood to shake Haley's hand.
"Thank you, sir. I don't know what to say other than thank you." The words stumbled from her lips however she quickly regained her composure. "Your confidence means a great deal to me, sir, and I will continue to perform my duties to the best of my abilities to maintain that confidence."
"I'm sure you will," Picard replied as he sat back down. "Your promotion will take effect when the ceremony is held in two days time."
"Ceremony?" Haley questioned. "There's a ceremony?"
"I'm sure Commander Riker or Commander Data will be happy to tell you all about it," Picard smiled. "Congratulations again, Haley. You're dismissed."
Haley rose from her chair to leave, turning to Picard before she exited. "Thank you again and good night, sir," Haley smiled. The captain nodded.
Haley made her way back to deck three as the excitement of the evening was catching up with her.
I can't wait to tell Data, she thought as she exited the turbolift. As excited as she was about this promotion, the thought of sharing this with Data meant even more. She wanted to share everything with him and knowing he now wanted the same had her on cloud nine.
She stopped at Data's quarters to tell him the amazing news. His congratulatory kiss was causing Haley to regret her words earlier about needing time to adjust. She wanted to continue this kiss and more, however Data knew this was not the right time. He walked Haley to her quarters, kissed her good night and promised to tell her all about the ceremony during their lunch date the next day.
That night Haley dreamed again about Data, however this dream was completely the opposite of the ones she had before. The next morning, Haley Foster awoke with a huge smile on her face, feeling better than she had in months.
The raiders were dropped off at their new temporary home before lunch time, so Haley was in the brig seeing to the repairs that had to be done to the cells where the former inhabitants had expressed their displeasure with the accommodations.
As Data approached, Haley was arm deep in wires and circuits of a food slot. "How was the unit damaged?" Data inquired.
Without looking up from her work, Haley replied. "He seemed to find the food in his cell unpalatable. He registered his dissatisfaction by putting his foot through the unit... twice."
"Most unseemly," Data commented with a shake of his head. Haley looked over and grinned at him.
"Most raiders have that in spades." She pulled her arms out of the unit, gave her back a stretch and walked towards Data. "It's time for lunch?" she asked.
"Yes, so I would suggest allowing Maintenance to complete the repair. You have a date," Data said with a knowing grin.
Haley moved closer and put her hand in his. "I like the sound of that. Let's go."
Lunch was quiet, relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable for both of them. They sat in a corner at a small table for two and just talked. For more than sixty percent of this time, they had their hands across the table, laced together. Data did tell Haley all about the promotion ceremony.
"A sailing ship?" she repeated after Data had finished describing most of the ceremony.
"Yes," he nodded.
"And I have to JUMP for a hat?" she said, with skepticism.
"Correct. However, it has been recorded only one person has ever succeeded in actually reaching the badge of office. Your predecessor was that person." Data did not look happy to have to tell Haley about that little fact. "However, I do have a plan, if you will agree."
Haley grinned. "What kind of plan, Data?"
The android leaned across the table in an attempt to get closer to her. Whispering, he said, "I can rewrite the holodeck program so it will allow you to reach the badge of office."
Haley laughed. "You sneaky devil, you. Data, if no one other than Worf has grabbed this thing that means you didn't either. Why?"
Data sighed. "I did not have this type of ceremony performed when I was promoted. The captain I was serving under at the time assumed I would have no interest in such a ceremony. As well, there were concerns as to whether the holodeck program could be re-written to take in to account my abilities and weight."
Haley looked insulted. "That upset you, didn't it?" she asked, again reaching for Data's hand.
"I did not have my emotion chip at that time," he reminded her.
"Okay, so when you think about it now...?"
"Perhaps I am somewhat disappointed..."
"I knew it. Okay Data, you have a deal. I agree to your plan, whatever it is."
The afternoon went by quickly and soon the next shift arrived to relieve the crew. Data, Haley, Will and Deanna were in the turbolift heading for their respective quarters on deck three. Before Data stepped into his quarters, he gave Haley a gentle kiss and reminded her of their dinner date that evening. As the trio continued down the corridor, Haley could not help but notice the Cheshire cat grin on Will's face. With her cheeks turning a light shade of red, Haley could not stop from grinning back. When she reached her quarters, she noticed Deanna had stopped too.
"Haley, may I speak to you for a moment?" Deanna asked.
"Of course, please come in," Haley smiled, inviting Deanna into her quarters.
"I certainly didn't need my empathic abilities to know you and Data are together. I am so happy for both of you," she smiled, giving Haley a hug.
"Thank you, Deanna, for everything. I know I wouldn't have been able to survive to this point if it hadn't been for you. You are a terrific counselor and a wonderful friend. I don't know how I can ever repay you."
"Seeing you and Data together and happy is repayment enough," Deanna assured her. "And now, I'll let you get ready for your date." Deanna moved towards the door before turning back. "I'm looking forward to your ceremony tomorrow. I have a bet with Will on whether you will get the hat. I know you can do it."
Dinner that evening was wonderful. Not only did they hold hands for much of the evening but, between the main course and dessert, Data had leaned over the table to give Haley a gentle kiss on the lips. He explained he wanted to make sure the other men present knew she was spoken for. After dinner, they went for a walk in the arboretum before Data escorted Haley to her quarters. Outside her door, the happy pair shared a loving kiss.
"I was able to change the holodeck program for the ceremony. I have increased the pliability of the plank as well as changing its dimensions. You will be able to gain greater height in your jump and have more room to land," Data explained between kisses.
The ceremony began at 1000 hours the next morning. Haley was brought out on deck in wrist irons. The first thing she noticed was how incredibly sexy Data looked in the naval uniform. She stood before Captain Picard and Commander Riker as Will read the charges against her. The plank was then extended and Haley was led to the edge of the ship.
"Data," Geordi put his arm on his friend's shoulder, "I thought I should let you know. I discovered someone had made a few changes to the ceremony program but there's no need to worry. I fixed them," Geordi laughed knowing he had found out his friend's scheme. Data watched as Haley made her way out on the plank. She watched as the hat was raised and lowered over her head. She timed her jump perfectly, grabbing the hat from the hook before landing back on the plank. She wobbled for a moment but regained her balance without falling as her crewmates cheered.
"Congratulations, Haley. You are only the second person to succeed in landing with the badge of office. Now, I'm afraid, you must suffer the same fate as he did," Will grinned. "Computer, remove the plank." With those words, the plank disappeared from beneath Haley and she was sent for a watery plunge. Data rushed to the edge of the ship to assist Haley as she began to climb the side of the ship. He extended his hand to her from a rather awkward position.
"Data, do you really have an emergency flotation device?" she asked as she took hold of his hand.
"Yes, why do you ask?" Data questioned as he extended his other hand to Haley.
"Because you're going to need it," she laughed and using all of the strength her legs could muster she pushed off against the side of the ship, pulling the off balance android into the water with her. The emergency device worked perfectly and Data rose to the surface quickly, making his way to where Haley was treading water. Haley wrapped her arms around Data and smiled.
"Looks like your plan didn't go exactly as expected," Haley laughed.
"Actually, it did not go at all. Geordi told me he discovered the changes I had made to the program and he fixed them. You did it, Haley," Data smiled before giving her a celebratory kiss.
The two made their way to the edge of the ship and were helped up to the deck. Will came over to give Haley a congratulatory kiss on the cheek. Haley smiled at Will and then proceeded to push him overboard. As the commander rose up from the water, Haley called down to him. "That's for betting against me."
While the lounge was quite busy when the promotion party arrived, a large table had been prepared for them in the back. The promotion ceremony had been broadcast on the ship's view screens throughout the Enterprise, so almost everyone had seen just what had happened. As the group made their way to the table, other members of the crew congratulated Haley, teased Data about needing to learn to swim, or Will about his chances of remaining dry should he again choose to bet against Lieutenant Commander Haley Foster.
Many also chose to hug Haley or kiss her on the cheek to congratulate her. Haley could see this contact made Data slightly uncomfortable. When they reached their table, she took hold of his hand discreetly and gave it a reassuring squeeze. The captain made his way to the head of the table, remained standing, waiting until everyone had settled. He gave a short speech giving some of the highlights of Haley's career that led her to being here before sitting and encouraging the party to resume. No one was surprised when the captain made his excuses and left the party twenty-five minutes later.
Data was delighted when he could escort the woman of honor back to her quarters too many hours later. There had been dancing, but Data had been allowed too few dances with Haley and others of the male population of the crew had been allowed too many.
The couple held hands as they leisurely walked down the corridors. "You can't be so possessive of me, Data. I promise I'm not going to run away," Haley reassured Data as she gave his hand a squeeze.
"It is quite an unsettling feeling that comes over me when I see another male come in physical contact with you. I have been attempting to combat the feeling, but thus far I have been unsuccessful," Data admitted with regret.
"Maybe I have an idea that will help," she told him and increased their pace to her quarters. Once they had arrived, Haley pulled Data inside and into a very passionate kiss. As she pushed him backward toward her bedroom, she told him in a breathy voice. "I've been wanting this for a very long time and I don't intend to wait any longer." She kissed him again. "I want to see just exactly what that modesty program of yours objects to." Haley raised her eyebrows in a very suggestive manner at a rather stunned Data.
"I was rather hoping it would be another program we could explore the limitations of," Data struggled to say as Haley began taking off his shirt.
"Oh? And what program is that?" she asked with a grin of interest.
"My sexual program. I am programmed in multiple techniques, many of which I have never tried," he admitted sheepishly.
"Well Data, I hope, after tonight, you can never say never again." With the look of a tigress in her eyes, Haley tossed the white dress shirt she had just removed from Data's chest across the room for effect. Data had removed his navy blue jacket hours ago, but Haley still wore hers.
Data, who had extremely limited experience in this area, merely stood there at the foot of her bed as Haley began to run her hands over his chest. The feelings she was causing in him confused and excited Data. His eyes were closed as she pulled him into yet another passion-filled kiss. The confusion subsided as Data found a goal of his own. If Haley could remove his clothing, surely he could induce her into removing hers.
"Is there not a human saying 'What is good for the goose is good for the gander'?" Data asked as he began to see to the gold buttons adorning the front of Haley's jacket. This soon joined his white shirt on the floor.
Haley gently pushed Data backwards so he was now sitting on her bed. She was standing in front of him, with her back facing him, when she bent over to pick up his foot. Even with the uniform pants on, Data could not help but admire how sexy Haley's butt was. She pulled off one of the high boots Data was wearing and then the other as Data continued to enjoy the view. After throwing the boots to the floor, Haley turned, holding out her hands to Data. As he took hold, she pulled gently so he now stood as well.
They shared another passionate kiss before Haley lay back on the bed raising her leg. Data was not quite sure why removing Haley's boots had such an effect on him - whether it was the actual act of undressing Haley or the look on her face as he did so - whatever it was, he was extremely aroused by this whole process. This time he was the one to pull Haley up and into a passionate kiss. He then carefully began to unbutton Haley's shirt.
Too many buttons, he thought to himself as he finally had the last one open. He slid the fabric off Haley's shoulders so it fell to the floor. He smiled as he admired the sight of Haley wearing what he found to be an incredibly sexy white bra. Her deep breathing was causing her breasts to heave slowly, further affecting Data. He gently caressed her arm as he brought his lips to hers. He slowly moved his kisses down her neck and to the smooth skin of her shoulders before reclaiming her mouth. Haley's hands were on Data's waist, slowly making their way to the clasps of Data's uniform pants.
As she undid them, Haley whispered to Data, "What is your modesty program telling you, Data?"
Data gently kissed Haley. "It is not responding," Data whispered back. "But I am." Haley smiled as Data now undid the clasps of her own uniform pants and pushed them to the floor so she stood before him wearing only her bra and panties. As Data's pants hit the floor, he pulled Haley into another passionate embrace.
Haley sat back down on the bed, pulling Data with her. Since she would not release him from their kiss, he was left with little choice but to crawl over her as she moved back to the head of the bed. Lying back, she wrapped her arms around him, allowing her hands to roam over his back before venturing lower. When she reached his behind, she ran her hands over it, giving his ass a gentle squeeze. Data broke the kiss, giving her a stunned and slightly alarmed expression.
"What is it, Data? That didn't hurt, did it?" she asked him.
"No. I cannot experience pain as you understand it. You...I believe I may need the advice of my teacher again," he told her, looking a little lost.
Haley's expression changed to a more serious one. She was not sure she wanted Data thinking of her as his instructor any more. "Okay, what do you need to know, Data?"
"Is it normal to be nervous at this juncture?" he asked, with his voice breaking several times.
Haley could feel her cheeks burn with a blush. Bringing a hand to caress his cheek, she nodded. "I'm actually scared to death. I've been nervous in this situation before, but not like this. It's not the same with you, Data," she told him.
Oddly, Data looked a bit sad from this. "You are referring to my being an android," he said, turning his eyes away.
Haley grabbed his chin and pulled his face back, staring sternly in his amber eyes. "No, Data, I mean, this time, it's so much more important to me." Haley could see this pleased him, but he was still very nervous. "Data, you told me about your sexual program but I don't think I really understand. How does it work? Is it like a list of guidelines or instructions?"
Data moved from over Haley to beside her before answering. "Some of both, actually. I have two files that are more intense. They carry more exact commands and allow less freedom for variation. The rest are designed with more freedom to improvise." He sighed, looking away and then back to Haley again. "But I have never used my program to make love. I have used it, but not when I was capable of feeling an emotional response to the experience."
Haley reached over and caressed Data's cheek again. "You feel like you're being put on the spot and you're not sure what to do." It was not really a question.
"I do not wish to disappoint you."
Haley chuckled. "You won't unless you leave. What you just said goes a long way. If you go into this with the attitude that self gratification is your only goal, you greatly decrease the chance of being asked back to repeat your performance," she told him, meaningfully.
Data considered this, obviously processing. "I do wish to please you," he assured her.
"Then you probably will. Data, lie on your back and relax. I think for this first time, I'll take the lead."
"How will I know if I am responding correctly to what you do?" he asked, moving to his back as she had suggested.
"Easy, if it hurts me, it's not good. If it feels good for one or both of us, keep going." She grinned and raised an eyebrow at him. Data still looked nervous, but nodded.
Haley moved to kiss Data again, wanting to relax him. Oddly, he seemed to freeze. His hands were at his sides and while he did kiss her back, he did not embrace her. She kissed his face and neck, but Data still seemed to be tense. Sitting up and looking at him, she tilted her head and stared into his eyes.
"Data, help me take off my bra," she whispered to him.
This idea seemed to intrigue but frighten him. He took almost a full thirty seconds to move tentative hands to reach around to her back. She leaned forward to allow him room. Data unfastened the bra and slowly removed it from her body. Tossing it towards the already large pile of clothes without looking, he found his eyes riveted to her breasts. They stood high and proud, looking wonderfully soft and inviting.
"Data, what do you want to do right now?" she asked.
Pulling his eyes from her chest, he looked her in the eyes. "Touch you. Touch your breasts."
"Do it."
He hesitated, but seeing no hesitation in Haley's expression, Data lifted a hand to her left breast and cupped it gently. She sighed happily at his touch. Encouraged, Data accessed his sexual program covering this area and followed the directive. He explored her breast with his fingers, noting the difference in the skin around the areola and nipple. Her nipple grew harder as he manipulated it, fascinating him. He brought his other hand up to see if her other breast too would respond to his touch. It did and Data was delighted. As per his program, he knew oral stimulation could also be applied. The idea was appealing so Data removed his hand from her breast and leaned in to take her nipple in his mouth.
"Do you want me to lay down? It may make it easier for you," Haley offered. Data could sense from the tone of her voice his actions were affecting her.
"Yes, please."
She nodded and lay down for him. Just this act of compliance excited Data. Resuming his manipulations of her breast, he again took one nipple in his mouth. The sensory information was astounding. The taste of her skin, the feel of her nipple on his tongue and the sounds she was now making caused Data to want more. He realized he was becoming so aroused he was developing an erection. Stunned by this realization, Data found himself staring down at it.
"Impressive," Haley commented, having also noticed. What she did next astounded Data. She reached over and fondled him. Data could not help but gasp at her touch. He was completely transfixed by her actions and the intensity of the sensations of her touch. She forcefully pushed Data back down on the bed and moved to hover over his hard length, almost drooling with anticipation. But she did not touch him with her hands. She opened her mouth and took his penis in, kissing and sucking him greedily.
Data knew of this sexual act, but had been totally unprepared for the affect her actions would have on him. He moaned loudly, unable to stifle this reaction. Almost instantly, he felt a need for something, but had no idea what. The need grew the more Haley touched him. She ran her fingers over him, cupping and fondling his balls. She moved to take one and then the other in her mouth before returning to her stimulation of his penis. Data heard a ripping sound and lifted his head to see he had been clenching the bed sheet and had ripped it to shreds. He was mortified, but Haley only laughed.
"I think you like this, Data," she said with a smile before lowering her head again to take him in her mouth.
"Stop! Something is happening to me and I cannot control myself properly!" Data pleaded, alarmed for her safety.
Haley looked at him, showing no signs of fear or concern, only affection and happiness. "What do you feel, Data?"
"I am not sure. I feel a need. A very intense need, but for what, I do not know."
"Have you ever had an orgasm, Data?" Haley asked, gently.
"No," he admitted.
"I think you're about to," she told him with a pleased grin. She moved to retake him, but he grabbed her shoulders.
"No. I do not wish to...I know what you are attempting, but I want to...I wish to make love to you, Haley. Please," he implored.
Haley smiled. This smile was so full and warm, Data felt sure he was on the right track. "Do what you want, Data. I want it too."
Data smiled with happy excitement. Sitting up, he lay her back down. With practiced ease, Haley slipped off her panties before Data moved to take the traditional position between her spread legs. Taking a deep breath to release his nervousness, Data brought a hand slowly to her sex. He wanted to explore here too, but the need to copulate with her was just too great. He slowly slipped a finger within her, testing her readiness for him. She was practically soaking.
"I'm more than ready for you, Data. Much more than ready," she said between moans.
Data was again overcome by the affect her moans of desire were having on him. He removed his fingers and moved over her. Kissing her for the first time in what seemed like years, Data discovered his sexual program had disabled his internal chronometer, apparently some time ago. Putting that aside, Data relaxed into her kiss. Being able to move every part of his body, Data probed her entrance with his erection and, finding it, pushed in. The oral caresses of her mouth had been amazing, so Data was astounded to find that having the walls of her vagina encase his eager length was so much more satisfying and stimulating.
Data threw his head back, moaning loudly. Haley took hold of his butt, urging him to begin his thrusts. This caused another leap in sensation. Data now threw his head forward, resting his forehead on her breast and panting heavily. Still urging him with one hand, Haley ran her other hand through Data's hair and spoke softly to him.
Catching his breath, Data lifted up to take her in the most passion laced kiss either of them had ever experienced. The need now overwhelmed Data. Desire and hot need ripped through him as the sensory information almost overloaded his neural net. He all but screamed Haley's name as he came within her. Arching her back, Haley's orgasm took her as well.
Data was now much more relaxed and feeling more confident after witnessing Haley's orgasm. He was both relieved and very stimulated by her response. He decided he needed to explore further. He reclaimed Haley's mouth for yet another burning kiss as his hands roamed her body. Her skin felt so soft as he gently caressed her side as he made his way back to her breast. He moved his kisses to her neck, down to her breasts. He stopped to once again fondle one of Haley's breasts while taking the other in his mouth. His program was storing Haley's responses to different stimuli, allowing Data to proceed more from her reactions than from his guidelines. As Haley's moans increased, Data slowly moved down her torso making his way further down. As he positioned himself between Haley's legs, stroking her inner thighs, he hesitated for a moment. He looked up at Haley, her expression and moans were the evidence she wanted him to continue. He began to stimulate her clit with his fingers causing Haley to gasp with pleasure. He now carefully spread her labia, taking her clit in his mouth as he moved his fingers in and out of her wetness. Haley's body thrashed from the level of pleasure she had never experienced before. Suddenly another ripping noise filled the air as it was now Haley's turn to destroy her bedding. Data looked up and grinned.
"I wanted to get some new bedding anyway," she laughed as Data moved up her body. As their lips met and their tongues were locked in a passionate duel, Data again penetrated Haley. He began to thrust in and out as their kiss continued. Having brought Haley so close to climax with his oral stimulation, it was not long before her orgasm came rushing over her. Data continued to thrust, the excitement he felt from her orgasm driving him further until she called out his name while in the throws of an even greater orgasm. This response took Data to the edge. He moaned loudly as he once again exploded inside her.
Haley pulled Data to lie beside her as their orgasms subsided. She laid her head on his chest and ran her hand lazily over it as their breathing slowly returned to normal. Data experimentally wrapped his arms around her, still craving the feel of her.
"What do you think of lovemaking, Data?" Haley asked him, softly.
Data thought for a moment, sighing still at her gentle touches. "Though I know every word currently listed in the Starfleet database, and it's meaning, I still find what we just shared to be most difficult to put into words." Lifting up his head, Data caught her eyes. "Can you describe it?" he asked her.
Haley chuckled softly. "Not really. Now you see why poets and writers spend so much time on this one act. Trying to put those feelings into words, finding words as powerful as that experience."
"I do not believe that is possible. While I will never forget a second of this experience, I fail to see how I could properly describe the feelings and sensations you caused me to undergo."
"I happen to agree with you. It's not going to stop me from trying, but I doubt I'll ever succeed in putting into words-" she paused here to raise up and look Data in the eyes. "-how wonderful making love with you is." Haley gave Data a puzzled look when she noticed her statement had caused him to tense up. "What's wrong?"
"I had once read sexually explicit material in an attempt to stimulate an emotional response before the installation of my emotion chip. I was informed by Commander Riker that much of what I read was an exaggerated representation of a true sexual session." Data avoided her eyes as he rambled.
"You've lost me, Data. Why is that relevant here and why are you so tense?" she looked worriedly into his eyes.
"We have just concluded an intense sexual encounter," he said.
"Yes, so?"
Data lifted up and stared past her, down his own body. Haley turned to see what had his attention. Data's erection stood unabashed at the stir it was causing.
"Your comment about our lovemaking, it seems to have had an affect on me. Perhaps I should go to my quarters now." Data moved to disengage himself from her. "I seem to be too easily aroused at this point in time. I-"
"Stop right there," Haley called out, pushing him back down on the bed. "I don't give a damn what the things you've read said or what Will said, for that matter. If you want to make love twenty times a day and we have the time and I have the energy then that is exactly what we'll do."
To prove she meant what she said, Haley quickly straddled Data and lowered herself down onto his wonderful length, sighing with pleasure as she took him inside her.
Data closed his eyes as he was once again enveloped in pleasure. As Haley's motions increased in frequency, Data let out a low moan. He now could not help but stare at Haley's passion-filled expression on her beautiful face. He leaned forward to meet her sensuous lips, kissing her until another moan intruded on it. He lay back down as Haley again was increasing her pace. His hands reached out to roam her body. He ran them eagerly over her glistening skin, stroking her thighs, and then moving up her flat stomach before finally cupping her firm bosom. Haley's moans were more frequent as she reached the Promised Land.
"Oh Data, oh Data, oh Data," she repeated in a breathy moan until she let out a loud cry of pleasure.
Hearing her call his name like that had the effect of pushing Data over the edge as he too called out in pleasure. As their orgasms subsided, Haley again moved to Data's side. Haley gently caressed Data's cheek before softly kissing him. They lay entwined together, silently staring into each other's eyes. They could see in their faces what words could not describe.
"Haley, what are you feeling now?" Data asked finally breaking the silence.
"Data, I still can't describe it. I've wanted this for so long and it's even more wonderful than I could have imagined," Haley sighed.
"You have made a number of references regarding waiting for this, for me. I am curious as to when you first knew of your feelings for me?" Data asked.
"That isn't important now, Data. What is important is that we are here, together, now," Haley smiled.
"Please, Haley, I would like to know." At one time, Data would have accepted Haley's response without question however, with his emotion chip installed, he had been able to experience what humans call a "gut feeling" and his gut was now telling him there was more to this.
"Data, please," Haley pleaded. "Let's just enjoy the moment."
"Why do you not want to tell me? I do not understand." Data now knew his gut feeling had been correct.
Her expression looked haunted as she answered him slowly. "The first time you kissed me, Data. I've had feelings for you since then," Haley whispered.
Data sat up abruptly. "But that was four months, two weeks, three days ago," he exclaimed.
"Yes," Haley had to admit.
"Why did you not tell me?" he asked.
"I couldn't. You just wanted my help as a friend. You were seeing Sharroon and so happy with her, so proud of your accomplishment."
Suddenly Data's eyes started moving in that particular way he had. "That time frame corresponds to the date when you began experiencing sleep deprivation. There were also references to disturbing dreams at that time. What were the dreams about, Haley?" he asked, with growing suspicion. "Were they related to the dreams you claimed to have about me?"
Looking desperately sad, Haley nodded. "Not related, the same."
With an expression of growing distress, Data asked, "The sleep deprivation, was it caused by the dreams?"
Haley nodded slowly.
"You had dreams about me that were so disturbing you could not sleep?" He sounded a mixture of horrified and angry.
"They were not nightmares. I just had trouble dealing with them is all," she tried to explain.
"What was the nature of the dreams, if they were not frightening?"
Completely naked, Haley turned away and got up from the bed. "They were just stupid dreams. I don't have them anymore. I'm sure I never will again." As she spoke, she moved towards the end of her bed. "I don't want to talk about this, Data. It will only upset you and that isn't what tonight is about." She felt the hot tears threatening in her eyes.
She gasped at the touch on her shoulders a moment later. Data turned her around to face him.
"Haley, there is obviously more to this than you have told me. What have you left out?" he told her firmly. "What did I do in your dreams?"
Haley took a deep breath and let it go before answering. "You were with other women. After seeing you with Sharroon, I realized that I simply couldn't stand seeing you during your dates. It just tore me apart."
"And the dreams were of this?" he asked. Haley nodded. After another moment to consider, another piece fell into place. "The ball. You did not arrive until after Anne had left. You were so happy that evening until I kissed you," he said with growing horror as the scope of what Haley had gone through, what he had put Haley through, became clear. "You withdrew after that, you avoided my touch, you avoided me," Data recounted. "Haley, you went through hell because of me. I was hurting you so much and I did not see it."
"Data, no, please, I could have stopped the lessons, I could have told you how I felt. It was me, not you," Haley spoke softly as tears began to roll down her cheek.
"You could have stopped the lessons but you did not because you did not want to hurt me," Data countered. "With all of the pain you were feeling, you still did not want to hurt me. Why did you not tell me about your feelings?"
"I couldn't. I didn't know how you would react. You were involved with others. You were so happy and excited to be dating. I couldn't say anything. I didn't want to risk losing you completely," Haley tried to explain.
Data's ethical program was screaming at him now. The guilt he felt was unbearable. He had never wanted to hurt Haley.
"My ethical program is having great difficulty reconciling what I have done," Data stammered. "I believe it would be best if I left." Data started gathering his clothes.
"Data, no, don't go," Haley begged. Data began to get dressed as Haley continued her plea. "Please, Data. I can't lose you - not now. Damn it, Data, I love you."
Data stopped and turned to look at Haley. Haley was now sitting on the edge of the bed with her head in her hands. She looked up at Data. "Please," she said softly before lowering her head back to her hands.
Data dropped his clothes and kneeled in front of Haley. He wrapped his arms around her, trying to comfort her. Haley wrapped her arms around Data's neck, resting her head on his shoulder as the tears continued to stream down her face.
"I love you so much," she whispered.
"How can you love me when I kept hurting you? Data asked softly.
"When did you try to hurt me?" she asked him in a shaky voice. "I made my own hell, Data. I could have told you like you said or asked Deanna to. You're not at fault. I started this myself. I'm the one who never noticed how much there was to you until you touched me, kissed me. I fell in that moment, Data and was too stunned to tell you."
"I wish you had told me," he said in a voice laced with regret.
"So do I, but I doubt if I had it to do over again that I would expect you to be here with me like this. You do have to admit I am nothing like the other women you've dated."
"That changes nothing. I have still caused you intense anguish," he countered.
"I caused it. And I'd go through it again if it would get me these last few days. I know you're upset by all this and that's why I didn't want to tell you. Telling you myself would not have made it easier on you. But now you have to tell me something. Can you forgive me, or will you consider this your final exam and leave me behind?" Fresh tears streamed down her face as she offered up this challenge.
"I will forgive you if you will forgive me." Data caressed Haley's cheek as he spoke.
"But there is nothing to forgive you for, Data. I was-" Data placed his finger over Haley's lips to quiet her.
"I need to hear you say you will forgive me. I believe it is the only way my ethical program will allow me to continue our relationship. I need you-"
"I forgive you. I forgive you, Data," Haley interrupted. "Please forgive me."
Data's ethical program did quiet down, causing Data to smile.
"Of course I forgive you, Haley." Data kissed Haley on the cheek. "You mean so much to me." Data cupped Haley's face in his hands, kissing her tenderly.
"Please come back to bed, Data," Haley asked. "I need you to hold me. I need to be in your arms."
Data removed the clothing he had on and climbed back into Haley's bed with her. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her as close to him as he could.
She was shaking. Whether it was from sheer exhaustion, from the many excitements of the day or the after effects from fearing her relationship with Data was again in jeopardy, Haley did not know. Data seemed to assume it was a reaction to cold. Assuring her he would return, he got up from the bed, only to return with a newly replicated blanket. It seemed to help, but his arms around her helped even more.
"Can you sleep, Haley? I believe you are in need of rest. Do you wish me to remain with you?" he asked in the dark. He had ordered the lights out once he had returned with the blanket.
Haley rolled over to face him. Even in the dark, the light from the stars dimly illuminated Data's face. "I'll try to sleep. Can you stay with me, Data? I don't want to be alone right now."
Data nodded and pulled her back into his arms. Traces of his guilt were still there. He knew she feared him leaving because she worried he would never come back. Not able to stop himself, Data had reviewed every moment he had spent with Haley in the last few months. The shadowy hints of the pain he had been causing her were now screaming reminders of his blindness.
All this time, she had been there, supporting him, teaching him, watching over him and loving him. All that time, Data had been unknowingly teasing Haley with a touch here or a kiss there and then turning from her to offer himself to another woman. He tried to imagine himself in her place. Somehow, this caused him to better understand why she had done what she had. He reviewed his memory records, this time, concentrating on what Haley's point of view would have been.
Seeing how Data had such trouble believing at first that a woman could even find him desirable, he could better understand how Haley could doubt her own attractiveness and desirability. She had eliminated herself, even as she had cautioned Data not to, in a way. Feeling he had soaked every scrap of information from his memory, Data made a silent vow to Haley. From now on, he would do his utmost to not miss the subtle clues she gave him as to her emotional state. He would also do his best to make reparations for the pain he had caused her by giving her as much joy and pleasure as he was able.
Haley woke up the next morning with a start, surprising Data. As soon as she saw him smiling at her, she relaxed and smiled back.
"Good morning," Data said before gently kissing her forehead.
"Do you have to leave soon for your shift?" Haley asked quietly.
"My next shift is not until tomorrow," Data replied. "It looks like we have the entire day to spend together, if you wish."
"I wish," Haley smiled to Data, kissing him tenderly on the lips. Their emotions bubbled over as this kiss led to another and then another, each more passionate than the one before. Data felt a need growing within him. A need to re-commit himself to Haley in the most intimate way possible. Data's hand caressed Haley's torso as he moved carefully on top of her. She wrapped her arms around Data, stroking his back before moving her hands to his firm buttocks.
Data lift up to look at Haley, smiling with amusement. "Never in my life had I ever believed I would derive such enjoyment from lying on someone else." Haley started to laugh softly at his observation, but laughed even harder when he slowly added the final word. "...naked."
"You've always been one of the funniest people I've ever known, even before your chip," she told Data. "Now you're the funniest, naked man I know. Any trouble with your modesty program?" Haley asked, moving her hand up to caress his face.
"Before you awoke, I examined the exceptions to this program. Sexual activity is exempt, of course, as is personal hygiene maintenance. I would not have believed sleeping unclothed would have been allowed but, if you are present and also unclothed, it is." Data gave her an almost disapproving look as Haley ran her fingers though his hair, completely disturbing it.
"I wonder what that program would think of running around my quarters all day naked," she said with a wicked grin. She was thoroughly enjoying the feel of Data's hair in her fingers.
"All day?" Data questioned.
"Why not? Do you have anywhere you need to be today?" She continued when he indicated he did not. "Then let's stay here and not get dressed all day. Maybe we can see just how many times we can make love before you do exhaust me." Haley discovered there was at least one part of Data that liked this idea. His erection had been resting between them, patiently waiting for them to get the show on the road, but now she could feel it moving, as though probing for her entrance. Haley moved her hands back down Data's body to his hips, encouraging the rest of him to follow the lead of the hard length.
Data could see Haley's desires fully aligned with his own. Unable to wait another millisecond, he plunged into her. Talking was no longer possible with their lips locked together in a kiss of fiery passion. Data was pleased with how quickly he and Haley could establish a perfect rhythm between them. Her body moved with his almost as though this were a dance. It was not until she was close to the edge that the rhythm was broken as she arched her back, pressing herself against Data, out of time. She moaned deeply before starting to pant little puffs of breath that came out sounding very much like his name.
"Data," she finally called out as her vaginal walls clamped down on Data's thrusting penis. He wanted desperately to kiss the neck Haley was offering with her orgasm, but Data found he too was drowning in his desire, causing him to throw back his head with a cry of release.
When the ecstasy of their orgasms had subsided, Data kissed Haley gently while still on top of her.
"Would you like to make love again or have breakfast fi-" Data asked.
There was no mistaking Haley's response as she pulled him into a passionate kiss, cutting off his words.
They decided now would be a good time to eat but were both surprised to discover, once Data's internal chronometer came back on-line, that it was actually closer to lunchtime than breakfast. After having a quick lunch, Haley's touch and kisses were able to convince Data that making love on the couch was not only acceptable, but fun. He had enjoyed the way Haley had straddled him as his hands were free to enjoy her luscious body. Having made this discovery, Data had wanted to experiment by making love in other areas of Haley's quarters, including on the floor, with Haley on the table and later on a counter, in the bathroom and numerous other areas. After a nice dinner, the lovers returned to Haley's bed for dessert. They made love well into the evening before Data insisted Haley get some sleep as they both had early shifts in the morning. Haley had reluctantly agreed but had fallen asleep quickly in Data's arms. Data was sure the smile on her lips was the most beautiful he had ever seen. He kissed her lightly on the forehead before activating his dream program.
Data's cognitive functions came back on line at 0400 as he had instructed them to last night. Haley seemed to sense him stir and rolled over to reach for him.
"What time is it?" she mumbled without opening her eyes.
"0402," Data replied. "I did not intend to wake you. Continue to sleep. I will-" Haley's mouth covering his caused Data to lose interest in completing that sentence. He could feel his body immediately respond to Haley's caresses and kisses, but their shift began in under two hours. Data was not certain he could be ready in time if he remained. His conviction changed to a certainty as his erection began to throb for its only intended target.
"Haley, I need to prepare for our duty shift. I do not wish to discontinue this activity, however I should return to my quarters and dre- Oh, no!" Data cut off his own words this time, sitting up as a feeling of guilt washed over him, replacing his amorous ones.
"What is it, Data? What's wrong?" Haley asked, sitting up as she reached to comfort him. She ordered the lights up as she did.
"I have not returned to my quarters since dressing for your promotion ceremony. That was the last time I fed or played with Spot," he exclaimed, pulling the covers off and rising from the bed. He heard Haley giggle as he moved to retrieve his clothing from the floor. As Data put on very wrinkled pants, he shot a puzzled look at her.
"I've never known you to forget something, Data. You forgot all about Spot," she teased, happily.
Sitting to pull his boots on, Data raised an eyebrow at his lover. "You seem pleased by this disturbing turn of events. You are correct, I have not forgotten a task before unless I had been damaged. Perhaps I should run a self-diagnostic?" Data mused, reaching for his dress jacket.
"I agree. You should run that diagnostic, now, before you leave. After all, if there was something wrong, you may need help." Something about Haley's voice made her words highly suspect, but Data decided her logic was not. Fully dressed in the wrinkled naval uniform, he remained seated on the edge of her bed and ran the diagnostic.
Processing the information was difficult with Haley running her hands under his jacket and then around to his groin area. The diagnostic took twice the normal time and Data was uncomfortably erect after he had finished. The report from all his systems came back with only one unusual finding. An 89% increase in his emotional reactions and a 92% jump in emotion chip usage. Data had no doubt the woman whose fingers were fondling the head of his penis through his rumpled clothing was the complete cause of this extreme jump.
"Haley, it would seem I am functioning within normal parameters-"
"Except for the fact that your clothes are getting in the way," she noted.
"-however, I have recorded a dramatic increase in emotion related areas." Data turned to look at her face as he finished this statement.
Haley was grinning happily. She moved to sit on his lap, reminding Data she was still naked. "I think that is very good news, don't you?" she asked, pressing her cheek to his and caressing his face with her hands.
Data pulled her hands from his face and took hers in his own. Looking her in the eyes, Data said, "I believe it means I am falling in love with you, Haley Foster."
This time the tears appearing in her brown eyes were ones denoting joy, and Data knew it.
It took some doing to untangle himself from Haley's embrace, mostly because neither of them wanted him to leave, but Data did finally manage to exit her quarters. He only had forty-two minutes before his shift started when he walked towards his quarters. Data was relieved the corridors were empty at the moment, considering his most untidy appearance, but his luck did not hold out. As he turned the corner, he found himself walking towards Captain Picard and Commander Riker.
Picard had his head turned as he had been talking to the commander, but stopped as soon as he noted Riker's eyes had gone wide. Both men stared pointedly at Data. Will broke down and chuckled, ending the laugh in a cough in a halfhearted attempt at discretion.
"Mr. Data," Picard began. "I had not heard of a promotion ceremony scheduled for today."
Trying not to meet his superior officer's puzzled gaze, Data shook his head. "No, sir. There is not."
"I see. Then will you explain to me why you are in that uniform and why it is in such disarray?" Picard asked. The captain did not sound pleased. Will was almost falling over from the sidesplitting laughter he could not release.
"I would rather not explain why I am in this uniform, sir. It is personal," Data admitted, trying not to turn crimson.
"I see," the captain commented, making it obvious he, in fact, did not and wanted to keep it that way.
Mercifully, the captain shook his head and began moving towards the turbolift. A moment after turning the corner, Data heard Riker, who had double backed, call quietly to him. "Glad to see you and Haley enjoyed your day off, Data."
At this moment, nothing short of complete systems failure would have stopped the redness from rising to Data's cheeks. He could not help but squeeze his eyes tightly shut until he heard the lift door open and close behind him. Alone again, he walked quickly to his quarters. As he entered, Spot appeared quickly, rubbing up against his leg.
"I am sorry I forgot to feed you, Spot," Data told the feline as he went to the replicator. "Feline supplement no. 43, double portion." As this was Spot's favorite supplement, he hoped a double portion would alleviate Spot's hunger and his guilt.
Data changed quickly into his proper uniform and checked for any messages that may have been left for him. There were three but all were of a personal nature. Two had been from Geordi, wondering what Data was up for on his day off and later inviting him to the lounge for the previous evening.
I was up for Haley - a lot, Data smiled to himself. He paused for a second. Perhaps Haley is correct in her observation of my being corrupted by Commander Riker and Geordi.
The third message was from Deanna Troi. She asked Data to see her in her office at 1430 that afternoon. Data was puzzled and curious by this request as the counselor did not say why she wanted him to come see her.
It was now a few minutes before the shift change. Data headed for the turbolift to go to the bridge. As luck would have it, Haley was already waiting there. Data entered the turbolift with her and the two exchanged a quick kiss after the doors closed. Haley's eyes were absolutely sparkling and she seemed to be glowing. Data reached up to her collar to admire her new pip and smiled proudly. The doors to the turbolift opened and the pair took their respective stations.