Chapter 6

The uneventful day soon turned into an uneventful week on the bridge. It was the type of week for doing the projects that had been put aside during busier times. Finally, they had their next assignment. The Enterprise was to investigate reports of an uncharted nebula that had been reported by a Federation supply ship. They would reach the nebula at 1338, according to Data's calculations.

It looks like it will be another one of those weeks. Haley sighed. Uneventful was now boring again.

As the nebula approached, Haley noticed she was beginning to get reports of minor skirmishes between crew members, on and off duty. Even on a ship as well integrated as this one, tempers did still flare. Haley acknowledged the report and made a mental note to keep an eye on this increase. Rubbing the back of her neck, she sighed and went back to checking the maintenance report on the weapons locker.

The captain and first officer were chatting quietly when a report came in from sickbay, about the same time that Haley noticed Troi fidgeting in her seat.

"Crusher to Bridge," called the doctor's voice. "I need to report an odd increase of reported headaches as well as neck and shoulder pain."

The captain exchanged an irritated glance with Riker before replying. "You're calling to report headaches, Doctor? Couldn't that have gone in your daily report?"

"Normally I'd say yes, Captain, but I've had fifty-two people report here with that complaint in the last two hours and thirty-eight call in. I'd say that's a significant increase from the five a week we normally have.

Picard now exchanged a surprised look with Riker. "My apologies, Doctor. That is a significant increase. Have you been able to determine the cause?"

"So far, I found that in all cases there have been slight hormone imbalances, but I'm still looking in to what's caused the imbalance."

"Keep me apprised, Doctor," Picard instructed.

"Aye sir. Crusher out."

"Captain, I should also inform you," began Counselor Troi, still looking unwell herself, "I've noticed a gradual decline with crew morale. It only started a few hours ago, but it's getting worse." The Betazoid was obviously not enjoying being plugged into the general feelings of the ship at this time.

"I can back that up as well, Captain," Haley added. "I've just gotten a report of increased accounts of minor fights among the crew." With a furrow of his brow, Picard turned back from looking at Foster and tugged at his shirtfront with a grunt.

"Mr. Data, how far are we from the nebula?"

"Distance is approximately forty-five billion kilometers. We should arrive in twenty-five minute, twelve seconds."

As soon as the Enterprise reached her destination, Picard ordered Data to begin his scans.

"Aye, sir. Due to the density of the nebula, as well as some unusual properties present, I estimate it will take ten hours thirty-six minutes to complete the scans," Data responded.

Haley's security teams were being kept busy as the number of minor fights increased. A number of her personnel had to report to sickbay because of their own headaches and muscle pains. Some were treated and returned to duty while others were relieved from duty, as their symptoms were more severe. Haley found her own headache and muscle pains to be increasing but she was certain it was the effect of the stress she was under trying to ensure she had enough healthy people for each shift.

It was 1930 before Haley finally made her way to her quarters. Lieutenant Gerard had told her he would report her headache to sickbay if she did not go rest. He seemed to be perfectly healthy, even joking that Ventaxians did not get headaches, so Haley had agreed. She had just sat on her couch resting her head on the back when the door chimes rang. It was Data.

"Haley, you look unwell," Data said immediately.

Haley smiled. "I just have a slight headache and my back and shoulders hurt a little. I'm sure it's just from stress. I had so many people going in and out of sickbay it's been difficult to keep a full complement for each shift," Haley sighed. "Lieutenant Gerard threatened to report my headache to sickbay if I didn't leave." She tried to laugh but winced instead.

"Come with me." Data held out his hand and led Haley to her bedroom. "Please remove your uniform."

"Data, that's not exactly the most romantic invitation-" Haley protested.

"I am going to give you a massage to help relieve your pain," Data told her as he began to remove her uniform. With Haley lying on her stomach, Data straddled her and began to massage her tense shoulders.

"Data, your uniform is a little scratchy. Can you take it off please?" Haley asked. Data stopped his massage to remove his uniform. He straddled Haley once again, allowing his hands to work their magic on Haley's shoulders and back.

She was soon moaning in pleasure. "That feels so good, Data."

Feeling better from Data's expert ministrations, Haley decided she wanted to return the favor.

And return it, she did. Much later, Data kissed Haley gently on the lips as he moved next to her.

"How are you feeling, Haley?" Data asked.

"I feel wonderful," Haley smiled.

"Your headache is gone?" Data questioned.

"What headache?" Haley grinned before pulling Data in for another passionate kiss.

The night was spent with the lovers holding each other close as Haley slept and Data dreamed. The next morning, Data used the spare uniform he had brought earlier so he did not have to leave Haley. He discovered making love in the shower right before their shift could be very conducive to extreme peace of mind.

The lovers rode the lift together to the bridge, kissing each other tenderly just before the doors opened. Both were rather disconcerted to see the rest of the bridge crew was not in as good spirits as they were. Exiting the lift, the pair made note that Captain Picard was arguing with Will about how long the scans were taking. Will was blaming the delay on Geordi's incompetence, and telling the captain if he did not like the way the ship was being run, he could re-organize the work shifts himself.

"And I suppose you'll want me to run all over the damn ship delivering data PADDs?" interjected Ensign Quint. "Well, you and your orders are giving me a headache, so you can forget it," the young man shouted, shaking a fist at both of his superior officers.

"What the hell?" Haley blurted under her breath. Louder, she called, "Ensign, are you aware what you just said is insubordination?" Haley's tone was more commanding than Data had ever heard from her before.

The ensign suddenly looked confused, but the captain and Riker just looked irritated. "I can handle this myself, thank you, Commander," Picard snapped. From behind him, Riker looked supportive for a moment before closing his eyes painfully and gripping his forehead with his hand.

Exchanging puzzled looks with Haley, Data went over to a wall panel, opened it and removed a tricorder. Scanning the captain and first officer, the ensign and lastly, Haley.

"Testosterone levels are between 1,500 and 1,800 nanograms per deciliter, 75% above normal. Your levels are also higher, but your endorphin levels are also raised." Data related this information in a placid tone, but finishing his scan, he seemed to realize something. Closing the scanner with eyes wide, Data told Haley to follow him to the observation lounge.

"What is it, Data?" Haley asked, trying to ignore the yelling that had resumed on the main bridge.

"Something is having an effect on the hormone levels of the crew, as the doctor stated yesterday. However, it would seem that endorphins, which become elevated during sexual excitement, for example, are dampening the effect on you," Data explained, looking meaningfully into her eyes.

As Haley and Data were discussing the situation the door to the observation lounge slid open allowing Counselor Troi to enter.

"What is going on out there?" Deanna asked, pointing back in the direction of the bridge.

Data raised his tricorder to the counselor to scan her. "Interesting," Data commented. "There is no increase in the counselor's testosterone levels. We should review the reports from sickbay for the past day. Computer, display a list of all personnel who have been treated in sickbay in the past twenty-four hours." As the list of names and symptoms came up on the view screen, the threesome studied the list closely. "Computer, remove from the list all personnel who did not have an increased level of testosterone," Data commanded. Only four names were removed from the list.

"The names eliminated had all suffered the type of injuries you would expect to see from being assaulted," Haley commented.

A voice then came over Data's comm badge, "Ensign T'Vork to Commander Data. The scans of the nebula have been completed. Do you wish me to bring you the results, sir?"

"Yes, Ensign. Please bring them to me immediately," Data responded. Ensign T'Vork entered the lounge a few minutes later. Data pulled out his tricorder and scanned the ensign. "Hmm, it would appear Betazoid and Vulcan physiologies are immune to whatever is causing the increased testosterone levels," Data commented. "Thank you, Ensign. That is all."

"I don't think it is just Betazoids and Vulcans, Data. Computer, eliminate from the list all personnel who have non-human DNA present." The three were surprised when no names were eliminated from the list.

"Well, it would appear that whatever this is only affects humans, except you, Haley," Deanna commented, a hint of confusion in her voice.

"I believe Haley's participation in activities which caused an increase in her endorphins has counteracted the effects of the increased testosterone levels present in her system," Data stated. Deanna looked at Data with a confused look on her face.

Haley leaned over and whispered to the counselor. "We had sex."

"I believe I have solved the mystery," Data stated as he read over the results of the scan of the nebula. "There are high levels of thestimine particles present in the nebula. High levels of thestimine will stimulate the human thyroid system causing an over-production of hormones, in this case, testosterone. Computer, is thestimine present on the Enterprise and at what level?" Data ordered. "Thestimine is present at 1,500 parts per million," the computer responded.

"We must leave the nebula at once," Data announced.

Putting a hand to her head, Haley groaned. "I agree. I'm beginning to get my headache again and it's making me angry." She gave Data a worried expression.

Data gave the counselor an apologetic look. "Please forgive me, Counselor," he said before grabbing Haley and giving her a passionate kiss. As soon as he released her, Haley sighed.

"Okay, better now. Let's go."

The three officers bolted for the bridge. Data took ops and Haley went to tactical while the counselor gently tried to coax Ensign Lister, who was hunched over the controls holding his head, out of navigation until Data forcibly removed the man from the station for her.

"Bring us to a heading of 354 mark 128, Counselor. Bridge to sickbay," called Data.

"Dr. Selar here," came the reply over the comm.

"We have discovered the cause of the unusual behavior from the human crew members is directly related to the nebula. We are taking the Enterprise out of the area, but you will need to research a neutralizing agent for the effects of thestimine," Data ordered.

"Aye, sir. That explains a great deal of what I have dealt with today. Sickbay out." The bridge crew was relieved it was only fifteen minutes later when the air vents began to pour out apritine vapor. The din from the constant arguing and grandstanding of the effected crew members was getting very annoying, even to Data.

"Sickbay to Bridge."

"Data here, go ahead, Doctor."

"I have ordered the computer to add apritine 100 parts per million to the ship's air supply. This should quickly relieve the effects of the thestimine, however, it may cause stomach upset."

Almost as she had spoken the words, Captain Picard and Ensign Lister began to groan and hold their abdomens.

"This is not going to be a good day," Haley groaned from tactical. Data and the counselor just sighed.

Thankfully, the effected crew members' upset stomachs only lasted for a few hours. The captain had ordered the bridge officers to meet at 1330 so Data could debrief everyone on what had happened to them.

"So the thestimine in the nebula was the cause of all this madness," Picard repeated.

"Yes, sir. The increased thestimine stimulated your thyroid systems causing an over-production of the testosterone hormone," Data added.

"That explains why Counselor Troi was not affected," Picard started. Haley was horrified as she was sure she knew what the captain would say next. "But why was Commander Foster unaffected."

"Commander Foster's testosterone levels were raised..." Data fumbled for the words.

"Sir," Troi interrupted. "Data believes Commander Foster's participation in activities which caused an increase in her endorphins counteracted the effects of the increased testosterone levels present in her system," Troi finished.

"Participation in activities?" Picard asked puzzled. "Please explain, Mr. Data." Picard, looking over at Data and Haley, noticed both were extremely uncomfortable and more than a little embarrassed. "On second thought, don't explain."

The debriefing ended on that note and the officers returned to their respective stations on the bridge. The rest of the day was uneventful as the captain contacted Starfleet Command regarding the incident at the nebula. As well, a beacon had been left behind to warn others. The only odd thing Data had noticed about the afternoon was how Commander Riker always had such a wide grin on his face when he looked at Data.

There had been so many people temporarily placed in the brig for fighting that Haley had more work than she knew what to do with. Even if their actions had been chemically induced, the crewman had to be processed out of the brig and the reports had to be filed.

"Now I really am going to have a headache," Haley sighed.

Data had come by when he had gotten off duty but Haley wanted to get all of this done so she could put this whole episode behind her. Data had complimented her on her dedication, but left looking disappointed that he did so alone.

It was interesting to see the reactions of the crew as they recovered from this latest event, but Data would have preferred to discuss his observations with someone.

"I am not fooling anyone," Data mumbled to himself, looking out the window of the lounge to the stars. He did not often talk to himself, but nothing else was improving his mood and he was now desperate. "I wish to share my speculations with Haley, not just anyone," he finished, scolding himself.

"Well, I'm not as shapely as our good security chief, but you can tell me, Data."

Will Riker stood by a chair at Data's table, looking as though he wanted to sit. Data nodded his consent and the commander took the seat, grinning.

"So where is Haley?" Will asked.

"In her office, completing reports." Data could not hide how glum he felt about this fact.

"But the captain said anyone who was not affected had the day off."

"True, but she did not wish to delay the inevitability of her reports."

"In a very short time, you've gone from enjoying her company to counting on it, haven't you, Data?" Will asked with a discerning smile.

Data raised an intrigued eyebrow. "Perhaps. I did rely on her assistance with my former relationships as well, but this is not the same."

"Love makes all the difference, doesn't it?" Will asked, smiling gently.

"I have always cared for Haley since meeting her. I have valued her friendship for over two years..." Data let his voice trail off.

"But how do you feel about her now, Data?"

"I feel like I have never felt before." Data said this in a very soft voice.

"It doesn't seem that long ago, you were asking my advice on entering into a relationship with Jenna D'Sora. I told you relationships could bring incredible benefits that I hoped you would discover. You are experiencing those benefits now," Riker smiled. "I know people who envy you, my friend. There are many who never meet that special person - their Imzadi. You're very lucky, Data. Never forget that." The first officer now stood up. "Now if you will excuse me, Data, I see my date has arrived. Talk to you later."

"Good evening, Commander, and thank you." Data sat quietly reviewing the words of the commander. The idea of anyone envying him was completely foreign to Data. In all of my life, I have never been the envy of others until now. Data thought. Data began to analyze his life before Haley.

"Hey, good looking. Is this seat taken?" Haley grinned.

Data's glum expression instantly dissolved as he looked at Haley. Haley had such a way of doing that to him, even before they became involved. No matter how badly he was feeling, all she had to do was smile at him and he felt so much better. So many thoughts were going through his mind. I am so happy when I am with Haley. I hate to be apart from her. I want to share my thoughts, my emotions, everything with her. I cannot imagine my life without her. I know what I must do, Data told himself firmly.

The couple took a lovely walk by the seaside on the holodeck after dinner in the lounge. Their relaxed and happy mood carried over to their lovemaking as tender touches, soft sighs and loving kisses finished the evening. Data smiled, completely at ease with Haley sleeping in his arms. He ran a finger over her soft shoulder, hoping he never again had the need for bed wear. It would take a little time but, very soon, Data intended to find out just how close he was to that wish and many others.

One week later, Haley Foster walked into her quarters, alone, after her shift. She would be meeting Data later for dinner, but he had work to do now in Engineering. She headed for her bedroom to change and shower. She took her time, wanting to be fresh for her evening with Data. Dressed and smelling of a fragrance she knew Data liked, Haley walked back out of her bedroom to get some tea, but something in the living room caught her eye. In the middle of her coffee table was a vase full of huge blood red roses.

"Where did you come from?" Haley found herself asking the bouquet. Coming closer, she saw there were three scrolls attached to the vase - one blue, one red and a larger yellow one.

She reached for the yellow one first, kneeling before the table to read. She immediately recognized Data's precise handwriting on the scroll.

The contents were as follows: My dearest Haley, my friendship with you has always been a special and valued one. Now, with your help, I have learned just how much deeper a friendship can go. Regardless of the outcome, I will always cherish what we have shared. I now must ask you one more favor. Tied to the vase holding the roses before you are two additional scrolls, one red and one blue. This evening at 1930 hours when you come to the lounge, I ask you to bring with you the scroll that best describes your feelings for me. Perhaps this could be considered a final evaluation from my teacher in the lessons of love. If you bring the red, I will know I have succeeded adequately in my understanding of matters of the heart. If you bring the blue, I will know I still have much to learn. Yours, Data.

Confused, Haley reached for the blue scroll. Opening it, she read its contents. Holding it in her left hand, she pulled out the red. Scanning it quickly, she smiled. Coming back to a stand, she headed for the door, tossing the blue scroll to the floor as she went.

The lounge was teeming with people when Haley arrived but she could only see one person. Data had been sitting nervously at a table, waiting and worrying. When he saw Haley enter, he stood trying desperately to see which scroll she had with her. Haley walked quickly through the crowded room until she reached the man of her dreams. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him in for a passionate kiss, the red scroll dropping to the table.

"I love you, Haley." Data stroked her cheek gently as he spoke before pulling her in for another kiss.

"I love you too, Data." Haley's voice was filled with happiness as tears of joy ran down her face.

"You are my friend, my lover, my confidante, my teacher," Data began. "You have enriched my life in more ways than I can describe. I have never been happier in my life and I want to share my life with you."

"Oh Data, you mean everything to me. I can't imagine my life without you," Haley smiled.

"Then do not," Data smiled, kissing her gently on the lips. "Marry me, Haley Foster." Haley's eyes went wide as she had not expected a proposal.

"Marry you?" she repeated. "Yes! Yes!"

They did not hear the cheers of congratulations from their friends who had witnessed the scene. They were both completely lost in the moment, in their kiss.

Epilogue

Data picked up the holo-framed picture from three weeks ago. Haley had decided against white for their wedding, but the lavender dress she had worn suited her very well. She had asked Data to wear his dress uniform, claiming she liked how well the pants fit his - well, how well they fit. Data grinned at the memory of their honeymoon for the 725th time since its end. They had locked themselves in holodeck three and had remained there for the entire week. They had enjoyed every second.

Their new married quarters were not much bigger, but the thrill of knowing he now shared this space with his wife, made the rooms feel huge, bursting with love.

"I don't understand why you stare at that so often when you have perfect recall of every moment that's captured there." Haley walked over from their bedroom door and wrapped her arms around her husband's waist.

Data blushed and put the frame back on the table where they kept it. He knew he would undoubtedly look at it again tomorrow and every day after. Turning in his wife's arms to return her embrace, Data kissed her forehead. "I enjoy looking at it. It is one of the most significant events in my life." Data looked into her eyes with great affection.

"Same here. I can hardly wait to add more pictures to that table," She told him and began dotting kisses along his cheek.

"What kind of pictures?" he asked, enjoying her soft kisses.

"You know, pictures with family, friends, children." She grabbed his chin in order to place a firm kiss on Data's lips.

"Children?" He gasped once she had released him from their kiss. "How do you intend to have children?"

Haley gave Data a mysterious grin and pulled him back towards their bedroom. "Data, one thing you still have to learn is where there's a will, there's a way."

Data did not get to inquire further at this time, as his wife was keeping his mouth too busy for speech but there was always later.

Fin