A/N: This is AU. It's smut. If that's no' your cuppa tea, then read something else.

Thank you to CharlieFenwick for granting me permission to fill in some missing scenes from her story "The Complication" and support on this story.

This story can stand alone. However, I encourage you to read 'The Complication' as it's a fuller, more fleshed out plot (and this is basically PWP…). I've attempted to hold true to Charlie's goal of "weaving this in as missing scenes."

I had to review the transcript from "Code of Honour" as I had always been under the impression it was a few hours, but nope! They left Tasha a captive for A FULL FREAKING 24 HOURS before they actually made contact again and went down to planet. It's always been one of the most cringeworthy episodes of TNG but knowing this really amplifies that feeling. Yeesh.


Data was seated at the operations console on the bridge. Geordi was across from him at the helm, and they were in orbit above Ligon II. They had arrived a few hours earlier.

Thus far, it seemed like the negotiations with the Ligonians were going well. Their current mission was to obtain a vaccine for the Anchilles virus. The Federation planet Styris IV was in desperate need of the rare vaccine, and it was absolutely essential that they acquire it before the virus got out of hand.

Data had never seen it first-hand, but he'd read about the horrors caused by the virus. It could sweep through worlds in a matter of weeks. Based on his calculations, time was of the essence.

Without warning, the communication system pinged.

"Red alert," Captain Picard's voice ordered as it came across their combadges.

Data punched in the command to signal red alert. Commander Riker got up from the Command Chair and took up the position at the tactical station. They were short on hands on the bridge at the moment as Captain Picard and Lieutenant Yar were escorting the Ligonian delegation around the ship.

They were due to depart soon. As Ligon II was a friendly planet, Riker hadn't seen the need to call up an extra set of hands.

"Riker to Lieutenant Worf, I need you on the bridge," Riker said as he tapped his combadge.

"Commander, I am not detecting any approaching ships or objects," Geordi reported.

"It looks like the Ligonian delegation is no longer on the ship. It would appear they have beamed back to the planet," Data stated.

"And our people?" Riker questioned.

Data punched in the commands and scanned the life signs in the transporter room there were three life signs and he concluded that would be the chief and two security ensigns. In the turbolift there were two life signs.

"Two life signs in the turbolift, Commander. Computer, where is Captain Picard?" Data inquired.

"Captain Picard is on turbolift two," the computer responded.

"Computer, where is Counsellor Troi?" Riker demanded as he picked up on Data's train of thought.

"Counsellor Troi is on turbolift two," the computer answered.

Geordi could see Data stiffen at his post.

"Computer, where is Lieutenant Yar?" Geordi asked, voicing their shared thought aloud.

"Lieutenant Yar is not aboard the Enterprise," the computer stated.

Data's neural net went into overdrive. Simultaneously, he processed the complete history of Ligonian culture and negotiations and cross-referenced it with any known abductions. He analysed the tactical armaments of Ligon II, their shields, and the layout of their facility.

They were not at war with the Ligonians, so it was unlikely she had been taken as a prisoner. He could deduce no reason as to why the Ligonians would have taken such action – the Federation had agreed to meet their demands of exchange for the vaccine.

Ligon II was a planet with advanced technology. It did not struggle with hunger, suffering, or disease. It boasted advanced universities, a robust society deeply rooted in tradition, and a thriving culture of fine arts.


Captain Picard and Counsellor Troi stepped off the turbolift and strolled onto the bridge.

"Shields up, photon torpedoes activated, sir," Riker stated as Captain Picard took his position.

"The Ligonians have taken Lieutenant Yar," Picard stated. "Has there been any communication from the planet?" Picard asked.

"Open hailing frequencies," Picard ordered. "This is the Enterprise to Lutan and the Ligonian government. You have committed an unfriendly act. We insist that you reply immediately."

There was no response.

Data's mind was overcome with theorising ways to get Tasha back quickly. Although technologically advanced, he knew that Ligonian tradition had complicated gender-based society structures. Although women inherited and owned all land and property in their own right, the control of those assets was subject to their husband or "first one."

Only men were permitted to hold positions of political authority.

"Set our photon torpedoes for a display blast a thousand metres short of the planet's surface," Picard ordered.

Data hoped that a show of force would be sufficient in sparking the Ligonians to answer their hails. From his study of Ligon II, he knew they were a patriarchal society. As he accessed the information regarding Ligonian politics from the last decade, Data learned that Lutan had come to power thanks to the wealth of his "first one" Yareena and her vast land holdings.

Data's eyes were flipping back and forth quickly as he accessed further information banks on the Ligonian leader. He felt his artificial respiration system stop momentarily.

Lutan had maintained his political power through several marriages. He had secured marriages with several of Ligon II's most powerful women. Lutan had also secured three marriages with women from various factions throughout the galaxy – a Ferengi woman whose father was the Grand Negus, the daughter of an Andorian diplomat, and a Klingon woman from one oldest and the most respected Klingon houses.

Most disturbingly, it also appeared Lutan had abducted the wife of the leader of the Kalderan Trading Federation. According to Kalderan sources, she had been taken against her will. Yet, Ligonian sources claimed she was his ninth wife.

Data tilted his head to the side and tried to push this thought from his mind.

He needed to focus if he wanted to help her. He shifted his thoughts away from Ligonian history.

"Do we know the source of their transporter beam?" Riker asked.

"Our own transporter people are trying to trace it, sir. But so far, it's been to no effect," Geordi reported.

"It reads similar to early Starfleet efforts but uses the Heglenian shift to convert matter and energy in different-" Data stopped.

There was comfort in the familiar and, for Data, the familiar was in science.

He turned and faced Captain Picard.

"Which is actually not important at this time," Data added.

Data turned back to his station and closed his eyes for a moment.

He was confused.

As much as he hated to admit it, there was something happening inside of him that was in conflict with his normal processing capacity.

Is this concern? He thought to himself as his thoughts drifted back to Tasha.

Data told himself that if it was concern, it was most certainly discomforting.

Discomfort! That was also an emotion.

Shaking his head, he told himself he was not capable of emotional responses.


It had been nearly twenty-four hours since Tasha had been abducted from the Enterprise. The Ligonians had initially treated her with every courtesy – a private guest room, an invitation to a feast as a guest of honour, and a series of lavish gifts.

But Tasha had refused all of it. She wasn't about to accept these gifts, nor was she prepared to eat anything offered her. Her Starfleet training had kicked in and she had spent the last twenty-four hours on high alert.

Tasha had spent her first few hours attempting to study her surroundings and formulate an escape.

The Ligonians had taken her combadge, phaser, and security tricorder. The door was locked. And, as she had discovered after picking it, the door was guarded by four men outside.

When that plan had failed, she had next tried to escape through an access panel that led into the ventilation system.

Unfortunately, one of the panels she crawled across was weak and she'd fallen through the ceiling into a corridor. That had earned her a sore elbow and a change in accommodations.

The Ligonians had been quite displeased with her stunt.

As a result, they had moved her from the nice, private quarters to a holding cell. It wasn't all that different from the Enterprise brig, but it confirmed she was here as a prisoner.

Instead of sleeping, she had sat awake all night.

By the next morning, she was exhausted and on edge.

"Your Captain is demanding to see you," one of the Ligonian guards said as he stepped in front of her cell.

She was escorted out of the cell and up two floors where she found Captain Picard and Counsellor Troi waiting with Lutan and his entourage. She shook off the guard's hands and adjusted her uniform.

"Have you been treated well, Lieutenant?" Picard questioned.

"Fine, Captain. But they're showing some signs of wear," she said as she eyed the guards.

"There isn't any need to be concerned, Captain. She is being well cared for," Yareena, Lutan's first one stated.

Fortunately, Captain Picard was off to meet with Lutan while he left Deanna with Tasha.

"Would you permit me to meet with Lieutenant Yar privately?" Deanna asked politely.

"Of course," Lutan smiled. "Please escort our two guests to Lieutenant Yar's quarters."

"Oh! I get to go to 'quarters' now?" Tasha snapped angrily before adding, "Not back to my CELL?"

Deanna put her hand on Tasha's arm. She knew Tasha was falling back on her sarcastic personality as a defence mechanism to mask how uncomfortable she truly was.

They were escorted down the corridor to the room Tasha had initially been held in the night before.

Deanna sat down on a chair in the seating area.

"So, what's the plan?" Tasha asked eagerly.

"Would you like a glass?" Deanna asked as she poured herself a glass of water from the pitcher on the table.

She didn't need her empath abilities to know that Tasha was dehydrated. She sensed no danger from the Ligonians in this respect and hoped that, if she drank it first, it would reassure Tasha it was safe.

"They removed my combadge, so I wasn't expecting to be beamed out. And based on what I read in the report on their shields, I take it that it took you guys a while to figure out how to get down here," Tasha said.

She hadn't sat down since they had entered the room. She was pacing back and forth.

"You mentioned a cell?" Deanna asked.

"Yeah, after escape attempt number two I was moved to a holding cell," Tasha said before quickly adding, "But I'm fine. Look, when are we getting out of here?"

Tasha stopped momentarily and ran her hand back through her hair as she waited for Deanna to respond.

"I think you should have a drink," Deanna said as she held out a glass of water for Tasha.

"Have we secured the vaccine yet?" Tasha asked as she started pacing again.

"Tasha, how are you feeling?" Deanna suddenly asked.

It was evident that Tasha was avoiding her questions.

But Tasha didn't want to talk about the last twenty-four hours.

She wanted to be back home aboard the Enterprise with her own dressing gown and her favourite book in her own quarters.

Most importantly, she wanted to be alone in a space that was her own.

"I'm fine," Tasha replied. "I'm just eager to get out of here with the vaccine, you know?"

"No, you're not," Deanna said.

"Yes, Deanna. I am," Tasha said as she stopped and crossed her arms.

"You've been on red alert since before they brought you out. And I would bet the Sacred Chalice of Rixx you haven't slept or had a moment to relax since they beamed you down here," Deanna said poignantly.

Tasha didn't answer. She slipped into the chair across from Deanna and dropped her gaze to the floor.

"I know you want to get out of here. And Captain Picard will get you out of here," Deanna assured her.

"But?" Tasha asked.

She kept her eyes on the floor. She knew what was coming next – there was a hang up.

"The Ligonians have agreed to release you back at a feast this afternoon," Deanna explained. "So, in the meantime I need to make sure you've taken care of yourself. You need to drink some water. Eat something. Rest."

Tasha threw her head back and stretched her neck from side to side. Deanna could tell she was tense and trying to relax herself.

"Why the hold up?" Tasha asked, trying to keep her voice steady.

"The Ligonians highly value tradition," Deanna explained. "In abducting you, you are part of that tradition. Lutan is reinforcing his role as First One and you represent his riskiest prize yet. And since they've agreed to release you this afternoon, we are going to go along with their tradition. As you are well aware, we need the vaccine."

Of course, Tasha knew this would eventually come back to the vaccine.

"I feel like I'm in a cage, Deanna," Tasha confessed.

Without warning, Deanna's combadge pinged.

"Counsellor, the Ligonians have ordered that we leave until this evening," Picard's voice said.

Deanna could sense Tasha wasn't happy with this. She was just starting to feel comfortable enough to let her guard down a little. She didn't want Deanna to leave.

"Captain, I'd like to stay until the feast this afternoon," Deanna said as she tapped her combadge to reply.

There was a momentary pause.

"I'm sorry, Counsellor but the Ligonians will not permit you to remain," Captain Picard advised.

"I'll be fine," Tasha said as she waved Deanna off.

"We just need you to hang on for a few more hours," Deanna said as she gave Tasha a reassuring smile.


Data had never seen Tasha's knuckles so white.

From the moment Lutan had stated he intended to keep her – one way or another – Tasha had gripped the edge of her seat so tightly it was evident the news was a shock. He noted an increase in her heart rate and breathing as she had attempted to steady herself.

Fortunately, Lutan had permitted Captain Picard, Counsellor Troi, and Data to accompany Tasha to her private quarters.

"Did you have any idea, Lieutenant, that Lutan was going to announce he intended to keep you here?" Captain Picard demanded.

"No, sir," Tasha replied.

"How simple this would all be without the Prime Directive," Deanna said, voicing aloud what they were all thinking.

"That thought had passed through my mind, Counsellor," Captain Picard admitted.

Ligon II was not a Federation Planet. It meant that their options were limited – they couldn't simply beam Tasha back and leave.

Starbase Fourteen had contacted the Enterprise only a few hours earlier to update them. The plague on Styris IV was flaring out of control with rising infection rates.

They desperately needed to obtain the vaccine.

"Captain, surely the Prime Directive was not intended to permit the abduction of Starfleet officers into-" Data started to say but Captain Picard stopped him.

"We will not abandon you here, Tasha," Picard assured her. "But we need the vaccine."

"I know I can win," Tasha assured him. "Not that I'd take her life, of course. But I could bust her up. I'd be glad to. The idea of accusing me of wanting to-"

Deana shot Tasha a look. She knew Tasha was compensating for how afraid she was. It was radiating from her.

"The plague is even worse than we'd heard," Picard explained.

"Which means we desperately need the vaccine, sir. And I know I can win this challenge," Tasha reminded him.

"You have nothing to prove here, Lieutenant," Picard warned her.

Surprisingly, it was Deanna that countered the Captain. She believed Tasha should take the challenge.

"Counsellor, you're the last person I'd expect to argue in favour of accepting the challenge," Picard said in astonishment.

"This vaccine is the priority," Deanna responded.

One of the Ligonians interrupted their discussion to inform the Captain that Lutan would see him to discuss the vaccine.

"Data, please stay with Lieutenant Yar," Picard ordered. "Counsellor, you're with me."

As soon as Captain Picard and Deanna left, an uncomfortable silence fell between the pair.

Tasha sat down in a chair with her hand on her chin, staring blankly ahead.

Data was unsure what to say.

He was concerned about her. Truth be told, he had been worried about her since the polywater incident. Despite his concern, he was unsure how to best comfort her.

She had made clear she was uneasy around him. She had been avoiding him for some time.

Although he was fascinated by the artwork displayed on the walls and intricate weaving pattern used in creating the fabrics that adorned the furniture, Data had calculated an 87.9% chance that Tasha would find his mention of those subjects an annoyance.

Furthermore, he doubted that she wished to discuss her feelings on the matter.

"In my research on Lutan I learned that his most recent wife was abducted from the Kalderan Trading Federation," Data said.

Tasha stiffened and he immediately regretted his choice of words.

"Not helping," Tasha said quickly.

"I apologise, Lieutenant," Data replied. "My intention was not to-"

"I know you were just trying to be helpful. I just," she closed her eyes for a moment before continuing. "If I win, I'm stuck here and if I lose, I die."

She turned and looked at Data.

"And worst of all, if I lose, I forfeit my title as the Enterprise's best sparring champion," Tasha said with a smile.

"Lieutenant," Data asked as he cocked his head at her, "Is this humorous?"

"It's called dark humour, Commander," Tasha said as she stood up.

Data watched as she walked over to the window. She leaned back against the wall and stared up at the stars.

"Counsellor Troi would call it a defence mechanism to hide the fact that I'm actually really frightened right now," Tasha confessed.

Data didn't respond immediately. He was aware – to a degree – about her upbringing. Very few people made it off Turkana IV alive.

"And I don't know why I'm telling you this," Tasha said with a small laugh.

All of sudden, she felt flushed. She usually didn't open up like this. Her fallback was always to play calm in a crisis. And yet, she had just confessed to Lieutenant Commander Data how afraid she truly was.

She knew she was letting herself get too comfortable with him.

"I am sorry if my presence has made you uncomfortable," Data said softly.

Oh, you have no idea what you do to me. She said internally before quickly reminding herself that this was not the time.

"No, sir. That's not what I meant. I should apologise. I'm just a little uncomfortable with no-win scenarios," Tasha said.

"I have found no basis in Ligonian law requiring you to accept Lutan's offer. Should you defeat Yareena, you would be well within your rights to refuse his offer of a mating agreement," Data explained. "And I have every confidence in your abilities to do so."

To Data's delight, Tasha crossed her arms and smiled.

He watched as she bit her lip and chuckled as she looked down at the floor.

After a moment she looked back at him. When she realised he was still looking in her direction, she quickly diverted her eyes back to the window.


Captain Picard and Counsellor Troi were in one of the receiving rooms with Lutan and his delegation.

Their discussion with Lutan confirmed their suspicions that there was something else at work here.

"But Lieutenant Yar is a Starfleet officer. She has no land or property to offer you per your custom," Picard explained.

"This is true," Lutan conceded. "But a Ligonian mating agreement is about more than just material wealth."

"But she's perfect for what you want. That's why you requested a demonstration of our security," Deanna said with realisation. "Tasha's an attractive woman. Once she proved her abilities on the holodeck you seized upon the opportunity. She defeats your first one and you inherit control of Yareena's land."

"You are very wise, Counsellor," Lutan smiled.

Lutan was using Lieutenant Yar in hopes that she would defeat his wife.

The Ligonians were well aware of Starfleet's prowess and highly developed security training.

Captain Picard had agreed to allow Tasha to participate in the challenge. According to Lutan, it would be the only way to secure the vaccine.

"When can we get this over with?" Picard asked.

"Tomorrow evening," Lutan advised. "You may return to your ship, but Lieutenant Yar will remain here."

Deanna asked Lutan to give them a moment. She took hold of Captain Picard's arm and pulled him aside.

"I'd like to request that you allow me to stay here with Tasha," Deanna asked.

Captain Picard looked at her questioningly.

"Sir, if you expect her to win a fight tomorrow, she will need to be hydrated and rested," Deanna advised.

"Are you saying the Ligonians are denying her-" Picard started to say but stopped as Deanna shook her head.

"No, sir. I'm saying that Tasha has been on edge since she got here. Abduction is terrifying for anyone. It's trauma, sir. And facing the prospect of being forced into this captivity is as close to the living embodiment of hell Tasha could face." Deana explained.

"We need the vaccine, Counsellor," Picard reminded her.

"I know, sir," Deanna nodded. "She seemed to relax a little when I was with her. Perhaps Lutan would permit me to remain on the planet with her?"

Picard nodded. He understood and he agreed with her reasoning.

If they expected Tasha to fight for the vaccine, then it would be necessary for her to be well-rested and ready to fight. In addition, having Counsellor Troi down on the planet may provide an advantage. Any information she could gather would prove invaluable.

Picard posed his question to Lutan who promptly refused.

"We cannot permit this," Lutan advised. "I cannot guarantee that Counsellor Troi would not find herself in a similar situation."

Lutan smiled at the Counsellor. Deanna wanted to roll her eyes but maintained a straight face.

"Then allow me to remain," Picard offered.

"I also cannot permit Lieutenant Yar to be in the presence of another man alone," Lutan insisted.

"What about Commander Data?" Deanna suggested.

"Yes," Picard agreed as he caught the meaning of her proposal. "He is, after all, an android."

The Ligonians had been highly interested in Data. Lutan was fully aware of his nature as an artificial lifeform.

He considered the possibility for a moment before nodding in agreement.


"Data?" Tasha whispered to Deanna, her eyes were wide with fear.

"Is that a problem?" Deanna asked as she noted Tasha's response.

Captain Picard was speaking with Data on the other side of the quarters she had been provided. Deanna was filling Tasha in about the circumstances of Lutan's agreement.

"I want to get off this planet," Tasha said.

"And we will get you out of here," Deanna assured her as she put her hand on Tasha's shoulder.

"You don't understand," Tasha went on. "It's not just the idea of being trapped here. It's everything about being here."

Tasha had read extensively on Ligonian laws and customs.

"Deanna if they find out about me, I'll be put to death," Tasha said darkly. "Ligonian law explicitly stipulates death for anyone outside of-"

Tasha trailed off. A part of her was concerned the Ligonians were listening.

"Have you told anyone here that you are bisexual?" she heard Deanna communicate telepathically.

Tasha shook her head.

Deanna took hold of her hand and gave it a squeeze.

"We will get you out of here," she repeated.

Despite her words, Tasha didn't seem to be any more relieved.

In fact, she could sense a lot coming off Tasha – anxiety mixed with relief, fear mixed with happiness, terror mixed with arousal.

"Is there something else bothering you?" Deanna inquired.

"No," Tasha assured her quickly. "It's fine."

Deanna eyed her sceptically.

"Tasha, I'm sensing, well, a lot from you right now," Deanna explained. "Is there a part of you that is enthralled by Lutan's offer? It's perfectly acceptable to be excited by the idea that someone-"

"No," Tasha said bluntly.

Deanna knew she was telling the truth.

"But you are feeling-" Deanna paused.

Tasha put her hand out and shook her head.

"Tasha, I can sense a lot of romantic feelings-" Deanna insisted but stopped when Tasha started to look – and feel- panicked.

She glanced subtly over to the Captain and Data to ensure they were out of earshot before leaning in close.

"Deanna, something else happened during the Tsiolkovsky incident. I met someone," she paused. "I can't seem to stop thinking about him."

Deanna cocked her head to the side and raised an eyebrow.

During their weekly session following the polywater, Tasha had confessed that she'd engaged in behaviour she wasn't proud of – snogging a science officer on deck two, pinching Lieutenant Lam in the lift, and making a fool of herself at the ship's stores.

This, however, was new information.

Tasha was particularly private about her personal life so she reasoned it would make sense that she would be cautious about sharing this information.

Nevertheless, Deanna also knew that Tasha was also casual about her relationships. She kept partners at a distance. It was rare for her to admit any kind of attraction to one of them beyond a sexual nature.

"Have you talked with him?" Deanna asked.

Tasha shook her head.

"And you're worried that if something happens here on Ligon II, he won't know how you feel," Deanna said aloud as she read Tasha's feelings.

Tasha didn't need to respond verbally.

"He's just…gods Deanna I didn't realise he had this side to him," Tasha closed her eyes and sighed. "He was so intuitive. And he said things that…well, he was quite sweet, and I know he meant it."

"Tasha, would you feel better if I gave him a message for you. You know, only in the case something happened?" Deanna recommended. "You could write a letter."

"Oh no," Tasha said abruptly. "I can't."

Deanna offered again but Tasha insisted it wasn't an option she was willing to consider.

"Well, in that case my advice would be to put it out of your mind until after the fight. That way you can concentrate," Deanna smiled. "In the meantime, Data will be here with you."

"Right," Tasha replied with a forced smile.


"Ligonian art is renowned for its ability to capture the human form with exceptional realism," Data said as he observed one of the paintings on the wall.

Tasha was sitting by the window, staring out of it. She'd sat in that corner since Deanna had left.

"Although there are a number of Ligonian painters that have mastered visual abstraction," Data added.

Tasha did not respond.

"Would you prefer if I stood in the corner? I could face the wall and remain silent if that is your preference?" Data offered.

Tasha looked up at him, concerned.

"No," she said suddenly. "I'm sorry, I'm just not feeling very talkative."

"It does not bother me," Data assured her. "I am quite used to doing so during missions."

"No, Commander," Tasha said, shocked. "That's horrible!"

She knew Data was being sincere, but the idea of him being regulated to a corner made her uneasy.

"No one deserves to be treated like that," Tasha said softly. "I'm sorry someone did that to you."

She was staring at him now, blue eyes full of empathy as she watched him.

Initially, Data was unsure how he should respond. Aside from a handful of people, it was rare that anyone recognised him in such a manner.

As he considered this, he recalled that he could not find a single instance in which Tasha had treated him differently than an organic lifeform.

A knock at the door brought him out of his thoughts.

Yareena stepped into the room accompanied by two attendants. She waved one of them forward who bowed deeply and moved over to the bed. He laid out two garments on the bed.

"Lutan is hosting a celebration this evening in honour of tomorrow," Yareena explained. "You will dress for the occasion. It is the official start of the ceremony."

Based on her reaction, Data could see that Tasha found this unfavourable.

"I'll keep my uniform, thanks," Tasha replied.

"On our planet, you will honour our customs. Your uniform will be laundered and returned to you," Yareena insisted. "Attire for this evening has been provided. It is the finest Ligonian satin and has been provided for you by Lutan. He has also seen fit to provide you with sleeping attire."

It was evident that this was a source of contention for Yareena, and Tasha couldn't blame her.

"Yareena, you should know that my acceptance of this challenge has nothing to do with Lutan," Tasha tried to assure her.

"It has everything to do with Lutan!" Yareena replied furiously. "Lutan wants you to be his first one. He already has our legal advisors redrawing the mating agreement to displace my daughter as heir in favour of any children from your union should I perish."

Tasha shook her head slowly as she tried to convey that Yareena had grossly misinterpreted the situation.

"Impossible, Yareena. I'm a career Starfleet Officer and I don't intend to change that," Tasha contended.

Data recognised she was using a familiar tactic. Tasha had an uncanny ability to diffuse situations with her calm demeanour and soothing voice.

"I do not know what promises you have made to him, but I can assure you that I will kill you tomorrow," Yareena stated.

"Yareena, I know you care deeply for him. This isn't my idea of happily ever after," Tasha maintained. "Besides, there's someone else back on my ship that-"

Tasha trailed off.

Data cocked his head to the side and leaned forward slightly in his seat as he listened intently.

Could it be? He thought to himself.

"How could you not love him? Every woman loves him!" Yareena replied angrily.

"Not my type," Tasha said as she continued to maintain she had no feelings for the Ligonian leader.

She was talking with her hands now and Data knew that was a clear sign of her growing irritation.

"He certainly seems to think you are," Yareena said in a low voice.

"And believe me, I'm wracking my brain to figure out why," Tasha shrugged.

Data knew Tasha often deflected emotionally difficult conversations with the use of self-depreciation.

He had observed her do so on many occasions.

Most importantly, he also knew that this indicated she was both genuinely afraid and struggling to maintain her cool attitude.

"You are what could be considered an attractive partner for mating," Data stated as he inserted himself into the conversation.

He had meant what he said. But his intention was not to compliment her appearance but rather redirect the conversation back to the matter at hand. It would do no good for Tasha to derail it with sarcasm.

Tasha turned back to look at Data, shocked by his statement.

"It would stand to reason that Lutan finds your physical appearance aesthetically pleasing. He also seemed fascinated with your exemplary performance as an officer. Perhaps during your time together on the Enterprise, he found himself drawn to your," Data paused, as if struggling to choose the right word, "captivating personality."

Tasha was dumbstruck. She blinked slowly a few times.

She needed to focus. She told herself Data's statement was some assessment based on observation. But a part of her hoped that it was a genuine feeling, more so, that it was a genuine feeling he had for her.

"I will kill you if I can," Yareena warned. "And believe me, I can."

Yareena informed her she had one hour before the start of the ceremony. She also informed her she would be required to attend if they wanted the vaccine before sweeping out of the room.

Tasha groaned and folded her arms as she started to pace.

"Gods I feel bad for her," Tasha muttered aloud. "So in love with a man that clearly doesn't care about her. I couldn't imagine a life like that."

"May I ask you a question, Lieutenant?" Data inquired.

"Sure," she replied as she continued pacing.

"You told Yareena there was someone else aboard the Enterprise as if to say you already have a romantic partner," Data asked. "Is there someone else?"

Tasha stopped.

"No! Of course not," she replied awkwardly without meeting his eyes. "I thought it would convince her to talk to Lutan and stop this whole stupid ceremony."

"So, you are not currently engaged in a romantic relationship with another?" Data questioned.

Tasha could hear the change in his voice. It had softened, as if he were nervous.

"No, Data," she replied as she looked at him before biting her lip.


Forty-five minutes later, Tasha poked her head out from behind the folding screen.

Data was seated in the chair, facing away from her in an effort to ensure she understood he wanted to respect her privacy.

"Um, Commander, could you help me with this?" she asked uncomfortably.

The garment that Yareena had provided was not something she would have typically selected for herself. In her opinion, it was a garish colour. Tasha had always kept her wardrobe simple with bold colours and functional clothing.

The soft, pale orchid colour of this garment was uncomfortable for her. In addition, the dress left her arms completely exposed and she was grateful that, in the very least, Data had seen them before without flinching.

Turkana had certainly left its mark on her body.

"Yes, Lieutenant," Data said as he stood and approached the screen.

When he reached the screen, he paused.

She was clutching the front of the garment to hold it in place. He could see it was secured in the back with an intricate clasp at the nape of her neck.

However, that was the only scrap of fabric on her back. Otherwise, the garment stood open from her neck down to the lowest point of her back – mere centimetres above the start of the curve of her backside.

The sight of her exposed back, as pale and soft as he'd remembered it, sent his neural net into a spiral and he had to stop himself from reaching out to trace the length of it with his fingers.

It had only been two seconds, but it was enough of a pause that Tasha had noticed.

"Um, Commander," Tasha prompted.

"I apologise, Lieutenant," Data said. "I was merely observing your tattoo."

In truth, he was attempting to stop his sexuality programme from activating – although he did find the mark fascinating.

Tasha wanted him to hurry. It was not that she was uncomfortable with him there.

She was all too comfortable with him there, inches away, his breath warm on the back of her neck.

She'd already gotten off to the idea of him taking her like this more than once, her mind didn't need any additional convincing.

Especially not when they were alone like this.

He found the clasp. With deft fingers, he secured it in place.

She heard it click and turned around to thank him, startled that he had not stepped away.

His head twitched twice slightly to the right as he took in her appearance.

Tasha looked up at him and studied his face as he stared at her – saying nothing, his lips slightly parted, and wearing a look that indicated he had forgotten to breathe.

It was the same way he had looked at her when he first saw her the day of the incident. His eyes held the same affection and longing she had seen in them on the bridge after she'd told him their encounter had never happened.

"Would you like me to request an additional garment for you?" Data inquired. "A jumper or jacket?"

He met her eyes.

"No," she said.

"Counsellor Troi stressed that it is important that you remain comfortable and in good health until the challenge," Data stated.

She nodded.

"She tasked me with ensuring those needs are met," Data went on.

Tasha was certain if the Ligonians walked in on him meeting her needs they would both be killed.

"Are you cold, Lieutenant?" he asked suddenly.

"No, I'm actually a little warm," Tasha confessed.

He was too close.

"I'm fine, Data. Why?" she questioned.

He couldn't look down again. He knew if he did, he was afraid that doing so would lead to him saying something that may cause her frustration.

However, he found himself once again confused by the difference in her prior verbal insistence that their sexual liaison had never occurred and routine frustration with him in comparison to the obvious arousal she seemed to experience in his presence.

He had to know.

"Because the manner in which the peaks of your breasts are strained against the fabric of your dress would indicate you are cold," Data said, attempting to remain as professional as possible.

"I'm sorry, Commander," she said quickly as she clasped her hands over her chest.

Bad choice. She said to herself.

The sensation of friction – even from herself – only heightened the tension in the room.

"There is no need to apologise. I did not mean to make you uncomfortable by drawing attention to it," he replied slowly.

A beat passed before he spoke again.

"It is not unpleasant," he added as he grasped her hands and brought them down to her sides. "They are quite lovely."

It was a risk, but Data felt compelled to instil confidence in her.

He released his grip on her hands but noticed that she did not.

"Data-" she started to say but was stopped by a knock at the door.

A Ligonian escort stepped into the room to escort them to the ceremony.

When they arrived, Lutan greeted her with a broad smile.

"Lieutenant Yar," he said in a deep voice.

He stretched his hands out wide as she approached.

He went to embrace her, but flinched the moment his hands came down on her upper arms.

Lutan pulled his hands back and Tasha watched as he took in the scars that marked them.

"Were you hit often in battle?" he inquired.

"Not exactly," Tasha replied.

Lutan's smile faltered and Tasha felt her confidence slip away.

The reason for Lutan's rapid change was that concerned was that if she were prone to being hit in battle, she would not defeat Yareena tomorrow.

Ligonian weapons were coated with fast-acting poison that ensured any blow resulted in a quick death.

However, Tasha didn't know this was the reason for his reaction.

She maintained her smile. She held no shame about her scars, but inside it hurt a little whenever someone recoiled at their appearance.

Tasha knew it was a natural reaction to the shock of the sight, but it still stung, nonetheless.

Data saw the minute change in her posture and surmised as much.

Regardless, Tasha hoped that this might be enough to keep Lutan's hands off her at least.

The more repulsed he was by it, the better for her.


At 23:00, Lutan clapped his hands and ordered the woman to leave the main hall.

"Now is the time for brotherhood," he said as they were escorted out.

Apparently, it was Ligonian custom that men and women retired to their own separate parties when the evening grew late.

Tasha and Data declined and were permitted to return to her quarters.

She was not in the mood to spend the evening with Yareena and Lutan's other wives, and it appeared they were not either. Most of them were highly loyal to Yareena and felt that Tasha was displacing the natural order of their mating agreement with Lutan.

When they reached her quarters, Tasha was eager to shed the horrible garment. She was exhausted and she wanted to sleep. Despite the nervous energy about having to be alone with Data, she felt safe with him there and was grateful she would be able to sleep for the first time since arriving.

She reached behind her and started fidgeting with the clasp at her neck.

The sooner she could shred that dress, the sooner she could sleep.

Without saying anything, she felt his hands on the back of her neck as he undid the clasp for her.

"Thanks," Tasha said as she clutched the front of it to hold it up.

She didn't move and he did not step away.

Rather, he ran his hands down her arms, tracing his fingers along the scars that criss-crossed down past her elbows.

"Data?" she asked softly.

He stopped and pulled his hands back.

Tasha turned around to look at him. She was confused by his behaviour. She was also roused by it. More than anything, she was worried that her own previous failure to maintain control had filled Data with some kind of childlike puppy-love.

Data was looking at her in that way again. The way that made her feel as if she'd drank too much – lightheaded, a little flushed.

He was too sweet, too wholesome and she knew that she didn't deserve him.

"You do not typically wear attire like this," Data stated.

"No," Tasha replied.

"The colour is complementary to your complexion," he said. "And the bias cut of the garment drapes you in a manner that is favourable to your figure."

He'd been mesmerized by the way the fabric clung to her hip.

Data wanted to touch, but he didn't want to violate her personal space.

Did he just comment on my body? Tasha's brain reeled.

Without warning, there was a heavy boom.

Data pulled her close and listened carefully to try and identify the sound.

Tasha thought it sounded like weapons fire – not phasers, but similar to the projectile weapons that some of the gangs on Turkana used.

She cursed that she didn't have her uniform. If something was happening, she needed to be able to move.

After a moment, there was another loud booming noise. Then another followed immediately by sounds that crackled.

"Fireworks," Tasha said as she identified the sound.

She breathed a sigh of relief as she listened to several more booms and pops fizzle into the night.

Data felt her relax in his arms.

"Fireworks?" Data asked before saying, "Ah! I see. Low explosive pyrotechnic devices used for entertainment."

"Maybe you can see them from the window," Tasha suggested.

In truth, she had suggested it because she was torn between wanting him to move and wanting to stay like this – pressed against his chest, his hand resting on her very exposed lower back.

She is so close. Data told himself as he contemplated reaching down to kiss her.

"Data," Tasha said as she pulled back from him.

He let go of her and she felt a sense of loss when his hands were gone.


Two hours later, she was lying in bed trying to sleep. Data was seated in another part of the quarters. He had combed through every book in the room. During that time, he had watched her toss and turn, unable to find sleep.

The room was dark but he did not require artificial lighting to see the outline of her.

For the last forty-three minutes he had debated if he should say something.

Tasha rolled onto her back and stared up the ceiling.

"Are you having trouble sleeping?" Data asked.

"Yeah," Tasha replied.

"Is it what you would call 'nerves' regarding tomorrow?" Data inquired.

"Maybe," Tasha sighed.

That and the fact that you're ten feet away, I want to jump your bones, and because you're so close I can't even take care of the problem myself. A little voice in her head taunted.

"Would you like me to get you something to help you sleep?" Data suggested. "Perhaps herbal tea?"

"No, Data," she replied.

"Sleep hypnosis and noises can be effective as well. I could play a variety of soothing sounds like rain, ocean waves, music, or other sounds if that would help," Data said. "I could also read something if you would like."

"No, thank you," Tasha declined.

"Some humans find massage to be an effective means of relaxation," Data offered. "I am programmed in a variety of techniques including Shiatsu, Swedish, Trigger point, Thai, and deep tissue."

Tasha sat up.

The idea of Data's hands on her body would have the exact opposite effect of relaxation.

"No, Data," Tasha replied.

She got up out of the bed.

"Thanks, but I think I'm going to try taking a bath," she said suddenly before slipping into the lavvy attached to the quarters.

She closed the door behind her, and he could hear the tap running as the tub filled.

Data shrugged and went back to his analysis of the Ligonian architectural structure of the complex.

He was nearly finished with examining the differences between early 23rd century Ligonian structural support systems with the more advanced early 24th century systems when he heard a noise.

Data stopped and cocked his head to the side. His auditory sensors filtered out the noise from the atmospheric system and the corridor.

Aside from their liaison, he had only imagined what she could sound like.

And now there it was – so quiet that it would have been imperceptible for a human, blocked behind the thick wooden door.

But he could hear it. He could hear all of it – each soft moan, the sharp intake of breath, the increase in her breathing.

He wondered if she realised he could detect the sound of it. But as he considered this possibility, he thought it was unlikely. For some inexplicable reason she seemed embarrassed whenever he picked up on her arousal in his presence.

Thinking back to their previous encounter, he wondered if it was embarrassment or shame. She didn't seem to be bothered by his android nature. Despite her insistence that it had never occurred, he couldn't help but continue to think she felt he had taken advantage of her during the polywater incident.

In short, he was thoroughly baffled by her. He desperately wanted to ask her about it, but he was concerned it would cause further tension.

Tasha was his friend and if she only wanted to remain platonic friends, he would respect that.

He tried to push the sound of her from his mind, but every small gasp was like a jolt to his system. Knowing that less than ten metres away she was naked, wet, and touching herself in his presence was unbearable.

Data could feel his sexuality programming attempt to activate, and it took him a full seven seconds to override the function.

She emerged twenty minutes later, her face flushed and red from the steam and her wet hair brushed back not unlike the way he'd found her in her quarters that day.

It brought a memory to the forefront of his positronic brain as he thought back to their encounter.

For you, Data. She had said.

"Are you feeling more relaxed, Lieutenant?" Data inquired. "Did your bath take the edge off?"

Tasha froze momentarily, eyes going wide as she considered his unusual choice of words. It wasn't like Data to use a human idiom in conversation.

Did he know?

"Um, yes. Commander," she shook herself back to reality. "Good night."

"Sweet dreams," he replied.


It was over. Tasha was standing in the lounge with Captain Picard, Doctor Crusher, Data, and the Ligonians.

She was so full of adrenaline that she was dreading the oncoming crash – emotionally she wasn't ready to deal with processing that she had killed someone in hand-to-hand combat.

Sure, she'd been in plenty of situations where she'd killed people before – but that was the border wars with the Cardassians and hostile encounters with enemies of the Federation.

She'd never taken a life like this, not in this way.

She caught Lutan looking at her.

"How sad for you. You've lost everything." said Tasha.

Her tone seemed to be a mix of both sympathy and disgust.

"I have my honour," replied Lutan, looking away.

"It's such a waste," Tasha said as she shook her head.

"Do you want him?" Lutan's ex-wife said, turning to Tasha.

Lutan looked hopefully to Tasha.

Tasha cocked her head to the side with a look of unpleasantness.

"Eh, no," Tasha answered quickly as Data determined the look was most certainly disgust.

Data watched as her nose had wrinkled briefly much in the same way it had when Commander Riker had insisted they try Akutaq at one of their poker nights.

She shook her head.

"There would be-," Tasha struggled to find the words.

For a split second she locked eyes with Data.

She blinked and looked away before quickly adding "complications."

Data's neural net was firing on all cylinders as he questioned the meaning of her statement.

Was he the complication? Or one of the complications?

She had used the plural form of the word. However, he had observed humans had a knack for using the plural form of a word when attempting to hide the nature of feelings.

Data wanted to ask her about this but didn't get the chance.

Tasha left the bridge with Deanna and Captain Picard ordered him back to his station on the bridge.

Before stepping onto the turbolift, he caught her attention and held her gaze for a moment.

She looked like she wanted to tell him something.

A second later, Deanna's hand on her shoulder brought her back to reality and the turbolift doors closed.


"You are brooding," Worf said.

She was on her way back from Deanna's. Counsellor Troi had insisted on an emergency counselling session following her return from Ligon II. The abduction, captivity, and trial-by-combat had been an ordeal.

Tasha's past experience on the violent Turkana only amplified the experience.

In a way, it was like being traumatised all over again.

"Captain Picard's put me off the bridge for the next forty-eight hours," Tasha replied.

She hated this. More than anything, she wanted work to occupy her mind.

"Warriors require rest," Worf said. "There is no shame in it."

Tasha shook her head softly with a smile.

"I just need something to occupy my mind," she explained. "And for me, that's work."

"Perhaps a workout?" Worf suggested.

They both enjoyed physical activity as an escape.

"Doc's orders. No intense physical activities for next forty-eight hours either," Tasha sighed.

"Perhaps you could use the opportunity to spend time with your partner," Worf said.

Tasha turned to look at him, dumbstruck by his statement.

"Worf?" she asked, shocked.

"I think it is a good thing for both of you," Worf said. "Commander Data is-"

"Computer, halt," Tasha ordered.

Her chest was tight as she began to catastrophise.

Had Data told him they were in a relationship?

Had he told anyone else?

If he had, this was much worse than she had initially thought.

"Worf, where did you get that idea?" she snapped.

He could see she was angry.

"Commander Data did not say anything to me if that is your concern," he explained.

Just like himself, he knew how much she revered her privacy.

"I was on the bridge when he returned from your quarters during the polywater incident. It was fairly obvious what had occurred between the two of you," he explained.

Tasha didn't know what to say. She already suspected that Commander Riker knew what had occurred, she sincerely hoped it wasn't common knowledge.

"Initially, I assumed it was merely a result of the virus, a one-time incident," Worf went on. "But I have observed your behaviour since, and it is clear the two of you share a mutual attraction for one another."

She looked at the wall of the lift as she tried to determine how he could have gotten that impression.

Worf anticipated her question.

"It is evident in the way you look at each other," Worf explained. "And the pheromones emitted by human females are easy for Klingons to pick up on."

Tasha's eyes grew wide.

"Worf, are you saying you can-" she trailed off, she couldn't finish the question.

"Rest assured it is unlikely the other humans can detect it," Worf told her. "But I have observed this occurs in you when you're in the presence of the Lieutenant Commander. I assume that the two of you must enjoy a robust relationship given the frequency at which you emit them although I am surprised at an android having a sexual appetite."

Tasha was mortified.

"Worf, there is nothing going on between me and Data," Tasha assured him.

He eyed her sceptically.

"I have not, nor will I tell another soul," Worf said. "I did not mean to upset you by mentioning your relationship."

"No, Worf there's no relationship," Tasha insisted. "Nothing. Nada. Zilch."

"Why not?" Worf asked, frankly. "It is clear you have feelings for one another."

"Data's my friend," Tasha said seriously. "And that's it."

"My mistake," Worf nodded, respecting her wishes. "I apologise."

"It's ok," Tasha told him with a small smile. "Just don't say anything about this. To anyone."


Later that night, Tasha was reading when her door chimed.

Opening her door, she found Data waiting on the opposite side.

"Yes, sir?" she asked as she stood stiffly in the doorframe.

"I came to see if you were alright," Data explained. "I have read that human emotions of past traumatic events can be triggered when-"

"I'm fine," she said, cutting him off. "I'd just like to be alone."

He looked hurt. She could see it in the way his shoulders slumped, and it read prominently in his features. Tasha wanted nothing more than to run to him and hold him.

But she knew she couldn't.

Instead, she bid him goodnight and he nodded in response.

As soon as her door closed, she threw her PADD across the room and onto her sofa in anger.

She didn't want to be like this, but she knew it was wrong to try and pursue any kind of relationship with him.


It had been three days later when he confronted her in the corridor. She had been returning from girl's night with Beverly and Deanna when she ran into him – literally – on deck fourteen.

He was dressed in a strange ancient Earth costume with a ridiculously large bicorn hat.

His unusual attire aside, it was obvious he was bothered by something.

She was tired of running from him.

Tasha decided maybe it would be best to bite the bullet and talk with Data. After all, he deserved an explanation and hopefully he would understand and move on.

She felt bad. Normally, she made her expectations clear prior to initiating sex.

But the polywater situation had been different. And to top it all off, it had been with Data.

He confessed that he had a series of questions he wanted to ask her, and she had agreed to stop by his quarters the next night.


It had been an awkward conversation at first. Data had a lot of questions.

They were questions she wasn't sure she was prepared to answer.

In the end, she had felt bad for calling Geordi to come check on Data. But she never seen Data in such a state and wasn't sure what else to do in that moment. His eyes had been moving rapidly back and forth and he confessed he was having trouble focusing his neural net.

Once Geordi had given them a moment alone, Data had opened up about the nature of his dilemma and the weight of his struggle over the last several days became apparent.

He cared about her.

Enough that he had struggled for days trying to understand her behaviour.

To the degree that he was deeply concerned he had hurt her.

So much that he had attempted to resign because he thought it would make her happy.

Now they were sitting in his quarters, opposite one another. Everything had been laid out in the open. Tasha had felt a rush of relief learning that Data, in fact, had prior sexual experiences and fully comprehended the difference between casual sex and relationships.

Although, if she was being honest with herself, she wasn't sure she wanted this to be just another casual encounter.

Data was a friend and she suspected he had feelings for her.

More than that, she couldn't deny that she was feeling things for him.

And if she was being honest with herself, she had been feeling them for a while.

She liked his company. Next to Worf, he was probably the person she considered herself closest to on the ship.

They spent considerable time together both in their duties to Starfleet and outside of working hours – poker, holodeck experiences, and hanging out in Ten Forward with Geordi and Miles.

She also couldn't reject the obvious physical attraction she had to him. Now that she seen him – all of him – she couldn't shake the thought of him.

"Speaking of explanations, I would still like an answer to my previous question. Am I the complication?" he asked. "I observed that you alternated between looking at me when you mentioned it and when you explained your feelings on Ligon II. Alternatively, you avoided my eye contact at other times when you displayed signs of embarrassment."

Tasha asked Data to give her a moment before responding. Data told her to take all the time she needed to formulate an answer. Taking another sip of water, she reflected on his question.

"I suppose you could say you were a variable in the equation," she answered.

To her amusement, Data gave her a small smile.

"What are you doing?" she asked with a disbelieving smile.

Data's hand touched the left side of his face where the side of his mouth had turned upward into a smile.

"I do not know," he said. "But it…feels…wonderful."

Tasha smiled back as she took in his expression. She found it endearing.

"Does this bring you joy?" he asked.

"Yes," Tasha grinned.

A beat passed.

"May I confess something?" he said as he cast his eyes to the floor.

"Sure, Data," she said.

"After our copulation, you asked why we had not done so sooner. When I inquired if your statement was intended to convey that you wished such an activity to occur again, you clarified that you did," Data stated.

He looked up and met her eyes.

"The thought of that brings me joy," he acknowledged.

She smiled shyly.

"Yeah, me too," she confessed.

Silence fell between the pair, neither sure what to say next.

"I've been looking at the files for our upcoming escort mission on the Anticans and Selay to Parliament-"

"Today commemorates the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the new exobiology arboretum at Starfleet Academy-"

They both had started speaking at the same time and stopped immediately when they realised it.

He cocked his head slightly to the left and she bit her lip.

She was at him in two paces, planting her knees on either side of him.

The look on her face was almost predatory as she put one hand on his chest. He let her push him against the back of the sofa, his eyes wide as he catalogued every moment of it.

It was only a matter of seconds, but for an android it felt like he was watching in slow motion.

Her lips met his and he ran his hands down the length of her back. Gripping her backside, he pulled her closer. In response, she ground against him and was rewarded when he moaned against her mouth as his sexuality programme initiated.

Everything in his kiss was hungry, insatiable, as the sexual tension of the last few weeks came to the forefront. It was urgent, wanton. The soft words they had whispered to one another during the first time they'd made love were absent as they both sought to satisfy the itch they had been unable to scratch.

They both needed it. They had needed it for weeks.

"I can't stop thinking of you," Tasha confessed. "Of this."

There was nothing tender about the manner in which he tugged her uniform down off her shoulders. Tasha found the zipper on his jumpsuit and pulled it down. She ran her hands over his chest and shoulders, greedily soaking in the feeling of the bioplast that covered his synthetic musculature.

He helped her kick off her jumpsuit before he slipped his down enough to free his cock.

She rested her elbows on his shoulders. His hands were warm on her hips.

Tasha watched his face as she sunk down the length of him and hissed at the stretch, foreplay an afterthought in her need to feel him.

"You are wet," he said, astonished.

"You seem to have that effect on me," she replied as she started to move on him.

She ran her fingers through his hair, guiding his head back to watch him.

Tasha smiled down at him. Staring up at her, his pupils were blown.

"I'm sorry, Data, I'm sorry I pushed you away," she panted.

"Do not be," he told her, his voice showing the barest hint of strain. "You are here now."

It had hurt when she'd told him 'It never happened.'

But now that she was here in his quarters, in his arms – riding the length of him – there was nothing that could take away the joy of that feeling.

She slowed the pace in favour of a rhythm that was slower. In a way, it was deeper and more intimate. She rested her forehead against his as she closed her eyes.

Data removed his hands from her back. He ghosted over the curve of her breast, fingers gently massaging them before he traced his hands down across her thighs.

"Do you enjoy this?" Data asked.

"Data, you don't know what you do to me," she replied.

Her skin was hot, pressed against his forehead. She moaned as she rolled her hips on top of him.

"I like when you talk to me," Tasha admitted.

Every word he'd said to her during their initial encounter had only fuelled her desire.

"You claim that I am incapable of understanding what I do to you," he said. "But are you aware that you are irresistible?"

It may have seemed like a clumsy attempt at dirty talk, but to Tasha it hit the right spot.

"Oh, you're sweet," she said as she kissed him.

He smiled. No one had ever spoken to him with the same gentleness and understanding that she did.

No one before had ever wanted him in the way she did.

And none of his previous partners had made him feel this way.

Tasha looped her hands behind his neck and let her head fall back as she increased the pace.

She gasped as he nipped at the pulse point on her neck, tracing kisses down her collarbone and across the swell of her breasts.

"Data," she heaved in a breathy, needy voice.

Wrapping his arms around her, he stood.

With one hand holding her head and the other secure on the lowest point of her back, he tipped her back as she wrapped her legs around his waist.

He drove into her, his hips snapping obscenely against her thighs in a way he'd only imagined taking her.

Data watched her as she tensed, her eyes squeezed shut and her lips parted as the same sweet noises he'd heard from behind the door on Ligon II poured from her mouth.

"Ah, Data, I-" she whimpered.

"Do you like this?" he asked, driving into her.

"Yeah," she managed to say as he felt her tighten around him as she came.

Much to his delight, he watched as she bit her lip in the way that made his neural net race.

He calculated a 64.2% chance she would agree to his next request. But in the spirit of their newfound openness, he felt it was permissible to ask.

"Tasha, may I," he looked like he was struggling to find the words. "Finish?"

She opened her eyes and nodded at him.

He carried her a few steps away from the main room of his quarters, cradling her head as he laid her back on his workstation.

With his hands free, he tucked a hair behind her ear, and she smiled up at him.

He took hold of her hands and pinned them to the surface of the desk. She interlaced her fingers with his and ran her leg up slowly and then down against his backside.

"Commander," she said growled.

He didn't need telling twice. Spurred on by her encouragement, he resumed. Her back arched underneath him as he pumped into her.

Tasha savoured the feeling of his weight above her, the taut muscle of his backside clenched under her heels as he worked to find his own release.

After several moments, she was surprised when he let go of her hands. Data placed one hand on her right leg, keeping it wrapped in place around him. Then, he took hold of her left leg and brought it up over his shoulder.

He traced a line of kisses on the inside of her leg as he held it there, starting just behind her knee.

Data took his hand off her right leg and she moaned when his thumb found her clit. Rubbing furiously, Tasha began to feel the familiar electrical sensation of another approaching orgasm.

"What are you doing?" she panted.

"Would you prefer that stop?" Data asked.

"No," she said.

He cocked his head to the side, confused as he attempted to understand what she wanted.

"Would you rather I do something different?" he offered.

"No, Data. It feels nice," she keened. "Just unexpected."

She was used to doing this part herself – at least with her previous partners that were men. It certainly wasn't all, but Tasha wasn't used to this kind of attention.

"Then, relax," he instructed her.

His thrusts became erratic as she felt him stiffen before his hips jerked and he came inside her. He thrust a few more times, slowly, before pulling out.

He kissed up the length of her leg as he knelt down next to his workstation. Looping his hands under her thighs, he slid her toward him as his tongue worked to bring her the last few steps to the orgasm she was chasing.

It didn't take long, as his tongue laved over her overstimulated, swollen clit.

When she came again, Tasha had to remind herself that this was, in fact, really happening and not a fantasy.

As she came down, Data stood up and took in the sight of her in her post-sex afterglow– limp, breathing heavily, arms spread wide across his work station, and wearing the kind of look he'd heard Commander Riker refer to as 'thoroughly sexed.'

"Data, engineering is reporting a malfunction with one of the aft nacelles," his combadge pinged from where it was buried in his uniform on the ground.

It was Commander Riker's voice.

"Could you meet a team down there and take a look?" Riker asked.

Tasha waved her hand to indicate he should go answer it. She was feeling too hazy to talk.

Data stepped into the main room of his quarters and found his uniform. Pulling his badge off, he tapped it to respond.

"Yes, Commander. I will be there momentarily," Data acknowledged.

When he turned back to his workstation, he saw that Tasha was sitting up.

"What?" she asked as she noticed him staring, suddenly feeling bashful.

"The sight of you like this on my workstation is certainly out of the ordinary. I believe humans would consider it to be somewhat, well, salacious. But it is not unwelcome," he assured her. "In fact, I would very much like to think I could become familiar with it."

Tasha beamed.

They dressed quickly so he could get down to the lower decks to take a look at the aft nacelles.

Once they were both back in uniform, she took hold of his hand and gave him a kiss.

"Thank you for being so persistent," she said as she nuzzled against his neck. "This was nice."

"It is nice to know that you are not angry with me," he replied.

She shook her head before placing a quick kiss on his cheek.

"You've got a ship to see to," she said.

After stepping into the corridor, Tasha turned back to face him.

Data stood in the doorway wearing a neutral expression.

"Tasha, would it be alright if I were to check on your wellbeing tomorrow?" Data asked.

"Sure," Tasha nodded.

Data gave a small wave as he bid her goodnight.

Tasha walked down the corridor. Before she reached the curve she turned back to see Data was still standing in the doorway watching her leave.

"Goodnight, Commander," she said with a smile before stepping onto the turbolift.


The next day, Tasha met with Deanna for her weekly counselling session. She shared with Deanna that she had spoken with the individual from the polywater incident – everything was clear now between them and Tasha felt great.

"We don't have much time left before my next session," Deanna explained.

"Of course," Tasha said as she prepared to wrap up their session.

"Before you go, what's your next step?" Deanna asked.

Tasha froze. She hadn't discussed that with Data.

"I sense you are feeling scared," Deanna said suddenly as her eyes widened with alarm.

"I am," Tasha admitted. "I just realised that I can't have what I want."


Later that night, Data stopped by her quarters as promised to check in on her.

She explained to him that she wasn't doing great.

"The more I think about you the more I realise I want something I can't have," she confessed.

It hurt to say, but she knew she needed to make that clear.

"Ah," Data replied softly. "Are you referring to Regulation 1138 regarding fraternisation?"

Tasha looked up at him and left her answer unspoken.

Although he knew he could not feel emotion, Data would describe the thought as 'bittersweet.'

Having her back in his arms yesterday had been a wonderful feeling, as if everything were right. However, he knew she was correct. Regulation 1138 did prohibit fraternisation. For a brief moment, he considered it odd that his programming did not stop them yesterday.

In a way, he felt bitter about it. As his morality programming did not stop him, he knew that the issue was not a moral one, but rather a matter of Starfleet regulations. He also knew that both he and Tasha had taken an oath to uphold those regulations and honour Starfleet procedure.

As much as pained him, he had to admit she was correct.

Data reached out and took her hand. Pulling it toward him he covered it with his other hand.

"Then I am glad I did not destroy my memory engrams," Data said in a voice that was barely above a whisper. "Because I will treasure them."