A/N: Thank you for ongoing interest and support in this story. I'm grateful to be a part of the series!

This chapter is set during the events of "Nine Decks or Ninety-Thousand Lightyears" as Data and Tasha prepare for the upcoming hearing regarding Ensign Walsh and their alleged violation of Regulation 1138.


Data closed his eyes as he listened to the sound of Tasha's voice. For a change, Data did not have Night Watch duty. In fact, ever since word of their upcoming disciplinary hearing and the possibility of one or both of them being reassigned – a mysterious change to the duty roster had Data removed from the Night Watch rotation.

Commander Riker had feigned an excuse about wanting to work through a few newer officers that had recently taken the Bridge Officer exam so they could log hours in advance of the upcoming performance reviews.

Data suspected this was a ruse.

Tasha had sent Will Riker a rather rare bottle of Berellian whisky as a thank you.

It may have been a small act, but it meant the world to both of them. The hearing was only a few days away and every hour together was precious.

Listening to her narrate, Data carefully recorded every millisecond to memory.

As Tasha read aloud from her tablet, Data was fixated on the tenor of her voice, the warmth that radiated off her body, and soft scent of lavender that he had come to associate with Tasha's hair.

Ever since initiating their relationship, the two had developed a shared routine. While Data could not deny the physical chemistry they shared, there was something deeper that had developed, a sort of quiet intimacy that from moments like this.

More nights than not they would sit like this – one or the other stretched out on one another. Or sometimes they would curl up together and watch the stars. Sometimes they would sit against or opposite each other in Data's bathtub.

But each of those variations involved some level of quiet, physical intimacy.

Even if it was just the edges of their hands touching as they sat together in the arboretum while Data explained all the projects he had going.

If they were to be separated, this is what Data would miss the most.

They could talk via subspace channel, send communications, and share gifts. But there would be no hand-in-hand late night strolls on abandoned decks, forehead kisses, or the 03:00 spine caress whenever Tasha woke up and snuggled close.

In less than a week, Data and Tasha could lose all of that just because some mouthy, entitled Ensign felt he had been wronged.

What hurt Data the most was the fact that Drew Walsh had never really wanted any of those things from Tasha.

He saw harassing her as a game. It was a way for him to assert power to compensate for the high aspirations Drew Walsh felt entitled to but was unable to meet.

He didn't care about who he hurt or how stressed Tasha had been in dealing with his antics day in and day out.

Walsh didn't see her as a person.

And in a way, that made Data feel sad.

Because in reducing her to nothing more than sexual object, Walsh was missing out on all of the best parts of Tasha Yar.

Subconsciously, Data tightened his embrace.

"Elizabeth's spirits soon rising to playfulness again, she wanted Mr Darcy to account for his having ever fallen in love with her. How could you begin?" Tasha read from the PADD. "What could set you off in the first place?"

They were seated on the sofa in the main room of her quarters.

"I cannot fix on the hour, or the spot, or the look, or words, which laid the foundation," she went on.

She stopped and looked back at Data.

"It is too long ago. I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun," she recited from memory.

Data's head twitched briefly as it took him a moment to catch the meaning.

After a second, the corner of his mouth curved upwards. Tasha flashed him a million-watt smile in response.

She had meant every word.

While their romance may have started under unusual circumstances, there was no denying that their feelings ran deep – deeper than either of them had expected to reach so quickly.

They were friends first and foremost, lovers, and companions. And in the quiet, unassuming domestic moments like this they could both sense the current of affection that ran between them.

Data opened his mouth to say something but, before he could, the door chimed.

Tasha looked to the door and then back to Data.

"I wonder who that is?" she said as her brow furrowed.

It was a late, but not an entirely unreasonable, hour.

Tasha got up off the sofa and went to the door.

It slid open to reveal none other than young Wesley Crusher.

"Acting Ensign Crusher?" Tasha asked.

"Hi Lieutenant," he replied apprehensively.

She could see he was under duress.

"Everything alright?" she inquired.

"I'm sorry I know it's really late and you're probably going to sleep or doing something important and it's not your job, but I can't sleep, and I can't stop thinking about my Starfleet entrance examination and the paperwork is due next week and if I don't get in, I'm going to let Captain Picard down and my mom and-" he said rapidly.

He stopped to catch his breath.

"Can we talk?" he asked.

"Why don't you come in," she said as she stepped back and waved him inside. "Can I get you anything?"

"Hello, Wesley," Data said from the sofa.

Wes froze.

He felt horrible.

He hadn't meant to interrupt their time together – especially when there was the possibility that one or both of them could be reassigned at the upcoming hearing.

"I-I-I'm sorry," he stammered. "We can do this another time."

Tasha followed his line of sight and shook her head, smiling.

"It's fine," she assured him.

Tasha steered him over to the table in her quarters and then sat down opposite of him.

"What's on your mind?"

"What if this is too soon? What if I make a fool of myself at the Academy?" Wesley asked, his features etched with concern. "Most of the cadets will be a lot older."

Tasha nodded.

"I read the average age of admission is twenty-one," Wesley went on. "I'm so afraid of messing up."

"That's natural," Tasha replied easily.

"Mom said you were my age when you got accepted to the Academy," Wesley said.

"Yeah," Tasha confirmed. "And it wasn't easy. And I was the youngest person in all my classes. And I was afraid of messing up. And my first roommate was a horribly wretched Lanterran that had the worst smelling feet in the galaxy. Just manky."

It had the desired effect of getting a smile out of Wesley.

"Don't be so afraid of messing up that you never start," she advised. "You learn from mistakes. You won't learn if you stay stuck in the same place because you're scared to jump."

It was solid advice - the same kind of thing Tasha had needed to consider before leaping into a relationship with Data.

Even with the impending disciplinary hearing, she felt like every moment together had been worth it.

Wesley sat back in his chair as he thought about Tasha's statement.

"Why don't you tell me something you are looking forward to?" she asked.

His face lit up.

"The nanotechnology lab," he answered excitedly. "They've got nanobots capable of carrying out warp core maintenance in high-radiation environments without taking the core offline."

"Tell me all about it," Tasha prompted as she leaned forward in what Data suspected was an excellent effort at feigning interest.

Wesley stayed for an hour talking about the nanotechnology lab and his theory for other applications of the nanobots.

Data watched with fascination, occasionally joining the conversation, as Wes began to relax.

Eventually, Tasha's combadge pinged.

"Doctor Crusher for Lieutenant Yar," Beverly's voice rang out.

"Oh jeez," Wesley said as he looked at the time. "Mum's probably worried sick."

"Yar here, go ahead," Tasha replied as she tapped her badge.

"Is my son with you?" Beverly inquired.

At 23:00 when he wasn't in his bed, Beverly had asked the computer for Wesley's location.

"Yes. Sorry, doctor. He's here," Tasha replied.

"No apology necessary, can you just remind him to get to bed?" Beverly asked.

"I'm on my way mom," Wesley replied.

He got up, embarrassed by the late hour and for keeping them up so late.

"I'm really sorry Lieutenant," he said to Tasha before turning to Data. "Sir."

"You're fine," Tasha assured him. "Anytime. Now get to bed before you're in trouble with your mum."

Tasha stretched and got up from the table.

"I think it's time I went to bed too," Tasha said with a yawn.

Data nodded in understanding. They would finish the rest of their book another night.

Ten minutes later they were snug in bed. Tasha was nearly asleep, and Data had begun to shut down his extraneous processes and initiate his sleep programme.

"Tasha, may I ask a question?" Data inquired.

"Mmm?" she responded hazily.

"You do not share an interest in nanotechnology. Please do not be offended by this statement, but it is far from your area of expertise," he said, choosing his words carefully. "That is not an attempt to demean your intelligence but rather a-"

He had found his android speech pattern often offended others unintentionally.

"I know, honey," she assured him.

"Was it your intention in feigning interest to bolster confidence in Wesley?" he asked.

"Sometimes kids just need to talk about what they like," she replied. "Remind themselves it isn't all scary."

"You are very good with children," Data commented as he pulled her back against him.

"Data-" she started to say.

"That is merely an observation based on watching you interact with children in your role as security chief and not an attempt to solicit procreation," he added quickly sensing she may have misunderstood.

He felt her chuckle silently.

"At least not yet," he added.

"Don't tempt me," she replied.

"Is that a challenge, Lieutenant?" Data inquired in a low voice against her ear.

"Mmm, no," Tasha answered.

She closed her eyes and leaned close, nuzzling against his head.

"Do you want to know a secret?" Tasha asked.

Data did not respond verbally, opting instead to press kiss against her temple.

"You always tempt me, Data," Tasha informed him.

In a flash, Data had her up against the wall.

"Always?" he asked in the voice that made Tasha tingle.

She nodded.

Despite Data's gentle nature, he could be surprisingly commanding at times – leaving Tasha feeling simultaneously small, safe, and totally out of her element.

Data eyed her up and down before capturing her lips in a heated kiss.

He was trying to focus on the feel of her tongue, but in the back of his mind Data was consciously aware of each passing second.

He could not shut off his chronometer and it was a bitter reminder that they were working against the metaphorical clock.

Each moment with Tasha was also one moment closer to the hearing and the possibility of separation.

"Data," Tasha managed to sneak between kisses. "Data, stop thinking about the hearing."

Tasha could always tell when he was preoccupied. It wasn't that she minded – she just felt bad that Data had a hard time shutting down those portions of his brain. She knew that it bothered him. Tasha also recognised that from time-to-time Data needed a gentle reminder.

Most importantly, Tasha knew precisely how to redirect his attention.

"Focus on this," Tasha said.

She wrapped her legs around Data's waist and rocked against him, encouraging him to slow his processing and give himself over to a moment of spontaneous passion.

"Tasha, are you initiating-" Data began to ask.

"Yes," she answered, snaking her hands up under the loose undershirt he was wearing.

Data didn't need telling twice.

He dove in and proceeded with a tender assault on her neck, nipping at Tasha's pulse point and grinning when she squeaked with delight.

No one outside of the two of them would ever suspect that the socially awkward Second Officer was capable of eliciting such tiny noises of pleasure from the ever-composed Security Chief.

Those little noises would be one more thing he would miss, Data realised with a pang of bitterness.

Tasha let her head fall to the side, granting Data access to her shoulder as she clutched his torso.

With one hand supporting her weight, Data slipped his hand up into her sleep shorts. Tasha gasped softly as he began to rub her clit.

"We have ninety-seven hours, fourteen minutes, and twenty-nine seconds until the hearing," Data breathed.

"Don't," Tasha pleaded.

She didn't want to think about the hearing.

"I only mention it, because it is my intention to spend every free moment I have devoted to you," Data assured her. "Is that plan acceptable?"

Tasha groaned in response as Data circled one of his deft fingers, teasing at the entrance to her wet cunt.

"Take your time," Data said in a low voice.

He increased the pressure of his thumb against her clitoris.

"Please don't tease me," Tasha pleaded.

It was a lie.

She adored whenever Data put her on edge like this. The anticipation was half the fun.

"I believe you are enjoying this," Data commented.

"Data," Tasha responded, rocking against his hand.

"All evidence would lead to the conclusion that you do, in fact, find this quite pleasurable," Data said in an infuriatingly scientific manner.

It was a frustrating, slow pace but it felt divine to be quite literally at the mercy of Data's fingers.

"Perhaps I should introduce new stimuli?" Data pondered aloud.

He bit down on Tasha's ear.

"I am most eager to observe your response," Data growled.

Tasha whimpered as he slipped another finger inside of her, gently pumping his fingers and carefully preparing her for what was to come.

Data was well versed in foreplay. For Data, it wasn't merely a step – it was an artform.

Tasha's body was his canvas, and he was dedicated to making each coupling a masterpiece.

Tasha's hand travelled up the back up his spine, coming to rest at his hairline on the nape of his neck. She twisted her fingers in there, urging Data to get on with it.

Data responded in kind by increasing the tempo of his fingers, stroking them at just the right angle to coax Tasha along to an orgasm.

Data nuzzled against her face, moving in close – almost kissing her before turning his head just enough that Tasha found her lips against nothing.

He rested his head against her forehead.

"Tell me what you want," Data instructed.

His lips were hovering centimetres away from her own, close enough that Tasha could feel the warmth of his mouth on her own.

She leaned forward and tried to kiss him. Data had anticipated this and moved back just far enough that Tasha had once again missed her target.

"So wet for me," Data breathed, resting his cheek against her own.

He trailed his mouth over Tasha's jawline, pulling back so as not to touch her lips, before moving on down her neck.

Almost kissing.

It was one of Data's favourite, hottest, and most frustrating ways in which to arouse Tasha.

She knew he was doing it on purpose.

Tasha whined, squirming as she ground her cunt against his hand.

"Tell me what you want," Data repeated in a firm voice.

His tone softened.

"I want to hear you say it," Data whispered.

"You," Tasha responded, making another attempt to kiss him.

But Data moved his head just fast enough that he was out of reach.

It was a ridiculous notion that she would be chasing his lips, but Data knew just how to draw things out.

"I am right here," Data taunted.

"I want you to fuck me," Tasha clarified.

She twisted her fingers, tightening her grip on the back of his hair in an effort to clearly convey her intentions.

The corner of Data's lip curved upward ever so slightly. It was the kind of subtle smirk that only he could achieve.

"I don't want to come like this," Tasha said.

The desperation in her voice was evident and it made Data's cock twitch with anticipation. She was close and she wanted to come feeling the sweet stretch and feeling of fullness that came whenever Data took her.

Data's hand slowed, providing just enough friction to keep her on a safe plateau.

"I am listening," Data said as he nibbled just below her ear.

"Please," Tasha panted.

With her other hand, Tasha had been clutching tightly to Data's shirt. She released it in favour of reaching for his cock, intending to stroke him through his trousers.

But Data was faster.

In one fell swoop, Data had his arms below her legs. With his hands cupping her arse, Tasha found her knees resting on Data's biceps as he spread her before him.

"Speak up," Data ordered.

Tasha did not immediately respond. Data watched the rapid rise and fall of her chest as she caught her breath.

"Data, please," Tasha repeated as she closed her eyes and rocked against nothing.

Data moved close, pressing her tightly against the wall as he rubbed his erection against her. The fact they were separated by their clothing only added to the tension.

"Is this what you want?" Data asked.

"Uh huh," Tasha replied.

"Or is this what you want?" Data inquired.

He pressed a fervent kiss to her lips. Tasha groaned, relishing in the sensation of finally getting to feel his tongue.

When they broke apart, Data stayed close.

"I want your cock," Tasha said, cutting right to the chase.

Data grinned as he lazily nuzzled against her face.

"Data," Tasha said in a more urgent voice.

She grunted in frustration as Data rolled his hips against her.

Suddenly, Data stopped. The mood of their moment together shifted instantly with nothing more than a look.

"You are so lovely," Data remarked.

This time his kiss was tender, their lips meeting a series of soft smooches rather than the ardent teasing that had preceded it.

Data found the drawstring of his sleep trousers and tugged on it to release his cock.

He pulled Tasha's sleep shorts aside and slipped in easily.

In spite of their teasing denial during foreplay, Data set an easy, steady pace as he took her against the wall.

Tasha rested her head on his shoulder as Data rocked against her.

Neither of them spoke. They were content to simply be joined so intimately, conveying their love for one another in a way that words couldn't.

When they finished, Data carried Tasha in and set her down on the bed.

"Computer, lights," Data ordered before crawling in next to her.

They would need to shower – but that could wait until morning.

For the moment, they needed this.

Tasha reached up under Data's shirt so that she could feel his bioplast. She threw her leg over his and rested her head on his chest.

Tasha sniffled.

"We need to have the conversation," Tasha said softly.

"But we do not need to have it tonight," Data replied.

Tasha took a shaky breath, preparing herself to push ahead with the discussion whether Data wanted to or not. They were running out of time and there were things that needed to be said.

"Not tonight," Data requested as he kissed the top of her head.


At 01:47, Tasha awoke with a start.

She'd had a terrible nightmare that Starfleet had ordered Data disassembled and she had been powerless to stop it.

She sat up as she caught her breath. Tasha surveyed the room as her eyes adjusted to the darkness. Reaching across the bed, she found Data's arm and breathed a sigh of relief that he was alright.

Tasha sat up and ran her hand back through her hair. Despite waking up in a sweat, Tasha shuddered as a chill ran through her body.

She reached over to her nightstand and grabbed the glass of water she kept there. After taking a long swig, she returned the glass back to the table.

Tasha startled as she turned back to the bed.

Data was sitting up next to her. The sound and movement of her rude awakening had alerted him during his rest programme. It was not uncommon for Tasha to have night terrors and Data was always at the ready to help.

To Data's surprise, Tasha said nothing before diving at him – cupping his face as she planted a warm, desperate kiss on his lips.

Before he could register what had occurred, Tasha's tongue traced the bow of his lips, requesting entrance to his mouth.

There were no words as they found one another's bodies in the dark. Tasha fumbled to find the waistband of her sleep shorts. Data's hand was on top of her own a second later, guiding them down over her legs before tossing them aside.

Tasha climbed on top of Data as she began to work her mouth down the side of his neck. She could feel he was hard, and she was in no mood for teasing or foreplay at this hour.

Data's hand slipped up under her sleep tank to cup her left breast. Tasha gasped softly as he squeezed just the right side of too much.

With his free hand, Data slipped his own trousers down just enough to free his erection.

Tasha sat back. She reached for Data's free hand for support. Their fingers intertwined. Data held her gaze, watching her face carefully as she sank down on the length of him.

Tasha's mouth fell open slightly, her eyes widening almost imperceptibly as her expression registered the snug feeling of holding Data so tight.

She clenched around him, wordlessly communicating her appreciation.

Tasha kept hold of Data's right hand as she slowly began to pull herself up and down his cock. Data's left hand moved from her breast to her hip.

He watched with hungry eyes as she moved on top of him – taking both the physical and emotional fill she needed.

Hand in hand, she found a rhythm that was good for both of them.

Data felt the familiar metaphorical sense of satisfaction and warmth that he experienced whenever Tasha got like this. It was a strange, but not unwelcome sensation.

Tasha wanted him.

She desired him physically and not just because he was a curiosity. Tasha genuinely found him attractive – and Data knew that she was not merely saying so for his benefit.

There were times he would catch her staring a few seconds longer than necessary or gazing longing at him from across a room.

Whenever he caught her watching him change as they got ready in the morning, she would smirk and blush. She would quickly avert her eyes before turning back to give him what Data considered the most bewitching look in existence.

Tasha liked to brush against him when they were alone – savouring the fact she could make him feel bashful if she cupped his arse or make him hard whenever her fingers ghosted up the inside of his thigh.

She made Data feel appreciated for who he was.

She loved him.

And that made Data feel whole in a way he had never felt before.

As Tasha let her head fall back, Data found himself torn between the desire to watch and the urge to touch.

Tasha released his hand. She pulled her tank overhead and threw it aside without a care for where it landed. To Data's delight, she reached up to cup her own breasts.

Data relaxed his head back against his pillow as his eyes travelled over the sight of her. The only thing Data disliked about making love in her bedroom was the fact there was no illumination.

His optical receptors had adjusted to the darkness and Data could certainly see well enough without light. However, he lamented the fact that the soft glow from space was absent in his room.

Tasha looked divine in moonlight.

Or at least the illusion of moonlight that the exterior of the ship provided.

Data's lips parted slightly, a soft gasp escaping from his throat as Tasha reached between her legs.

She was touching herself – for him.

Data wanted to melt into a puddle of duranium and polymer.

Tasha's skin prickled. Her body was flushed both from physical exertion and from her arousal, panting as she bounced on his stiff cock.

The muscles in her thighs were burning, but Tasha didn't care.

As she picked up the pace, Data watched a bead of perspiration form above her clavicle. It clung to her skin for a moment, glistening, before it slipped down between her breasts.

Data was nearly overcome with the urge to sit up and lick it off of her.

But he knew Tasha was close. He could sense the tension in her posture and did not wish to throw her off.

There in the dark, Tasha rode him until she let out an incoherent, strangled noise. Panting, she collapsed on his chest.

Data caressed the length of her bare spine while Tasha caught her breath.

He pumped into her a few times. Slow, languid thrusts. He was mindful not to do too much, too quickly. However, Data didn't want to lose his edge.

He was prepared to stop if that was her wish. But he was hoping that she would want to continue until he found his own release.

Tasha was thoughtful like that.

In her mind, sex was a team sport that worked best when everyone got a chance to play.

Tasha clutched Data's shoulders. She began to slowly move on top of him, silently giving her consent to proceed.

Data's neural net surged.

He closed his eyes and sighed. Holding her firmly against his body, Data continued to gently rut inside of her warm cunt.

Data wanted to give Tasha a chance to come down before he sought his own pleasure – not that Data minded.

He adored this kind of sex.

It was slow.

And sweet.

Just the way Data liked it.

Tasha propped herself up so that she could make eye contact with Data. She nuzzled against him, relishing in the feeling of being joined.

Her lips wandered over his jawline before they shared a long, tender kiss.

When they broke apart, they seamlessly transitioned – Data rolling them so that he could spoon up behind Tasha.

He pulled her leg back over his own and held it there. His other arm snaked underneath of her. Draped across her body, Data held Tasha tight against his chest.

She keened in a soft, almost timid manner as Data's cock slipped back inside.

He was holding her tightly, almost possessively. It was an act of claiming, of pouring out the fear of loss that Data was struggling with.

He couldn't stand the thought that he might lose this.

Lose her.

Tasha couldn't have moved if she'd wanted to – not that she had any desire to leave her current position.

Data's breath was warm against her neck as he resumed, pumping into her at a steady pace.

"I love you," Data whispered.

He made no move to pull out after spilling himself, both of them longing to stay connected. It was more than cuddling and something they both needed.

Tasha fell asleep like that. And for the first time, Data's rest programme activated itself, allowing him to drift off comfortably safe and snug inside the person he loved.


"Good afternoon, Data," Deanna said as she opened the door to her office.

"Hello, Counsellor," he replied politely.

Deanna instructed him to take a seat on the sofa. She took a seat opposite of him in her favourite chair.

It was Data's seventh counselling session and he found that he was looking forward to each new session with growing anticipation. It felt good to have someone to talk to regarding his emotional development.

They spoke for a few minutes discussing pleasantries before diving into the issue that had been at the forefront of Data's thoughts.

"The hearing is in four days," Data said bluntly.

"And how would you describe your feelings?" Deanna asked.

She didn't need him to state them aloud to know, but she wanted Data to verbalise them. Identifying his own emotions was an important step in his development.

"I am anxious," Data replied. "My chronometer gives me a perception of time that is far more precise than the human concept of the passage of time."

It was with him every moment of the day. He couldn't shake it.

"The outcome of the hearing is unpredictable," Data said. "And it will begin in three days, eighteen hours, nine minutes, and twenty-seven seconds."

Deanna nodded.

"That means, excluding unknown phenomena or a catastrophic event, subtracting our duty shifts, and accounting for the hours in which her organic form requires nutrition and rest, I am guaranteed eighteen hours of time with Tasha," Data said sadly.

Deanna suddenly felt guilty. Tonight was girls' night.

Deanna, Beverly, and Tasha typically spent two evenings a week hanging out.

Since Tasha began her relationship with Data, they had cut it down to one night a week.

Deanna had been looking forward to it for ages – between the Traveller emergency and the situation with the Edo planet it had been nearly three weeks since they had last been able to get together.

However, Deanna thought it may be best to cancel.

It could be their last time to hang out if Tasha were to be reassigned.

But she couldn't deprive Data of that opportunity.

"Do you have anything special planned?" Deanna asked.

"Yes," Data replied simply.

Deanna raised an eyebrow, hoping Data would spill more details.

"I have narrowed it down to nine-hundred and fifteen possible final choices," Data clarified. "I will decide by the end of my shift."

Deanna took the hint and did not press further.

"However, if Lieutenant Yar or myself is to be reassigned, it is my intention to carry on our relationship," Data confessed. "I find that there are a great many things I would us to experience together."

Counsellor Troi looked at Data and waited for a more thorough explanation.

"I would like to explore," he paused and took a breath. "Commitment."

"As in marriage?" Deanna asked to clarify.

Data cocked his head to the side.

"Commitment takes many forms," Data clarified. "It is my understanding most humanoid cultures within the Federation do have a concept of marriage or marriage-like bonding. But in my study of alien cultures, there are many species and cultures that practice other forms of commitment."

Deanna knew he was correct. But it was rare among

"The people of Feltor VIII observe the practice of cohabitation agreements. Osprics follow a strict ritual of a three-day mating ceremony intended to produce offspring that are raised communally among a group known as household unit," Data explained. "And in my study of Turkanan cultural norms, marriage does not exist. Cultural expectations of commitment vary widely from clan to clan."

"Have you spoken of this with Tasha?" Deanna asked.

She was concerned.

Tasha was pretty closed-off when it came to discussing the planet of her birth. In many ways, she felt ashamed of it. She saw Turkana as a prime example of why the Federation and Starfleet were necessary in order to ensure safety and prosperity.

Since the collapse of the Federation colony nearly a hundred years earlier, Turkana had become a backwater.

Deanna suspected Tasha would react negatively to any concept of adhering to a Turkanan tradition of commitment.

"Not exactly," Data admitted. "I have shared that I would like to have a family and I have asked for her thoughts on the matter."

Deanna's eyebrows shot up.

Data and Tasha had only been together for about six months.

She had a hard time believing Tasha would have welcomed that conversation.

"Not at this time," Data said as he realised the counsellor's surprise. "As humans say, 'down the road'."

Deanna nodded in understanding.

"I believe the situation with the Traveller and the possibility of being stranded so far from the alpha quadrant brought these thoughts to the forefront," Data acknowledged. "Although, I have considered them before. A feeling, if you will, that has grown much stronger since beginning our relationship."

Data paused.

"I cannot explain it. But when I am with Lieutenant Yar, I find myself enthralled with her," Data confessed. "I want to spend the rest of my days of activation dedicated to her happiness."

Data glanced down at his lap and took a shaky breath. He was on the verge of confessing something he had been almost terrified to admit to himself.

But the thought had been there for some time, creeping ever closer to the forefront of his mind.

If Deanna didn't know better, she would say Data was afraid.

"There are times that desire is almost stronger than my dream of becoming human," Data shared.

They spoke for another forty minutes as Data shared some of his concerns regarding the upcoming hearing. Deanna was more than happy to discuss with him the possibility of Tasha or his reassignment and shared some counselling advice on long-distance relationships.

"But I think we can cross that bridge if and when we come to it," Deanna said with a sympathetic smile.

She was confident that the overwhelming evidence against Walsh was more than enough to demonstrate that these disciplinary reports against Data and Tasha were retaliatory in nature.

Data left, as he always did, feeling a sense of relief after having discussed his emotional state.


As soon as Data was gone, Deanna tapped her combadge and suggested to Beverly that they cancel girls' night.

Beverly agreed and offered to reach out to Tasha.

"Doctor Crusher to Lieutenant Yar," she said as she tapped her communicator.

Tasha responded a moment later.

"I was thinking maybe we could reschedule tonight for another time," Beverly said. "Sometime after the hearing."

There was a brief pause.

"No," Tasha responded. "I -no. If something happens at the hearing, I don't want leave without having-"

"Tasha," Beverly said. "If something happens at the hearing, I would never be able to forgive myself for taking away time you could have spent with your, well, you know what I'm saying."

Beverly knew Tasha and Data had kept their relationship pretty close to the chest. It was clear they still weren't sure what to call one another and she didn't want to upset her friend.

"Look, I want to spend time with you and Deanna," Tasha replied. "Please."

The three women had become fast friends.

It was something they were all grateful for. They all had their own reasons why forming close friendships had been difficult.

Tasha's childhood and service record had meant good friends were hard to come by. Deanna's empathic abilities often meant people felt intimidated around her. And in Beverly's role as a physician, it was a natural barrier to becoming close with others outside of the senior officers.

In short, the three were inseparable and Tasha couldn't bear the thought of leaving without having one last proper girls' night.

"Alright," Beverly said. "Looking forward to it."

"Great, I'll see you at 18:00," Tasha said.


At 16:00, Tasha was about to head out from shift when the ship went to red alert. An experimental plant-based research project had caused a noxious pollen to be emitted through the air. Whatever was in the pollen was causing aggression.

Worst of all, it had leaked into the lab next-door where Professor Huugard was working with a family of western gorillas as part of his xenolinguistics research.

Beverly and Tasha had responded – along with others – to the initial call in the original lab when they heard the noises coming from next door.

Tasha, Commander Riker, and Worf had rushed out just in time to see Professor Huugard thrown through a plate of glass.

It had taken them nearly an hour to catch and contain all of the infected humans and primates and another half-hour for Doctor Crusher to treat them with a sedative.

Data had checked in with Tasha via their combadges as soon as the situation was under control. He'd offered to come lend a hand, but Tasha had assured him she was fine. However, the situation did leave both Doctor Crusher and Tasha with considerable paperwork.

"Funny how we still call it paperwork," Beverly commented as they typed away on their PADDs.

"You know we aren't far from my quarters if you wanted to finish it up there," Tasha offered. "Sorry it won't be a 'real' girls' night."

"That actually sounds lovely," Beverly agreed.

They radioed Deanna to meet them there and quickly headed for the turbolift.


When they reached Tasha's quarters, Deanna was already waiting outside.

"Sorry I didn't have a chance to prepare anything," Tasha said.

"Don't worry," Deanna replied. "I'm just glad we get to spend time together."

"Just give me a minute to change out of this and I'll-" Tasha stopped in tracks as she took the sight before her.

Her quarters had been rearranged to allow for more seating around the coffee table in the main room.

Trays of snacks, games, and napkins had been carefully prepared and arranged on the table. There were drinks and chilled wine next to the food.

Additionally, there were three large, metallic cups that looked like old-fashioned milkshakes.

Having a sweet tooth and a nose for chocolate, Deanna stepped over to the table and picked up one of the large, metallic cups and smelled it.

"That is for you, Counsellor," Data said emerging from the bedroom.

He had prepared all three women a unique milkshake using alcohol and some of their favourites. Data recognised this was a special night for the three friends and wanted to ensure everything was perfect.

"Whisky, pineapple ice cream, mangos, and jalapenos," Data said as he passed the third glass to Tasha. "With a cherry on top, of course."

"Spicy and sweet," Tasha said in astonishment.

"As are you," Data whispered. "Just the way I like it."

"Data, you are without a doubt the perfect bartender," Deanna said appreciatively.

"You put all this together?" Tasha asked.

"I hope that is alright," he said apologetically. "I did not mean to intrude. In light of the situation in the lab, I assumed you would not have time to prepare for the evening. I also surmised you would be in need of recuperation."

He eyed the bruise that was beginning to form stretching from her eye, across her cheek, and down her jawline.

"Well, I did get tossed around by a 42 stone gorilla," she smiled.

Data leaned in close so as to avoid being overheard.

"I will tend to that later," he offered before quickly adding. "If you wish."

Tasha smiled shyly in response.

"You are not angry?" Data asked.

He realised it was, perhaps, an invasion of her living space.

"Not at all," she assured him. "This was very thoughtful."

"Then I shall leave you to it," Data said simply.

He turned to Deanna and Beverly and bid them goodnight.

"I'll page you," Tasha called after him as he stepped into the corridor.

As soon as the door closed, Beverly started laughing uncontrollably.

"I'm sorry, I'm so sorry," she said as she clutched her stomach.

"What's so funny?" Deanna asked.

"I just – if he puts this much effort into setting up for your friends, I'm not sure I want to know what he does for you when you're, you know, alone," Beverly said.

Tasha took a seat on the opposite end of the sofa.

"That's a lie, I want to know everything," Beverly added. "It's only going to make me feel depressed but please tell me so I can live vicariously through you."


While Tasha was spending time with Beverly and Deanna, Data met Geordi in his lab to work on a warp coil they had been playing around with.

He enjoyed spending time with Geordi, but he also found relief in routine.

"You know Starbase 118 has this Orion disco that I've heard is an absolute must," Geordi said brightly. "I thought maybe we could all go there after the hearing."

"Would that not be inappropriate if the outcome of the hearing is unfavourable?" Data questioned.

"It won't be," Geordi asserted as he traded his sonic driver for a power readout scanner. "There's no way anyone in Starfleet is going to look at all those charges against that little creep and rule otherwise."

"I have calculated a fourteen-point nine percent chance that both Lieutenant Yar and I will be reassigned, a seventeen-point two percent chance I will be reassigned, and a twenty-six-point four percent chance Lieutenant Yar will be reassigned," Data explained. "The odds are unsettling."

Geordi set down his scanner. He grabbed Data's shoulders and spun him toward him.

"Data, sometimes you gotta say screw the odds," Geordi said firmly. "There are some things in the universe that just work out. Because they have to. Because they're meant to be."

Data opened his mouth to respond.

"Ah- no! You and Tasha are one of those things," Geordi said as shook Data. "Now stop thinking about it. You're going to be fine and we're all going to celebrate afterward."

Data wanted to believe Geordi, but he couldn't deny that the odds didn't look favourable. Geordi knew Data's ability to predict these types of things was uncanny.

But Geordi's gut told him things were going to work out – they had to.

Geordi let go of Data and resumed his scan.

"Geordi, do you really think Tasha and I are-" Data started to say but didn't get to finish his question.

"It's inevitable, Data," Geordi assured him. "Don't think you're so slick I can't see the way you two look at each other."

The corner of Data's mouth curved upward as he detached one of the outer polymer protective barriers.

"I must admit that the thought of being separated is unbearable," Data said aloud. "While I am pleased she is spending time with Counsellor Troi and Doctor Crusher this evening, I find I am anxious to return later."

Geordi grinned mischievously.

"Data, you rascal," Geordi teased.

Data's head twitched as he accessed his information bank to assess the meaning of Geordi's use of the term 'rascal' in the context of their conversation.

His mouth parted slightly as he understood.

"Geordi, I did not mean to imply anything improper. My statement was merely and observation that I enjoy Tasha's company."

"But that's not what you were thinking about," Geordi laughed as he punched Data's arm.

"Geordi," Data said flatly. "There are a great many activities that we enjoy including reading and yoga that are not of a sexual nature."

"Whatever you say, Data," Geordi said as he shook his head. "Whatever you say."

They worked in silence for a moment before Data spoke.

"Although I do have plans to spend a significant portion of the evening before the hearing engaged in activities of a physical nature," Data said.

"I knew it!" Geordi replied as he clapped his hands together. "So, what have you got planned? That holodeck beach programme everybody's been talking about? Or a picnic in the arboretum? Oooo, Miles was telling me he took Keiko to the junction of Jefferies tubes J17 and S10 on their last date night. A little cosy if you know what I mean."

Geordi was a romantic. He loved planning dates and helping his friends coordinate romantic gestures. Despite his own bad luck in finding the romance, he certainly knew his stuff when it came to attention to detail and preparing.

"You must promise that you will not mention the details to anyone," Data said. "Especially Tasha."

"You have my solemn word," Geordi pledged.


Two hours later, Tasha bid goodnight to her friends. It had been a pleasant evening, but there was certainly a cloud hanging over it.

"I will take care of that," Data advised as he entered the room. "I can tend to it after you've gone to sleep."

Data had arrived precisely on time. He did not want to waste a single minute.

While he had been initially reluctant to share his plans with Geordi, Data was grateful that he had done so. Geordi volunteered to help set it up.

Their last night on the Enterprise before the hearing was shaping up to be one memorable evening. Data was hoping to not only make a pleasant memory before their possible departure – he also wanted to reaffirm to Tasha that he was committed to their relationship.

Even if that commitment was going to involve being on opposite ends of the Quadrant.

"Why don't we do it together? Then it's done," Tasha suggested.

"If that is your wish," he replied.

"It is," she said as she stopped to look at him. "I don't want you to step away once we're in bed."

It didn't take long for the two of them to clean up the empty glasses and leftover food.

In a matter of minutes, they had her quarters rearranged the way she liked.

"That's better," she sighed as she looked at the room.

Data scooped her up.

"Now, if you will permit me to take care of you," he said.

"No protest here," she smiled as she put her hands up to signal mock surrender.


Data set Tasha down on the edge of the bed. He then delicately removed her uniform, kneading her shoulders, arms, and things as he went.

It had been a long day and the Security incident at the end had taken a physical toll. Data realised Tasha had taken quite a beating. She was liable to be sore and he truly wanted to pamper her.

Tasha groaned when his firm hands found the soles of her feet, massaging away the hours she spent on them.

He kissed the inside of her knee before he began to nibble her thighs.

Tasha opened her mouth to protest but Data cut her off.

"Please allow me to take care of you," Data urged.

He flashed her a smile, his eyes full of wonder. Whenever he gave Tasha that look, she found herself inexplicably incapable of saying no.

"Alright," Tasha agreed.

Data's eyes lit up.

To Tasha's surprise, he moved away.

Tasha was initially confused until Data reached into the drawer at her nightstand.

He turned back a moment later with a toy in hand.

"Oh," Tasha said simply.

Data rubbed the toy against her, teasing around the entrance to her cunt.

"Data-" Tasha began to say.

"Lie back and let me take care of you," Data requested.

He looked up at Tasha, giving her the most pleading look with his golden eyes.

Golden eyes. Silver tongue. Tasha thought with a smirk as Data's tongue swiped over her clitoris.

Tasha fell back against the bed and sighed in relief.

As Data continued to tease her with the toy, his able tongue laved over Tasha. Data grinned to himself. He felt a surge of confidence whenever he could draw out such tiny gasps and noises of pleasure with nothing more than his tongue.

Tasha wasn't sure how long it lasted. Data was capable of maintaining constant contact – offering a consistent pressure and pace that drove her toward orgasm.

Tasha could feel she was getting close.

Desperate for more contact, she sat up so that she could both see and touch Data.

As soon as her fingers worked their way into his soft, brown hair, Data lifted his eyes.

In opposition to his previous look of tender affection, his eyes were full of satisfaction and sensual energy.

It radiated off of him, oozing out of every pore of his beautiful bioplast.

Before resuming, Data swiped his nose against her cunt, nuzzling against Tasha in the most intimate way he could fathom.

He loved everything about this.

"Good boy," Tasha keened.

She knew precisely what he wanted to hear.

"My golden boy," Tasha went on as she stroked the side of his head.

His mouth may have been occupied, but Tasha could swear she felt the corner of it upturn as they made eye contact.

The combination of his long, agile tongue with the pressure from the toy sent Tasha over the edge.

Suddenly, Tasha jerked violently against Data's mouth. Her whole body shuddered.

"Data," Tasha choked out.

He didn't stop.

Tasha's body tensed as his mouth closed in around her overstimulated organ. She cried out as he began to suck on her swollen clit.

Tasha's hips bucked. Data's hands shot out, holding her place as she shook apart.


Later they lay awake in a tangle of limbs, neither tired enough to sleep but both too cosy to move. Data had ordered the computer to drop the temperature controls a few degrees.

"Was this your surprise?" Tasha inquired.

"Hmm?" Data asked.

"When you said you would take care of me," Tasha reminded him. "You said earlier that you had a surprise."

"This was not the surprise," Data responded.

"Oh," Tasha said in shock.

"It was simply because I wanted to," Data smirked.

"Oh," Tasha repeated, changing the inflection.

"Your surprise is scheduled for another time," Data explained cryptically.

"Mmmmm, that sounds lovely," Tasha said as she snuggled against his torso.

Tasha was stretched across his torso, her head resting comfortably against his chest as he traced his fingers up and down the length of her back.

He was struck by the memory of how right it had felt the first time he had held her in that manner and how accustomed his neural net was to such input.

"You're incredible, you know that right?" Tasha asked.

She could hear the circuits firing in his positronic brain as he tried to assess the meaning of her statement.

Tasha got up and crawled on top of him.

"And I mean in every way," she added as she rested her forehead against his. "Not just your exceptional capabilities in matters of passion."

She liked to tease him by mocking his formalised speech.

To her delight, Data smiled.

"I endeavour to perform adequately," he replied.

He'd certainly developed his own sense of humour during their time together.

They stayed like that for a moment, neither saying anything.

"Perhaps you should go to sleep," Data suggested.

"Not yet," Tasha said sadly. "I just – well – I want to remember this feeling if, if-"

She sniffled.

"You have a perfect memory," she said. "Sometimes I'm jealous of that."

While Tasha had memories – beautiful, passionate memories – they were nothing like Data's. He had the ability to remember every moment with perfect recollection. His memory engrams enabled him to recall every sight, sound, and smell.

When they kissed, he knew precisely how much pressure had been applied.

When they made love, Data could remember every millisecond of that time together.

Tasha wasn't just sometimes jealous – she was insanely jealous of that ability.

"Do you remember what I told you when we first spoke of our mutual affection for one another after your return from Ligon II?" Data asked.

"We said a lot of things," Tasha replied.

Data rolled them over so that she was on her back.

"I told you that I accepted your invitation to your bed because the sound of your laughter is enjoyable. I find you to be a clever and intriguing officer and that you are aesthetically pleasing," he said seriously. "Those statements are as true today as they were then. And they will remain true whether we are nine decks or ninety-thousand lightyears away from one another."

Tasha felt her eyes start to well up.

"Please do not cry," he said as he stared down at her.

Data reached out and carefully tucked her bangs behind her ear.

"One thing I did not tell you that day, is that I have observed on numerous occasions you have a tendency to bite your lip at the moment of climax in a manner that has nearly overwhelmed my neural net. And while that is mechanically disconcerting, I find that I enjoy the sensation," he informed her.

While one of Data's favourite activities may have been providing oral pleasure, it was nothing compared to watching her come. Data always felt a surge of pride in knowing that he could make her feel that way.

Tasha looked away as her face flushed.

Data cupped her face and turned her gaze back to him.

"Do not be embarrassed. No one has ever had that effect on my system. It is something I take pleasure in," he confessed.

He cocked his head at her.

"And with your permission, something I would very much like to repeat now," Data said.


Across the ship, Captain Picard was just settling in after another long day aboard the Enterprise. The latest situation in the lab with the gorillas was more evidence that he couldn't afford to have Lieutenant Yar or Data reassigned.

Jean-Luc ordered a cuppa from the replicator and sat down at the desk in his Ready Room.

He opened his PADD and began to read through his messages.

"Incoming communication from Starbase 118," the computer informed him.

Jean-Luc sighed and threw his head back.

He did not want to read another statement regarding the upcoming hearing.

Reluctantly, he opened the written message.

But as he processed the contents, his demeanour shifted.

The Captain sat forward and grinned as read the contents of the late-night message.

A friend – a very dear, very old friend – was on Starbase 118.

Small miracles. Jean-Luc thought with a smile as he relaxed.


Three days later, the Enterprise was a day out from arriving at Starbase 118. They had been making good time and were due to arrive when scheduled, when they intercepted an urgent emergency beacon from the Federation colony in the Sigma Three solar system.

An accidental explosion had devastated the mining operation.

Although they were due for the hearing, the Enterprise was the only ship close enough with the medical facilities capable of providing proper assistance.

Captain Picard had sent a subspace transmission to Starbase 118 and redirected the Enterprise for a new course at maximum warp.

They were an hour into their redirected course, and everyone was on edge.

"Captain, we are now at warp nine point one, sir," Geordi advised from the helm.

They were flying – literally and figuratively – as they knew time was of the essence.

Without warning, Geordi, Data, and Tasha picked up an alarming reading on their respective sensor arrays.

"Captain, I'm picking up a forcefield out there of some kind. It's almost-"

On the viewscreen, they watched with horror as the chain-link shield appeared ahead of them.

"Identical to the grid we encountered at Farpoint," Data stated. "Q-entity, sir."