LOVE 101

By Lessa and Takara Soong

In the lounge, Will Riker, Geordi La Forge, Data and Haley Foster are laughing and talking. Will has just described the new female technician who came aboard and how he feels about her "qualifications".

"If males did not have sex to think or talk about, would you guys ever think of anything or would you be completely silent in conversations?” Foster, who sat between Data and Geordi, teased Will with a quick grin.

Both Geordi and Will look innocently upward, grinning like wild men, but Data only looks confused. Soon all eyes turn to the android, who seems to object to this generalization.

Geordi nudges Haley with his elbow, sporting a conspiratorial grin, and looks back at Data.

“What is it, Data? Upset at being lumped together with us-“

“-depraved humans?” Will finishes. This brought more laughter. But while Data seems to reluctantly smile at this, he still looked unsettled.

“Okay, Data, what is it?” Geordi asked, now concerned.

After a moment, Data finally speaks. “May I ask a question first?” Everyone nods. “What would be considered the norm for a human male to think about sex in an average day? In terms of a percentage, how much time, on average, would be spent in contemplation of sexual matters?”

The three around the table sensed this could be trouble. Ever since the installation of his emotion chip, Data had been even more determined to be a normal human male, even if that was still impossible.

Will decided to take the plunge and answer this one. “Okay, I’m not sure if I am considered normal,” he paused here to wait for the two in the background to stop snickering and heckling, “but I guess on average I spend about 20% of my waking hours thinking about or pursuing sexual matters.” Will had to work very hard not to break into laughter just from the expressions on Geordi and Haley’s faces, but he gave in at the end, grinning broadly. When everyone looked back to Data, they noted his expression had turned from concerned to downright maudlin.

“There must be something wrong with the chip again. I do not even think about sex more than 1% in a week at the most.” He looked quite upset over admitting this.

Haley reached over, patting his arm consolingly. “Don’t worry, Data. You’re still young and handsome. You just need to find a sweet young thing who will MAKE you think about sex...hopefully more than think about it,” she said with a smirk on her lips.

Data looked at Haley with that still puzzled look on his face.

"Are you suggesting there is a correlation between thinking about sexual matters and engaging in sexual activity?"

"Yes." Haley, Geordi and Will responded together before starting to laugh.

"Hmm, can you elaborate further, please?" Data asked.

The three looked at each other as if deciding who drew the imaginary short straw and would have to answer.

"I'm not sure how to explain this, Data, but I'll try," Haley finally replied. "Once you have experienced the feelings of pleasure usually associated with a sexual encounter, it’s very difficult to stop thinking about wanting to experience it again. A person who is in a relationship may think often about sexual matters in terms of the intimacy of being with someone they care about. Or someone who has been sexually active but is having a dry spell may crave that pleasure and think of sexual matters a lot more...say up to 20% of their waking hours," Haley teased.

It took Will a moment, but he caught on and moved to kick Haley playfully under the table.

"I am NOT having a dry spell," he defended, perhaps a little too loudly.

To everyone's surprise, even Data tittered at this, since the second officer of the Enterprise was not so blind that he could have missed Riker's talent with the fairer sex. Even before his chip, this had been a fascination of Data's. To the android, Riker seemed to flirt as easily as he drew in breath.

"Prove it," Haley challenged. "When was your last date?" she asked, leaning over the table towards the tall first officer.

"I won't tell you that, but I will tell you when my next one will be." Will's eyes gleamed with the familiar glow.

"Okay, I'll bite. When?"

Reaching across the table, Will took her hand. "As soon as you agree to go out with me, you beguiling temptress.”

Haley blushed and pulled her hand away, smacking Will playfully as Geordi and Will laughed and Data grinned.

"Better watch out, Commander. She'll throw you in the brig if you're not careful," Geordi warned, tilting his head to the side and grinning at Haley.

"That would not be in accordance with regulations, Geordi," Data corrected. "However, seeing our newly promoted chief of security strong arm Commander Riker into a cell in the detention area would be quite amusing."

"If you help, I just might get that done, Data," Haley said with a laugh.

"You better be careful, Lieutenant, or I may have to write you up for insubordination," Will laughed.

"Oh, please sir, not that," Haley purred at Will as she took his hand in hers and began to gently stroke it. "I'm sure we could come to some sort of understanding. I would do anything not to be written up...almost anything...aaahhh just write me up," she laughed as she dropped his hand on the table.

Data had watched intently and had noticed how the stroking of Will's hand had affected the commander.

"The way in which Haley was touching Commander Riker's hand, is that seduction?" Data asked.

"Yes, my friend," Will grinned. "And when done by an expert like Haley, seduction becomes an art form. I don't believe there’s a man alive who could walk away from such a femme fatale."

"Ha, ha," Haley responded. "I think that’s pushing it," she said to Will with a rolling of her chocolate brown orbs. Turning her attention to Data, she tipped her head to the side, staring at him with a questioning expression on her lovely face. "Come on, Data, I can’t believe you don't know anything about seduction."

Data shook his head. "I have, in fact, thoroughly studied the mating habits of every known species in the Starfleet database. However, it has been my experience that the words on the screen bear little similarity when compared to participating in the act. I have been able to recognize the act of flirting for a number of years, but it still seems beyond my ability to duplicate the talent."

Geordi sighed heavily. "You're not alone there, Data," he laughed, albeit sadly. "I know you've seen how badly I can mess up in that area. Hell, I even had Worf trying to coach me in the romance department."

Haley's eyes went wide with shock and amusement, Will was belly laughing and Data was shaking his head in sympathy for his friend.

“I did not believe it to be a wise course of action at the time, but did not feel it was my place to interfere. However, your contact with John Doe did seem to have more of an effect on you than anything Mr. Worf had shown you. But I intend no insult to Mr. Worf's methods." Data looked apologetic, but Geordi just waved the look away.

"I know, but what I'm trying to say is that it’s also human to be at a loss as far as flirting and women are concerned."

"Quite true," Haley added. "Hell, most of you guys are at a loss as far as what a woman really wants from a man. I could give you all a lesson or two," she said with an evil grin.

"Would you?" Data asked in all seriousness. "I would be most appreciative for any instruction you could provide in these matters."

Haley looked at Data with an expression of surprise on her face, not sure how to reply.

"Data, I think Haley was joking about that," Geordi informed the now disappointed android.

"Don't be disappointed, Data," Will smirked. "I'm sure Haley wouldn't have been able to teach you anything that Geordi and I haven't already."

"Oh you think so?" Haley said defiantly to Will before turning to face Data. "Data, I would be happy to help you. Lesson #1, disregard all of the research you have done. There are no relationships that go ’by the book’. Lesson #2, disregard everything these two Romeos have told you."

"You realize that I cannot forget anything, Haley," Data reminded her.

"Just store everything you’ve read or they’ve told you in a file labeled ‘useless information’." With a confidant grin, she boasted, “Follow my advice and you will have any woman you want eating out of you hand in under a month.”

Geordi and Will exchanged astonished expression.

"Is it possible to drown in space?" Geordi quipped.

With a controlled laugh, Will imparted, "It’s getting too deep in here for me. I think on that note, I'll call it an evening. Good luck, Data. I think you just may need it." Will nodded at Haley and Data and started to rise.

Geordi followed suit. "Just remember, Haley, Data can't swim," the engineer teased as he too rose.

"I do have my emergency flotation device," Data reminded the two officers as they were turning away from the table.

The two men just chuckled as they made good their escape.

"Very funny," Haley said, sarcastically in response to Data.

Data shrugged. "It is true," he assured her.

"You've been spending way too much time with Will. You're becoming a smart ass, just like him." Data gave her his disbelieving and insulted expression, but she did not buy it. "And further more, I think you like it."

Now, Data looked down towards the table. Looking back up at her, his expression was now one of impish guilt.

Haley laughed. "You are being corrupted by them. If you're really serious, we're going to have to start from scratch, Data. Are you in?" she asked him.

"I am in," Data answered.

"Good. I am very pleased to welcome you to the Foster Institute. I will be your instructor for Sexual Matters 101. The only prerequisite for this course is desire - the desire to learn, the desire to feel and the desire to participate in matters pertaining to sex. Are you up for it...no pun intended," Haley smiled.

Data seemed puzzled by Haley's last remark but still responded in the affirmative.

"If you don't have other plans, would you like to start tomorrow after our shifts end?" Haley asked.

"I do not have other plans so that would be acceptable," Data concurred.

"Now it is my turn to call it an evening." Haley smiled and rose from the table.

"May I escort you to your quarters, Haley? I have some questions regarding your qualifications for teaching this course." Data smiled.

"Oh, those two really have corrupted you," Haley laughed.

The two friends walked out of the lounge and headed to the turbolift.

"If you really do have questions about my qualifications, Data, this is your only chance to ask," Haley informed him.

"I do not really have any questions in that regard, however I would appreciate a very honest answer to another question. Do you really believe a woman could fall in love with an android like myself?" Data queried.

"An android, like you? Most definitely Data, most definitely," Haley said reassuringly as they exited the turbolift on deck three and walked towards her quarters. "Good night, Data."

"Good night, Haley."

As Data headed towards his own quarters, he wondered just what his first lesson would entail. In her quarters, moments later, Haley Foster stared at her reflection in her mirror, wondering exactly the same thing.

"What the hell were you thinking, Haley? Teaching your android superior officer about love and sex? If that isn’t biting off more than you can chew, I don't know what is," she admonished her image.

As she went to bed, Haley continued to wonder what to do with Data once she had his full attention the next day. She continued to select and dismiss ideas the following day, as she absently stared at the back of Data's head from her station at tactical. Data actually caught her staring at him a couple of times during their shift, and Haley felt her face grow hot.

"Is something wrong, Lieutenant?" Data asked, coming over to her side.

Haley looked down, grinning with embarrassment. "Just thinking about later." She met his eyes, projecting a confidence she did not really feel. "Just planning out your first lesson, Commander."

Data gave her a clipped nod, smiling. "I am looking forward to it with great anticipation." The expression on his face was so endearing, Haley sighed as he turned away.

Data did not have a mean bone in his entire body. Well, he did not have any bones in his body, but that was beside the point. No matter what she chose to teach him, he would not be rude or hurtful. Data just did not have it in him. Haley took a deep cleansing breath and relaxed. Everything would be fine.

~ Who knows, this could even be fun. ~ Suddenly, ideas began to flow. Peace of mind settled over her as a plan began to take shape. She could do it. In no time at all, Data was going to be a sex god.

The rest of the day seemed to pass quickly now for Haley as the nervousness she had been feeling eased. It was a quiet day on the bridge as the Enterprise was still four days away from Star Base 53 where Ambassador Varana and her staff were waiting to be transported to Marsella IV to begin talks on allowing the Marsellans in to the Federation. Soon it was 1600 and the next shift arrived promptly to relieve those going off duty. Data hurried up to the turbolift in order to leave with Haley.

"Deck three," Haley instructed the computer before turning to Data. "I thought we could use my quarters as the classroom if that's okay? I wanted some place private where we won't be interrupted by certain individuals who may prove to be disruptive," she smiled.

"You mean Commander Riker and Geordi, do you not?" Data asked.

"Exactly. I don't think they could resist putting their two cents in or making a few jokes, which normally would not be a problem, but for this...well I'm taking this very seriously, Data. You’re one of my closest friends and I want to help you experience life to the fullest," she explained.

"I too consider you to be a very close friend. I do not believe I would have asked anyone else for assistance with this matter. I trust you and your judgment. I know you will do your best to teach me about sex and love," Data confided.

The turbolift doors opened on deck three as Data was speaking. The two exited and walked down the corridor to Haley's quarters. Data had felt relief when Haley had suggested her quarters. He had been there many times to discuss ship matters, play poker and to just spend time with his friend. He felt comfortable there and with Haley.

Once inside, Haley ushered Data to the couch where the two sat down.

"I think it would be best if first you tell me what your ultimate goal is in this area," Haley told Data.

"I wish to learn about the different types of relationships human males have. As well, I have always believed one day I would marry. I think I have much to offer a mate." Data spoke sounding a little unsure as to how Haley would respond.

Haley smiled. "I'm very happy to hear you say that, Data. You do have so much to offer and I know one day you’ll find that special woman who will want to share her life with you."

Data nodded at this with obvious uncertainty. "I have often hoped for someone to share a more intimate part of myself. However it was not until the installation of my emotion chip that I actually felt there was a more intimate side to me.” The places where Data had chosen to stress his words added significance to them and Haley did her best to try to understand this. But trying to imagine not being able to feel anything for 36 years of life was not something any human could easily grasp.

Reaching out to take her friend’s hand, Haley smiled reassuringly at him. “I’m not going to belittle the challenge you’ve endured in attempting to master a lifetime’s worth of emotion in the short year you’ve had them, Data. I’ve watched you struggle, but just as you had no frame of reference to understand our human emotions before the chip, I have no frame of reference to truly fathom what this has been like for you. It’s been all or nothing for you and I can’t imagine...” She let her voice trail off.

Data nodded at this. “Having been on both sides, I can provide you with an informed opinion. You do not want to know what I know,” he told her, meaningfully. “Haley, I did not come with the intention of discussing the pros and cons of emotions vs. emotionlessness. When I first installed the chip, there was a time when I believed myself ill equipped to deal with the new sensations emotions brought. But now that I have integrated them into my life, I have no intention of going backwards. That is why I am here. You have expressed a willingness to help me move forward, and that is where I wish to go.”

Haley gave Data’s arm an affectionate squeeze and grinned at him. “Let’s do it,” she told him eagerly. Sitting back in her seat, she took a moment to collect her thoughts. After Data had waited in silence for twenty-one seconds, she spoke again.

“Let’s start with this. Have you ever been attracted to anyone before, Data?” Haley asked.

It took Data no time to come up with the answer to her query, but a moment to convince himself to answer. Honesty would be required for this attempt to be successful. “Yes, but I came to this conclusion too late.”

“Too late? What do you mean?” she asked, confused.

“She was killed on an away mission,” Data told her, trying not to allow his eyes to fill with tears.

“Oh, Data, I’m so sorry,” she whispered, taking his arm again.

“It was many years ago when she was killed. It was only last year when I came to the realization that, had she lived, I would have been attracted to her,” Data said slowly. "She is also the only woman I have been intimate with," Data continued. "However it would not have occurred had the crew not been infected with a strain of the Psi 2000 virus brought over from the Tsiolkovsky." Data regained his composure before continuing. Haley, who had been sitting quietly, just held his hand. "I do not know. There are a number of female crewmembers I find to be attractive. However I am unsure as to whether I am attracted to them in terms of wanting to be in a relationship with any of them. The women I enjoy spending time with I consider to be friends, such as yourself."

"We won't focus on any one woman to start. Don't exclude a woman though because you consider her a friend. It’s not unusual for a man and woman to be friends for months or years before their relationship changes to a romantic one," Haley advised. "Yesterday I told you lesson # 1 was to disregard your research. When you meet a woman and you’re getting to know each other it’s important to be yourself. If you try to be who you think she wants you to be or what the books say, in the long run, things won't work out. It won't be you she wants to be with but that persona you’ve presented. Shakespeare did say it best when he wrote ‘to thine own self be true’. Any questions so far?”

Data grinned at her reference to one of his and Captain Picard’s favored quotes. “I agree completely with that sentiment,” he told her. “And as for a question, I have been myself for all my life, yet I have only had one woman believe, for a short time, that it was myself she wanted. Are you sure I will be able to attract a mate as I am? How am I to know if a woman is interested in pursuing a romantic association with me? What are the most effective criteria for choosing a mate? If I successfully determine that a woman is interested, how do I proceed?”

Haley held up her hands to stop any further questions Data could come up with and, considering the source, she had little doubt he could come up with a lot more if he tried.

“Hold on a minute, Data. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. You can’t learn all there is to this in one day, so if that’s what you were hoping for, I’m sorry.” He only seemed to be waiting so she continued. “To begin to address your questions, I told you yesterday that I thought you could attract a woman and I was not just saying that. You may not realize this, Data, but the fact you’re the second officer of this ship and, well, kind of mild mannered, may be why most are unsure about approaching you. Yes, I’m sure your being an android puts off some, but considering the nature of our mission and career choice, I would hope not many. You may also consider that, as cliché as it is, most women still prefer the man to be the one who makes the first move.”

Data gave her an amused grin. “That is actually mentioned in some of the research I have done.”

“What did I just tell you,” she exclaimed, pointing her finger at him.

"Please continue," Data grinned.

"As for attracting a mate, it’s pretty difficult to attract someone if they don't know that you’re interested in them. The first step is to talk to them. Let's say you’re in the lounge and you see a woman who interests you and she’s sitting by herself. You would approach her table and ask her if you can join her. If she says yes, sit with her and have a conversation. With time, you’ll be able to tell by how she responds to you both verbally and through body language whether or not she’s interested. If she appears to be, then you have different options depending on the time of day or the situation. If it’s around a meal time, you could ask her if she has eaten yet and, if she hasn't, ask her to have lunch, dinner, whatever with you. If she has, you could ask her if she'd like to go for a walk in the arboretum or some other activity such as a recital or play if there’s one on." Haley paused for a few seconds before continuing. "Data, I think it is time for our first field trip. Let's go to the lounge. I'm feeling a little hungry and it will give us an opportunity to observe the human male in his natural habitat."

A few minutes later Data and Haley were sitting at a table in what Haley termed a strategic position.

"Okay, Data," she began. "Look over there at Lieutenant Waters. He’s been glancing over at Ensign Habib since we got here. It looks likes he’s starting to make his move. He’s smiling at her, asking her if he can join her and it looks like the answer is yes. We'll check back with them in a few minutes but first it's time to order dinner."

A moment later, Haley was very glad she had chosen a spot in the very corner of the lounge. Will Riker, Counselor Deanna Troi and Dr. Beverly Crusher entered the room just as the waiter had taken Haley and Data’s meal orders. Riker did notice them, but he only waved and took a seat with his companions at a table across the room. Haley released a sigh that Data noticed.

“Is something wrong, Haley?” he asked, a touch of concern in his voice.

“No, I’m just glad Will and company didn’t join us, but he does give us another chance for observation. He is the king of flirts.”

Data raised an eyebrow at her.

“Oh, come on now, Data, he is,” she defended.

“I concur the commander has quite a flare in this area, however, if he is the king, then with your assistance, I shall be the prince of flirting.”

This caused Haley to giggle. “That’s the attitude. Now watch the master at work and quit teasing me,” she commanded, poking him in the side with her elbow. Data gave her an exaggerated wink and turned his attention to Riker.

“While we wait for dinner, I wanted to ask you something. What qualities do you think you would like in a potential mate?” Haley asked in a hushed voice.

Data glanced at her briefly before answering. “While I have noted many answer that very question by stating the value of a good sense of humor, I would have to qualify that by adding she would have to have a sense of humor I understand. I know many people whom others believe to be extremely jocular, yet I do not understand their particular brand of humor at all. I would want her to enjoy my humor as I enjoyed hers.”

“Okay, that sounds reasonable. How about looks?”

“I do understand beautiful. However, I believe I would prefer her to be neat, rather than aesthetically pleasing. I do not care for things to be untidy. Disorder frustrates me,” Data admitted, sheepishly.

Haley gave him a firm look. “Data, one thing you have to learn is not to be apologetic for having a mind of your own. You’re allowed likes and dislikes, just like everybody else.” When she saw he was accepting this, she went on. “Okay, so she should be your kind of funny, neat and beauty is optional. What else?”

"I would require someone who understands I am incapable of thinking only of her at any given moment, as my positronic brain is capable of performing 60 trillion operations per second. I will, however, give her my full attention when we are together." Data paused for a moment before continuing. "I would prefer someone who is more literal in expressing what she wants rather than saying one thing and expecting me to know she wants the opposite. I do have difficulty recognizing those situations."

"Oh, I hate that too. When I was aboard the Magellan, I had a roommate who did that all the time and it was so annoying. I completely understand your thinking there," Haley concurred. Data could not help but smile and feel some relief that someone else had the same feelings over this practice.

"Over the years, I have learned how to recognize when a person is using a proverb or expression that is not to be taken literally however I am not 100% proficient in this regard."

"So you want someone who is your kind of funny, neat, doesn't play word games, so to speak, and is accepting of who you are," Haley recounted. "That last trait is very important. I've always believed that to have a successful relationship, it’s important to embrace a person’s limitations and not just love their strengths."

Data and Haley's dinner arrived as Haley was pointing out how to read body language using Lieutenant Waters and Ensign Habib as her example.

"Do you see how Ensign Habib is sitting, how rigid she is?" Haley started. "That's not good. They’ve been speaking for a few minutes now and she has yet to relax. And there, did you see how she’s not maintaining eye contact with Lieutenant Waters?"

"Yes, she does appear to be rather uncomfortable," Data added.

"Exactly. Now if Lieutenant Waters doesn't read her body language then most likely Ensign Habib will excuse herself and leave."

“What would you suggest Lieutenant Waters do to prevent that eventuality?” Data asked Haley.

She turned to look at him, but shrugged. “Well, if we could hear what he was trying it would be easier to say.”

“I can hear what he has said, but to repeat it to you would feel like an invasion of their privacy,” Data informed her with regret. Haley looked momentarily stunned.

“I didn’t realize you could hear THAT well. No, I agree, don’t tell me what they said. Let’s just say if Waters was talking about himself, he could change the topic to something he knew she would be interested in. Or he could compliment her by telling her something he finds appealing about her,” Haley explained.

Data looked crestfallen. “Flattery. I have not proven to be successful in this area as well,” he told her, with frustration creeping into his tone. He told her briefly about the time he had attempted this and, by the end of his story, Haley was shaking her head.

“I’ve seen this before. You’re trying to duplicate or use someone else’s words instead of using your own.”

“You do not understand. I do not normally think in these terms. I cannot flatter someone using my own words.”

“Yes, you can, Data. I know you can, because I’ve heard you do it. I want you to try it now on me. Just tell me something you have noticed about me that you find interesting. Use your own long-winded, long worded way. Go,” she said with a gleam in her eyes.

It was those eyes Data noticed. Since he knew many compliments involved one’s eyes, he chose that area. He would do his best, but he was sure she would be disappointed.

“I have observed in humanoids that one’s eye color and one’s hair color are almost always different. However your eyes are virtually the exact shade of mahogany as your hair, with only a .012% variance. I find this to be most intriguing.” Data looked deeply into her eyes as he spoke.

Haley’s jaw dropped and her eyes went wide. A blush rose to her cheeks and she absently ran her fingers through her mass of short curls. Slowly she smiled. “Oh Data, that was wonderful,” she told him in a shaky voice. Data was stunned.

"Wonderful?" Data repeated.

"Yes," Haley smiled reassuringly. "You surprised me for a moment. I didn't realize how effective your flattery is." She paused for a moment hoping the redness in her cheeks had faded. "And the reason it was effective was you chose a feature to compliment that you find interesting and you used your words to express it. Now are you beginning to see why it was so important to be yourself?"

Data nodded his head in the affirmative.

Haley turned to her dinner and was about to take a bite when she stopped. "It looks like Lieutenant Waters wasn't able to read Ensign Habib's signals and adjust his approach," she said as she and Data watched the young ensign leaving the lounge - alone.

Haley continued to eat her entrée as she surveyed the room for another example. By the time she and Data had finished, Lieutenant Waters was ready to try again - this time with Lieutenant MacDonald.

"We'll check on Lieutenant Waters later. Will is heading over to the bar and seems to have his eye on Lieutenant Hedberg. Let's watch the master at work," she smirked.

Riker’s methods of seduction were something Data had seen and overheard many time, so this particular event did not interest the android. As Haley watched in fascination, and made the occasional observation, Data decided to do a study of his own. He interjected a joke or funny comment into their conversation, and was pleased to see Haley laugh in all the expected places. Actually, she laughed quite a lot. After Riker had left with Lieutenant Hedberg and Lieutenant Waters seemed to be making progress with Lieutenant MacDonald, Data tried to encourage Haley to tell him some jokes or funny stories. Data was pleasantly surprised to find he laughed at every one she remembered.

Lieutenant Waters proved to attain limited success in the end, as the young lady told him she would have to get together with him at another time, since she was due to meet with some other people just then. When Lieutenant MacDonald left, Waters called it a night.

As Haley and Data had finished their dinners long ago, they too decided to call it a night, but as they headed for Haley’s quarters, Data wondered how she would feel about his next concern.

“Okay, Data. You look pensive. What’s up?” she asked when they reached her door.

“I am simply contemplating how you will handle a different concern of mine.”

“Oh? What’s that?” she asked him.

“How to kiss a woman properly,” he informed her. “Good night, Haley,” Data said with a nod and turned to go.

“Wonderful. And I was nervous about the flirting?” Haley sighed as she entered her quarters.

Haley checked for correspondence before making an entry in her personal log. She was still getting accustomed to her duties as chief of security and spent some time reviewing duty schedules and familiarizing herself further with her personnel. She finally gave up after an hour as her mind kept going back to what Data had said.

~ How am I going to teach Data how to kiss a woman? ~ she wondered as she changed for bed. She lay there for some time contemplating what to do before drifting off to sleep.

Morning came too quickly for Haley. After being jolted awake from a nightmare, she had problems falling back to sleep. In her nightmare she had been kissing Data to show him how to kiss a woman passionately, but when she had finished kissing him, he had burst into laughter. Haley had never really thought about whether she was a good kisser or not but now she was nervous.

~ There's always the holodeck, ~ she sighed as she began to get ready for her shift. ~ I'm sure I could program a woman for Data to practice on. ~ As it turned out, the holodeck was available, Commander Data was not. The following day Haley overheard several conversations Data and Geordi had with Captain Picard, updating the captain on the status of a level three diagnostic. The two lieutenant commanders were involved in realigning or re-crystallizing something else too, but Haley had not caught all of it from her station at tactical. Her attention was focused on ensuring all security arrangements were ready for the upcoming arrival of Ambassador Varana. Data only had time enough to give Haley an apologetic look when he had first headed from his station at Ops to the lift. Haley had just smiled and nodded her understanding - rain check.

The following day, it was Haley who had to send one to Data. The ambassador had sent word of a list of requirements a kilometer long and it fell on Haley to see them taken care of. Teacher and student were not able to meet until the day Ambassador Varana actually arrived.

“It got a little more hectic than either of us expected, didn’t it, Data?” Haley said, by way of greeting the android at her door.

“So it would seem. You are available for me now, is that correct?” he asked.

“Sure am. Come on in. Our holodeck reservation is not for thirty minutes yet. Want something to drink?” she offered, as they made their way to her couch. Data declined politely as the pair sat.

"The holodeck? What will we be doing in the holodeck?" Data asked.

"I was able to put together a simulation to demonstrate the different types of kisses. I have also included a woman you can practice with, if you want to use her," Haley replied. "Is there anything you want to discuss before we go to the holodeck? Anything about what we saw in the lounge the other day?"

Data thought for a few moments before turning to Haley. "In the holographic simulation you have programmed, will the woman be able to give me the proper feedback on how well I am doing?" he asked.

"Well, no. I programmed her in case you wanted to practice before moving on to a real person. You don't have to use it. I just wasn't sure how to provide you with practical experience," Haley admitted.

"I see. Would you..." Data spoke hesitantly, "Would you allow me to practice with you?"

"If you’re comfortable with that idea, Data, I guess I could. Just don't laugh," she replied slowly.

"Laugh? Why would I laugh?" Data was puzzled by her remark as he had never thought of kissing as a laughing matter.

"Forget I said that. I had a bad dream last night and it's still effecting me a little," Haley smiled. The thirty minutes were almost up so the pair made their way to the holodeck to begin the next lesson. Haley was trying her best to hide her nervousness from Data over his request.

Once they arrived, Haley called up the program she had created using the arch. “Maybe I can tweak her responses a bit,” Haley told Data as she hurriedly worked at the control panel. “Computer, run program Data Lesson Four,” she commanded.

Data looked over just in time to see a striking holographic woman shimmer into being. She was Data’s height with blond hair and blue eyes. Data supposed she was appealing, but his uncertainty over employing this simulated female’s assistance restrained his enthusiasm. Looking back at Haley, Data could sense her unease. He knew it was his request for her to personally help if this plan failed that troubled her. Sighing, Data moved towards the simulated blond.

“Kiss me, Data,” the blond implored him, opening her arms to him. Data turned his head back to Haley, raising a questioning eyebrow at her.

“Hey, my only previous experience at writing holodeck programs is for emergency security protocols. I am NOT a romance writer. It was all I could think of,” Haley protested, shrugging helplessly at him.

“She is, at least, direct.”

“Smart ass,” she threw at him with a sneer. “Just kiss her. Let’s see if this worked.”

Data chuckled as he moved closer to the outstretched arms of the hologram.

Taking a breath, Haley sighed as Data made his move. With movements that appeared forced and rehearsed, Data took the facsimile by the shoulders and pulled her closer. Eager imitation arms went around him, but his actions still looked mechanical. Data pressed his lips to those of the blond for what seemed like an eternity, but there was no emotion there, and very little of anything else either.

When Data released her, the female cooed at him, but Data turned on his heels and walked stiffly away from her, as she continued to bubble over with praise. Coming to Haley’s side, Data order the program paused.

“I wish to hear your evaluation of my performance,” he said, flatly.

Haley felt her stomach rise up into her throat. “Data, you showed no feeling in what you were doing,” she told him, gently.

“With good reason. While I do appreciate your effort on my behalf, I have no feelings for this creation, so I find it difficult to show feelings for her.”

"Good point," Haley conceded. "Let's take a more voyeuristic approach to this. Computer, run Data Lesson Four A."

A holographic man now appeared and joined the woman, both standing still, waiting further instruction.

"Data, how familiar are you with the different degrees of kissing? Do you understand that the same type of kiss cannot be used in every situation?" Haley questioned.

"Please explain what you mean," Data requested.

"A good night kiss on a first date is different to...say...a kiss before making love. Do you want me to have them demonstrate?" Haley continued.

"Please do," Data affirmed.

"On a first date if you’re unsure as to how well it went or felt it was moderately successful, it would probably be best to go with the kiss on the cheek. However, as with other things even the kiss on the cheek has degrees. Computer run quick cheek kiss," Haley ordered the computer.

Data watched as the man gave the woman a very quick kiss on the cheek.

"But a kiss on the cheek can be a little sexier as well. Computer run sexy cheek kiss," Haley instructed.

This time the man was looking intensely into the woman's eyes. He slowly raised his hand and gently stroked her cheek before kissing her other cheek much more slowly.

"I understand what you mean by varying degrees now," Data stated.

Over the next thirty minutes, Haley had the holographic images demonstrate a variety of kisses up to a passionate lovers' kiss.

"Computer, end program Data Lesson Four A. Now Data, these are just examples. There are no real rules to tell you what kisses are appropriate to a situation. It depends on what you feel for the woman you are kissing and how she feels about you. The best kiss is a kiss sparked by emotion. If you really care for a woman, she can feel it in your kiss," Haley emphasized. "Okay, let's try this one more time. Computer, run Data Lesson Four."

Data approached the holographic woman again, looking over at Haley with an uncertain look on his face before turning back to the woman. Data again kissed the woman, this time not as forced but still obviously uncomfortable.

"Well, that was better," Haley stuttered. "Our time here is up. Let's go back to my quarters and go over what we've seen."

Once back in her quarters, Data turned to face Haley, blocking her path to the sitting arrangement.

“Your comment that I had improved did not hold much sincerity, Haley. I believe I still need considerable assistance in this area. If I cannot kiss a woman properly, will she not look for someone who can?” he asked in a pleading tone.

Haley reached over to pat Data’s arm lightly. “Okay, I admit it was a nominal improvement, but this just may take time.”

“How long did it take you?” Data countered.

Haley almost groaned. “Data, I don’t know for sure how good a kisser I am. I haven’t had any complaints, but I haven’t had men beating down my door to kiss me either.”

Data considered this for a moment before asking. “Do you wish to be married?”

With a sigh, she looked away and moved to pass Data, making her way to a chair. Once seated, she waited for Data to follow.

“I’m not really sure, Data. The idea is appealing, but I guess he’d have to really knock my socks off for me to seriously consider marriage. But, I think you’re straying. This is supposed to be about you, not me.”

“Agreed. Since it is obvious I require further instruction, will you allow me to kiss you so you will be able to tell me exactly what I am doing wrong?” Data seemed to turn very serious as he asked this.

Haley had felt this was coming but had been praying it would not. Data was her friend - a good friend. This whole thing suddenly sounded like a very bad idea but it was too late to back out now.

“I really don’t see how kissing me will make any difference. You said the problem was you didn’t feel anything for the hologram and that is true for me too,” she offered, knowing it was weak.

“That is not true at all. I am your friend. I have very strong feelings of friendship for you that I did not feel for the hologram. You can also experience this first hand and better determine where I err,” he pointed out.

Haley tried not to look terrified as Data came to a stand. When he stood before her, she forced herself to come to her feet. Data seemed to be making an effort to relax her as he looked Haley in the eyes and gave her a gentle smile. Lifting a hand to her face, Data slid his fingers over her cheek and into her hair. Bringing his other hand around her waist, he drew her slowly closer.

His kiss was still just a pressing of his lips to hers, but nevertheless, there was something about his gentle touch that had an affect on Haley. When Data pulled back, looking at her expectantly, it took her a moment to clear the fuzz out of her brain enough to comment.

Data's concern that his kiss had been a complete failure grew the longer Haley stood silent. Finally he could not wait any longer.

"Your silence suggests I have not done well." Data spoke barely above a whisper, looking terribly disappointed.

The sound of Data's voice jarred Haley enough to clear up the remainder of the fuzziness she had felt.

"No, Data, no. It was nice. A big improvement over the kisses with the hologram. You were much more comfortable. The way you touched my cheek and slid your fingers through my hair was very nice. We’ll need to work on...talk about your technique for the actual kiss. There is more to a kiss than just pressing your lips to mine - I mean a woman's." Haley stumbled through the critique the best she could. "Maybe we should continue this tomorrow, Data. It's getting late."

"Of course. I will see you tomorrow, Haley. Good night," Data said with a smile. He walked towards the door to Haley's quarters before stopping and turning to her. "I really appreciate everything you are doing to help me. Thank you, Haley." And then he was gone.

Haley collapsed in the chair and just stared at the wall for minutes.

~ What the hell happened there? ~ she thought. As she replayed Data's kiss in her mind, the fuzziness started to return. She waited for it to clear before getting ready for bed. Sleep, once again, did not come easy. She stared at the ceiling of her bedroom for what seemed like hours, thinking about that kiss before she finally drifted off.

Chapter 2

Staring at the back of Data’s head the next day was even worse than staring at the ceiling of her bedroom. Haley’s dreams last night were even more disturbing than the previous evening’s. This time Data was kissing the blond from the holodeck, but she was real now. She was teaching Data a thing or two about kissing that could only be taught by intimate instruction.

Her duties in security kept her mind off of the odd and disturbing dream, but any time Haley looked over to see Data moving about, sitting or coming back to the bridge, the thoughts returned. She was again fighting with this memory when Data came over and addressed her. The surprised squeak she made startled three other people on the bridge, including Data.

“I did not intend to startle you, Haley. I apologize,” Data said, regretfully.

Haley caught her breath and waved away his apology. “My fault, I’m sorry. What can I do for you, Commander?” she asked formally, since it was still twenty minutes before their shift ended.

Data’s expression turned to one of excited anticipation. “Ambassador Varana and her aides have requested a tour of the Enterprise which the captain has asked me to conduct,” Data explained.

“I take it you’re happy about that fact?” Haley asked with amusement.

“I am. One of the ambassador’s aides is an intriguing young woman by the name of Sharroon Mekteel. I am hoping I can put into practice some of what you have taught me thus far on her.” Data seemed to be waiting for something. It took Haley several moments to realize it was her approval he awaited.

“You really think you’re ready for this, Data? It’s only been a few days.”

Data smiled with conviction. “I have great confidence in the competence of your teaching. I do have one request. If she will agree, I intend to ask Ms Mekteel to accompany me to the lounge after the tour has concluded. Will you be there at 1900 hours to observe, in case I encounter difficulty?”

Haley was certain the color had completely drained from her face upon hearing Data's request, however, if it had, Data had not noticed. He stood anxiously awaiting Haley's response.

"I'll do my best to be there, Data." Haley forced a smile to her lips but she was anything but happy about his request.

"Thank you, Haley," Data was even more excited now. He wanted to show Haley how much he had learned from her. He hoped Haley would be proud of any success he had that evening.

"You’re welcome, Data," she replied still forcing the smile. "Oh and, Data, good luck." The words were hard for Haley to say and did their best to get stuck in her mouth.

Data smiled and nodded his head before returning to his ops station. Haley was staring at her tactical panel, trying to concentrate on her duties when she was again startled but by another voice this time.

"Are you okay, Lieutenant?" Troi asked concerned.

"I'm fine, Counselor, just fine." Haley was once again forcing a smile to her lips.

"You're sure? You seem quite tense and I sense you are feeling a great deal of anxiety," the counselor continued.

"I'm okay, really. I'm a little anxious to make sure everything goes well during the ambassador's time on the Enterprise. She is the first dignitary to be on board since I became Chief of Security." Haley was trying her hardest to sound convincing.

"Well, if you need to talk, you know where my office is," Counselor Troi smiled reassuringly before returning to her seat on the bridge.

~ She didn't believe a word of that, ~ Haley chastised herself. ~ Why do we have to have an empath for a ship's counselor? ~

After her shift, Haley went to her quarters for a shower, but once she got out, she felt even worse than when she got in. Her head was pounding, so after dressing in casual clothes, she headed for sickbay. Dr. Selar was just running the medical tricorder over Haley when Data entered the room, leading the ambassador’s party. It took Haley all of three seconds to pick out the woman Data had his eye on.

She was fair haired, and small boned to the point where she could easily be described as fragile looking. She was very pretty, but just shy of beautiful. If it had not been for the fact she was the only woman, other than the ambassador, in the party, the fact Data kept directing his comments to her, more often than not, would have been the dead give away.

~ It was a practice kiss. Just practice and he’s not even my type. He’s just my friend, ~ Haley told herself firmly. As she squeezed her eyes shut, she could hear the tricorder in the doctor’s hand register a dramatic increase in her blood pressure.

“You may do well to consider attempting meditation, Lieutenant,” Selar advised in her placid tone.

“Are you unwell, Haley?” Data asked, suddenly at her side.

“Just a little headache, Commander. Nothing to worry about.” Haley wondered why she had addressed him so formally as soon as the words had left her mouth.

"As you are unwell, I will not invite Sharroon to the lounge later since you will be unable to observe. I would not feel comfortable in attempting this if you are not present." Data spoke with obvious disappointment in his voice.

"No, Data, I'll be there. I'm in good hands with Dr. Selar. I'll be fine." Haley was now becoming an expert in forcing a smile to her lips.

"If you are certain-" Data started.

"I'm certain," Haley interrupted.

Data grinned at Haley before rejoining the group to continue the tour. As soon as they had left sickbay, Haley let out an audible sigh. Dr. Selar looked at Haley, raising her right eyebrow in that questioning way that Vulcans had.

"Lieutenant, you appear tired. Have you experienced any changes in your sleep patterns lately? Any sleep disturbances?" Dr. Selar asked.

"I've tossed and turned a lot the past couple of nights and had some unsettling dreams but I'm sure it will pass. I'm just under a little stress at the moment," Haley responded.

Dr. Selar went to a drawer, returning with a hypospray, which she administered to Haley.

"This will help you relax and you should have a good night's sleep tonight, however, if your sleep disturbances continue I recommend that you speak to Counselor Troi. I'm sure she can help you find ways to alleviate the stress you are feeling," Dr. Selar advised.

"Thank you, Doctor. I feel better already," Haley said with another forced smile on her face.

Haley returned to her quarters to wait. Time seemed to be moving backwards and she thought it would never reach 1900. Finally, it was time to go to the lounge. Haley rose slowly from her couch letting out another loud sigh.

~ Data is my friend. I offered to help him. I am his friend and I must be there for him, ~ she repeated to herself over and over as she rode the turbolift and walked to the lounge.

Upon arriving, Haley found the table where she and Data had sat during their lesson was available. She sat, ordered a synthale and waited.

She did not have to wait long. Data entered the lounge with the petite young woman at his side. The rosy pink in her cheeks told Haley that whatever Data had been trying so far was working. The couple took a seat in Haley’s unobstructed view and ordered a drink.

Sharroon’s body language clearly conveyed her ease with Data’s company. The android also seemed quite happy to be here with his pretty tablemate. They had just been served their drinks when Data moved his chair closer to Sharroon’s.

Haley was stunned when she heard a groan of annoyance and realized it had come from her own mouth. ~ Be quiet, Data can hear you, ~ she scolded herself.

The two engaged in lively conversation for almost an hour with no end is sight before Haley became distracted by a certain First Officer sitting down at her table.

“Looks like your lessons are working, Haley,” Will proclaimed, pulling his chair out to sit down. He nodded over to Data and his date, but Haley decided this gave her an excuse to finally look away.

“He’s a quick study, that one,” she agreed. “So what are you doing tonight, Will?” she asked, directing the topic away from the goings on at the other table.

“Not a thing. I have the night watch later, so I’m just relaxing until it’s time. How about you?”

Haley and Will chatted for a while until he interrupted her by nudging her and nodding back in Data’s direction.

“Look, he’s going in for the kill,” Will observed.

Haley looked over just in time to see Data lean slowly in to press a gentle kiss to Sharroon’s cheek. When he finally sat back, Will and Haley could see the flushed, but flattered, expression on the woman’s face, and Haley could feel her stomach lurch.

“I guess you have a right to make your claims, Haley. This is the most impressive display of flirting I have ever seen from Data. You should have bet latinum on this deal. You would’ve made a killing,” Will said with a chuckle.

"I sure would have," Haley tried to laugh. ~ Isn’t that ironic since I feel like I want to die. ~

Will stayed for another hour before he rose and told Haley he had to go.

"Already?" Haley questioned. "You still have a few hours before the night shift starts. Can't you stay longer?" ~ Damn Haley you sound like you’re begging. ~

"Sorry, Haley, but duty calls. I have some reports to go over before the shift starts." Will shrugged. "See you tomorrow though. I'm looking forward to finding out how the rest of Data's evening goes."

And with that, Will turned and headed for the door of the lounge, leaving Haley, once again, alone. She now had no choice but to resume her observation of Data, as he used the lessons she had taught him on this woman. By 2130, Haley started to wish she had ordered the real stuff instead of the synthahol she had been drinking. Finally a half hour later, Data rose from his table and walked over to the bar to get refills for himself and Sharroon. Haley walked quickly and stood next to Data.

"Data, I have to go now. I'm feeling a little tired. You don't need me. You're doing great." Haley stammered.

"I understand,” he said smiling at her. ”Thank you for coming this evening, Haley, and for everything." Data picked up the drinks and began to turn back in the direction of the table where Sharroon was sitting. "Haley, I have asked Sharroon to have dinner with me tomorrow at 1830 hours. May I come to your quarters after our shift? I need your assistance to prepare for my date." The look on Data's face as he glanced back at Haley made it impossible for her to refuse.

"Of course, Data. I'll always be here to help you," she smiled. "Good night."

"Good night, Haley." Data walked over to the table, placing Sharroon's drink in front of her as he sat. Haley could hear Sharroon laughing as she walked towards the exit to the lounge.

Once she was back in her quarters, Haley changed immediately into her pajamas and climbed into bed. She quickly fell asleep, thanks to the hypospray Dr. Selar had given her. She awoke twice during the night when the dreams returned, however, this night she was able to fall back asleep quickly, rather than tossing and turning for hours.

To Haley’s relief, Data had to work in weapon’s control the next morning, so she did not get to see him and blush every time he walked by. She knew she would have if he had been here. The dreams last night had been... ~ Don’t think about that, ~ she commanded her subconscious.

She had some success in controlling her wandering thoughts, but apparently not enough, she soon discovered. Will came over to her station and gave her a sympathetic smile.

“You look like you’re carrying torpedo casings under those dark eyes of yours, Haley,” he told her, crossing his arms in front of him, and studying her face.

“I stayed up too late helping Data. He wanted me to be on tap in case he got into trouble with his date,” she explained.

Will covered his mouth as he yawned. “I’m in need of some sleep myself. You’re a good friend, Haley, but you can’t let it effect your duties. However, your work has been so impressive, I covered for you with the captain. The ambassador wants to go over the final arrangements for when we reach Marsella IV. I’ve already got tactical covered for you. She’s expecting you, so go to her quarters now and as soon as you’re finished going over the details she wants addressed, you can call it a day.” Will beamed with delight over the surprise he had arranged for her but, for some reason, Haley had a bad feeling about this.

In the lift on her way to the guest quarters, it hit Haley what was turning her nerves to jelly - the aide. No doubt she would be there as well for this meeting.

“I wish I knew what gods I have pissed off and what to do to appease them,” she fumed to the lift, relieved she was alone here.

When Haley arrived, it seemed the torment was to begin at once. The very cheerful aide greeted Haley at the door and practically bounced her way across the room as she led Haley to where the ambassador waited. There was no doubt in Haley’s mind that the date last night with Data was the woman’s reason for being so blasted perky this morning.

"Good morning, Ambassador," Haley smiled. "Commander Riker informed me of your request to go over the final security arrangements."

The ambassador nodded her head in an almost regal manner. She swept her hand motioning towards the couch.

"Please sit," she instructed Haley.

Haley sat down and placed the large PADD she had been carrying under her arm on the table. The ambassador was sitting next to Haley while two of her aides stood behind the couch, observing. Haley was relieved Sharroon was not one of them as she was busy preparing various dishes for the ambassador's lunch.

Haley spent a little over an hour going through the details with the ambassador, answering any questions she or her aides posed expertly. When they finished, the ambassador rose from the couch and walked towards the dining table where Sharroon had laid out the food. She turned to Haley and smiled.

"Thank you, Lieutenant. I believe the arrangements you have made are more than satisfactory. You may go now."

"Thank you, Ambassador. If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me and I'll do my best to address them for you," Haley said as she made her way to the door.

When she arrived back at her quarters, Haley sat down on the couch to think. Data had not said what he needed help with and she prayed it would only be more information on flirting. She rested her head on the back of the couch with a feeling of dread rushing through her. The many restless nights finally caught up with Haley as she soon fell asleep on the couch. She had been asleep for almost three hours when she was jarred awake by the sound of the door chime.

Data stood there with an excited grin on his face that quickly faded as soon as he saw the evidence that he had obviously just awakened Haley.

“If you wish me to return later-“ he began with clear disappointment. Haley could see he was very worried she would not help him in time for his date tonight.

“It’s okay, Data. I was sleeping, but I think I finally got enough. Come on in and tell me how I can help.” She turned from the door and led him to the couch where she had just been sleeping. She stretched a little before sitting again.

“You are sure you do not mind?” he asked, watching her stretch.

“I’m sure. Now, I thought you were doing wonderfully with your young lady last night. What could you possibly need me for?” she asked with a warm grin. Dear Data - so thoughtful and kind. Haley found it was easier to focus on his happiness with his sweet face looking at her. He was a good man and deserved to have a good time with this woman if that was what he wanted.

“I wish to kiss her. But as you pointed out, my technique was insufficient for the task. Perhaps task is not the proper word here...” Data shrugged and let his voice trail off.

“No, I don’t think she would be flattered to hear you refer to kissing her as a task. But you looked like you did well with the kiss on the cheek last night. Just keep going in that direction and you’ll do fine,” she told him, encouragingly.

Data just shook his head. “I do not believe a kiss on the cheek is the same as a kiss on the lips from what you have shown me and what I have witnessed previously. Please, Haley, I do not wish to allow this short time I have with Sharroon to slip away. I wish to conclusively determine if I am capable of inspiring feelings of love in another being. I also wish to explore my own feelings in this area.” Data was almost pleading now and, once again, Haley could not refuse him.

“Okay, okay. Actually, the word explore is a good one for this area. Kissing is kind of like an exploration. In this kind of kiss, you are exploring the other person’s lips with your own. If the kiss continues, it may lead to the exploration of her mouth as well,” Haley explained.

“Ah, yes, what is referred to as French kissing,” Data said.

“Right. Now you don’t want to plunge your tongue down her throat, but this kind of kiss can be very intoxicating if you are sharing it with someone you really care about.”

Data nodded. “Precisely why I wish to be able to execute this type of kiss properly. Will you help me?” he implored her.

Suddenly it came to Haley just exactly what Data wanted. “You want to practice on me again?” she asked, feeling the knot return to her stomach.

“Yes,” Data said, eagerly. He was already coming to a stand. Why he seemed to think one could not kiss sitting, Haley did not know, but if he had not held out his hand to help her to her feet, Haley doubted she would have made it.

Smiling happily, Data reached to pull her into his arms. Haley could have sworn the temperature in the room jumped five degrees in that second. He closed his eyes and slowly brought his lips to hers. The heat was melting Haley’s resistance and her arms crept around to climb up Data’s back. He moved his lips gently over hers, seeking their softness. The fuzziness enveloped her as completely as Data’s arms.

After a lifetime, he pulled back slightly. “Is there an improvement?” he inquired. All Haley could do was nod. Data grinned with pride. “Shall we proceed to the open mouth kiss?” he asked. Haley had no idea what she did that he took for consent, all she knew was that a second later his lips again were pressed to hers and she could feel his tongue lightly tracing between her lips. She parted them and greeted his tongue with her own. Trying as hard as she could, she could not stifle the moan of desire that ensued.

Data pulled back again with a disappointed look on his face.

"Was that not satisfactory?" Data asked quietly.

"It was very good. You are a very quick study," Haley replied as she quickly sat back down on the couch as she was sure she could not trust her knees to hold her up much longer.

"But you moaned. Were you not disappointed?" he asked confused.

"That was a good moan, Data. Not all moans indicate disappointment. When a person experiences something pleasurable it can cause a response like that." Haley stumbled through her explanation as best she could but the fuzziness was making it hard for her to think straight.

"Aahh," Data smiled. "I hope I can elicit a similar response from Sharroon this evening. Thank you again, Haley. I must leave now to prepare for my date."

"Good luck, Data," Haley called to Data as he left. She hoped she had sounded like she really meant it.

She sat perfectly still with her head once again resting on the back of the couch as she waited for the fuzziness to pass. The fuzziness had almost cleared up when the door chime sounded again.

~ Please not another kissing lesson, ~ she thought. "Come in."

Will Riker strode into Haley's quarters.

"Just what I thought. You desperately need to relax. Come with me," Will told her.

"Come? Where?" Haley asked as the commander pulled her up from the couch.

"You are going to join Deanna, Geordi and myself for a nice dinner, good conversation and relaxation," Will informed her.

"I'm not really sure-" Haley started.

"That's an order Lieutenant," Will laughed.

"Okay, okay, I'm coming. Where are we going to be eating?" Haley asked. ~ Please, don't say the lounge. Please don't say the lounge. ~

"The lounge," Will smiled.

When Will and Haley walked into the lounge, Deanna could sense the woman’s unease at once. The Betazoid watched the brunette scan the room and relax, but only slightly. Will led her to the table, chatting happily, oblivious to Haley’s distress. Geordi had stopped talking as soon as he and Deanna had noticed Will and Haley enter, so they were both waiting to greet the pair when they reached the table.

As Will handed Haley into a chair, the woman glanced up at the door to the lounge and frowned almost imperceptibly. Something was very wrong here but, without more time and information, Deanna had no idea what it was. Will had told her how Haley was having trouble relaxing and also how she was helping Data in the art of dating, but she could see no connection to the woman’s heightened state of agitation.

“Hi everyone. Thanks for letting me crash your party,” Haley said, looking from Geordi to Deanna. She smiled, but Deanna had no doubt there was no joy behind it.

“Nonsense, Haley. We’re delighted you could join us, aren’t we, gentlemen,” Deanna said graciously. She smiled with genuine warmth at Haley. Both men were quick to add their agreement. As the diners settled in, Deanna observed Haley, with concern. The security chief seemed to relax a little for a while but, soon after Geordi noted Data’s arrival with his date, the tension level in Haley was on the rise again. She grew quiet, rarely looking up and having to be addressed at least twice before she would respond to a question directed at her. This did not escape even the men’s attention.

“Lieutenant Foster, do you hear me?” Will repeated for the third time.

Haley practically jumped. “What? Commander, I’m sorry, what did you say?” she stammered.

“I asked you if you are all right?” he replied.

Haley looked around the table and then over towards one of the other tables. Pulling her gaze back to Will, with a deep frown, she rose to her feet while shaking her head. “No, I’m not. I’m very sorry everyone, but I simply can’t be here right now. Good night.” Placing her napkin on the table next to her barely touched plate, Haley rushed from the room.

Deanna exchanged meaningful looks with both of the shocked men. “Let me,” she told them and moved to follow Haley.

Except for other Betazoids, Deanna could only sense the emotions of those around her. Will was an exception to this rule, but there had been a few times when Deanna had been able to hear something from others in times of heightened emotionalism. Such an incident had just occurred. As Haley had announced to her table companions that she could not remain, Deanna had very clearly overhead the thought she had not said.

~ Not with Data here. ~

Deanna saw Haley enter the turbolift but was unable to reach it before the doors closed. She only had to wait a few moments before the lift returned. When she disembarked on deck three, she could see Haley leaning against a wall, staring at the door to her quarters. As Deanna approached Haley, the emotions she had sensed from the lieutenant in the lounge had intensified even more.

"Haley," Deanna spoke softly but her presence still caused Haley to jump. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to startle you."

"No need to apologize, Deanna. It's me. I've not been feeling myself lately," Haley spoke slowly.

"Haley, would you like to talk?" Deanna asked. Haley nodded her head affirmatively. "In your quarters-"

"No!" Haley interrupted rather forcefully. "No," she repeated almost whispering. "I don't want to go in there right now."

"Let’s go to my quarters. We can talk there."

Haley found Deanna's voice to be quite comforting and it only took a gentle touch to her shoulder to get Haley moving down the corridor. When they reached her quarters, Deanna invited Haley to sit on the couch. Haley had been to Deanna's quarters a number of times since she had come aboard the Enterprise but it had always been for poker night, not to discuss personal problems. Deanna had her quarters decorated in such a way that you could not help but feel at ease. Haley was so deep in thought she did not notice Deanna order two cups of tea from the replicator and then add a little something extra from a bottle she kept in a cabinet by her desk.

"Try this," Deanna smiled as she handed a cup to Haley. Haley smiled and took a small sip.

"What's in this?" Haley asked, surprised at the kick from the tea.

"It's a special blend of tea with a little Betazoid whiskey added. It will help you relax." Deanna advised as she sat next to Haley on the couch. "Now let's talk. I can sense that you’re suffering from an enormous amount of turmoil and I know it has something to do with Data."

At the mention of the android’s name, Haley paled. Deanna could feel a number of emotions emanating from her. Fear, shame, self-loathing and sorrow were among them. Deanna took a sip of her tea, encouraging Haley to follow suit.

“You can tell me anything, Haley, and it will never go any further. I promise you.”

“I’m a fool. I shot off my mouth about being able to help Data flirt and kiss and want to think about sex more and it came back to bite me on the butt,” she admitted, lowering her head and covering it with her hands.

“How? What do you mean?” Deanna could not believe Data had intentionally done something to make Haley feel this way.

“Data wanted to know more about kissing. He wanted me to show him how to kiss. I tried everything I could think of to show him without showing him. In the end, he was almost pleading with me to let him kiss me. I gave in.” Haley was radiating regret as she spoke.

“He kissed you? What happened then?” Deanna prodded her.

“He...well, it was not the greatest kiss, but the way he touched me...” Absently, Haley’s hand went to the cheek were Data had first caressed her.

“Was this today?” Deanna asked.

“No, but today was worse,” Haley almost groaned, remembering. “This time the kiss was good too.”

"He kissed you again today?" Deanna asked. "Why?"

"After the first kiss, I had told him there was more to it than just pressing lips. Today, he wanted to practice for his date with Sharroon," Haley recounted.

"You weren't able to say no to his request?"

"Deanna, if you could have seen him, the look on his face. He was so happy their first date had been a success, so excited about their dinner tonight. He was worried he would disappoint Sharroon and he had this pleading expression on his face. I couldn't...I couldn't say no," Haley sighed.

"And Data has no idea your feelings for him are changing," Deanna stated more than asked.

"Exactly. He's so happy to have a new area of his life open up for him." Haley sighed again. "He keeps thanking me and telling me what a wonderful friend I have been for helping him and it's killing me inside."

"I understand you haven't been sleeping well lately?" Deanna mentioned.

"Yes. I keep having these dreams..." Haley paused for a moment. "And then I wake up and toss and turn for hours before I fall back to sleep. Last night wasn't as bad, Dr. Selar gave me something to help but the dreams..."

"Tell me about the dreams, Haley," Deanna encouraged.

"They’re always the same but different. I'm watching Data enjoying himself with another woman but it's a different woman each time. I don't know what to do." She put her head in her hands again, but forced herself not to cry.

“Maybe the truth would be a good start,” Deanna suggested.

Haley jumped to her feet in astonishment. “I can’t do that. What do I say? That his kiss turned me on? What’s he gonna do? Drop his new girlfriend and take up with me? This is not a dream, Deanna. He’s not gonna do that, and I’m not gonna tell him. He can be himself, flirt and kiss a woman. Anything else that he needs in this area will be verbal coaching, I’m sure. This will blow over, Deanna.” Haley began to pace. “I’ll forget about his kiss and all will come out fine. I’m sure of it.” She gave the Betazoid a smile that was more convincing than any she had given in days.

Deanna got to her feet as well, coming over to gently take Haley’s arm. “If you find that you’re wrong, you know where my office is. I’ll even talk to Data for you, if you would prefer.”

“No!” Haley exclaimed, alarmed. She proceeded calmer. “I’ll handle it, Deanna. I assure you. I’ll be fine in a few days. I guarantee it.”

The ambassador and her aides were beamed down to the planet the following day. While crewmembers from the Enterprise would be going back and forth from the ship to Marsalla IV, the ambassador would be staying. This meant Data and Sharroon would have a little more difficulty in seeing each other, but it also meant they would most likely not be back in the lounge for dinner. Bad news for Data, but good news for Haley, who was just not sure she could stand seeing them together after the little parting scene they had given her and the other two aides in the transporter room. Data had been mostly professional, but Sharroon had tears running down her face by the time she finally let go of him and stepped on the transporter pad. It was all Haley could do not to strangle the woman. The final days of this mission, Haley either saw Sharroon or Data, but not the two together. Her sleep had improved immensely by the time they left orbit.

It had been a little over a week since they left Marsala IV and the ambassador and her aides behind. Haley was starting to feel almost like her old self. She had not had a nightmare in a week but she was still not able to shake the feelings the kisses had created. Data had suggested a short break before resuming the lessons so he could analyze his experience with Sharroon. Haley had, of course, agreed but for different reasons.

Haley was venturing into the lounge for the first time since the evening of Data's dinner date. She had completely thrown herself into her work to avoid socializing but now she finally felt she could enjoy herself again.

"Haley, over here," a familiar voice called to her. She turned to see Will gesturing to her to join himself, Deanna and Data at a table near the back. Haley smiled and sat down with the group.

"We haven't seen much of you off the bridge?" Will commented. "Surely you can take a break from being security chief to join your friends?"

"I have been a little busy of late," Haley agreed. "And don't call me Shirley," she added with a playful grin.

Haley enjoyed spending time with her friends again, although it did feel a little different sitting with Data than it had before. She was very grateful Deanna had gotten her to confide in her as anytime Will or Data brought up the subject of Data's lessons or Sharroon, Deanna skillfully changed the subject without either realizing she had done so. Haley could not help but say a silent thank you to Deanna.

Chapter 3

It was three evenings later when Will and Geordi invited Haley to join them in the lounge for a drink. With Deanna not there to help, the conversation soon turned to Data.

"You did a great job helping Data. Maybe you could help Geordi next," Will laughed.

"Very funny, Commander," Geordi sighed. "Where is Data anyway? I haven't seen him all day."

"I think he has a date tonight," Will grinned. Haley had been taking a sip of her drink when Will had spoken and suddenly started to choke. "Are you okay, Haley?"

Haley coughed a few more times while nodding her head. "It just went down the wrong way. Go on," Haley managed to say.

"Data came to me for some advice," Will continued, "I hope you don't mind. Data didn't want to disturb you since you were so busy. He wasn't sure what to do next since things hadn't gone completely as he thought they should with Sharroon. I told him that if at first you don't succeed, try, try again." Will nodded in the direction of the door as Data and Lieutenant Miller entered. "I'm glad he took my advice."

While Haley was also glad Data had gone to Will, she was certain that before Data decided he had dating down, she was going to have a stroke. “Or would heart failure be more appropriate?” she asked the mirror as she pulled the clips from her hair. She sighed and turned from the vanity as she ran her fingers through her locks, finally shaking her head to allow her natural curl to once again frame her face.

The fling with Lieutenant Miller had lasted eighteen days and five dates before Data decided she was not for him. Ensign Marribar lasted twelve days and four dates before she went the way of the other two. Lieutenant Rosterlin had agreed to a third date tonight, but Data had wanted to see Haley just prior to his date to ask her advice again. This would be the fourth time this week and the dreams had returned.

Haley was putting makeup over the dark circles under her eyes when the door chime sounded. Putting everything hastily away, she called for her visitor to enter. Data strode confidently into the room and to Haley’s side. He greeted her with a warm hug. He had started doing this about four weeks ago and she had noticed the dreams had returned about that same time.

~ I can’t exactly ask him to stop hugging me, now can I? ~ she had groaned to herself on more than one occasion.

Taking her hand, something he had started two weeks ago, Data led Haley to the couch and sat beside her. “I am taking Anne to the ball Commander Riker arranged for this evening. Are you planning on attending?” he asked, with that sweet smile he used so well.

“I hadn’t planned on it. Come on, Data. You don’t need me to hold your hand anymore. You’re doing wonderfully on your own,” she assured him.

Data reclaimed her hand and grinned at her, playfully. “I enjoy the feel of you holding my hand. While I may not need it, I value it,” he told her earnestly.

Once again, she felt herself grow weak. Data had gained some power over her and there was practically nothing she could deny him.

“I wish you to come to the ball,” he told her.

“Why?”

“I intend to save at least one dance for you. Anne must leave at 2000 hours. At that time, will you take her place as my dance partner? Please?”

Haley wished she could plead she was a bad dancer, but Data knew better. She had danced with him in the past, but now it was different. Before his touch did not send chills up and down her spine. Now it did, and sometimes more.

"Data, I don't know," Haley stammered. "I don't have anything to wear. I don't exactly keep 19th century formal wear in my closet."

"I am sure you can find something suitable at the stores," Data smiled. "Please, Haley."

"Okay, okay. I'll go," Haley could never refuse Data when he gave her that look. That look was what started all of this in the first place.

"Thank you, Haley," Data hugged her again but this time for a little longer than before. Haley was sure her knees were going to buckle at any moment if Data did not release her.

"I look forward to our dances together." Data moved towards the door to Haley's quarters, turning back to smile at her before he left. Haley's stomach began to ache.

~ I don't care what the doctors say, I swear I'm getting an ulcer, ~ she groaned to herself.

With great reluctance, Haley left her quarters to seek out a dress when she saw Deanna walking in her direction.

"Hello, Haley," Deanna smiled. "Are you attending Will's ball tonight?"

"I wasn't planning on it but it looks like I will be now," Haley sighed.

"What made you change your mind?" Deanna questioned although she suspected she knew the answer.

"Lieutenant Rosterlin has to leave early and Data asked if I would be his dance partner after she left," Haley explained.

"And he had that look on his face that you've told me about and you couldn't refuse," Deanna finished.

"That's exactly it," Haley sighed again. "I don't know how I'm going to get ready in time. I don't even have a dress."

"Let me help. I know what size you wear and I think I can find something you'll like," Deanna offered. "Go back in your quarters, take a short nap and I'll be back soon."

Haley took Deanna's advice regarding the nap. She slept for 45 minutes before the door chime sounded. Deanna came in holding a formal Victorian era gown of deep burgundy. There was delicate embroidery along the bodice and a synched waist. The neckline plunged a little lower than Haley would have picked herself but the dress was beautiful.

"Do you really think I can do justice to that dress?" Haley questioned.

"You will look absolutely gorgeous," Deanna reassured her. ~ At least I hope that's what Data will think. ~ "I'm going to start getting ready. If you think you will need help, I can come back later."

"Please. I need all of the help I can get," Haley was practically pleading.

After Deanna left, Haley held the dress up to herself and looked in the mirror. She laid it out on her bed before having a quick shower. After looking at some Victorian era hairstyles on the computer, Haley pulled her hair back with a ribbon imitating one of the styles. By the time Deanna returned, all that was left for Haley to do was put on that dress. It took a few minutes to get the dress done up and adjusted but it was worth it.

"You do look gorgeous," Deanna smiled. Haley was looking at herself in the mirror having a hard time accepting that it was really her reflection staring back at her.

~ Damn, I do look good, ~ she thought. "Thank you for everything, Deanna. Not just for tonight. You've been such a rock for me and I really appreciate it."

"That's what friends are for. Now come on. Let's go to the ball, Cinderella," Deanna smiled.

The two women received many appreciative glances on their way to holodeck two, where the ball was being held. They chatted happily as they approached the open doors, but when they did, Haley stopped dead.

“What’s wrong?” Deanna asked, taking Haley’s arm. The empath could feel her friend’s distress.

“I can’t go in there,” Haley declared in a tone that left no room for argument. She stared with a blank expression into the busy room. Deanna could see Haley’s eyes were not expressionless. They were filled with dread.

“Data?” Deanna whispered as other partygoers passed them to join the festivities.

“SHE will be in there with him. I can’t do it. I can’t be there while he is romancing her,” Haley affirmed under her breath. She closed her eyes and turned away from the entrance.

“But, Haley, you went to all this trouble and you looks so wonderful,” Deanna reminded her. But Haley was shaking her head and moving away. “And you promised Data,” Deanna added, using her final trump card.

Haley turned back to look the Betazoid in the eye. “Go on ahead. Anne is due to leave around 2000. I’ll come back then,” Haley pledged. Deanna looked sad, but nodded slowly. “Go on. I’ll see you later. Have a good time.”

With no place else to go, Haley returned to her quarters. She realized that without help, she not only could not get out of the dress, but she would not be able to get back into it. Feeling defeated, she sat carefully at her dining room table. After ordering the computer to signal her when it was 2000 hours, she lay her head down on the tabletop and closed her eyes.

Data and Anne were just moving to the dance floor when Deanna arrived, but she assured him later Haley would be there, but not for a while.

“Is there a problem, Counselor?” Data asked, exchanging glances with Anne. The perimeter of the huge room had been encircled with tables for sitting and eating. Deanna, Will, Lieutenant Lil Quata, Ensign James Trec, Data and Anne had been sitting together at one.

Deanna tried not to sigh at Data’s question. “She just couldn’t make it until then, Data,” she told him with as much certainty as she could muster. Data seemed content to accept this and nodded. Anne teased him a bit about wanting to make sure he had a pretty woman on his arm the whole night. Data just grinned.

Anne had left at 1940 claiming she had some preliminary test findings to go over before she started her work in the Chem Lab that night. Exchanging a rather uninspired kiss with Data, she left the ball. Fortunately, no glass slipper was left behind.

Deanna noticed Data seemed anxious soon after Anne’s departure. He turned to glance at the door frequently. “Haley will be here, Data,” Deanna assured the android, but as 2000 came and went, Deanna began to wonder herself.

A song had just concluded and many were returning to their seats when Will, who was facing the door, suddenly exclaimed. “Damn!” Everyone turned to look at him with concern or confusion. “Sorry. That was just my sexy woman proximity detector going off. Look.” He pointed across the room to where Haley stood, looking for Data.

Deanna heard Data sigh with relief as he quickly moved towards Haley.

Haley turned to see Data approaching her.

~ Please, no hug, ~ Haley thought as Data stood in front of her.

"Haley, I am so happy to see you. You look very beautiful," Data said with a big smile before giving Haley a quick hug.

"Thank you, Data. I said I would be here and I could never let you down," Haley smiled back. Even though she was feeling such a jumble of emotions she could not help but smile when Data was looking at her like that.

Data had taken Haley's hand and was leading her back to the table when the music started up again. It was Will, however, who beat Data to having the first dance with Haley.

"Excuse me, Mr. Data. Ms Foster, you look stunning this evening. May I have the pleasure of this dance?" Will smiled.

With a disappointed look on his face, Data released Haley's hand as Will led her to the dance floor. Data returned to the table and watched as Will and Haley twirled around the dance floor. It was obvious Haley was enjoying her dance with the commander and this bothered Data but he did not understand why. Data started to feel better when the music stopped and Will and Haley started to make their way to the table. Data's discomfort returned quickly though when Lieutenant Reed intercepted the pair and escorted Haley back to the dance floor. Haley glanced over to Data with an apologetic look on her face as she walked with Lieutenant Reed. This scene repeated itself again when Lieutenant Torres approached Haley as soon as she had finished her dance with Lieutenant Reed.

"Data, let's dance," Deanna smiled as she pulled Data to the dance floor. "Tell me what's bothering you."

"I do not know. I have never experienced this emotion before. I do not know how to describe it but it occurs whenever Haley is dancing with someone." Data words stumbled from his mouth.

~ It's called jealousy, Data, ~ Deanna thought to herself before speaking. "Haley does look very beautiful tonight. It's not surprising others have noticed that fact as well."

"Yes, that is true, however, I wish they would stop asking her to dance so I can," Data lamented.

Deanna quickly changed the subject to Data's evening with Anne. "Will you be seeing Anne again, Data?" she asked.

"I do not believe so. Anne is a pleasant woman, however, it is obvious her duties are a priority greater to her than a relationship," Data responded.

"That's too bad, Data." Deanna tried to sound like she meant what she was saying.

"I am starting to get discouraged, Counselor. I am wondering whether there is someone out there for me."

"Data, I am certain there is but sometimes, when you’re looking too hard for something, you miss what is right in front of you." Deanna smiled as the music stopped. "Now go ask Haley to dance."

Data made his way towards Haley as Lieutenant Reed was asking Haley for another dance.

"I am sorry, Lieutenant," Data interrupted. "Lieutenant Foster already has a partner for this dance." Haley smiled as Data took her in his arms as the music began. Data and Haley danced together for the rest of evening.

Data held Haley’s hand as he escorted her back to her quarters. She was aglow with happiness and a light misting of perspiration that covered her brow. Data had stepped up the pace of their last dance and it seemed as though she was still recovering.

Data still felt slightly discouraged over his newest failure with Anne. Each of the women he had been dating had many pleasing qualities and seemed to enjoy his company, but Data knew there was something else - something more he craved from each pairing.

Perhaps the fault still lay with him, Data decided. As they entered Haley’s quarters, Data was glad they were together, he needed her very much right now. He needed to check something important.

“Haley,” Data began once the door had closed behind them. He did not even let her go to the couch. He looked intensely into her eyes as he continued. “I require your assistance.”

Haley’s expression of happiness evaporated as Data’s became extremely serious.

“What is it, Data?” she asked in a small voice.

“I have thus far failed in my attempts to find a suitable mate, despite your generous assistance. Since your guidance is supported by numerous entries I have read previously...” He gave her an apologetic smile for not disregarding his past reading. She raised an eyebrow at him, but remained silent. “...and I can see no serious flaws in the ladies I have selected, the fault must therefore lie with me.” Haley tried to interrupt here, but Data prevented her with a finger to her lips. “In this case, I would like to review your lessons for areas I have faltered in my learning. I wish you to tell me if I have improved or declined in my effectiveness.”

Haley sighed and smiled up at him, waiting for the string of long worded compliments to begin.

“Go ahead, Data but I’m sure if you are still being yourself, you’re fine.”

“I have added some improvisations. You can inform me if they are indeed still fine.” With a nod to indicate he was ready to begin, Data took gentle but firm hold of Haley’s shoulders, walking her backwards to the nearby wall. Backing her against it, he moved in. Tilting his head to the side, he leaned in to press his lips to hers. But this kiss was different. If the first one he had given Haley took her to first base, and the following one to second, this kiss bypassed third and went straight to home. Data held her tightly against the wall and somehow it heightened the excitement of what he was doing.

“Do you note improvement or a decline in my performance?” he asked her softly. Haley still had not opened her eyes.

“Improvement,” she finally mumbled.

“I see. Perhaps the following type of kiss,” he mused.

Haley tensed noticeably as she opened her eyes. “Following type?” she repeated, nervously.

Data moved his hands from where he was holding her against the wall to her cheeks. “You must open your mouth slightly this time, Haley. You have become tense. Please try to relax,” he instructed as he again brought his lips to hers.

His lips caressed hers before his tongue darted from between his lips to tease her lips into parting and allowing him access. With a small start, Haley did as Data wished. The heat that always accompanied his touch now seemed a flame. It was causing her to melt into him. She could not stop herself from praying he would take her into her bedroom and keep going.

Instead, Data gradually pulled back from her, taking his sweet kiss with him. “Your opinion, Haley?” he asked her.

“What comes after home?” she whispered in a dreamy voice.

“I do not understand the question,” Data told her.

Haley opened her eyes and looked Data in the eyes. “I mean, you’re just fine...you...your kiss... it’s very nice. There’s nothing wrong with it.” She took a deep breath and ordered the fuzziness to release her. Taking hold of his elbows, she looked him firmly in the eyes. “Data, I think you are expecting to hit a home run your first time at bat. It takes time to find a mate. If they aren’t right for you, it doesn’t mean there is something wrong with them or you, just that you are not fully compatible with each other. Just give it time, Data. You’ll find her,” she assured him.

Data grinned that grin that always felt like a blow to the stomach to Haley. “You are very wise, Haley. I cannot thank you enough. I will heed your advice. Thank you for everything,” he said. He pulled her back into his arms and hugged her tightly. Pulling back, he kissed her temple with affection.

“I will go now. Thank you,” he concluded.

Haley forced another smile and nodded. “You’ll find her, Data,” she called to his departing back. As soon as the door closed, Haley fell against the wall and sunk to the floor. “And the day you do find her, it will kill me.”

Haley could not stop the tears that followed. She sat sobbing on the floor with her arms wrapped around her knees and her face buried in the folds of her dress for almost an hour. When the tears finally slowed, Haley stood up and went to the mirror to look at the damage. Her eyes were red and puffy and her make-up was now a disastrous mess.

"Go to bed, Haley," she ordered her reflection. She reached to the back of her dress. She struggled trying to get the dress undone becoming more frustrated with each try. Finally all of the turmoil she had been going through for so long boiled over. "Damn!" she exclaimed loudly as she pulled at the fabric, releasing all of her emotions as she did. Now the only sound filling the room was that of ripping fabric as Haley tore the dress off and threw it on the floor. She ran to her bedroom, throwing herself on her bed. The tears were back and no matter how hard she tried they would not stop. Finally, Haley cried herself to sleep. She was totally spent, not just from the evening but from everything that had happened over the past months. She then had the best night's sleep she had experienced in a long time. She had been too tired, too wrung out to even dream.

Chapter 4

Over the course of the next week, Haley became more and more withdrawn. Deanna had, of course, been the first to notice. She no longer sensed the turmoil Haley had been going through but this was worse. Deanna sensed nothing - no emotion - coming from Haley. It was as if Haley was the one with the emotion chip and she had just clicked it off. Deanna did her best to try to help Haley but the security chief was more interested in throwing herself into her duties and immersing herself in reading tactical and security protocols. No one, not even Data, could break the force field Haley had enveloped herself in.

It took a formal order from Commander Riker to get Haley to accompany him to the lounge.

"You are going to have a good time tonight, Lieutenant Foster. And that's an order too," he informed her and, for once, he was not joking. It took an hour and most of his best jokes before he was able to get a hint of a smile to cross her lips. A couple more jokes later and he was able to elicit a laugh.

"Well, that's an improvement," Will smiled as he moved his chair closer to Haley's. "Haley, we've all been very worried about you. Let us help you with whatever it is that you’re going through."

"I am so lucky to have such wonderful friends," Haley smiled at Will, "but I’m fine. Really.”

Will gave Haley a look of disbelief but did not press her further, deciding she was just not ready to talk. He put his arm around Haley to give her a comforting hug as Haley rested her head on Will's shoulder for a moment. It was then that a voice came from behind Haley.

"Am I disturbing you?" the voice asked hesitantly.

"No, of course not, Data. Sit down. Haley and I were just talking." Will moved his arm back to his side and repositioned his chair to its original place.

"It is very nice to see you smile again, Haley," Data commented. He meant his words but was extremely disappointed it was Commander Riker who had achieved this and not himself. He had also noticed the uncomfortable feeling he had experienced at the ball had returned when he saw the commander's arm around Haley.

The friends were soon joined at their table by Deanna. As the group broke up for the evening, Haley was forced to admit she had enjoyed herself. Deanna gave her a comforting hug before she left and reminded Haley she was available any time to talk.

"Thank you, Will. It was really good to -"

"-rejoin the land of the living?" Will finished.

"Yes." Haley laughed giving Will a gentle squeeze of the elbow. She turned to Data and smiled. "Good night, Data."

"Good night, Haley." Data smiled back but his eyes showed his worry. Throughout the evening, whenever he had moved to touch Haley, she had moved away and he did not understand why.

Data decided to determine conclusively if Haley had been avoiding him, or simply showing a preference for Commander Riker’s touch. Data invited Haley to lunch two days after the evening in the lounge. Unfortunately, Haley had other plans for that afternoon, namely a flushing of a unit that fed into the force field generator in the brig.

“I am still concerned you are over working yourself, Haley. Will you have dinner with me tonight?” Data asked, trying again.

“I really can’t, Data. I have to go over the unauthorized entry protocol drill scores for tomorrow. Starfleet will be expecting my report by Thursday and I haven’t even started it.” Haley shrugged and smiled, but again as Data reached to touch her hand, Haley suddenly needed some information from science station two and moved quickly to retrieve it.

Data tried three more times before he concluded that experimenting during a meal with Haley was not necessary. Not only was Haley avoiding his touch, she was avoiding him completely.

Data talked to Geordi, but his friend did not have any answers. “I know she’s been busy, but I’ve not noticed her being distant to me, Data. Have you done something to upset her recently?” Geordi asked.

“Not that I am aware of. Would she not tell me if I have offended her?” Data questioned.

“My gut says yes. She’s never been one to play mind games. Haley’s always been cut and dry in her ways. I’d say you need to talk to her, Data.” Geordi shrugged, helplessly.

“I have tried to talk to her. She will not, as they say, give me the time of day,” Data confided. In the end, his friend could offer up no other advice.

Data knew Commander Riker would be the next logical person to speak to, but his emotions regarding Haley, and Riker touching her, however irrational, caused Data reluctance in this instance.

Left with few options, Data made an appointment with Counselor Troi.

Counselor Troi's appointment schedule was full for that day so Deanna would not be able to see him until early the next afternoon. During the rest of his shift and while he was getting ready for his dinner date that evening with Lieutenant Sandra Deslauriers, Haley was in Data's thoughts. He missed spending time with her. He missed her smile, her laugh, everything about her. She had not even attended the last two poker nights, which had never happened before.

Data arrived at the lounge with Sandra at 1900. They were engaged in conversation when Data saw Haley arrive with a PADD in hand and sit at a table with Commander Riker. Data tried to concentrate on Sandra but found he could not stop himself from taking quick glances towards his friends' table. He knew Commander Riker's behavior towards Haley was no different from countless other evenings the friends had spent together. Yet with each smile they exchanged, each burst of laughter, each friendly touch between friends, each time the commander would put his hand on the back of her chair or leaned over to look at the information on the PADD, that uncomfortable feeling returned for Data.

When Data and Sandra were ready to leave the lounge, Data glanced once more towards Haley. She and the commander were still going over the scores from the drills that had been held. Haley glanced up to see Data looking over. She gave him a quick smile before turning back to her work.

As Data and Sandra waited at the turbolift, he found he was unable to continue with their date.

"Sandra, I am afraid I must end our date early this evening. Please forgive me. May I take you to lunch tomorrow to make up for it?" he asked.

"Sure, Data. You seemed rather preoccupied this evening so it's probably for the best," Sandra replied. Data escorted the lieutenant back to her quarters, giving her a quick kiss before departing.

When he reached his quarters, Data was at a loss as to why he was feeling the way he was. He was looking forward to speaking with the counselor even more now.

The next day began quite ordinarily and stayed uneventful throughout the morning. Data could not stop himself from taking a glimpse at Haley each time he left his ops station.

The time had come for Data's lunch date with Sandra. Sandra was already at a table in the lounge when Data arrived. As he went to join her, Data noticed Haley having lunch with Lieutenant Gerard, one of the security officers under her command. Once again, that uncomfortable feeling returned.

Lunch with Sandra was not going well. She found herself having to repeat herself a number of times as Data became more and more distracted. His constant glances away had brought her to a slow boil.

"Earth to Data." The sarcasm in Sandra's voice was evident, even to Data.

"I am sorry for not being as attentive as I should be, however, I find myself to be a-"

"-little distracted?" Sandra finished with a hint of anger in her voice. "Data, you obviously don't want to be with me so why don't we just end it now."

"But Sandra-" Data replied confused.

"Don't 'but Sandra' me," she snapped back. "This is the second date in a row we've had where you have been much more interested in the events at other tables than in me. So why don't we stop wasting each other's time and call it quits? Goodbye, Data." With that, Sandra threw her napkin on the table and left the lounge. Data sat silently trying to analyze what had just happened. He slowly rose from the table to go for his appointment with Counselor Troi.

~ I hope the counselor will be able to help me understand what is happening, ~ Data thought as he made his way to the door of the lounge. As he passed, he found himself glancing over to Haley’s table. Her laughter seemed to taunt him as he exited the room.

While Deanna hated to see it happen as it was, she could tell from the moment Data walked into her office that this situation with Haley was coming to a head. Data was very upset and from what she had heard from Will and Geordi, it was his flirting teacher that brought him to Deanna’s office this time.

Troi wasted no time in asking Data to start from the beginning and tell her what was on his mind.

“A number of things, Counselor. But it would be fair to state they all involve Haley. I have found her lessons to me on dating to be invaluable. I still do not seem to be capable of maintaining a relationship for an extended period of time...” Data decided he did not want to lament over the ruined date with Sandra. It had been entirely his fault, but Haley the reason. Best to start there.

“Pardon me, Counselor. I wish to begin again. I am here because I have somehow offended a cherished friend and I need assistance in rectifying my error.”

“What’s going on, Data?” Deanna asking, wanting to see how he would phrase it.

“Haley seems to be avoiding my individual company and, I believe, any tactile encounter with me. I miss her.” His expression was so like the sweet, lost face Deanna had seen on him before the chip. She wished she could wave her hand and make the pain and confusion disappear, but this one, Data had to find on his own.

“Why do you think she’s avoiding you, Data?” she asked, softly.

“Her reason? I do not know. We have not quarreled. She has not expressed any displeasure with any of my actions, to my knowledge. I cannot conceive of what I may have done to upset her.” Data had been looking at his own hands, but paused here to meet the counselor’s black eyes. What he saw there unnerved him.

“I do not know, but you do. Is that not correct, Counselor?” Data asked, trying to keep the accusation out of his voice.

“I am Haley’s counselor too, Data. Anything she has told me, I can’t reveal to you, just as anything you say here, will not get back to her.” Deanna did her best to keep her tone factual.

Data lowered his head once more. It had still been there in her eyes. The knowledge. “I believe you have told me all I needed to know, Counselor. I am indeed the cause of the rift between Haley and myself.” Data rose to a stand. “Thank you for your time, Counselor. I now know what I must do.” Without another word, Data headed for the door.

Deanna wanted to call him back, but there really was very little she could say that would not betray Haley. Now all there was to do was wait and see.

Chapter 1	Chapter 2	Chapter 3	Chapter 4	Chapter 5
Chapter 6	Chapter 7	Chapter 8	Epilogue	Fiction Index

LOVE1011_ASSTR