THE MEMOIRS OF LORE ^©2004-2007

By Lessa and Takara Soong

Part Two

It’s been two weeks now and I’m itchy as hell. I got into a fight with Vaasic and hit him. I was holding back so I only broke his jaw, but I got a day in the detention center and a long lecture from Kissel. Vaasic was found to have started the fight and he did, so he was given a day in detention after he was healed by the local doctor. He was given a second day by Kissel - no work and no pay.

He really doesn’t like me now, but I think he’s finally heard the rumors that Kissel and I have a “thing” so I doubt he’s gonna try that number again.

It’s Sunday and I’m working in Kissel’s garden with her. She even bought me a fucking gardening hat as a joke. I wear it just to make her smile. She knows how edgy and jumpy I’ve been lately so she’s been trying to do what she can to distract me. I wish sex was one of them but that may never happen now.

Oh, well.

“Have dinner with me tonight, Lore,” Kissel says brushing a lock of hair away as she also wipes the sweat from her brow. She is so beautiful when she sweats. Oh, I forgot, women don’t sweat - they perspire or glisten. I love that one - glisten. My Kissel sweats, but it in no way detracts from her appeal. I reach over and wipe her brow. My hands are as dirty as hers, so I just leave a streak. I grin at her and she laughs. She moves to kiss me.

“Lore.” It’s Ren’s voice.

“Not now, Ren, We’re very busy,” I tell him without looking away from the woman I want to kiss. But she does look over and her face shows astonishment.

I look over too. Data stands next to Ren. He’s brought his friends, the blind guy and the Betazoid. Troi is still a mighty fine looking woman, even with the confused and stunned look on her face.

I get to my feet and offer a hand to Kissel. “Hi Data. Greetings, Counselor Troi, Commander La Forge – I see you’ve been promoted. Congratulations. I’d like you all to meet a friend of mine, Kissel Draymot. Kissel, this is my baby brother, Data and his friends from his ship.”

I want to laugh at the absurd expressions on these three faces as they each exchange a handshake with Kissel.

“What were you doing?” Data asks, openly curious. That’s my brother.

“We were weeding. Kissel here is trying to turn me into a weekend gardener.” I tap my hat and look at her. Kissel looks uncertain.

“I’m going to the bar, if you need me, Lore.” This comes from Ren who nods at both of the women, eyes Data and walks away. Exchanging an uncertain look with me, Kissel steps from my side over to Troi and La Forge.

“You two are human, correct?” she asks them. When La Forge nods, Kissel indicates her home. “Why don’t we go inside and get out of the sun. I’m sure Lore and Data have a lot they want to talk about.” Troi and La Forge exchange looks with Data who nodded. “Do you want me to bring you a towel to clean up with, Lore?” Kissel offers.

My hands are filthy. I look over at this thoughtful woman and smile at her. “I’ll use the spigot on the side of the house. Thanks, Kissel.” I watch as she leads the two Starfleet officers inside. I head towards the side of the house to wash up. Data follows.

“I’ve been going crazy waiting for you to answer me or get here. What took you so long, Data?” I feel a little jittery, but at least the waiting is over.

“It was necessary to obtain permission for possibly an extended leave and to coordinate leave with Geordi and the counselor.” Data sounds just as blank as ever. That sound is troubling to me now. I grimace at him, involuntarily.

“Your friend, La Forge, I can understand, but why did you bring Troi?”

“She can sense your emotions. She cannot read your thoughts, but she was able to detect that some of what you claim is true.”

Data doesn’t sound thrilled to admit this. I look over at him as I shake the water from my hands. I’d washed the dirt from them already. “What did she sense?”

“That you do have feelings for the woman,” Data answers, succinctly.

I study his face for a moment. “Why don’t we take a walk? You can pick the direction so you know I’m not leading you into a trap.”

Data looks almost angry, he’s so mistrustful. I can’t blame him, but somehow I do. I want him to see it. Can’t he see I’ve changed? Or have I fooled him too many times already?

Data starts walking in the direction they came from. I look back at Kissel’s house and see her looking out a window at me. She mouths the words “good luck” to me. I smile, nod and wave to her. Data sees this and looks back towards the house. Kissel stands at the window for ten more seconds before turning away. I can tell Data is not quite sure what to make of Kissel. We walk the first ten meters in silence before I finally speak.

“I’m glad you came, Data. I really do want to make things right with you.” I look at Data but I just can’t read him at all. I hate that. His expressions are a constant reminder of what I’ve stolen from him.

“I had to come, Lore. It is the only way to discern whether you were truthful or not. I am very skeptical of your claim that you have changed.”

“I understand, Data. I’ve done horrible things to you in the past. If you felt any other way, I would think you were malfunctioning.” I really do understand his skepticism. Hell, I would be skeptical too. I just hope he’ll keep an open mind.

“How long have you been on Alexis IV?”

“Almost four months.” I think I know what his next question will be so I keep talking. “I got the Pakleds to come here after leaving Terlina III and then I ditched them. I chose this planet because the planetary database they had said there was a shipyard. My plan was to get a job, steal the parts I needed to build a ship and then disappear. The furthest I got into the plan was noticing a place that would be good to hide the parts. At the time, I already knew I was changing. I didn’t understand why though.” I paused here to see if Data was going to ask another question but he just told me to continue. “I got here on a weekend and hung out at a bar trying to find out what I could about the shipyard and its owner. Then, first thing Monday morning, I went down there to get a job.” I told Data about my life here and I didn’t leave anything out. I told him about the times I spent in the detention cell and I told him about Kissel. I made sure to tell him that I had told her about my past. I was just about to tell him about my friends when we heard a voice calling to me. What timing - it was Kardec and Hausav.

“Hey, buddy, your brother did come. Damn, you weren’t kidding when you said you were identical. Aren’t ya gonna introduce us?” Kardec was studying Data as Hausav talked.

“I would if you’d shut up for a second.” They both laughed at this and then I made the introductions.

“You are Lore’s friends?” Data asks.

“Hell ya. He’s a good guy,” Kardec grinned.

Data asked if he could speak to them for a few minutes alone. I nod my head and walk over to a bench that’s nearby. Data knows I’ll be able to hear everything they say. I think that’s what he wants. Ask the guys about me to get their honest opinions and then gauge my reaction to their answers.

“Lore said you’re with Starfleet, the second officer on the flagship?” Hausav asked, unsure of his memory.

“That is correct. How long have you known my brother?” Data asked.

“We met him his first day on the job and we’ve been friends ever since,” Hausav told him. They answered all of Data’s questions. Sometimes I’m surprised by what they say but not because it’s bad. They talked about me in terms that were better than I expected. But it was the last thing Kardec said to Data that shocked the hell out of me.   

“Lore told us quite a bit about you. He had quite the look of pride in his eyes as he did. We’re glad you came, Data.” He then turned and called over to me. “We going to see you at the bar later?” I was still in a bit of a fog over his last comment. All I could do was shrug. As they were leaving, Data walked over to the bench and sat down next to me. He looked just as shocked as I did.

“They seem to like you, brother.”

I look at Data, uncertain. He hasn’t called me brother like that in years. “Yeah, it shocks the hell out of me too, sometimes.” I laugh. “Especially with Ren. Hell, when I first got here, he tailed me around everywhere. He was sure he’d catch me in something. He was thrilled when I got carried away with Kissel in her office and she called him to get me.”

“I do not understand why you did not escape. It is not in your nature to allow capture.”

I just look at Data for a moment. “I’m not sure I can explain it to you, Data. You don’t have the emotional context to understand it, I think. I didn’t understand it for a long time either.”

“You are wrong, Lore. I may lack the ability to feel emotions, but I do understand many of them. I still do not understand many of the ones I have seen from you - hatred, jealousy. I do understand friendship, love, grief-”

“Grief. Father?” I ask. Data nods.

“Yes, and Lal.” I don’t know that name and Data explains. He tells me about a semi-stable positronic matrix he created for his daughter. He tells me how she was almost taken away from him and, in the threat of being lost to him, how she showed signs of emotional awareness. “She was afraid to be taken from me.”

I’m stunned and sad for him. Data takes me right back to why I stayed in the detention center, so I try to explain what I am still working out myself.

“You are in love with Mrs. Draymot. Love is a very strong motivator. I have witnessed its influence on many of my shipmates.” He says this, but he still doesn’t bring it home. I have to digest what he’s said to me. Data’s right, I suppose. Damn, me? In love?

“But you’ve never experienced it for yourself, Data. Don’t you want to?”

Data looks at me and I can see odd flickers in his eyes. “I do not wish to experience the other emotions I have seen from you, Lore. Hatred, jealousy-”           

I think back to Omicron Theta. “You don’t understand. He decided I was defective so he built you. The colonists hated and feared me. I didn’t mean to hurt them, but...” I feel my mouth twist with remembered rage. “You were perfect, he told me. His wife - damn, did she ever hate me - took you on a tour of the facility and they all marveled at you. The kids flocked to you. And just over your shoulder, they stared at me and say Soong finally got it right.” I looked at my brother to see his brows furrowed. “You don’t remember any of it, do you? I know they wiped your memories, you told me, but do you remember any of it?”

Data shook his head. “We were active at the same time?” he asks. I nod. “For how long?”

“A few days. You’re right, I was intensely jealous of you. I watched them construct you, activate you, test you, and show you off. From the moment he decided to build you, father had no time for me anymore. He was obsessed with you. I heard you called the perfect android and the perfect son.” My core burns with the pain of these memories. “I wish they wiped that time from me too.” I look at him. “I hated you. Did you know you were the reason I was taken apart?” I ask him, trying to wipe the expression of loathing from my face. He shakes his head, looking stunned again.

“She was showing you off and I came back to the lab - the one where you found me. He was there, looking over everything. He was monitoring you constantly, looking over every algorithm, every command your systems gave your sub-processor, every sub-routine accessed. I couldn’t take it anymore. I told him I was tired of hearing how perfect you were. I tried to get him to tell me what was next. I wanted him to say he was going to help me now, but he was too blinded by his success. I lost it, Data. I told him I was going to rip you apart. I never made it to the door.”

“Do you believe he would have attempted to fix you, had you not been deactivated?”

“I don’t know, Data. He’s dead now so I guess I’ll never know.”

“Your attack hastened his death.” Data says this plainly, with no malice, but it hurts. I remember the rage. I also remember the chip’s affects, trying it would seem, to burn out my rage. At the time, it only succeeded in intensifying it.

“I know, my brother,” I whisper. I look over at him, sideways. “Have you decided what to do?”

He looks confused for a moment before realizing what I’m asking. “Regarding the chip?” I nod. “It may be best to have Counselor Troi monitor you without the chip’s effects and compare them to what she was able to sense from you with it.”

I grin. The sneaky bastard. I knew there had to be a reason he brought the woman with him. La Forge was obvious, but her, I wasn’t sure about. “She can read you, Data?” My brother looks almost pained as he shakes his head.

“No, Lore. There is nothing to read from me.” This hits me, hard. I turn away.

“Take it, Data. I assume you brought everything you need to remove the chip and dismantle me. Take the chip. Just give me the chance to say good-bye. I won’t run, Data. I swear on her head, I won’t.”

“I have not decided what to do about the chip, as yet, my brother.”

We sat quietly on the bench for a couple of minutes. I hope he doesn’t take too long to decide. If he decides to dismantle me I’d prefer it happen sooner rather than later, for Kissel’s sake. I know this has been hard on her but she tries not to show it. She wants to be strong for me and there have been times over the past few weeks when I really needed her strength.

“So, Data, what do you want to do now? Do you want to keep walking or go back to Kissel’s?” We haven’t really been gone that long but I know Data has a lot to process. Data was about to respond when another voice enters the conversation, startling us both.

“Lore, why don’t you head over to the bar. I’d like to talk with your brother, if it’s okay with you, Commander.”

“Yes, Mr. Willilock, it is okay with me,” Data nodded. I had no idea what Ren was up to which must have been obvious by my expression because he just stood there with a slight grin on his face.

“Call me Ren, Commander. Now go on, Lore. I’ll bring your brother to the bar when we’ve finished our chat.” I looked over to Data. He nodded at me so I stood up and started walking to the bar. I could hear Ren engaging Data in some general small talk. I think he wanted to make sure I was out of listening range before he got serious.

I’d been at the bar for fifty-two minutes when Ren walked in with Data. The shocked look on people’s faces when they saw Data almost made me laugh until I spotted Lis. Her expression was more like a lioness on the prowl. She started to make a move towards Data but I stepped in front of her.

“My brother is off limits, Lis. Leave him alone.” She looked at me with more than a hint of anger in her eyes before turning away. I’m going to have to keep my eye on her. She doesn’t give up that easily. Ren and Data were now standing in front of me at the bar.

“Well, I gotta go now. Enjoy yourselves but don’t get into any trouble.”

“Thank you, Ren, for speaking with me. I found our talk to be very informative.” Ren nodded his head at Data before turning to leave.

I was curious about what they had talked about but was hesitant to ask Data. If Ren had wanted me to hear, he wouldn’t have waited until I was out of earshot to start talking. I had to respect his privacy.

I introduced Data to Chaz and got us a couple of drinks. I was hoping Data and I could sit in a booth but they were all taken. Well, that is until Chaz yelled at one of the regulars to haul his ass out of a booth so Data and I could have it. I thanked Chaz before Data and I went to sit down.

“Ren told me he knows you better than anyone else here. Do you agree with that assessment, brother?” I think the fact I have a friend in law enforcement really surprises Data. I can understand his surprise perfectly. It still surprises me at times. I think about his question for a few seconds before responding.

“Yeah, I would have to agree. When he first started tailing me, it was like a game but then we started talking. He would still tail me but sometimes he would come out from his hiding place and other times I would call him out. After a while he quit hiding and just walked with me. We talked quite a bit then. We talked a lot, too, when I was in the detention cell. Kissel was going to fire me because of what I did but Ren convinced her to give me a second chance.” I replay the memory of Kissel telling me this and smile. “I owe him, Data, big time.”

We had been talking for almost an hour when Lis finally made her move. She strutted over to the booth, smiling at Data as she licked her lips.

“Aren’t you going to introduce us, Lore?” She said this without taking her eyes off Data. She slid next to Data in the booth and I could tell from the position of her body, and from Data suddenly tensing up, that she had her hand on his thigh.

“I told you to leave him alone.”

“I just want to meet your sexy brother. I’m being good.” I knew what the smirk on her face meant and could feel my anger building.

“Okay, I’ll introduce you. Lis, this is my brother, Data. Data, this is the bar whore, Lis.” Lis glared at me, threw what was left of my drink in my face and stomped away. Data looked at me confused. I dried my face with a napkin before explaining. “I know that ‘introduction’ seemed harsh but I don’t want her bothering you. I used her services a few times until I started seeing Kissel. Lis wasn’t happy when I stopped. When she heard about you, she started telling everyone that, if you showed up, she was going to get you into her bed one way or another. She’s definitely not your type, Data, and I don’t want her hassling you.”

“Although I do not know what my type is, I do agree Lis is definitely not.” I was relieved that Data understood my motives regarding Lis.

“Come on, Data. Let’s head back to Kissel’s. We’ve been gone for quite a while. I don’t want your friends to think I’ve done something to you.”

“Agreed,” my talkative brother says. I wonder if he’ll talk more with the chip. Too bad I’ll never know. Too bad we’ll never get the chance to actually be brothers. I find myself staring at Data as we walk. Even my unemotional twin becomes uncomfortable under my scrutiny. He stops walking and stares back at me, questioningly.

“Sorry,” I tell him. “I was just thinking.”

“About what?” Data asks.

“You and I. It sucks that it was never different between us. It’s too late for our father. I can’t get his forgiveness, but you. Five months ago, I still wanted to rip you apart. I don’t know. I guess I’m thinking out loud.”

Data began walking again, but looking thoughtful. He’s changed too. It sure seems like he does have emotions. Reserved and under fierce control emotions, but - maybe I’ll ask that counselor of his.

We get back to Kissel’s house to find Data’s shipmates coming out to look for him. Kissel is trying to convince them all is fine. Our approach adds to her argument. Data tells all of us to come inside. I get the feeling he’s made his decision. Kissel seems to feel it too, since she comes to me and takes my hand, linking her fingers with mine. Once we’re inside I put my arm around her and I sit with her, holding her. She sneaks a kiss as Data asks his friends to also sit.

“I do believe you, Lore. I find it startling, but you have changed and very much for the better. To deactivate you now would be akin to murder. That I cannot do. I wish you to keep the chip father designed.”

Both La Forge and I are on our feet. “Data.” This comes from the human. “Are you sure about this? If you let Lore keep the chip - you’ve wanted emotions for so long, isn’t this giving up on that dream?” He’s a good friend to my brother.

Kissel is trying to get me to sit back down, but I gently push her off me. “I have to agree, brother. I can’t take this from you any more, Data. Deactivate me. It’s the right thing to do. I’m an android, it’s not murder.”

“I am an android as well, my brother. I cannot take from you that which has finally given you the ability to live a meaningful and productive life.”

Kissel stands and goes over to hug my brother. Data looks uncertain, but gives a little smile. But that is not enough. He needs to feel it.

“You’re wrong, Data. You don’t even know what you’re giving up.” I sigh.

“Maybe you should show him.” This is the first thing I’ve heard from Troi. She looks at me with a mixture of fear and confusion.

“I can’t just give him the chip, Counselor. If I deactivate it, I revert to my former self and want to kill most and maim the rest.”

“I could take the chip from you and install it in Data,” La Forge suggests.

“No, I will not take the chip from Lore,” Data states firmly.

“Can’t you make a second chip?”

We all turn to look at the woman I think I’m in love with. She looks nervous from being stared at by all of us until I exchange glances with Data and La Forge.

“I don’t see why not. We brought everything we need in the runabout,” Geordi states, grinning at Data.

“If my brother agrees, we will try the lady’s suggestion.”

Kissel hugs me with excitement. I can’t help but grin.

“Do you want to start right away?” Data and I look at each other pondering La Forge’s question but it was Kissel who responded first.

“Start tomorrow. It’s been a long day and you’ve traveled quite a distance to get here.” Kissel looked from La Forge to Data, giving them a gentle smile. “You and Lore don’t need to rest but your friends do. Stay and have dinner with us and start fresh in the morning.” That’s my Kissel – the voice of reason. She was right. If we had started now, we would’ve worked late into the night. La Forge and the counselor need to rest. It’s been a pretty stressful day for them, too.

The evening went pretty well. Kissel replicated some of the dishes she served for dinner but I picked all the vegetables from the back garden. Shit, I really seem to be good at gardening. Bigger shock, I actually enjoy working in the fucking garden. Dinner was great. Well, the food was great. Watching Data brought back the guilt but it also made me more fucking determined than before to help duplicate our father’s chip. One day very soon, I want to sit down for dinner with my brother, I want him to be able to enjoy the food and, even more, enjoy the company. His friends seemed to enjoy themselves. They are still uncomfortable being around me but, by the end of the evening, it had improved. I could tell that the counselor was monitoring my emotions the whole time. Hell, I didn’t expect them to accept me with open arms. I know it will take time. I have to prove myself.

So when we finished dinner, Kissel suggested we sit outside on the patio since it was a gorgeous evening. Data, La Forge and I discussed what we needed to do first in the morning. Counselor Troi and Kissel seem to have struck up a friendship. I would get a little distracted when they would start to laugh about something. Damn, Kissel looks so beautiful when she smiles.

They stayed another hour before the day started to catch up with La Forge and Counselor Troi.

“You’re sure you won’t have any problems getting back to the runabout? I could walk with you if you want. The place where I’m living is in the same direction you’re heading.” It was a little past dusk and I didn’t want them to get lost.

“Lore, I was hoping you could stay longer to help me clean up.”

“We can find our way. Please stay and help Mrs. Draymot. Thank you for your offer though, brother. And Mrs. Draymot, thank you very much for your hospitality today.”

After my brother and his friends had walked out of sight, Kissel took my hand and led me inside. As soon as the door closed, she threw her arms around my neck, pulled me closer and kissed me. Damn, what a kiss. Her lips were pressed firmly against mine, her tongue exploring my mouth. It was a hell of a hot kiss. I was the one left panting this time.

“Should we start cleaning up?” Kissel’s response was a devilish grin.

“It can wait.” She pulled me back into another kiss. I sure and hell wasn’t going to stop her. “I want you to spend the night with me, Lore.” She took my hand and led me to her bedroom. I can’t believe how nervous I am. I’ve had sex plenty of times but I’ve never made love before. I don’t want to disappoint her.  

“I hope you feel that way after this, Kissel. I have as much experience with this as I did with kissing gently. You may want to think this over,” I admit. Data’s right, I’m in love with her and I don’t want to ruin it a day before I may not be anymore. If we can’t duplicate the chip, and I can’t get Data to take it, I’m going to tell La Forge to. He has no love for me, so I don’t believe he’ll argue about it.

“Then maybe I’ll take the lead again. You just lay back,” she’d gotten me to the bed at this point. “And let me love you.”

I freeze. I can’t believe she just said that. Does she mean have sex with me or that she actually loves me? Oh, fuck. Is that possible? Me? I must look like a frightened and confused rabbit because she pushes me to sit on the bed and climbs in my lap, straddling me.

“Yes. I love you. I know you’ve done awful things in the past, but I also know you are not the same person.” She caresses my face tenderly. God, I can’t believe this. I don’t deserve her.

“Teach me how to make love to you, Kissel. I want to, but-”

She smiles and pushes my back down on the bed. “I’ll teach you, Lore. I’m going to teach you a lot of things and then you can teach me some of the ways you like.”

I open my mouth to caution her against that, but she takes me in a deep kiss. I’ll warn her later. She sits up to begin unbuttoning my shirt. It’s got to be safe to unbutton hers, so I ask and she nods, grinning. I feel like a buffoon, but not because of her.

I think that for all the planets where humanoid females reside, they make bras the same. They make them in two varieties too, utilitarian and sexy. My Kissel has on one of the latter and my erection is more than ready to go at the sight of it and the full set of breasts it holds. Being a nice guy is hard. Using the “nice” words does not come naturally for me, but using the crude words to describe my Kissel rubs me the wrong way.

My Kissel, however, is not rubbing me the wrong way. Oh god, is she ever rubbing. We both hear fabric tear and we look down to see I have torn through these formerly tight pants.

“Are you aroused, Lore?” she asks, barely stifling her giggles. I sigh and grab her face. I am losing control, but seeing her green eyes grow slightly fearful, I take a deep breath and pull her lips gently to mine.

Gently, gently, gently, I keep thinking. She helps me off with my ruined pants and I am exasperatingly careful in removing the rest of her garments.

I do lose control of my mouth at this point. “Fuck, you are the sexiest woman I’ve ever seen.” I grab my mouth and cover it as soon as the words are out. Kissel just grins. I now notice how she is reacting to seeing me nude for the first time. She’s looking me over with - now you’re going to think I’m really bragging here but I swear her expression reflected awe.

I am one hell of an impressive example of manhood. No organic male can do half of the things I can do in or out of bed and Kissel doesn’t even know this yet. Not bad that I’ve already impressed her. She now looks a little uncomfortable. I hope I haven’t scared her. I wonder if I should assure her it will fit.

She looks at me and turns more pink than normal. “I’m actually not good at the dominant role in this, Lore. I’ve only had one - just my late husband.”

“I don’t want to embarrass you or make you uncomfortable. Tell me what will make you happy. If you want me to take the lead, I can try.” I’m pretty damn sure I’ll still need direction so I don’t push her too hard, though. She seems to realize this and moves to lie beside me. We both turn, facing each other, on our sides. She puts her arms around me and I follow her lead. She kisses me tenderly and I still like it. She moves her body tighter against mine and I can’t refrain from rubbing my swollen – ah penis? Yeah, I guess that’s not too crude - against her.

Kissel reaches between us and strokes my shaft delicately. By the gods of Risa, that feels so good. I move a hand down her silky body and emulate her touch on her clit. I get a startled look from her at first and I almost panic but then...

My Kissel moans.

I made her moan with pleasure. I can’t believe how this simple sound excites me. Her sweet mouth opens to me and I plunder her, doing my best to hold back. Her tongue caresses mine as her hands roam over my sex. I take her leg and lift it over one of mine, opening her for greater access to my fingers. When she moans again, I feel the need to fu- get inside her. I move my fingers lower and slide them in. My body almost convulses in a thrust. My fingers go deeper inside her, but my jealous member wants to be there. My whole body thrusts, but it’s still just my fingers within her.

“I’m ready if you are,” she whispers.

“I am so fucking ready,” I moan. My understanding Kissel just smiles at me. “Ah, what position do you want to do this in?” I ask, trying to go past my latest outburst.

“Mmm, I guess, do you think you can manage on top or should I?” she asks. I’m shaking my head as the word ‘you’ comes out of her mouth so she gives me a sheepish grin and moves over me as I roll to my back.

So I don’t impale her, I close my eyes and just hold her hips to help her balance. She rises to take me. As my tip comes in contact with her, I fight the urge to plunge into her. The wait is worth it. She lowers her body down, encasing me in hers, at an excruciatingly slow pace. I come close to blowing, I mean cumming, right there. She then lowers her upper body to reclaim me in a kiss.

Damn, this is not like fucking.

I run my hand over her soft back, urging her to release and then retake my penis within her. We kiss, tongues exploring each other. Her full breasts press against me and I can feel her nipples, so I reach up to roll one between my fingers. I’m still thinking, on a level, about how I have to be gentle, so I don’t pinch her. She’s moaning harder now. I don’t believe for one minute that a human male could have survived after this much pleasure. Thoughts and feelings for this woman fill me to my core as my body fills hers.

Her rocking tempo quickens. Her kisses grow more insistent and she is now panting, not just moaning. She breaks our kiss as her rhythm breaks. She cries out, but does not stop. The almost teasing contractions of her vaginal muscles take me to the edge and push this android over. I push a little harder into her twice- no, three times, but she doesn’t resist me. I explode inside, crying out a string of absurd obscenities. I don’t think any of what I said made sense.

She is aglow with a sheen of sweat all over her sexy body as she stares down at me. She grins like a Cheshire cat.

She lies down on my chest, just under my chin. She sighs with contentment.

“I’m sorry about all those words. I-“

“There was some very nice ones in there, so I think I can overlook it,” she whispers.

I replay my memory record for that time period and I’ll be damned, she’s right. I said a lot of things but one of them was “Oh my god, I so fucking love you, I can’t fucking believe it, Kissel...” along with a rather vulgar description of what she was causing to happen to me and how attractive I found her body. Damn, this woman is amazing. She accepts me for who I am – warts and all. Fuck, I should’ve told her I love her when she said it to me. She doesn’t seem to care about all the obscenities that came with it but I do.

I have my arms around her. She’s still lying on top of me. My hand is gently caressing her back. Hell, I’m getting a little better with the gentle part, at least. I leaned forward a little to kiss her forehead. She turns her head slightly to look at me. I can’t believe how fucking beautiful she looks right now. She’s always beautiful to me but right now, the look on her face - I’m protecting this memory. I don’t ever want to lose the memory of how she looks right now. If I am shut down, I want the last thing I see to be this memory of Kissel and the way she looks now.

“I love you, Kissel.” I just had to say it again, without the fucking this and fucking that included. I had to say the words, gently.

“I love you too, Lore.” The look in her eyes is unbelievable. I always thought that human expression about eyes being the windows to the soul was a bunch of bullshit but now, the way she is looking at me. I swear I can see to the very depths of her soul as I look in those incredible green eyes of hers. I lean forward to kiss her. It starts as a soft, gentle kiss. I’m getting really good with the gentle kisses now. One gentle kiss leads to another, which leads to a more passionate kiss and – well, let’s just say that by the time Kissel fell asleep in my arms, I was getting better at making love too.

I hate to wake Kissel but I have to meet Data and La Forge soon. I replicated a new pair of pants and a shirt. I’m not going to give them any hint that I stayed at Kissel’s last night. La Forge may not like me but, if he knew how strong Kissel’s feelings are for me, he might have second thoughts about taking the chip for Data, if we can’t duplicate it. I walked Kissel to the shipyard and then made my way to the runabout. Well, that’s not exactly true. I walked her to her office, closed the door and kissed her as if it were the last kiss we would share. I know she’s scared about this. Damn, so am I. I don’t want to leave her, ever, but if we can’t make another chip, I’ll have to. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself otherwise. Sometimes I can’t believe this is actually my life.

As I was making my way to the runabout, I ran into Counselor Troi. She’s going to the shipyard today. Kissel invited her for a tour and lunch so she wouldn’t be bored while we’re working on the chip.

“Good morning, Counselor.” I’m sure she could sense the mixture of emotions coming from me. I was feeling so many things - love for Kissel, happiness from being with her and the fear. Yes, I’m will admit I’m fucking scared it will all end today if we can’t duplicate the chip. Troi looks at me almost sympathetically.

“Good morning, Lore.” She stopped and looked at me for a few seconds as if she wanted to say something but wasn’t sure if she should. “Good luck with your work. I’m surprised to hear myself saying this but I hope you won’t have to be shut down.” I was surprised to hear her say that too.

“So do I.” I couldn’t think of anything more to say so I just made sure she knew how to find the shipyard before I continued on.

When I arrived at the runabout, Data and La Forge had everything set up and ready to go. The first thing we did was run a number of scans trying to get all the information about the chip that we could to map out the circuitry.

With me hooked up to the computer, Data performs a psych test on me. He even has pictures of him, Wesley Crusher and Kissel in there. He made note of my feelings of guilt when the images of our father flashed by.

My brother is a sneaky bastard. Maybe there actually is a little of me in him or would that be some of our father in both of us? Some of the things dear old dad used to pull over our mother’s eyes... I wonder whatever happened to her? If I live through this, I’ll have to ask Data if he knows.

The information we’ve been able to gather is just not enough. They need to take the chip out and run more tests. Data also thinks a test run with me in full diagnostic mode would reveal the answers to questions they have not been able to retrieve otherwise.

Data takes me over to an examination table and carefully straps me in at the waist. He doesn’t secure my arms or legs, he just wants to make sure I don’t roll or fall off the table. I guess he can see I’m nervous.

“This should not take more than four hours, brother. This test is very thorough, as you know. It will give us the answers we need.” Data is speaking quietly and reassuringly. I’ve never seen him look like this before. He’s very sensitive, my younger brother.

He plans to run the test with it in me, first. Then they’ll run the other where they turn me off and test the chip. The first one will take four hours. The second, it could be hours, it could be days. When it was time to start the second test, and just before Data moved to hit my off switch, I stay his hand, looking at him with more seriousness than I’ve expressed in my life.

“I’ve made out papers. I gave them to Ren. If Kissel needs anything, Data...she’s not in the best financial shape right now, if you can help her-.” I can’t ask him to take care of her, since he barely knows her, but I can’t just let her-

“My brother, I will reactive you once the test is completed. Whatever arrangements you wish to make for the young woman, you will be able to attend to yourself. I give you my word, brother, you will be reactivated.”

“But if something happens-“

“Nothing should. However, if there is a problem, I do have substantial savings that I have no use for. I will see to Mrs. Draymot’s needs on your behalf.”

I ask him to turn me off before I show him how much what he just said means to me. How can it be true that he has no emotions? Data seems so-

I found out that it took them almost two days, but the news is bad. I’ve had the chip too long and since it wasn’t meant for me, just it being in me, hooked up and running, I’ve corrupted the data stored in some of the files.

Once I’m told this, I’m devastated. I’ve totally fucked it up now. Even if Data wanted to, it may be dangerous for him to take the chip from me now. Most of the chip is fine, but since it doesn’t do for me what it would do for Data, they are not really sure just what is fucked up on it. It could be something easily bypassed, but the only way we can think of to test this is to give the chip to Data for a trial run.

Geordi doesn’t like this idea. I’m not wild about it, but I know how many safeguards our father built into us, so I’m not as worried, and Data is the one of us who’s not broken.

Data is on the fence. Since it may not be possible to accurately map out the chip, and it does work for me, he’s content to just leave things as they are and wish me a happy life.

“No,” I tell him. “There has to be a way to get this to work, Data, I can’t just let you give up on this. I’m not that person anymore and I-“

“Wait,” Geordi interrupts. “What if we go back a step? This may be a long shot, but what if we hook Lore back up and run the gambit of emotions. Simulate each one and see what the chip does. If we compare the responses to his memory records from before the chip, we may be able to work out the discrepancies we’re looking for."

I shrug at Data and he nods at me. I’m hooked up again and on, but they artificially trigger the emotions in me. This again takes some time. After it’s done, Geordi, Data and I pull up all my memories for the months after I’m rescued by the Pakleds. I have a more emotional time with them than I do floating in space. I’ve already told them about how I discovered the chip kick starts my ethical program. In the comparison, we saw how I did seem to be stuck in angry all the time. The chip had counteracted that by almost rewriting the subroutines dealing with anger. The major errors are there. With this information, Geordi is positive he can correct the errors on the new chip for Data. Everything else should be accurate. Data argues that he does not see a need for anger, but as I open my mouth to argue, Geordi beats me to it.

“Data, there are times when anger can be a great motivator to do good things. You need to have them all, my friend. You know I’d never lie to you about something like this. Trust me, you’ll want that one too.”

With all the pieces to the puzzle in place, the chip can be made. It’s been almost three days since any of us have been outside of this shuttle, so I ask them if we can take a little time off and visit with the counselor and Kissel. At the thought of another home cooked meal, Geordi jumps at the idea. Seemingly to please his friend, Data also agrees. I really have to pull the engineer aside and ask him about my unemotional brother. He sure doesn’t seem blank to me.

I contacted Kissel to let her know we were coming. It was hard to walk to her place though. I wanted to run. Three days doesn’t sound like a long time and I was shut down for a lot of it but I still missed her. When the house was in sight, I could see Kissel standing at the window looking out. As soon as she saw us she disappeared from sight but, a few seconds later, she was out the door and waiting for us at her gate. A moment later, I could see Counselor Troi standing just outside the door as well. She had stayed at Kissel’s the last couple of nights so she wouldn’t disturb our work.

When we were a couple of meters from the gate, Geordi called out to them. “Good news. We’re going to be able to duplicate the chip.”  

“That’s wonderful!” Kissel looked so relieved to hear that. We came into the yard and I had just closed the gate when Kissel threw her arms around my neck and pulled me into a kiss. I heard the counselor call Data and Geordi into the house. It was five minutes and twenty-three seconds later when we joined them. Damn, I missed her kiss.

“Dinner will be ready soon. I just need to get a few things from the garden. Data, would you help me, please?” Data looked surprised by Kissel’s request but agreed. I had told Kissel about wanting to speak to Geordi and Deanna about Data. Once they were outside, I took the opportunity to talk to Data’s friends.

Dinner was great but after dinner was even better. Deanna had made sure we knew she was going to go back to the runabout. It was 2516 when Kissel and I said goodnight to Data, Geordi and the counselor. As soon as the door closed, I scooped Kissel up in my arms and carried her towards her bedroom.

“What are you doing?” She had a puzzled expression on her face and now I felt unsure of my actions. I just sort of stammered a few incoherent words before I could finally speak.

“I missed you. I want to make love with you.” I managed to say.

“I missed you, Lore, and I want to make love, too. Why are you carrying me?” I let out a quiet sigh of relief when she asks this.

“You’ve never been carried to the bedroom before?” She shook her head. “Humans consider it to be romantic. I’ll put you down if you want.” Kissel smiled.

“Don’t put me down. I understand now. Is this one of the things you like to do?”

“Only with you, Kissel.” I kissed her the rest of the way to the bedroom. Once we were next to the bed, I gently laid her out on it and moved next to her. I reclaimed her lips as my hands slowly moved over her body, undressing her. I gently caressed each newly exposed area before moving on. Once she was nude, I broke our kiss and quickly undressed before moving back beside her.

We made love for hours. I have always enjoyed sex but making love with Kissel is so much better. The feel of her body pressed against mine, the gentleness of her touch, even just watching her sleep. She looks like such an angel when she’s asleep in my arms.

I walked Kissel to the shipyard again before meeting up with Data and Geordi. I told her about the talk I had with Geordi and the counselor while Kissel and Data were collecting the bounty from the garden.

“So they agreed with you. Did they think it is emotional awareness or a learned response?”

“They’re not sure. Counselor Troi said there have been a few times when she thought she could feel something from Data but she wasn’t sure if they were emotions or whether she had misread him.”

“His expressions and reactions to things, like me asking for his help in the garden, sure seem to indicate emotion, even if it is a very little bit.”

We continued talking until we reached the shipyard. When Kissel said I didn’t need to walk her to her office I thought I wasn’t going to get a parting kiss. I was wrong. She kissed me at the gates, not caring who saw. I thought about that kiss a lot as I walked to the runabout.

We worked non-stop for a number of hours on the chip. We took a break so Geordi could have something to eat and rest a little. While Geordi napped, Data and I talked. I wish it hadn’t taken this long for me to discover what a great brother I have.

When the chip was complete, we ran a number of tests to make sure it was compatible with Data. Once we were convinced, it was time for the moment of truth, Data sat down so Geordi could install it. I haven’t been this nervous in days. That sounds so fucking stupid but I’ve had a lot of very nerve-wracking things happening lately. Damn, I hope this works.

After Geordi made the connections and closed up Data’s head, he nodded at me to reactivate Data. I take a deep breath, nod and reach behind my brother for his switch. Data’s eyes pop open and he sits up. His eyes indicate he’s processing, but his expression is one of confusion and alarm.

“Have you run a self diagnostic? Run one, Data. We’ll pull out the chip if you’re having errors.” I urge him.

“One damn moment, brother,” Data grumbles. Geordi and I exchange stunned looks.

“I think it’s working,” Geordi observes, with a chuckle.

“Yes, it is,” Data tells us before lapsing into silence as he runs the diagnostic. We wait, holding our breath. Data gets out of the chair after a few minutes and looks at both of us. He looks away from me and turns to fully face Geordi. He grabs the engineer and embraces him in what would best be called a bear hug. “I love you, my friend.” Data pulls back and looks at him. “I did not know that before, but I do now. You have always been there for me. You are my best friend, Geordi.”

Geordi looks overwhelmed. He tries to open his mouth to speak three times, but nothing comes out. Finally he chokes out, “You’ve always been there for me too, Data. You’re my best friend and always have been.” Geordi squeezes Data’s shoulder and grins at him, with the discomfort that most human males have around strong emotional situations with others. I can see Geordi’s trying very hard to talk himself out of reacting this way, to his credit, but it’s just too ingrained. Males don’t cry or tell their friends, male or female, that they love them. It’s just not masculine.

Data now turns to me. A variety of emotions play across his face - anger, mistrust, uncertainty, doubt and finally resignation. He moves to stand before me a full thirty-six seconds before reaching a decision. He reaches out for my hand.

“I believe father would have wanted us to try to be brothers. I wish that as well.”

I take Data’s hand and shake it. I’m having a little trouble with my macho act now. “Damn Data, I wish you were the one with a girlfriend. I’d love to see you happy.” I grin at him. “But don’t get any ideas about Kissel.” I warn him, teasingly.

Data gives me a warm smile. “I would not attempt to come between you and your mate, my brother,” he tells me with sincerity. “I hope you are not thinking of matching me with the woman in the bar.”

I give him a look of shock for more than one reason. “No about Lis. My mate? Why do you call Kissel my mate, Data?” I ask.

Data looks confused. “Because she is. Do not attempt to refute this, Lore. I have empirical proof in this area.” He gives me an apologetic look.

“What proof?” He couldn’t have, could he?

Data casts an uncertain glance Geordi’s way. “I get it, brother talk.” The engineer grins and walks out of the room to go tell Troi the good news.

“Okay, what is your evidence, Data?” I ask.

“You did not shower this morning, brother.”

My jaw hits the floor.

“If you would not find it an invasion of your privacy, brother, may I ask you something about your relationship with Mrs. Draymot?”

“If you learn to relax and call her Kissel, yes. What is it?” I ask, trying to recover.

Data smiles at this. “I have been intimate with a woman but with no emotional context. Since you are in love with Kissel...” he seems at a loss to express himself. “There is an enormous amount of music, literature and poetry written on the subject of love and lovemaking. Is it as wonderful as...do you think you experience something comparable to what a human experiences?”

I take hold of Data’s shoulders. I smile at him. Why do I feel...for the first time I feel like a brother. He’s coming to me for an answer only I, his brother can give him.

“I think it’s comparable. And Data, it’s one of the main reasons I felt so bad about you not having a chip. I want you to feel what I feel when I look at Kissel.”

“So you wish for me to look at Kissel and-“ He’s grinning and raising an eyebrow at me.

“Data,” I roar, but then grin at him and laugh.

Data smiles and then looks shocked. “Was that funny? Did you find what I said humorous?” he asks, almost desperate.

“You were just kidding, right?” I ask, just to make sure. It’s still something to get use to, this new emotional Data. He’s face is not blank anymore.

“Yes, I was.”

“Then yes, I thought it was funny.”

“I did it!” he says with triumph. “I have never been able to understand humor. I...” his eyes move as he processes. “I get it now. That is why he did not let me- You may find this funny, I heard a limerick several years ago. ‘There once was a lady from Venus whose body was shaped like a-“

“Data, I can sense excitement from you!” Counselor Troi all but shouts from the doorway as she races across the room to throw her arms around my brother’s neck.

Damn, I’ll never hear the rest of that limerick with her here. I do like the expression that spreads over my brother’s face, though. As she squeezes him, Data mouths to me and Geordi, who has come over to stand beside me, with astonishment. “She is gorgeous.”

“And taken,” Geordi mouths back. I try not to laugh.

Watching Data as he discovered more and more of his emotions was incredible. He was replaying memories, seeing them in an emotional context for the first time. Occasionally he would blurt out something and then have to explain what memory his outburst referred to. He even thanked Geordi for insisting on the inclusion of anger. That happened after he clenched his fist and called someone a son of a bitch. I was surprised to hear Data say that and, to be honest, I was hoping it wasn’t a memory about me. Thankfully, it wasn’t. It was about a Commander Maddox. Data explained to me how Maddox had wanted to have Data declared the property of Starfleet. I agree with Data, the guy is a son of a bitch. Data shed his first tears as he thought of those around him he had lost – Lal, our father, Tasha Yar. Mostly though, Data was happy and that made me happy.

During the first few days after installing the chip, Data did have a couple of minor power surges. His diagnostics indicated there was no malfunction. I told him how I had experienced that too. I had always assumed it was because the chip had been designed for Data’s circuits and not mine. Since no damage occurred to either of us, we are guessing the surges may have been the chip’s way of letting us know it was integrating with our systems.

When Data hadn’t experienced a surge for three days, La Forge and Troi started talking about getting back to the Enterprise.

Kissel and I were sitting on the couch after Data, Geordi and the counselor had left for the runabout. They had been coming to Kissel’s for dinner every night and each night she really outdid herself. She was serving as many different types of food as possible. She quizzed me about foods from other planets and had kept me busy programming new items for the replicator. I was also her official taster. She was trying new recipes that I supplied as well as preparing a few of her specialties. All of this was for Data. The first meal Data had after installing the chip had been amazing. Watching his reactions as he tasted things for the first time had had an effect on all of us. Kissel wanted to make sure each of his meals with us would be as enjoyable. Data appreciated her efforts and told her so.

“Dinner was, once again, wonderful, Kissel.” Data did actually stop referring to her as Mrs. Draymot after I had told him to relax. “As superb as the food was, however, the company, as usual, was better.” I discovered just how much more relaxed Data was when he hugged Kissel before they left. I’m going to have to talk to La Forge about Data’s sense of humour though. “Should you ever have reason to stop your involvement with my brother, I hope you will think of me as a possible replacement.” He looked over at me and smirked. Data smirked at me!

“I’ll do that, Data,” Kissel smiled.

“Don’t get your hopes up, brother, I’m not going to give Kissel reason to stop.” I was trying to look like I knew they were joking but the way Data had smirked... When the two of them started to laugh, I was relieved and laughed too.

“I wish Data could stay longer. I really want to get to know him better. Tomorrow is too soon for him to be leaving.” I had my arm around Kissel and was gently caressing her arm with my hand.

“I agree, Lore. I wish you had more time too.”  She kissed me softly on the cheek. “Let’s go to bed now.”

We made love for hours. The feel of Kissel’s smooth skin against mine is intoxicating to me. Her scent, her taste - all send me into a passion frenzy. Kissel is so much more than a want to me. I need her, to be with her, in her. Being in love is so fucking amazing. Damn, I hope Data finds a woman to love and who loves him.

The next morning, Kissel and I were walking to the shipyard. My brother and his friends had planned to leave at dawn to return to the Enterprise. Kissel was doing her best to try to cheer me up.

“Lore, I’m sure Data will come see us often. Maybe we will be able to visit him on the Enterprise some day.” We were both surprised when an additional voice joined our conversation.

“I would like that very much.”

“Data, you’re still here!” I couldn’t contain my excitement.

“Geordi and Counselor Troi left one hour twelve minutes ago. I spoke with Captain Picard regarding the extended leave I had requested before leaving for Alexis IV. He has approved it.”

I can’t believe how thrilled I am. Kissel even goes over and gives Data a warm hug. When I see Data grin and raise his eyebrows, I warn him not to get any ideas.

Data joined me at the shipyard even though Kissel made mention of pay and my brother politely refused. My work area is still near Kissel’s office, but for a different reason than before. I give and get waves, smiles and even sneak a few kisses through the day and I love it.

Today was the best though. Neither Data nor I have ever done physical labor with another android. We made a nuisance of ourselves, showing off just what an android can do and how much more two androids can do together. We threw outrageously heavy equipment at each other and plucked it out of the air with no damage. We jumped from and to great heights. We worked at top speed so that the people around us only saw a blur. We worked non-stop until quitting time and were more than ready to stop and roll with laughter at the expressions we got from my fellow workers.

The best part was the pissed off look on Vaasic’s face when he tried to correct Data’s calculations about how far out of alignment this Tilik’s bar was. Data spouted the math at him so fast, Vaasic’s head was spinning. It was a very bad day for the weasel and that made it even better for me.

Data, Kissel and I walked back to her house laughing and cutting up about the events of the day. I never thought I’d see Data so animated. He’s quite a charming guy when he relaxes and lets the starch out of his uniform. I still have to convince him to ditch that uniform though, at least for now.

When we get home...home?, Kissel points to some vegetables she wants for tonight’s salad so Data and I go to be fucking gardeners again. She goes inside, but comes out a few moments later almost bouncing she’s so happy.

“My sister’s coming! My sister’s coming!” Kissel exclaims and launches herself into my arms, covering my face with kisses. I’m fairly certain I experience bliss in that moment.

Sadly, she did stop kissing me and told Data and I about how she called her sister, Ann, to tell her about me, of course. Well, now Ann wants to come and check me out. Considering what an ass Kissel got stuck with in Colex, I decided this is a smart move on Ann’s part and she has gone up in my regard even before I’ve met her.

Data seems intrigued as soon as Kissel shows us some holos of Ann. He stares just a little too long for me not to suspect. Okay, so it was only .89 seconds, but for an android...

I let Data have the key to my dump so he can get out of my hair for the evening. I want my private time with Kissel and though my brother gives me a knowing grin, he goes without comment. Good thing too, or I’d have thrown him out - gently.

It’s a warm Saturday morning when Ann arrived. I managed to get Data into real people clothing with the intimation that our expected guest may not find his stuffy uniform as flattering as just about anything else in the fucking universe that he could put on. Good thing my dear brother can still be manipulated a little bit.

We were in the garden pulling weeds, watering and planting again - I’m going to have to talk Kissel into getting some of those green and red flowers that old lady Lisket has in her yard. I think they’d look great by the...Shit, what am I thinking? - when a slim, brown-eyed blonde lovely walks up to the gate.

The holos Kissel has must have been old. Ann had grown up and filled out since then. She’s a knock out. Data is already so taken with her just at first sight, he’s almost drooling.

“Playing in the dirt again, sis?” Ann teases to get Kissel’s attention away from her planting. Kissel jumps to her feet and runs to embrace her younger sister. The two look very happy to see each other. Chatting about how good the other looks, Kissel pulls Ann by the hand over to where Data and I are coming to a stand.

“Lore, Data, I want you both to meet my baby sister, Anntikel Sethrin.”

“Anntikel?” I repeat.

Ann blushes and pokes her sister with an elbow. “Our father had a quirky sense of humor. We are his daughters - KisselAnntikel. He would always say it like it was one name, all run together. Then he’d kiss and tickle us,” Ann explained, almost crimson with embarrassment. I can’t blame her. And I thought Lore and Data were bad...

“You need not be embarrassed,” Data smiled. “I have been wondering lately about our father’s sense of humour. I have concluded his choice of names for Lore and I, as well as our gold bioplast sheeting, was greatly influenced by his sense of humor - either that or he lost a bet.” We all roared with laughter and that seemed to help Ann relax.

“Data, I’m leaning towards the quirky sense of humor reason myself.” I told him as I still chuckled. “Mostly because I think you’ve inherited that trait from him.” Data looked thrilled by my comment. He’s still getting used to the fact he has emotions. He had wanted to understand humor so badly for years and now, now he not only understands humor, he has one hell of a great sense of humor himself. He fucking beams whenever someone laughs at his jokes or comments on how funny he is. “Kissel, why don’t you and Ann go in and catch up with each other. Data and I’ll finish up out here.” Kissel nodded in agreement, took Ann’s hand and led her into the house. Ann started to pick up her bags but Data told her to leave them. He and I would bring them in when we come. I silently chuckled to myself and, judging from her expression, I could tell Kissel was doing the same. After Data had left the other night - okay, okay - after Kissel and I had made love a couple of times, I had mentioned to her Data’s reaction to seeing Ann in those holos. This seemed to really please Kissel. It turns out Ann’s relationship with her ex-fiancé ended badly and Kissel would like to see Ann start dating again. Since I would like to see Data start dating period, we’ve decided to try a little matchmaking. I going to set my brother up and, for the first fucking time in my fucking life, it’s with the intent to make him happy and not kill him.

We took our time finishing in the garden. Data understood why we were giving them time alone but he did seem a little anxious to go inside.

“You’re attracted to Ann, aren’t you, Data?” We had finished up in the garden and were washing the dirt from our hands at the side of the house. He looked at me as if he didn’t know what I was talking about before letting out a sigh.

“Is it that obvious?”

“To me it is. Can I give you a little advice?”

Data nodded his head vigourously. “I could use all the advice you can give. Feeling an attraction like this is very new to me. I am uncertain as to what to do.”

“Be yourself, Data. You’re a great guy and she’s bound to see that. If you need to talk or have any questions, I’ll do my best to help but to be honest, Data, I have no fucking idea why Kissel fell in love with me. There are times when I still think this is just one incredible dream that I don’t want to wake up from.”

“I believe Kissel fell in love with you because you are a great guy, Lore.” Fuck, I doing my damnedest to not start blubbering like a fucking baby when I hear Data say that. I couldn’t stop myself. I hugged Data. It seemed to surprise him at first.

“I can’t express how much that means to me to hear you say that, Data.” My voice was fucking cracking and I couldn’t stop it. Data returned my embrace.

“You seem to be expressing it quite well, brother.” Damn, I have a great brother.

I let Data carry Ann’s bags, but it isn’t until he asks Kissel where to put them that I realize where Ann will be spending the night and that may seriously affect my plans for dessert. Shit, no wonder Kissel made that weird comment about whether I would be taking Data to the bar tonight.

Great - no practice in being gentle for me tonight. And I had been getting a little rougher but that is not relevant here. Kissel points to the bedroom at the end of the hall and Data heads there with Ann’s bags. Ann decides to go too so she can unpack. I hear her ask Data for some help in putting her bags on this high shelf in the closet once she’s done. She’s a sly one. She’s gotten Data into polite gentleman mode and he’s putty in her hands.

With them out of the room, it gives me the opportunity to kissel Kissel. I do, but I have to ask now. “I don’t get to stay tonight, do I?” I’m pouting. Kissel kisses my nose.

“That’s right. We have a lot of girl talk to catch up on. You can use this time to spend getting to better know your brother. Can you hear them? Are they flirting? Ann looked interested, did you notice?” I can see that my love’s attention is focused on the happenings in the room on the other side of a wall from us.

“I can hear her talking and Data agreeing to do what she asks. I knew having him in that blue getup was a good idea. He looks dumb in yellow. Gold man in yellow – stupid,” I mumble. Kissel just rolls her eyes.

“What are they saying, what do you hear?” she pleads.

“That’s not really ethical, Kissel. We shouldn’t spy.” She playfully punches my arm and I laugh. Once upon a time, I would have killed someone for that action. Now, I just want to carry her to her bed and make love to her for days.

“Stop fooling and tell me, does it sound like she likes him?”

I grin at her. “She is asking questions like how much alike we are, stuff like that. It’s getting near lunchtime and I’m sure your sister will be hungry. Why don’t we start it? You could use the food too. You’re too thin. Still sexy as hell, but too thin.” I tickled her ribs to accentuate my point. She giggled and grabbed my hands. That is the best sounding giggle in all the universe. But all the sounds she makes are good.

She agrees, so we’re in the kitchen when Data and Ann finally appear. They join in the food preparation, but give each other speculative glances often.

During lunch, Ann tells us about her trip here and that she plans to stay for a week, maybe more. “How long are you here for, Data?” she asks, trying to act like this is just a causal and polite inquiry. Data may believe that, but no one else does.

Data has had trouble taking his eyes off the woman that sits across from him for the whole meal. I don’t think he will know what he’s eating until later when he reviews his memory records. He’s just putting a fork full of the food in his mouth every fifty-four seconds. He chews fifteen times and then swallows. I’ve been counting.

“I have been granted leave from my duties as second office aboard the Enterprise for three more weeks. I have a great deal of leave accumulated and have rarely had the desire to use it. I now find I have that desire.” Data’s voice got softer both times he said the word desire, and Ann looked nervous when he did.

I gently kicked my brother under the table. If he goes too fast, he could blow this so I have to get him to watch his step. “I think the ladies need a glass of wine. Help me get them one, Data,” I suggest, motioning for my baby brother to follow. He does with a sheepish expression. I think he knows why I kicked him.

When we return to the table, Data hands Ann a glass of the wine and returns to his seat. “I must apologize to you both, Kissel, Ann. I find that with my newfound emotions, I do not always select the proper words to express how I feel. I ask you both to have patience with me. Should I say something inappropriate, please forgive me and inform me at once. I believe I need all the help I can get.”

I smile at this. This is my brother at his finest. He has always known how to turn a weakness into a strength. He’s not lost that ability, I’m pleased to see. Both Ann and my Kissel nod. The uncertainty has vanished from Ann’s eyes and she’s smiling at Data in a relaxed way. Damn, he’s good.

I could tell Data was enjoying listening to Ann and Kissel’s stories from their childhood as much as I was. I had never really thought about childhood before or the fact I had never been a child. Now, listening to Kissel and Ann, I was actually wishing I had had a fucking childhood. I think it would have been great to have been a kid with Data. I looked over at Data and, I’ll be damned but from the expression on his face, I’m sure he’s thinking the same thing. We just stared at each other for what seemed like an eternity. It wasn’t until I felt Kissel squeeze my hand that I broke that stare.

“What’s wrong, Lore? I hope we haven’t been boring you two with all of these silly stories.”

“No, I love listening to your stories. I’m sure Data does too.” I looked at Data and he nodded his head in agreement. “Hearing what a wonderful childhood you had together, it, well, it makes me wish that Data and I could have been kids together. Fuck, we were never kids. We’ve always been as we are now.” Both women were looking at us thoughtfully now. Damn, you can tell how close they are because they both got the same expression on their faces at the same time. They turned to look at each other with these huge fucking grins on their faces.

“Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Ann asked my Kissel.

“I think so. I haven’t been there in years.” She started to laugh. Data and I both had no idea what the hell they were talking about and our faces certainly showed that. “Let’s go, guys. We are going to spend the rest of the day at Yensid Dlan.”

“Yensid Dlan? Isn’t that for kids?” I then realized what the fuck these two were up to.

“Not just for kids but for grown ups who want to be kids again,” Ann laughed.

“And androids who want to be kids for the first time,” Kissel added.

I can’t believe what a fucking great time we had at Yensid Dlan. I don’t know exactly how to describe the place other than it’s probably most kids’ idea of what perfect is. We spent quite a bit of time in an area I can only describe as being like what they called an amusement park on old Earth. We are definitely going to have to go there again while Data and Ann are here. Shit, listen to me. It’s at times like this that it really accentuates how much I’ve changed. An amusement park - I would never have thought in a million years I could have that much fun at an amusement park. Hell, six months ago neither Data nor I would have known what fun is or given a fuck about it.

It was so hard saying good night to Kissel. Data and Ann gave us a little time alone at Kissel’s house. We could hear them laughing in the backyard though. Finally, Data and I started out for the bar. As much as I like that place, Data and I have had a hard time enjoying ourselves the last couple of times. Lis has become a big annoyance. She’s lucky I’m fixed and she’s a female.

As soon as Data and I came in, Chaz called us over to the bar. “I want you two to know that Lis won’t be bothering you anymore. I had a little talk with her and we’ve come to an understanding.” Data and I got our drinks after thanking Chaz and then a bunch of the other regulars called us over to their table. It wasn’t until Lis had conducted some business with the other guys that Data and I found out what Chaz had done.

“From what I heard,” Basnik, another friend from the yards, explained, “Chaz told Lis she would need to find a new place to conduct business if she didn’t stop bothering you guys.”

“I can see how that would be a strong motivator,” Data nodded. “I do not believe I have been to a location with a higher density of easily aroused males than this bar.” 

The guys around the table with us are not quite sure if they should laugh or be offended. I start to sheepishly chuckle under my hand and this decides it for them. One by one they all begin to laugh and some even give Data a friendly slap on the back. Before too much longer, I suggest Data and I call it a night.

We have no need for sleep, of course, but I just don’t feel like being with the guys tonight. I don’t really begrudge Ann her time with Kissel, but I- Awww, hell, who am I kidding? I like Ann, but I still begrudge this all to hell. I want my woman, damnit.

Data must catch on that I’m brooding, because he stops walking after twenty minutes of following my aimlessness.

“Are you going to ask Kissel to marry you, brother?”

I don’t think he could have stunned me more unless he had reached back and depressed my off switch. Actually, I think I would have been more prepared for that one. I stand there gaping at him, mouth open and nothing coming out. Looks really impressive for an android who can complete sixty trillion operations per second, not to be able to answer such a simple question. After all, it’s not even multiple choice, just one of the ‘yes’ or ‘no’ variety.

“Is that not the next logical step when two sentient beings love and care for each other? I am correct in that you do not wish to be separated from Kissel?” Data is being patient, but I suddenly feel like I’m the student to his teacher. How the hell did that happen? I consider asking Data to give me that shoe back, but I’m not sure he’ll get the joke. Or maybe I should be asking for the other foot?

“I’m not sure how organics do it, Data, but I don’t think I’m quite ready for that yet. Hell, I’m still not sure I won’t wake up one morning to find my chip is on the fritz and...” I’m too filled with dread to even complete that thought.

Data puts a hand on my arm and looks at me with those serious eyes of the past. “Your chip and the rest of you have been thoroughly examined for any flaws. I assure you, Geordi and I had no intention of allowing you your continued freedom had there been any doubt. We left little room for error, my brother. There was too much at risk not to be certain.”

Great, in other words, he’s walking away with my safety net of a perfect excuse to wait. Now what? 

  “I’m not sure Kissel would want to get married again, Data. Her late husband turned out to be a real bastard. She might never want to marry again after him.” I then let out a sigh so heavy that it surprised me. Data didn’t seem surprised though.

“Brother, are you scared Kissel will say no if you propose marriage?” Data took one look in my eyes and knew what my answer was. “Commander Riker once told me that there is risk in all relationships. He also said that by taking a risk it could lead to wonderful rewards. It is obvious to all that you and Kissel love each other very much. Do not allow your fear to stand in your way of happiness.”

“Maybe I am scared, Data. I’m in love with a beautiful woman who loves me. I’m having an incredible time discovering what a great brother I have. I have good friends and a good job. My life is so great now...maybe too great.”

“Too great? I do not understand. What do you mean by ‘too great’, Lore?” Data looked so confused by my words. How do I explain it though when I’m not sure I really understand?

“I don’t know. I can’t stop thinking that something bad is going to happen. Sort of payback for all the horrible things I did in the past.” I stared straight ahead for thirty seconds before starting to walk again. “Come on, brother. Let’s talk about something else now.”

It wasn’t a subtle way to change the topic but it worked. We walked around for a while longer talking about Kissel and Ann, the shipyard - lots of different things. Finally, we headed back to my place to change our clothes before heading over to Kissel’s for breakfast.

When we arrived at the house, it was obvious from the tired looks on their faces that Kissel and Ann had been up most of the night talking. From the way they were looking at Data and me, it was also obvious that we had been one of the main topics discussed. I hope it was all good.

The ladies suggest the idea of a group picnic in the huge park that’s just outside of the settlement but still within walking distance. Data and I agree at once. It sounds romantic and I want to be nearby when Data makes his next move with Ann. Guess I want to be his fucking safety net.

Kissel asks for help in the kitchen and Data volunteers, leaving me with Ann in the living room. Data and I may be identical, but I don’t get the same reaction Data gets when I smile cordially at Ann as we wait. Her eyes shine when she looks at my brother. With me, she just politely nods. Why does this make me very happy?

After a moment where I can tell Ann is thinking about someone who looks like but is not me, she seems to realizes something and her eyes come into focus, with me as their focal point. She sits up straight as her expression hardens.

“I’ve been meaning to speak with you, Lore. I want you to know that Kissel is a very special person and I love her a lot. She has had one lousy man in her life already and I have no intention of allowing another one to hurt her.” As she takes a breath, I try not to smile. I have actually been expecting this lecture and I’m damn glad she finally thought to deliver it. I’ll excuse her delay since she has the good sense to be intrigued by my brother.

Ann proceeds with her lecture with vague little threats should I not treat Kissel as I aught. When she’s done, I go ahead and grin at her. She looks back at me with nervous confusion.

“If you hadn’t had this talk with me, I would’ve been very disappointed in you.” I tell her by way of explaining my incongruent expression. She relaxes a bit, but my next move will be to put her on edge again. “I agree that Kissel is precious. Why she puts up with me is something beyond me and not very many things are,” I tell her. “Since you have raised the subject, I will be completely honest with you. You asked if I am worthy of her. The answer is no. I’m not even worthy of the job she gave me.” It seems that once I had started down this road, I couldn’t help but proceed where it took me, pulling Ann along whether she wanted to go or not.

I began to tell her just what kind of being I was. Kissel and Data returned to the room soon after I began my soliloquy. Quietly they also sat, being considerate not to interrupt as I stripped my soul for all to see. Even Data had not heard some of this tale, so they were all rapt in the telling before long.

I hadn’t even gotten much passed my first six months of life before Data and Kissel interrupted me as one. Kissel deferred to Data with a nod, so he continued.

“Lore, while these are factual accounts of your past behavior, you are leaving out one major detail. That was you before the chip. You no longer suffer from the malfunction that caused you to exhibit malicious tendencies.”

“Yes, however-“ I only get that far before Kissel jumps in, literally.

Jumping to her feet, she comes before me and kneels at mine, taking my hands in her softer ones. Staring up at me with those beautiful orbs full of tenderness, she speaks. “I know you are ashamed of your past, Lore, but it is the past. No one can change what we have done. We can only change what we are now and how we behave in the future.” She’s a wise woman, my Kissel.

I, on the other hand, am a stubborn bastard. “But that does not mean something won’t happen. You have a right to know what I’ve done in case it affects who I am in the future.”

“I will know, I do know. Who you are now and later will be affected, but this moment now will also affect you. Make what you do now show what kind of person you’ve become.” With that she rose from her knees and hugged me. I could tell she was squeezing me with everything she had, almost as though she was attempting to squeeze out the bad in me. Hell, I wish she could have, but there might not have been much left.

I’m a little choked up, but I manage to speak when my Kissel loosens her hold on me. “The future is what I’ve been thinking about a lot lately, Kissel. Your future - or the future of the yard, at least.” She looks surprised, but encouraging. “I want to help you build it back up. I want to help you fight the competitors and beat them. Data and I can design new ships together, the yard can build them and that will put it on the galactic map. Data’s contacts in Starfleet should be of use. Hell, with two androids designing them, your new ships could rival those built by Starfleet.” I was getting really revved up now, but Kissel had to bring me back to the ground.

“Lore I don’t have the capital to finance the production of starships.” She looks sad over having to burst my bubble, but she hadn’t.

“No, I wasn’t thinking of building those monsters. I was talking to Ren and he told me how this sector is plagued with vagrants who have taken to raiding. He told me there is a growing need for fast, more modern patrol ships for the sector police. They’re small, but need to be fast and well defended with shields and weapons. There’s a real need there, and no one has tapped into that market in years. Think about it, Kissel. Even when Data leaves, I’m sure I could get his help in designing without him having to break any Starfleet rules.” I can’t resist, I pull her closer as she did me. “It would be a way I can show you who I’ve become.”

“You know more than anyone what type of financial shape the shipyard is in. Your idea is wonderful but the start up costs. I’m not sure...” Kissel seemed to be mentally going over her financial records and I could tell from her expression she was desperately trying to find the money.

“Kissel, I wish to help in any way I can to make the shipyard profitable for you once again. The idea of designing ships with my brother I find to be very appealing. Should you also require it, I would be more than happy to invest in the shipyard to assist you with the start up costs.” I don’t know why exactly but I wasn’t surprised by Data’s offer. He is the most thoughtful and generous person I know and he’s my brother. I couldn’t help but think back to when Kardec had told Data about seeing the pride in my eyes when I spoke of him. It had shocked the hell out of both Data and I back then. It wouldn’t now.

“Data, thank you for your generous offer but you’ve done so much already and it would be a long time before I would be able to pay you back.” Data interrupted Kissel at this point.

“Kissel, it is I who owe you much. You have helped my brother and I considerably. It was your suggestion to construct a second chip. That alone has opened a whole new world to me. The time I have spent here with Lore, you and Ann has been more wonderful than I could have ever imagined. Investing in the shipyard would represent an infinitesimal amount of what I owe you for what you have done for my family.” I can’t imagine what Data saw as he looked at the three of us. Kissel seemed overwhelmed by his sentiments while Ann looked like she wanted to throw her arms around Data and kiss him. And me, I’m sure I looked like I was going to start blubbering like a fucking idiot again.

“Kissel, I have some dalots saved. They’re yours if you need them. I want to help too. And you know how happy it would have made Daddy to see me working with my big sis at the shipyard. I have the experience now in sales and marketing. Remember how you use to tease me that I could sell water to people living on Pacifica?” Kissel nodded and chuckled at this memory. I wrapped my arms around Kissel’s waist from behind and whispered in her ear.

“We all love you, Kissel. Let us help, please.” My final plea seemed to do the trick.

“Okay! How can I say no after all that.” Kissel grinned but I could see how touched she was by all of this in her eyes. I reluctantly released Kissel from my embrace so she could hug Ann and Data. She came back to me and gently caressed my cheek as I leaned forward to kiss her gently on the lips.

“With the joining of the Sethrin sisters and the Soong brothers, the competition doesn’t stand a chance,” I smirked. Damn, it seems like ages since I last smirked about something. Hey, it was appropriate though. So was kissing my Kissel again.

We finally left for our picnic. Kissel and Ann wanted to take us to an area of the park they used to go to when they were kids. As soon as I saw the place, I understood its appeal. They had taken us to a small valley that ran through the rolling hills of the countryside. There were a number of large trees providing welcome shade from the sun. There was a large field covered in wild flowers and, with the gentle breeze, the scent of the flowers wafted over to where we had laid out the blanket. I couldn’t see it but I could hear the flow of water from a stream nearby. It was all quite intoxicating. Thanks to the chip and Kissel, I am appreciating the simple beauties of the landscape around me. This is going to sound fucking stupid but it doesn’t surprise me that I am appreciating this beauty. I’ve changed so damn much that I would have been surprised if it hadn’t affected me. As beautiful as the scenery is though, it still doesn’t compare to my Kissel.

We unpacked the picnic basket and enjoyed the wonderful brunch. I guess it’s brunch since it’s closer to lunch now than breakfast. Who cares what it’s called, it was incredible. Data and Ann seemed to be in their own little world throughout the meal and I didn’t mind one damn bit ‘cause that meant I got Kissel to myself. We did share a smile though at what was happening with Data and Ann. I swear they were both fucking glowing. Watching them interact reminded me of Kissel and I when we first got together. I whispered to Kissel how nice a walk through the field would be and she agreed. I knew Data would never be able to kiss Ann for the first time with Kissel and I there. And yes, I did want some alone time with Kissel too.

We had only walked ten meters into the field when I stopped, pulled Kissel into my arms and kissed her passionately.

“I missed you so much last night,” I said breathlessly between kisses.

“I missed you too, Lore.” Kissel took my hand after one more amazing kiss and led me deeper into the field. When we were halfway across, she lay down on the grass and motioned me to lie next to her. She didn’t have to ask twice. I knew from this distance and with the height of the flowers around us that we could not be seen by anyone, even Data. I wasn’t sure what Kissel had in mind until she leaned over and kissed me gently on the lips.

“Make love to me, Lore.”

That was the easiest request to follow that I have ever heard. We couldn’t be away long but we did enjoy ourselves immensely while we were. I had never made love in a setting like this before. The feel of the grass, the scent of the flowers added to the feel and scent of Kissel. It was amazing. Hand in hand, we slowly returned to our picnic site, but just as our companions came into view, I grabbed Kissel and pulled her and myself behind the protection of a large tree.

“What’s wrong?” Being a smart cookie, my Kissel only mouthed this, making not a sound beyond breathing.

“Data,” I mouth back. “He’s making his move.”

“Now?” she asked silently. I know just how she feels. We were gone for a good fifty minutes, but my baby brother is only now taking his lady’s face in his hands. I nod at Kissel and peek out to see what’s going on. One hell of a hot kiss is what’s going on.

I can see this is now in the hands of Ann, but she is obviously not lacking in confidence. Good thing too. I can see some tension in Data’s limbs, but not for long. As I watch, pulling Kissel to peek out with me, we see Ann lay back without breaking their kiss. She pulls Data down on top of her and kisses him like mad until he finally relaxes. When she takes Data’s hand and positions it over her breast, Kissel and I pull back as one. Looking at a kiss is one thing, but my ethical program is now going off and it seems Kissel’s is too. We share a guilty smile before sneaking back into the woods and away from our very engaged siblings. 

We find the stream and do some playing. This is still a new thing for me. You know – play - doing stupid things on purpose. It always gives me a strange feeling, like it’s wrong somehow, but Kissel manages to override that feeling with ones she alone inspires. We splash, chase and fall in the water – in other words, we’re soaked.

Just looking at her, not an hour after making love to her and my respiration jumps, my pulse pounds in my ears and my mouth goes dry. How any man could mistreat this woman or wish to do her harm. No, I don’t even want to think about that. One thing I’m certain of is I will never let anyone do it to her again. Not as long as I’m still in one piece.

This time it is Data and Ann that are doing the spying. I note them peeking out from behind a tree by the waterside in between stolen kisses with each other. Finally I loosen my hold on Kissel and point to where they hide. They join us a moment later, but Ann’s lips look red and fuller from the amount of kissing she has done with my brother. She is also glowing. Data looks happily stunned, and I don’t think his feet touch the ground for the remainder of the day.

 It’s late afternoon and we’re walking home now. Data and Ann are holding hands and so are Kissel and I. I love the feel of her fingers entwined with mine. Hell, who am I kidding? I love the feel of any part of her touching any part of me. I can’t stop thinking about Data’s words from when we were talking about marriage. He’s right. I am scared Kissel will reject my proposal but he’s also right about taking risks. That lame Earth saying about it being better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all comes to mind as well. Maybe it’s not as lame as I thought it was. I would be fucking devastated if I lost Kissel but I know that my life before Kissel was so empty. Damn, damn, damn! What am I going to do? I’m staring at Kissel as we walk and I know she can feel my eyes on her. She turns her head and gives me that beautiful smile I love so much. The four of us keep walking in silence until Kissel starts to giggle. The three of us look at her not quite understanding why and she looks slightly embarrassed.

“I can’t help it,” she tells us as her giggles become more intense. “When we walk, Lore and I make these squishy noises.” I was so deep in thought I hadn’t really heard the sounds but now that Kissel has mentioned it, I find myself laughing at the noises we’re making as well. We are still fucking drenched from fooling around in that stream. It isn’t long before all four of us are laughing ourselves to the point of tears. Yeah, I know the noises aren’t that funny but watching each other’s reactions to the noises just made us laugh harder.

Data and I leave Kissel and Ann at the house before heading over to my place. I need to change and Data wants to talk. I think our ladies have the same plan. We’ll be going back to Kissel’s for dinner shortly and then, then I guess it will be another night of Data and I walking around aimlessly. The only difference being both of us will be brooding tonight.

Data was sitting at the table when I came out from changing. I sat down across from him and waited for him to start.

“You were right, brother,” Data finally said but then stopped again.

“About making love?” Data looked at me with a bit of a stunned expression on his face before he finally nodded.

“How did you know that is what I was referring to?” I wasn’t going to tell Data that Kissel and I had seem him and Ann kissing. I didn’t want to embarrass him.

“I could tell from the expressions on your faces that you and Ann made love this afternoon. Ann was glowing and you both looked so damn happy. You understand now why I was feeling so guilty about having the chip and why I wanted so badly for you to be able to feel?”

“I do understand. The emotions Ann evokes in me are beyond description. I have never experienced anything so incredible in my life. I believe I am falling in love with her.”

“She’s a very special woman, Data, but then you’re one hell of guy. You’re both so lucky to have found each other.”

“I agree. It would appear that when you join a Sethrin with a Soong it produces magical results, does it not.” I can’t argue with that.

Dinner was great but I was dreading the evening ending. Data is great. In some ways I can’t believe I’m saying this but, yeah, I love my brother but I would rather spend the night in Kissel’s company than his. Data and Ann were in the backyard while Kissel and I cleaned up in the kitchen. I was pouting a little about not seeing her again tonight until she surprised me.

“I missed you so much last night, Lore,” Kissel sighed. “My bed was so empty without you.” She wrapped her arms around my waist as I pulled her closer. “I wish - Lore, do you think you could ditch Data after you leave this evening?”

“Ditch Data? What do you have in mind?” I had a pretty good idea what she had in mind from the smirk on her lips.

“Oh, I just thought that if you could ditch him and then sneak back in the house we could be together tonight.” She was trying to sound very innocent but was failing badly.

“I think I can lose him without too much difficulty.”

Turns out I was wrong. After Data and I left Kissel’s, it took me damn near an hour before I could ditch him. If I didn’t know better, I swear he was trying to ditch me but I do know better.

When I got back to Kissel’s, the house was dark. I quietly snuck in the front door and was making my way to Kissel’s bedroom when I could see I wasn’t alone. I’ll be damned, it’s Data. He really was trying to ditch me. We’re both a little embarrassed when we realize what happened but we can’t help sharing a quiet chuckle as well.

“It would appear Ann and Kissel think more alike than we realized, brother,” Data whispered.

In Kissel’s bedroom, after I had closed the door, I turned to my ravishing beauty and grinned brightly.

“Why do I get the feeling that smile is not for this nightgown?” she asked with one eyebrow raised, as she sat expectantly on her bed.

“Part of it is,” I assured her. Coming over I ran a hand over the silk fabric. “I like it.” Looking back up, I grinned again. “Guess who I ran into while sneaking in?”

Kissel looked concerned and confused. “Who? Who else would be sneaking into my house?”

I wrapped my arms around her as soon as I joined her on the bed. Nuzzling her ear I whispered, “My ‘newly indoctrinated into the joys of an arousing Sethrin sister’ brother. It seems Ann had the same idea about brother escaping brother for a romantic tryst. He even beat me here by two seconds.”

By the time I finished speaking, Kissel was covering her mouth with both hands and giggling as quietly as possible. It is fortunate that a bathroom and linen closet separate the women’s bedrooms. At least they can’t hear the sounds the other makes.

I, on the other hand, can hear every word Ann and Data say, whisper or moan to each other. I know Data brought Ann to climax five times that night and I had to wake Kissel up at least once so I could beat that record. I also heard every explosive orgasm Data found within Ann’s depths. I still won’t believe he enjoyed his sexual interlude as much as I did mine, even if I think Kissel was sleeping for some of it. What can I say, I wore the poor woman out.

When morning broke and I got to watch the sun light up the room and the face of my angelic looking lover, I was happy and aroused, again. Damn that Data. I swear he’s trying to outdo me. He knows damn well I can hear him and that I’m aware of him listening to me. He’s challenging me, but Kissel is still sleeping while Ann is almost screaming, again.

After over an hour of what could be called marathon sex, Ann and Data shower. Oh, yes, together and, damnit, have one more round.

As Data joins Ann in crying out with his release, Kissel finally stirs. Actually, I think the noise wakes her. She gasps and sits bolt upright in the bed.

Turning to look at me with a bewildered expression she asks, “What was that? Is someone hurt?”

“Hardly,” I say. “That was the sound of Ann and Data’s fourth and third orgasms, respectively.” I glower at her as I say this.

Kissel’s jaw drops in her lap. “You’re kidding.”

“Do I look like I am in a kidding mood?”

Now my one desire shocks me by suddenly laughing. “I can’t believe it. You’re jealous,” she even jabs me in the chest for emphasis.

“That is wholly preposterous, woman. And I’ll thank you to keep your voice down. I don’t want Ann to hear that too.”

It may not have occurred to my beloved that Data could hear before, but it does now. Her eyes get big as saucers and her face loses most of its colour.

“All of it?” she asked in a voice more like a squeak.

All I can do is nod. 

This leaves my Kissel speechless. Her mouth is moving but nothing’s coming out. I wrap my arms around her, kiss her on the temple and try to comfort her.

“Don’t be embarrassed, my love. Data told Ann about running into me in the hallway. They know I wasn’t sneaking in here to discuss the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow with you. And we know Data snuck in for the same reason I did – to spend the night in the arms of a beautiful Sethrin sister.”

The colour is coming back to Kissel’s face as she smiles at me. I kiss her gently on the lips and then more passionately. Kissel draws me in closer and deepens the kiss even more. Her hand sweeps down my torso and then lower until she reaches my aching erection. She pulls back slightly and mouths to me silently.

“It would seem you’re up for the challenge.” I don’t have a chance to respond when she crushes her mouth to mine once again. Damn, whoever said sibling rivalry was bad didn’t know what the fuck they were talking about. We made love for another hour before it was our turn in the shower.

When we finally put in an appearance in the kitchen, Data and Ann are just finishing making breakfast so we all sit around the table to enjoy the feast they have prepared. To say both Kissel and Ann were famished would be an understatement. Saying they both seemed a little uncomfortable knowing that Data and I heard everything would also be a bit of an understatement. I’m trying desperately to think of something to say to relieve that tension. The last thing I want, and I’m sure Data would agree, is not to be able to make love to my lady because of superior android hearing.

“Kissel, Ann,” I finally begin. “Data and I do have superior hearing but we don’t always listen to what we hear.” Data nods his head in agreement as I speak.

“As well, eavesdropping does run contrary to the guidelines set out in our ethical programs,” Data adds.

“Hell, there is a bright side to this. At least we don’t need to plan clandestine rendezvous anymore.” I take Kissel’s hand in mine and smirk. “And if Data and I wish to please our respective ladies even more because of what we hear, is that really so bad.”

Ann and Kissel look at each other and then at Data and me before they start laughing. Kissel leans over to kiss me on the cheek.

“Well, when you put it that way.” We all share a laugh and enjoy the rest of breakfast. I can tell that Data is just as relieved as I am that the sisters’ discomfort has now evaporated.

“Have you two made any plans for the day?” Kissel asked, as she and I were about to set off for the shipyard.

“Data is going to help me start looking for a place to live,” Ann replied.

“A place to live? Why do you need to do that?” Kissel was confused and I was a little worried that maybe the discomfort really wasn’t gone after all.

“I was serious about helping at the shipyard. Staying with you for a visit is one thing but living and working together long term is another. We both need our space, sis, and you know it.” Ann and Kissel share a hug until Ann pulls back, placing her hands on Kissel’s shoulders. “If you two don’t leave now, Lore is going to be late and we both know what a hard ass boss that shipyard owner is.”

With a laugh, Kissel and I got going towards the shipyard, both of us happy as clams. We both had seen the look of heavenly delight in Data’s face as Ann spoke of staying. The only thing that detracted from my good mood was the remembered look of absolute misery Data had given me a private moment later when he mentioned how fast the time when he was to leave was now approaching. He still had two weeks, but that did not seem long enough to my baby brother any longer.  

I mentioned this to my Kissel and her expression became serious and contemplative. “I know how he feels. Ann is crazy about Data but wonders how wise it is to fall for someone she knows is leaving soon.” Looking at me with concern, she continued. “I don’t really know how it is with Starfleet, Lore. How often would Data be able to visit?”

I did not suppress a grimace. I had no intentions of lying to my Kissel, or her sister, even for Data. It just wasn’t ethical, especially in this case.

“It could be a year or years before we see him again,” I admitted, grimly. “I’m not going to sugarcoat it, Kissel. Data is devoted to his career. He’s so loyal. I used to think of him as Picard’s lap dog, or lap top computer in Data’s case. He believes he owes them his life so he’s given it to them.”

I knew this made Data sound a little shallow, but it really was an aspect of him I didn’t understand. I knew a bit of his history with Starfleet and had learned more during this time with Data. I was not of the opinion that they treated him very well. Hell, I thought they all sucked in the way they treated him. Yeah, La Forge and the counselor and some of the time even his captain were good to him, mostly Geordi, but out of a ship of over a thousand... He was still a walking, talking piece of equipment to most of them and that stuck in my craw. Still, this part of it, I kept to myself. No need to burden Kissel with this since my brother is not the only one who has battled this demon before.

During the work day, while Data and Ann house hunted. Kissel and I looked over what we would need to begin working on our game plan. There would be many calls to make, favors to call in and a hell of a lot of work, but by the end of the day, Kissel was radiant.

I had convinced her it could be done.

When we got home, Ann and Data did not look as happy as we’d hoped. Ann had not been able to afford most of the houses she’d found and the ones she could, she and Data had agreed were not acceptable.

“One was covered in pea green carpet, while the walls were all painted dark gold. It had a leaky roof and no heat or air conditioning,” Ann lamented. Data nodded and told of the other three in the right price range that were equally abhorrent.

Kissel and I showed them the list of plans we’d made and both tried to look supportive, but Ann just did not have the heart for it now. She retired early and, having decided that trying to keep up the pretenses were foolish, Data went with her.

None of us really felt amorous because of Ann’s downheartedness, but after some thinking and talking to his bedmate, Data came up with an idea and left her room to investigate. Returning with the daily newspaper downloaded on a PADD, he showed Ann the listings for apartments this time. I listened to my brother suggest that she look here for a temporary solution.

“But I want a house, Data.” She still sounded quite sad and convinced that what she wished for she would not get.

“Yes, I am aware of that. Please look at the ads and see if any of these will do for now. I wish you to allow me some time to help you in your quest,” my brother told her.

“But this area is too expensive. I’m never going to-“

“You will be able to afford it with my help,” Data cut her off.

“What?” she asked, sounding confused. I could just picture her brows furrowing.

“I have decided to resign from Starfleet. I do not wish to leave you in two weeks. I do not believe I will ever want to leave you.”

“Resign from Starfleet? Are you sure that’s what you want to do, Data? Your career has been a huge part of your life for so long.”

“Do you not want me to stay?” I think Ann was worried Data hadn’t thought this through but he sounded hurt now.

“I didn’t say that, Data. I want to be with you more than anything.” There was a short pause but I think I can surmise what happened. “It’s just, I don’t want you to do something that you’ll regret later.”

“Leaving Starfleet, I will not regret. Leaving you, I would regret for the rest of my life.”

“Oh, Data,” Ann sighed. There was another pause.

“Now, we shall look at the ads for apartments. I do not wish us to settle for just any house. We can live together in an apartment until we find the perfect home.”

“Let’s look later, Data,” Ann purred. I stopped listening at this point.

It was a beautiful evening so I asked Kissel to go for a walk. I’m sure Data was able to hear us leaving the house. I wanted them to have this time alone. Kissel and I had only been walking for a few minutes when she turned to me.

“Why do you really want to go for a walk?” I had told Kissel there was going to be a meteor shower tonight and I thought it would be, well, kinda romantic to lie on the grass at the park and watch the show. I tried to feign innocence but she knows me too well. “We can lie on the grass in the backyard to watch the meteor shower and you know it.”

“Okay,” I sighed. “I confess. There were two reasons I wanted to go to the park. One: I wanted to give Data and Ann some private time. I heard Data tell Ann he has decided to resign from Starfleet to be with her.” Kissel’s eyes lit up as I told her. “Two: I wanted to go some place private so we could make out a bit while watching the meteor shower.” I wasn’t sure what to make of Kissel’s reaction to my second reason. She just looked at me with an expression on her face I couldn’t quite figure out.

“I don’t think I like that idea of making out a bit.” Her expression changed as she wrapped her arms around my waist. “Now if you had said make out a lot instead, then I would like that idea.” My Kissel is always surprising me and once again she did just that.

We found a nice, private area at the park to spread out the blanket I had brought with us. It was only a matter of seconds before we were lying on the blanket with our arms wrapped around each other, kissing passionately. Kissel’s hands were under my shirt, caressing my back. I broke our kiss to pull my shirt over my head before reclaiming her lips. I worked quickly to unfasten the buttons on her blouse and then the clasp on the front of her bra. My hand was roaming over her silky skin starting at her firm stomach, working upward until I cupped her breast. I gently fondled her breast as I teased her nipple with my finger. Kissel was moaning as she worked on freeing my erection from my pants. I decided to help her so I rolled on to my back, raised my butt and started to push down my pants. I only got them as far as my knees when Kissel straddled me. She lifted her skirt, revealing she wasn’t wearing anything underneath and lowered herself on my stiff rod. We were both moaning from the heavenly rhythm we had established. I was fondling her breasts as we leaned to each other to share a long, hot kiss. Kissel threw her head back as her orgasm overtook her and I took the opportunity to begin devouring her breasts with my mouth. It wasn’t long before she was crying out again as I erupted within her depths. We were only able to enjoy holding each other for a few minutes before I could hear people in the distance. We quickly put our clothes to right and lay back on the blanket to watch what was left of the meteor shower.

I reached for Kissel’s hand with mine. As our fingers became entwined, I turned my head and just stared at the beautiful woman lying next to me. I had been staring for almost a minute when Kissel turned to face me. That smile I love so much was shining at me. We’ve gotten so fucking close that we don’t even have to say anything to communicate. Kissel made a motion with her head and I knew it meant it was time to go back to her place. It’s getting a little cool out so I use the blanket and some body heat to keep her warm as we walked back.

We’re not back for even thirty seconds when Data and Ann come out of the back bedroom. Data indicates that he would like to talk to me so we go outside since the coolness doesn’t affect us.

“What is it, Data?” I’ve got no idea what he wants to talk about. I’m sure he knows I heard him say he was going to resign from Starfleet.

“Ann and I will be looking at apartments for the next few days. Once we find suitable accommodation, Ann is going to accompany me back to the Enterprise so I can submit my formal resignation and collect my belongings. I wish to introduce her to my friends and say goodbye to them as well.”

“How long do you think you will be gone?” I’m a little nervous he won’t be back. What if those friends of his try to convince him to stay in Starfleet? If Ann was able to stay with him on the Enterprise - Data’s always thought of his friends as being his family and, let’s face it, if I were him I would choose them over me.

“We are planning to be away for approximately one week. We will return before initial preparations have been completed for the new project at the shipyard. Of that I can assure you.” Data hesitated for a moment before continuing. “Lore, Ann is worried that my friends on the Enterprise will not like her. I have tried to convince her otherwise but I have not been successful. I do not know what to do.”

“Just keep reassuring her that your friends will think she’s terrific. If you want me to talk to her, I will.”

“What would you say?”

“I’ll tell her that she has nothing to worry about. They’ve cared about you for years so how could they not like a great lady like Ann. After all, Counselor Troi and Geordi really liked Kissel despite hating me for years.” Data just looked at me with one eyebrow raised. “Come on, Data. You know it’s true. When they left here, I don’t think they still hated me but I can’t really say whether they actually liked me or not.” Data just shook his head and sighed.

“I am certain you will find they like you when they return to visit.”

“Have you talked to them? When are they coming?” He sounded so certain they would be here again.

“I have not spoken to them however when Ann and I marry they will be invited to the wedding.” I could feel my jaw literally hit the fucking ground when Data said that.

“You and Ann have talked about getting married already? You’ve only known each other for a few days, Data.”

“We have only spoken briefly about marriage and in very general terms. We have no timetable regarding our relationship, however, we do not wish to live together for an indeterminate amount of time without marrying.” I was still feeling stunned so when we finished talking I told Data I was going to stay outside for a bit. I had only been alone for a few minutes when Kissel came out to see how I was.

“Did Ann tell you about their plans?” Kissel nodded her head.

“If you mean the part about them living together for a while and then getting married, yes.”

“Damnit, it’s been three days. They’ve fucking known each other for three fucking days and they already have their fucking future together planned.” I had made sure I was far enough away from the house so Data wouldn’t hear what I was saying. I was doing my damnedest not to shout but my tone said it all.

“Calm down, Lore. Why does that bother you so much?”

“Why does it bother me? It bothers me that my little brother and your little sister will end up getting married before we do! That’s what bothers me!”

“You want us to get married?”

“Yes, Kissel, I do!” I’m still feeling really pissed off. “I love you and I want to marry you. Do you have a problem with that?”

“No, I don’t have a problem with that, Lore.” Her voice was so soothing. She wrapped her arms around me and held me tighter than I thought possible. “I’ll marry you any time and any place you want.”

I’m not sure what I was expecting, but I wasn’t expecting that. I tried to look at her, but she was hugging me too tight. When I was sure I had more control of myself, I pulled her away just enough for me to look her dead in the eyes. Shockingly, Kissel never looked happier. This woman is crazy - a homicidal megalomaniac asks her to chain herself to him for life and she says yes. She has to be crazier than I am.

Not only did she agree, but if my optical sensors are not malfunctioning, she is deliriously happy about this possible union between egomaniac android and delusional humanoid female. She’s fucking out of her fucking mind. Damn, I am one lucky son of a bitch.

“You’re sure about this?” I ask her. I can feel the fury melting away as I look at her. It’s been replaced by disbelief.

“I’m completely, totally, one hundred percent sure.” She raises a humor filled eyebrow at me. “Do you have doubts?”

“Only about your sanity.” I cup her chin with a hand. “You realize that I’m not going to change. I know the chip fixed me, but this is as good as it gets. I’m not going to ever be the ‘bring you flowers’ kind of guy. I’ll remember our wedding day and all, but I may not decide to get you anything. I’m not going to clean up my mouth and I’m not going to try and pretend I’m not a know-it-all because I do know it all.

Shockingly, by the end of my little lecture, Kissel is giggling. Again, this is not what I’d expected. How does she do that?

“I told you, Lore. I love you. Not some puffed up, plastic image of you. You - arrogant, willful, nosy, playful, insecure you.” She wraps her arms around my neck and snuggles under my cheek.

“Hey, who are you calling insecure?”

Now she’s laughing. I still want to know where she got the idea I’m insecure, but she refuses to budge on that view, no matter how I glare, pout, groan or threaten. I think she can see through my threatening. Damn, I’ve lost my edge with her and we aren’t even hitched.

We would have talked more, but it was late. There was work tomorrow and lots to do. Data and Ann want us to accompany them while they look over the two suitable apartments they found listed that morning, so after work we met them at Kissel’s house. We had a quick dinner and were out the door by six. The places are not too far away, so we all go for a stroll over to the closest one.

It’s not a bad place. It’s a hell of a lot cleaner than my dump and bigger. Ann likes the kitchen but not the size of the bedroom. She blushes when she admits this, but obliviously, Data just agrees.

The next place is way too small. Just walking into the foyer, we are all disillusioned. Ann frowns and shakes her head. We don’t waste any more time with this one. The lady who was showing this place asks Ann if the apartment is for all of us.

“No, just Data and I. We need a place for now, while we look for a house.” This seems to pique the woman’s interest.

“Let me show you another place. It’s owned by some friends of mine and I’m watching it for them, but they really want tenants there taking care of it. They had to leave their cats behind, so I feed them, but-” she shrugged.

“Did you say cats?” Data asked, suddenly grinning.

The place was perfect. Or should I say purrrfect? As soon as we walked in, Data plopped down on the nearest couch and had all three cats climbing all over him. He looked as happy as a tribble in a mound of quadrotriticale. Pulling her gaze from her chosen mate, Ann looked over at the woman and smiled.

“We’ll take it.” 

The next few weeks were practically a blur. After they got the okay to move in, Data and Ann went to pack up Ann’s things from her apartment in Mangia. Data didn’t have much stuff at my dump so it didn’t take them long to get settled – only a couple of days. They invited Kissel and me to dinner one evening and told us they were leaving the next day to rendezvous with the Enterprise. For some unknown reason the cats seem to fucking like me so Data asked me to look after them while they're gone. I must have a servo loose ‘cause I fucking agreed to do it. I think I actually like the damn cats.

Kissel and I were really busy at the shipyard getting everything ready for the project. The area around the yard was abuzz with talk about what was going on. Only the Sethrins and the Soongs know what is being planned so there were new rumors started every other day about this mysterious activity. I was also becoming suspicious of ol’ Vaasic. He seemed too curious to me and, after spotting him snooping around areas we had just set up a few times, I talked to Kissel about it. She reluctantly agreed we should keep an eye on him. The thought of someone who had worked for her family for as long as Vaasic has being a spy was unsettling to her to say the least. Too bad Data isn’t here ‘cause he would have loved doing the Sherlock Holmes routine to figure out what the motherfucker was up to.

I cleaned out a large room that was being used for storage but was once an office. This was going to be where Data - if he comes back - and I will work on the design of the ships. After setting up the equipment we would need, I decided now was the time to find out if Vaasic was a fucking spy or not. I drew up some fake blueprints and sketches, which included a list of technical specifications, for an automated monitoring post. The thing would never actually function but I made the plans so complicated only Data would be able to figure that out. I left them in the office and waited to see what would happen. I had set up some hidden cameras to catch all the action. It didn’t take long for the rat to fall in the trap. Two days later, Crayss Shipyard was announcing they were diversifying their business to include automated monitoring posts. Kissel and I contacted Ren and he arrested Vaasic on charges of industrial espionage. Vaasic tried to deny it but when he saw the images I had recorded of him stealing the plans, he confessed. The scumbag refused to implicate anyone at Crayss so he was the only one charged. The Alexis System has a large number of companies that deal in different types of technology so industrial espionage is a very serious crime here. Vaasic won’t be out of prison for a long time.

The whole incident with Vaasic left Kissel feeling depressed. I did my best to lift her spirits and within a couple of days she was back to her old self. One really positive thing did come out of all this. Seems Kissel’s suppliers started worrying they could be dragged down if there was a scandal involving Crayss so they started charging the fair market value on parts and even agreed to give her some discounts towards future purchases to make up for what they overcharged her in the first place. I know they didn’t agree to the discounts out of the goodness of their hearts. I think Ren may have put the fear of God into them when he contacted them as part of his investigation. After all, they were putting the shaft to some close, personal friends of his.

Two weeks had passed and we were almost ready to start. We had two divisions now and some additional workers had been hired. Kissel promoted Kardec to replace Vaasic and Hausev was promoted to supervisor in the new division. They are both very qualified for the positions and it felt good to see my friends with their new titles. I still can’t get over how these guys stuck by me even when I fucked up or what they had said to Data about me when he first got here.

Okay, it’s my turn to be depressed now. Even moving my stuff to Kissel’s and getting rid of the dump didn’t help. Data and Ann haven't come back yet. They've been gone for sixteen days and we haven’t heard a word from them. I don’t know how my Kissel does it but she actually got me to fucking admit I’m scared Data isn’t coming back. She’s right. I am fucking insecure.

Kissel is asleep and has that ‘been happily fucked’ look on her face - okay, so maybe it’s actually a ‘been made love to within an inch of my life’ look, but I don’t have a lot of experience recognizing that one, not to mention putting it on someone’s face!

I have more things on my mind than is even normal for an android, so I slip out of her bed and out of her - our? - house and go for a walk. I haven’t gone two blocks when I sense Ren nearby.

“Data will come back,” he assures me, leaning up against the corner of the row houses I couldn’t afford to live in when I first got here.

“How can you be so sure?” I ask, wondering why this guy doesn’t have a sated looking woman in his bed. I’m also wondering why he’s not in it with her, making sure she stays sated looking. I may not be an expert, but Ren seems to have all the qualifications of a sexy guy to me. I mentioned this to Kissel once and she agreed, so I know I’m not totally off base on this.

“Data set up a frequency he’ll use to alert me of his return. This way, I can get him cleared with the patrol ships.” Ren sounded calm and sure.

“You heard anything yet?” I asked. I leaned on the fence that belonged to the house behind the one Ren was leaning on.

“Not yet, but I will. I bet my left nut on it.”

“Anything wrong with your left nut?” I enquire, keeping my tone even.

“Not had any complaints so far.”

I wonder if he’s tried that statement lately and then I wonder why the fuck I care? I manage to keep my mental snort just that. Who the hell do I think I’m fooling? I get a woman I can’t seem to live without now and I suddenly want everyone I know to get their own piece of ‘happily ever after’.

“Why the fuck aren’t you at home getting laid?” I can’t believe those words actually came out of my mouth.

“Because I’m out here in the middle of the night playing psychiatrist with you.” He actually looks over and makes eye contact with me. Slowly I can see him raise one eyebrow. It goes up pretty high on his forehead too. He’s grinning too. Damn. I wonder if he does actually have a girl grinning happily in his bed. “Don’t get any ideas,” he warns me. I guess he can tell I’m thinking about tailing him this time. He’s right. It’s none of my fucking business but I am sorely tempted.

Two days later I’m still thinking about tailing Ren, among 726 other things I have on my mind. I know, only 727 - it’s been a distracting week.

The sight of Ren sitting on Kissel’s porch when we walk up to the gate surprises both of us. Kissel greets him warmly and Ren even grants her one of his rare smiles. He politely accepts a glass of iced tea, but declines dinner. I come up to lean on one of the support beams that front Kissel’s house. Ren is in one of her rocking chairs and is rocking, leisurely. He’s got something like a small thin piece of wood between his teeth. He looks as relaxed as usual. If he doesn’t tell me why he’s here soon, I’m going to kick the shit out of him. 

He doesn’t look over. He doesn’t move and, oddly, when he talks, the little stick in his mouth also stays stationary.

“Data called about two hours ago.”

“He did? What did he say?” I’m such a loser. The only way I could have kept the eagerness out of my voice was to shut off my voice simulator.

“He said he and Miss Sethrin would reach Alexis IV in two hours, twenty-seven minutes and twelve seconds.” I can’t stop a chuckle now. That sounds like Data, all right. Ren finally grins, after removing the piece of wood from between his teeth. “Looks like my left nut’s staying put.”

“Thanks for letting me know, Ren. You’re a damn good friend.” Ren lost his stone face for only a few seconds before it slid back into place. He stood up, put the piece of wood in his shirt pocket and reached out to shake the hand I had extended to him.

“I’m glad I was wrong about you, Lore. You’re a good man.” Ren nodded before leaving me alone on the porch. Ren’s words meant a lot to me. He doesn’t talk a lot but when he does speak, he means what he says. You’ll never hear any bullshit spew from the lips of Ren Willilock.

Once he was out of sight, I ran inside, grabbing Kissel’s waist to turn her around so I could throw my arms around her and kiss her.

“What did Ren have to say that has you so happy?” Kissel was finally able to ask eight minutes later.

“Data and Ann-” I didn’t have a chance to finish my sentence for five minutes as Kissel excitedly reclaimed my mouth but then I didn’t really need to.

I wasn’t sure what we should do next. Should we go to Data and Ann’s place to welcome them back or would they come here? Just when I thought I was going to suffer cascade failure, Kissel saw them coming through the front gate and rushed to the door to meet them. I was right behind her.

When they reached the door, Kissel and Ann exchanged hugs. When Kissel turned to hug Data, Ann looked at me unsure. I opened my arms causing her to smile as she moved to share a hug with me. As the ladies moved aside, Data and I looked at each other for a few seconds.

“It’s great to have you back, Data.” The relief I was feeling that he was here, standing in front of me, may have had an impact on what I did next. I grabbed him to give him a “man hug”. I can’t believe it. Not that long ago I wanted to kill my brother and now, for the second time, I’m standing here embracing him. What kind of wimp have I become?

“Lore, you sound as if you thought we would not return.” I tried to give Data a look like I thought he was nuts or something but he didn’t buy it. Does the whole fucking world think I’m insecure? I decided a change of subject would be advantageous at this time.

“Have you two eaten? You will have dinner with us, won’t you?” I looked from Data to Ann with a hopeful expression on my face. “Kissel and I would really like to hear about your trip.”

“We had a great time. The Enterprise is incredible and huge. Data’s friends are really nice and made me feel so welcome,” Ann started. Data reached over to squeeze Ann’s hand. “It was a wonderful visit, however I must admit, it feels very good to be home and with family once again.”

I was shocked that Ann included me when she gave the three of us a smile that indicated we were whom she was referring to with the family comment. Family had never been a priority with me before, nor had friends. Now I find myself with shits loads of both. Okay, all right. Maybe not shit loads, but from my point of view, two of either was a shit load. I now have more that two of both. Damn, it feels good.

To celebrate, we decided to go to this new restaurant that opened while Ann and Data had been away. It was a nice little place with good local cuisine and a dimly lit, romantic atmosphere. Data and Ann were eyeing each other all night. For some reason this irritated me, reminding me they were still ahead in the ‘to have and to hold’ department.

“Kissel and I are getting married next week, so I’m glad you guys made it back in time.” I said this calmly, but once the words were out, no one at the table, including me, was calm. Kissel looked shocked. Data looked surprised but happy and Ann looked about to burst from joy. I felt like all the fluid in my hydraulics had gone dry. I’m not quite sure why.

I knew I didn’t want to lose Kissel, but I hadn’t really given a lot of thought to what would be involved after the honeymoon. The idea of the honeymoon had been too appealing to get past. I wanted a two week one where we never got out of bed, but I didn’t think Kissel would like the additional week it would take for her to recover and be able to walk again. I took a few seconds to contemplate this ‘happily ever after’ stuff now.

I’m not sure I can imagine Kissel being happy with me until she dies. The fact I most likely with outlive her, by centuries, also bites ass. What will I do if she decides I bite ass after a few years or decades? Will this be just the thing to set me off and cause me to lose the even keel I’ve found? Will I kill Kissel in a crazed rage, even if by accident?

Millions of possible outcomes, both good and bad come to mind. It must be obvious I’m suddenly troubled since my tablemates are now looking at me with expectant, concerned eyes.

I stand and take hold of Kissel’s arm, pulling her to her feet. “We’ll be right back,” I tell Ann and Data. Taking Kissel’s hand I pull her to the lobby, stating that I need to talk to her and it has to be now.

“What’s wrong?” she asks, once we make it to the lobby. Only everything.

“I’m not sure I can put it into words.” I’m still not. This will take some finesse. I give her a small taste of some of the possible scenarios that have been racing through my head and as I do, my Kissel begins to smile. I begin to wonder if I told this wrong.

“You’re getting cold feet. It’s making you want to chicken out.”

“Cold and heat don’t affect me at all. I thought I told you that.” I’m kidding. I know what she’s saying. Still, I’m not sure if she’s right or wrong. Kissel must know I’m kidding because she just raises one of her lovely eyebrows and grins at me. I can’t help myself. I trace that brow with a finger and then the other. Her skin and brows are so soft. I know from experience the rest of her is soft too. This thought triggers a chain of ‘what ifs’. The bottom line is that if I don’t marry Kissel, she will eventually decide this is not what she wants and she will find someone who is willing to commit to her. The thought of any other being having her - body and mind - makes me crazy.

I’ll be damned if I let anyone take my place - in her life or her bed.

“You’re right. I was having cold feet, but I’m over it now and they’re all hot for you again, just like the rest of me.” I pull her to me and kiss her lightly on the lips. She is not kissing back, but she is closing her eyes and grinning brightly at me. When I pull back, she opens her eyes and beams at me. Pulling me back by wrapping her arms around my waist, she hugs me.

“I love you. The threat of marriage may make you an emotional wreck, but I still love you.”

Okay, this is going down hill. First I’m insecure and now I’m an emotional wreck. I’m beginning to wonder about the wisdom of chip, women and love, but then she kisses me and it all goes away.

Kissel takes my hand and leads me back to the table. Since we are both smiling as we approach, Data and Ann take this to mean everything is okay. Actually, it’s more than okay.

“What type of ceremony are you going to have – traditional, modern, combination or something completely different?” Ann asks. I now realize I have no idea how wedding ceremonies are performed here. I’ve heard they can be elaborate affairs that take days on some planets while on others they just look at each other and declare themselves married. Maybe I should have just told Data and Ann that we were getting married soon instead of saying it was next week. Damn, I have a big mouth.

“I want something very small. I’d like to have Ren Willilock perform the ceremony and have two witnesses – that’s it. After, a party with family and friends to celebrate.” Kissel looked at me almost as if she was expecting me to challenge her plan. I don’t give a fuck how we get married but I don’t want Kissel to settle for something she doesn’t really want because I was the idiot who gave such a short time for planning anything.

“Are you sure that’s what you want? If you need more time-” Kissel placed her finger gently on my lips to shut me up.

“It is what I want, Lore. I don’t want a fancy ceremony with lots of people. Been there, done that and look how it turned out. If you want something different...” I was shaking my head before Kissel had a chance to finish her sentence. “Good. Now we have to decide who to have for witnesses. I bet Kardec and Hausav would be thrilled. Or should we have three witnesses so your friend, Chaz, can be there too?” We looked over at Ann and Data and couldn’t help laughing. The expressions on their faces were priceless. “You didn’t really believe we would get married without the two of you there, did you,” Kissel laughed.

“In your experience, Ann, is this form of humor typical for Kissel?” Ann nodded her head in response to Data’s query. “Then perhaps I should object to this marriage on the grounds Kissel is a bad influence for my brother.” We’re all laughing now.

Dinner was great. After some more kidding back and forth, Data and Ann told us more about their trip. It turns out the reason for their delayed return had more to do with business than pleasure. It seems I haven’t given Picard as much credit as I should have regarding his treatment of Data. When Data told the captain about our plans for the shipyard, Picard arranged for Data and Ann to speak with a number of influential individuals in the Federation via subspace communication. They all expressed an interest in either purchasing small ships that would be designed and built at Sethrin Shipyard or in contracting us to design larger ships that would be built at Federation shipyards. Kissel was so surprised and grateful that she looked as if she was going to cry.

When the evening ended, Ann and Data walked home while Kissel and I made our way to the house - our house? I’m still not sure what to call it. Kissel was holding my arm as we walked.

“Lore, will you carry me to our bedroom like you did before? I liked that,” she sighed contently. ‘Our' bedroom – she said ‘our' bedroom. I was so fucking happy to hear Kissel call the bedroom ours that I scooped her into my arms right there. She laughed before wrapping her arms around my neck and leaning into me. I quickened my pace when she started teasing my ear with her tongue and sucking my earlobe. We had a fucking fantastic night or is that a fantastic night fucking.

Data and I got approval on our plans and began the major work in constructing the new prototype patrol ship that next week. We had it done within days and testing was concluded by the following week. The representative for the sector police came by almost every day to monitor our progress and to make comments about his expectations. I let Data be the go between so I didn’t rip the guy a new one. Going that route, I believe Sethrin Shipyard will blow the competition off the map in under a year. 

Data and Ann agreed to marry two months after Kissel and I did. I think Ren was intrigued with the idea of uniting me and Kissel instead of tossing me in jail to protect Kissel, but he stayed cool. He did, however, bring a date. She was a hot little redhead who looked like her eyes were made of steel. I think her backbone was too. She struck me as a stubborn wench, but from the constant twinkle in Ren’s eyes, I guess he likes that type. She does dance sexy; I’ll give her that. I think Ren was planning on gettin’ some once he got that redhead home. I wonder if I’ll get invited to his wedding?

Data and Ann’s wedding was great. The Enterprise got permission to orbit Alexis IV for a week so all of Data’s friends were able to attend the big event. I’ll be damned but Data was right. His friends actually do like me.

Data and Ann had decided that what they wanted more than anything was to build their own house. After securing a few teltaars of land near Kissel’s house, they worked out the blueprints for their dream home and began buying what they would need for construction. At night, once our women are properly sated, Data and I meet on the site and work together on building his and Ann’s love nest. Data tells me he intends to make good use of the lab he’s included in the plans. He wants children, he explains - android children.

I can’t imagine, my baby brother - a father.

Once I told Kissel of Data’s plans, she got a suspicious but happy look on her face.

“I like the idea of children. I hope you’re willing to have both kinds, Lore.” She walked out of the house and into the garden at that point, but I’m sure I’ll get up the nerve to get her to explain that comment, as soon as I’m ready, which is not today.

I’m thinking this will be my last entry in this journal. I believe it has fulfilled its purpose and then some. I’ve learned a lot about myself and I’ve learned that all that was wrong in my life was not Data. I’ve learned that he was the one thing in my life that was right.

If it had not been for my baby brother, there would not have been a chip to steal from him and I would have never been fixed. Without Data, I would have never been running from him and have landed on this planet to meet Kissel. In finding me and staying, Data gave me - no, both of us - a chance to really be brothers for the first time. We’re a family now. Shockingly, it looks like we’re going to be a growing family. The Sethrin sisters - I mean both Mrs. Soongs - have appointments at the end of this month to get artificially inseminated.

Data and I may soon be fathers.

Shocking!

Well, I think that’s all I have to say. One day I’m going to give this thing to - I guess to the one being who would appreciate it most.

For you, Data.