OPENING DOORS ^{© 2003-2007}

By Lessa and Takara Soong

Chapter 4

The Farragut was just entering orbit of Earth and already Starfleet Command was issuing instructions for the Enterprise’s senior staff to beam down once standard orbit was achieved. Data had said a private goodbye to Raygan in her quarters. It had been when he revealed the new portrait to her. He had saved it for then to ensure one of the last things he saw was Raygan smiling. It backfired though and she cried. They were tears of joy, however, showing how moved she was by his effort, so he was not too disappointed. They kissed long and passionately, agreeing to meet at the Silver household in three days when the inquiry was expected to be over. One more tender kiss and Data was on his own for three whole, long, tedious days.

 Raygan arrived at her parents' home a few hours after Data had left the Farragut. They had not seen each other in over a year so it was a very happy reunion.

"Raysa, let me look at you. My daughter - the lieutenant commander and department head. We are so proud of you," her father beamed.

"Now when are we going to meet your Data?" her mother inquired.

"Data has to attend an inquiry regarding the Enterprise-D. Once it’s finished, he is coming."

"Wonderful," her mother exclaimed. She then looked at the belongings Raygan had with her. "Raysa, what is this?" Her mother had spotted the unusual case in with Raygan's belongings.

"Let me show you," she told them as she undid the case and pulled out the painting. She turned it towards them so they could see it. "Data painted it. Isn't it beautiful."

"Oh Raysa, it is." Her father's voice was filled with emotion. He took his wife's hand, squeezing it. Raygan's father remembered the old saying about a picture being worth a 1,000 words but in this case that was not true. ~ This picture says four, ~ he thought, ~ they are in love. ~  And the expression on his baby girl’s face confirmed this belief. Her eyes were alight with the warm feelings she had for Data. She stared at the portrait long and hard. ~ She already misses him. ~

“Let’s get your things to your room, my girl. Your father can make himself useful and hang that wonderful portrait for you.” Nalla took one of Raygan’s bags and led her back to the room Raygan had spent many nights in before.

Raymond Silver did indeed hang the portrait Data had painted in Raygan’s room. Raygan fully intended to take the portrait with her when she left, but it was good to have this prized possession hung and safe. Raygan did not want to take a chance on anything happening to this wonderful painting. Raygan had the feeling she was going to spend a lot of time staring happily or longingly at this picture. Like right now, she very much wished Data were here and hoped all was going well with him.

The inquiry went even smoother than expected. They finished taking testimony in one day and reached a decision the next. They found no fault with any of the crew of the Enterprise and confirmed the transfers to the new Enterprise-E could proceed. Everyone was relieved when the process was over, especially Picard. This was a much different experience from the inquiry held into the loss of the Stargazer. The Enterprise-E would be ready to take on crew in six weeks. Shore leave was available for everyone. Data left most of his belongings with Geordi. He had a small bag packed and the painting he was going to give to Raygan's family. Data placed Spot in a cat carrier for the trip. He had not even asked Geordi to watch Spot for him and he knew there would not be any volunteers. Since Spot liked Raygan so much, he felt comfortable bringing her with him to Raygan's family home. He knew he was going to arrive a day early and he could not wait to see her. He missed her so much.

Raygan and her parents had gone for a walk in the neighborhood. They were stopped by many people who congratulated Raygan on her promotion. She was also told many times what a relief it had been to find she had survived the loss of the Enterprise.

As they approached the house, Raygan's father asked, "Who is that sitting on our porch?" As Raygan looked over at the figure, a huge smile came to her lips.

"Data!" she exclaimed and ran towards the house. Data stood up as Raygan threw her arms around him. "I've missed you," she whispered as she held him.

"I have missed you too," he responded. He was about to kiss her when Raygan's parents approached the porch. 

 They gazed into each other’s eyes for a few seconds before Mr. Silver gave a discreet cough to catch their attention. Raygan took Data’s hand and introduced him to her parents.

“So you are the man our little girl has not stopped talking about since she took her post aboard the Enterprise,” Nalla commented. Data looked stunned, but flattered. Raygan blushed and smiled.

“Mom!” Raygan scolded.

“Can I help you with your things, Data? We have a room prepared for you,” Raymond offered.

“Thank you, sir. Perhaps just this, as it is a gift for you and Mrs. Silver.” Data handed the man the painting, wrapped in a cloth. Raymond Silver threw a glance at his wife, who came to stand beside him as he opened the cloth. The painting of Raygan in Stellar Sciences was revealed with a gasp from both of the older Silvers. Raygan grinned at Data as she gave his hand a squeeze.

“I think they love it, Data.” 

Nalla's eyes were starting to get teary as she stared at the portrait.

"We do, it's stunning. Thank you so much, Data," Raymond sounded choked with emotion.

Nalla wiped the tears from her eyes and approached Data. She gave him a hug as she thanked him for the exquisite painting.

"I am glad you like it. I enjoyed painting it as I find Raygan to be a very inspiring subject."

"Yes, we have noticed that," Raymond smiled.

Data looked a little confused until Raygan told him they had seen the other painting. Nalla then noticed the cat carrier on the porch.

"And who is this?" she asked while looking in the front of it.

"That is my cat, Spot. I hope you do not mind that I brought her. I have difficulty in finding anyone to watch her when I am away."

Nalla opened the cat carrier to pick Spot up.

"You are such a pretty cat," Nalla said to Spot while scratching behind Spot's ears. Raymond joined his wife in giving Spot even more attention. Spot began to purr loudly.

"It would appear Spot likes your entire family, Raygan," Data noted with a grin. 

"Maybe Spot is trying to tell you something, Data," Raygan suggested with a bright smile. Data looked perplexed.

"What?" he asked, studying his pet for clues.

"Never mind, Data. Come on. Let's go in. I'll show you your room and- well, I'll show you the room." She pulled Data into the house and down the hall.

Raymond Silver handed his wife into the house just behind the young pair and watched them disappear into Data's room. Raygan's parents gave each other a knowing look.

"You're right, it's love. I think we've lost our little girl," Raymond observed.

In Data's room, Raygan threw her arms around Data's neck, pulling him into a kiss. Data let his bag drop to the floor and wrapped his arms around her waist. It was very good to be reunited, Data decided. 

There were still enjoying their reunion when there was a knock on Data's door.

"It's time for dinner," Raymond called. Raygan led Data to the dining room as Nalla was setting the last of the dishes she had prepared on the table.

"I hope you'll like Rekellian food, Data. I wanted to do something special for your first dinner here. All of Raysa's favorites," Nalla smiled. They sat down at the table and enjoyed the wonderful meal. Raymond and Nalla had a number of questions for Data although they did seem to know quite a bit about him already, he noticed. After dinner, Data offered to help clean up but Nalla refused his offer, suggesting he and Raygan go for a walk instead. 

"I think my folks like you, Data," Raygan told him as they walked hand in hand down the sidewalk.

“May I ask what leads you to this conclusion?”

“Well, the silly grins on their faces was an indication, Data. You’re nervous, but you’re still charming and you tickle my mother. Something I can understand since you tickle me too.” Raygan laughed when Data turned and, in fact, tickled her on the ribs. The tickling led to Raygan grabbing at Data’s fingers, Data pulling them away and walking them around her waist until his arms encircled her. With a grin, Data pulled her closer and found her lips with his own. They kissed passionately until they heard a noise. A neighborhood pet had knocked a plant over. Raygan noticed a few of the neighbors were looking out their windows at them.

"Data, the neighbors are watching us," she laughed.

"Then we should give them more to see." Data surprised Raygan with another passionate kiss. Raygan and Data continued on their walk until they came to a park at the end of the street. The park had a large duck pond with benches around it. They sat down and Data put his arm around Raygan.

"Raygan, how long did you want to visit your parents?" Data asked.

"I'm not sure. Why, Data?"

"I was hoping you and I would have an opportunity to spend some time alone before we are due on the Enterprise-E. If you do not think that is possible-"

Raygan placed her index finger softly on Data's lips. "I would like that a lot, Data. Since Spot seems to like my folks, maybe she’ll consent to stay with them while you and I get away for a bit. A romantic getaway, what a wonderful idea, Data."

"Thank you," he replied, grinning. The wind was blowing strands of Raygan's hair across her face. Data reached over to brush them back, gently. He ran his fingers through her hair, enjoying the feel of it.

~ Is this love? ~ Data wondered again.

When he and Raygan returned to the house later, Raymond Silver took Data to his study for a talk. Data decided this would be a good time for a question.

"Sir, how did you know you were in love with your wife?" Data asked once they were seated across from each other on two love seats that faced one another.

Raymond Silver looked momentarily startled, but recovered quickly.

"You want to know if you love my Raysa?" he asked Data.

"Yes sir. I have very little experience with emotion at all, but as love is considered the most desirable of emotional states, I wish to be certain that is what I truly feel before articulating this to Raygan.”

“You’ve not told her? Well then, you care for her, I can see that. You respect her?” Data nodded. Raymond thought for a moment. “Is her happiness important to you?”

“Vitally so, yes.”

“More so than your own happiness, Data?” Raymond asked. “Her safety and happiness.”

Data did not even pause. “Yes, sir.” Raymond Silver smiled at Data brightly.

"I can remember so clearly the moment I realized I was in love with Nalla. We had gone for a walk and decided we needed to stop for a rest. There were some benches and we sat down on one and talked. I found myself staring at her and thinking about the way she smiled, the way she brushed her hair from her face, the way she moved, her laugh, so many things. I knew she was the most important person in my life. Her happiness, her safety were more important than mine. I wanted to spend every possible moment with her and hated to be apart. I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with her. That, Data, is how I knew I was in love with Nalla," Raymond smiled. Data could see that the man’s feelings for his wife were unchanged after their years together by the look in his eyes and the smile on his face as he talked about her. "Do you mind a little relationship advice from a happily married man?" Raymond asked.

"Please, sir, I would appreciate any advice you can offer," Data responded.

"I have found that one of the most important things Nalla and I did was accept each other for who we are. It’s easy to love a person's good traits but it is a lot more difficult to not just accept but embrace the not so good. Doing that and maintaining good communication between the two of you will help your relationship flourish. Now Data, I have a question for you. What are your plans for the future?”

Raymond Silver proceeded to “grill” Data for over forty-five minutes before the ladies came in. Raygan sat on the arm of the couch next to Data as Nalla went to sit next to her husband.

“Okay Dad, I think you’ve had enough time in here. I’m surprised you didn’t pull out the cigars,” Raygan teased her father as she took Data’s hand.

Data looked over at her with new knowledge in his eyes. He was in love and now he knew it.

It was around midnight when Raymond and Nalla decided to head for bed. Raygan slid down next to Data in the love seat.

"I hope my father's questioning wasn't worse than the inquiry." She smiled and took Data's hand.

"Actually I found my conversation with your father to be most fascinating and enlightening," Data replied.

"Oh? And what were you two talking about that was so fascinating?"

"Love," Data smiled and kissed Raygan. "Your father provided excellent guidance and advice for me and now I know I was correct in my assessment of my feelings for you, Raygan."

"Your feelings for me?" she repeated. Data moved some strands of Raygan's hair from her face and then gently caressed her check.

"I love you, Raygan Silver." 

Data leaned in to kiss her soft lips once the words passed his. But when his lips met hers, he found them trembling. He also felt moisture on his cheek. Data pulled back to look at Raygan.

“Are you upset?” he asked. Raygan shook her head and sniffed. “Happy?” he ventured. She nodded, grinning through her tears. “Very happy?” Data asked, hopefully. Raygan suddenly laughed and gasped as though she had been holding her breath.

“Happier than that,” she told him. Taking hold of his face, she looked him straight in the eyes and said, “I love you too, Data. I love you too.” Now she kissed him with great passion. This kiss held great promise as well and Data was intrigued as to what it promised.

Their kiss was interrupted when Spot jumped in Raygan's lap. Data gently caressed Raygan's cheek.

"It is getting late. Are you tired?" Data asked.

"It has been a glorious day that I don't want to end but yes, I am a little tired."

Data walked Raygan to her bedroom, kissing her tenderly at the door. He did not want to go in Raygan's bedroom as he knew he would not want to leave. After Raygan closed the door to the bedroom, Data went into his and lay down on the bed. Spot jumped up next to Data and began purring contently as Data stroked her fur. He was feeling quite content himself. He activated his dream program and went to sleep.

Morning came and Raygan found the door to Data's room open because Spot was sitting right there in the doorway keeping it open. Raygan looked over to the bed and the sleeping Data. He was lying on his back, with one arm across his waist and the other at his side. He had a very sweet smile on his handsome face. The temptation was too strong to resist. Raygan tiptoed into the room and crossed to the bed. Leaning over him, she moved in for the kiss, but just before she made contact, Data's eyes flew open, causing Raygan to let out a startled cry and then an embarrassed laugh.

Data, sensing the opportunity, grabbed her. She gave another startled peep, but came into his arms very willingly.

They laid on the bed, passionately kissing until the sounds of movement in other areas of the house could be heard.

Data and Raygan got up from the bed and headed to the kitchen to start preparing breakfast. The Silver kitchen had a replicator but it was also designed for old-fashioned cooking. Data examined a number of fresh ingredients stored in the kitchen before asking Raygan if he could prepare a special breakfast for everyone.

"What are you going to make?" she asked curiously.

"It will be a surprise now you must leave the kitchen. I believe there is an old Terran axiom that indicates an abundance of chefs mars the soup stock," Data told her as he nudged her to the other room. "If I cannot find something, I will request your assistance."

Soon the wonderful aromas from the kitchen brought Raymond and Nalla to the dining area where they saw Raygan waiting. She had convinced Data to let her set the table but had been unsuccessful at peeking at his culinary delight.

Data called the family in to the dining room to finally partake of the food that had been causing them all to salivate with hunger. It was wonderful. When they finished, Raygan’s parents insisted on cleaning up, thanking Data again for preparing the wonderful feast. They then instructed the couple to go enjoy the beautiful day.

Data asked Raygan to show him around as he had never been to this area of Earth before. The Starrock area of Barbados was a very historic area featuring many buildings built centuries earlier. The area was lined with beautiful beaches that lead to the sparkling clear water of the ocean. As they walked, Raygan pointed out different things she thought Data would find interesting, including a few of her favorite places from when she grew up. There was one shop in particular that sold homemade ice cream in 150 different flavors. Raygan told Data the best ice cream she has ever had comes from that shop so the two went in so Data could have a taste of this rare treat.

They took a walk in an area that ran right next to a heavily forested area after the ice cream. They were talking about how they needed to ask Raygan’s parents about watching Spot so they could go off alone and they were brainstorming about where to go. For some reason, Raygan stopped walking and looked deep into the woods. Data asked her what was wrong, but all she did was give Data an evil grin before running into the woods.

“Catch me if you can!” she called back to him. Data was astonished at this unusual action, but he was coming to expect the unexpected from the woman he loved. Resigning himself, Data headed into the woods after her. Raygan proved to be astonishingly elusive and managed to evade him for longer than he would have believed possible, but he did finally capture her when they were deep into the forest. He held her by the arms as she grinned teasingly at him.

“Now that you’ve caught me, Data, what will you do with me?” She even went so far as to raise her eyebrows at him suggestively. She pulled her hands free and wrapped them around him. She kissed him with great feeling and Data had no inclination to resist. The kisses deepened and grew more passionate. Data ran his hand down her back and, pulling her closer, ran it back up. In doing so, he accidentally got a hand stuck under her blouse and made wonderful contact with her silky soft skin. This touch was too much for Data. He knew this had to stop as he was beginning to react to this intimate contact. Raygan did not seem inclined to stop although she had taken notice of Data’s reaction and was pressing against him, urging him further. Data pulled back, but it took quite an effort to do so.

“We must cease this activity, Raygan. This cannot continue,” he warned her. Raygan pulled him back and kissed him again.

“Raygan, I want-“ he stopped this sentence, but she picked it up.

“So do I, Data. Make love to me,” her passion touched voice urged him.

Data had already turned his internal chronometer off, but he was still at a loss to explain how it was that they were suddenly kneeling before each other in a bed of leaves. They continued to kiss until Data realized that Raygan was removing his trousers. He was gripped by hesitation and great desire at the same time. He decided to go with the desire and helped her out of her lower garments as well. She unbuttoned, but did not remove her blouse, but that was enough. She was perfect.

Data explored her mouth with his tongue as his hand explored these new areas of her exquisite body. Lowering her to the ground, he insinuated himself between her legs and tested to see if she was ready for him. He was surprised as to just how ready she was as he slowly and deliciously penetrated her. The sensations were almost too much for him to bear, the feel of her skin against him, her sweet kisses and being inside her. He had never experienced anything to compare.

Raygan moaned with pleasure as Data thrust deep inside her. Her reaction helped ease any self-doubt he had because of the newness of this situation. She held his face in her hands kissing him with great passion before locking her fingers behind his neck. She wrapped her legs around his waist to encourage him to penetrate her more deeply.

There was another, deeper moan that Data slowly realized was emanating from him. He also recognized that this was the first time in his life that he was thinking of almost one thing. He was only thinking of, analyzing, experiencing and sensing Raygan. Her touch, her taste, her scent and the sounds that she was making as he moved within her. Slowly, Raygan began to unbutton Data’s shirt, that in their haste they had forgotten to remove. Once undone, she pushed it off his arms. She then began to run her hands over his chest. Every touch gave new meaning to delight. Her moans and gasps became more frequent and she urged him on with her legs. Data quickened his pace, but all of the sensations he was experiencing seemed to be overwhelming him. But he wanted to please her, and wanted this astonishing pleasure to continue. Raygan broke their kiss to cry out in orgasm and Data was delighted he could pleasure her so. He knew he could now stop, but something prevented him from doing so. Something he did not understand was building within him, pushing him to move faster, penetrate her more deeply. Raygan did not seem to object in the least. She still clung to him. She kissed his neck and ears and then down to his chest as the strange feeling grew in intensity. Data was moaning loudly now, he could not stop himself. He cried out her name over and over until Data felt his whole body was suddenly awash with intense sensation. He was not certain he could process all he was feeling. Raygan was also crying out again.

Raygan held on to Data tightly as her body quivered from the intensity of her second orgasm. Data withdrew from Raygan and lay on his side next to her and started to pick a few leaves out of her hair. His mind was still racing with the sensory information he had gathered. His emotions were still reeling from the climax she had given him.

"I believe it is time to return to your home," Data suggested, reluctantly. "Your parents may start to wonder what happened to us. I would hate to have your father come looking for us."

The image of Raymond Silver walking in the woods and coming upon Data and Raymond's near naked daughter caused Data some alarm. Data sat up and suggested to Raygan, "Perhaps we should get dressed..." but Raygan interrupted him by pulling him back down beside her and kissing him.

"We have time," she whispered. "You always try and rush off after making love, Data?" Raygan asked, running her fingers through his hair.

"No, I do not wish to rush off, I simply do not wish to be discovered in this state of undress," he swallowed with discomfort. His modesty sub-routine was causing him some problems. While they were making love, it had remained silent, now it was warning Data that he should be properly attired.

Raygan tilted her head to the side, seeming to realize that there was something wrong. She questioned him and Data admitted to the sub-routine. She shook her head, grinned and handed him his pants. Data sighed with relief and dressed. He helped her to her feet after she had also dressed. They spent a few minutes plucking leaves out of each other’s hair and off their clothing. Hand in hand they returned to the park, heading home. As they walked, Raygan noted that Data was oddly quiet.

“Is something wrong, Data,“ she finally asked once they had returned to the house. He looked hesitant to even meet her gaze. Sensing there was something wrong with her lover and determined to know what it was, Raygan pleaded quietly, “Please tell me what’s wrong, Data.”

Data looked almost frightened to face her. He looked around to see where the Silvers were before answering in a very small voice.

“Tomorrow, will you regret what we just did? Will you reject me?” Data had to fight the fear that clenched his chest to even say these words. The image of Tasha denying she had even been with Data still haunted him. He did not wish to lose Raygan in the same way. Would she abandon him as Tasha had?

"No regrets, Data, not today, tomorrow or ever," Raygan spoke softly. "I love you." She kissed Data hoping to reassure him. "Why did you feel you had to ask me that?" she asked. "Do you have doubts about us?"

"I have no doubts regarding our feelings, Raygan. You are the second woman I have been intimate with. It was my previous experience that caused doubts to arise." Data quickly told Raygan about Tasha and how she only wanted to be with him because of the Psi 2000 virus and how she had later told him ‘it never happened’.

"Data, I'm not Tasha. I love you so much." She wrapped her arms around him and whispered in his ear, "I love you. Never forget that I love you."

A single tear slipped down Data's cheek. Raygan, seeing it, kissed it away.

"Raygan, I love you. I have one more question."

"What is it, Data?" she asked, gently.

"When we go away together, can we make love again?" He had such a sweet desperate expression on his face. Even so, something about just hearing him say the words had a dramatic affect on her. It made her want to grab his arm and pull him to her bedroom.

"Data, if we get this time alone, I may be hiding your clothes for the whole thing and doing my best to keep you so busy your modesty sub-routine has no time to complain," Raygan wrapped her arms around the now widely grinning android.

A few minutes later, Raymond and Nalla entered the living room, PADD in hand.

"Look at this." Nalla handed the PADD to them as she and her husband sat in chairs opposite the couch. They had downloaded images of various vacation areas into the PADD.

"Raysa, your mother and I were talking. We think with everything that’s happened recently that you and Data need a real vacation. You don't want to spend all of your time here. Don't these places look lovely. Pick one and go. Spot can stay with us and you can visit us after you're rested."

Raygan and Data exchanged looks and began laughing. Nalla and Raymond waited for them to stop to ask what was so funny. Raygan was still sputtering laughter, so Data told them.

“Well, what is the old saying? ‘Great minds think alike’? You two pick a place and go in the morning. I’ll take you to the shuttle port.” Raymond handed the PADD to Data after getting up from his chair. He and Nalla returned to the kitchen to start the evening’s dinner. Data and Raygan studied the destinations on the PADD for a short time before deciding on England. The ancient ruins there were interesting and the weather would be cool. Raygan did tell Data not to get too excited about the sights there as he would be seeing more of the room than anything else. Data could only grin.

Dinner was excellent once again. Nalla Silver was very good at preparing a wide variety of not only Rekellian cuisine but Terran as well. When everyone was finished, Data and Raygan cleaned up the dishes while the elder Silvers relaxed. They could see into the kitchen and found themselves smiling as they watched the interaction between Raygan and Data.

"Nalla, Starfleet has been very good to the Silver family over the years, has it not?" Raymond was reminiscing about his own days as a Chief Petty Officer in Starfleet and his fateful meeting with the beautiful Rekellian woman he would later marry.

"Yes, Raymond, it has," she said as she squeezed his hand.

Once everything was cleaned up, the four sat in the living room for a while, chatting. Raymond and Nalla told Data and Raygan of places to see in England until Nalla suddenly realized they were wasting their time. Very little of England would actually see these two when they got there, beyond the hotel staff. The conversation turned to stories of Raygan when she was a child. Data got to see just how proud of their child the Silvers were. This caused Data to wonder if his own father would have still been proud of him and what he would have thought of his son’s choice of a potential mate.

He was deep in thought regarding his family when Raygan leaned over and kissed his cheek.

"You look lost in thought, Data," Raygan commented.

"Hearing the stories about you made me think of my father. I wish you could have met him, Raygan. I sometimes wonder whether he would still be proud of the paths I have chosen in my life."

"Data," Raymond looked very serious, "I never met your father but I can say with 100% certainty that he would be very proud of you."

"How do you know this?" Data asked.

"Because if you were my son, I would be."

Data was very pleased by this comment. While it was true a bright grin now graced his face, he still seemed very far away. Raygan took her hand, turned his head to face her and with an understanding smile encouraged her introspective lover to go for a walk. Data nodded, agreeing this sounded like a good idea. He nodded at Raymond and Nalla as he stood. He held out his hand for Raygan, but she shook her head.

“I think you need some time alone, Data. A lot has happened in the last few weeks and I don’t think you’ve really had the time to work through it all. You go ahead. I’ll come find you for a good night kiss before I go to bed.” She brought his hand to her lips, kissing it before placing it back at his side. Data nodded and went outside for a walk.

Data started walking aimlessly but ended up at the park he and Raygan had stopped at during one of their walks. He sat on a bench and began to think about recent events. He thought of Raymond's words and his mind drifted back to his father. Watching the happy reunions after the crash had brought back the pain of his father's death. Seeing Raymond Silver's special relationship with Raygan, at times, seemed to intensify Data's sense of loss. He was deep in thought when he felt a hand on his shoulder. He stood up quickly in surprise only to see Raygan there with a look of concern on her face.

"You've been gone for hours. I was worried about you," she hugged Data tightly.

"I did not mean to alarm you. I was thinking."

"Do you want me to go?"

"No, Raygan, do not go. Please sit with me for a few minutes."

Raygan sat, watching the man she loves stare off into the distance. “I have been thinking about my father and my brother. You have a wonderful family to share your life with. I do not.”

“What about your mother, Data? Are you in contact with her?”

Data looked at her. “We have not spoken since the mission to Altrea IV.”

Raygan tilted her head and raised an eyebrow at him. “Not since then? Not even a communication to let her know you survived the crash?”

Data grimaced, realizing he had been remiss.

“Data, relationships are what you make of them. Put in some time and effort and, most of the time, you get that back tenfold. Does your mother like you?”

“Yes, I believe so but...” Data hesitated, still looking disturbed by something.

“But what?” Raygan asked.

“Mr. Tainer does not care for me, but I have not been able to determine his reason for feeling this way. My mother denies this to be true.”

“Sounds like you guys need some work. You’ve been avoiding her since then?”

Reluctantly, Data nodded. “I did not understand how to deal with this type of conflict. Avoidance seemed the most practical solution at the time,” Data told her.

“And now?”

Data looked into her eyes. He reached over and caressed her cheek. “I believe my mother would want to meet you.”

"I would like to meet her some day too." Raygan smiled and kissed Data.

"When I see families like yours, I feel envious of that relationship. I feel alone."

"You’re not alone. You have me. You'll always have me. My parents love you. You're a part of our family. Let's go back to the house."

They returned to the house just as the Silvers were heading for bed. Raygan kissed her parents good night and Data wished them well.

Her mother pulled Raygan close before going off. "Get some sleep, Raysa. I have the feeling with what you are planning for tomorrow, you're going to need it."

Raygan blushed as her mother walked away with her father. Data had heard, but was trying to look like he had not.

Raygan chuckled. "Well, she is right, isn't she?" she said, slipping her arm through his.

“Can I pretend that was a rhetorical question?”

Raygan kissed him goodnight passionately. "I wish I could invite you into my room again. I missed getting to cuddle with you after we made love. That was so wonderful, Data. You're quite cute under those clothes," she told him, with a very flirtatious look in her eyes. Data looked flustered so Raygan kissed him again before sending him to his room for the night.

Data decided he would not activate his dream program until later. He was accessing his databanks for all available information on their destination. He wanted to make sure the time they did spend outside their hotel room would be interesting for Raygan. It was almost 0400 when Data heard his bedroom door open. He thought, at first, it was Spot but realized it was not when he saw the outline of Raygan standing just inside the doorway.

"Data, are you awake?" she whispered.

"Yes, I had not yet activated my dream program."

"I couldn't sleep. Hold me, please," she asked as she crawled next to Data on his bed. He wrapped his arms around her.

"Thank you, Data." Raygan instantly fell asleep in Data's arms.

Data found it difficult to think of anything but Raygan with her here in his arms. They were lying on top of the blankets and he was still fully dressed while Raygan was in a nightgown. Data hoped her parents did not object to them being in this state in their house. Still, since Raygan had fallen asleep so quickly, there was nothing to do but join her. Data kissed her on the forehead, ensured she was secure in his arms, closed his eyes and shut down his cognitive functions.

"Look," Nalla beckoned her husband to the half opened door of Data's borrowed room. Raymond looked into the room that was just beginning to be lit by the rising sun.

"I especially like the tail across Data's chest," Raymond said with a grin.

"Come on, Raymond. Let's let them sleep in. They look too happy to disturb." Nalla pulled her husband to the kitchen and the couple began breakfast.

Data and Raygan slept until Nalla woke them for breakfast. Data was relieved Nalla was not angry with him for having Raygan on his bed. Breakfast was a feast prepared by Raymond with Nalla's assistance. After breakfast, Raygan had a quick shower and changed before her father took them to the shuttle port. Data and Raygan exchanged hugs and a kiss with Nalla before leaving. Data also reminded Spot to be good. Raymond saw the couple off at the shuttle port wishing them a great trip.

The hotel where the couple had a reservation was elegantly appointed. In the lift up, Raygan kept giving Data flirtatious looks. Raygan’s expression reminded Data of the look on Spot’s face just before he would lower her feeding bowl to the floor. The lift ride lasted long enough for Raygan to reach over and run her hand over Data’s backside, causing his eyes to go wide with shock. The bellman could not help but smirk as even he could feel the heat building between the two guests.

Once the bellman had led them to their room and left, Raygan practically pounced on Data. Her first act was to reach under his shirt and run her hands up his back. She kissed him with hunger, pushing him backward towards the bed. She was undoing his pants, so Data felt it would not be out of line to begin helping her out of her top. When his leg made contact with the bed, Data started to sit down just as Raygan pulled his pants down. The result was Data missed the bed and, since Raygan was holding on to his pants, she fell on top of him, facing Data’s already prominent erection.

Raygan looked up at Data with a smirk on her face. Raygan took Data's erection in her hand and gently lowered her mouth around the head of his penis. She ran her tongue along the underside of the head before lowering her mouth further down the shaft. She began to raise and lower her mouth along the shaft of his penis. It excited her to hear his moans of pleasure. As soon as she lifted her head to smile at Data, he pulled her up to him and pressed his lips against hers, hard. He ran his hands down to her firm ass. Picking Raygan up, he moved them to the bed without changing their position. He pulled his shirt over his head before lowering himself to Raygan and reclaiming her lips.

Data pushed Raygan's skirt down her smooth body, touching her as he freed her of it. Data was relieved his modesty sub-routine was not acting up at all. But his sexual program was acting just right. He moved her over on her back and continued to kiss her. Raygan wrapped her arms around him, rubbing his back and encouraging him to enter her. He was only too happy to comply. The sensations he experienced were no less powerful this time than when he had made love to her in her bedroom. Her body, moving with his, made him feel so human.

Her soft cries of passion excited him in a way Data did not believe possible. Raygan broke their kiss and was breathing harder, causing Data to almost pause to study the expression on her beautiful face. No, not just beautiful - sexy. Raygan was sexy to him. This realization excited Data all the more causing him to quicken his sexual pace. Raygan's moans increased.

Data's thrusts were long and deep and his rhythm was perfect. Data turned his attention to the nape of Raygan's neck, kissing her soft skin, running his tongue on it and lightly sucking. Raygan was soon overcome with passion. Letting out a tremendous moan, Raygan grabbed on to the bedding tightly as she arched her back. Data loved to watch her orgasm. The pleasure she experienced only intensified his own. He continued his thrusts and soon she was on the brink of another climax. As her joy was released from her body, Data experienced his own climax within her.

Bliss.

This surely must be bliss.

Raygan lay beside Data, grinning at him. Her expression was soft, happy and filled with love. It was unlike any expression Data had ever seen directed at him before. It filled him with joy. They lay in each other’s arms, simply being together. For a long while, neither said a word. Nothing really needed to be said. It was all understood.

"So, am I going to need to hide your clothes in order to keep you here with me? Or will you stay willingly, Data?" Raygan asked, breaking the long but enjoyable silence.

"I will stay wherever you wish me to stay, for as long as I am able." Data reached up and caressed her cheek, tenderly. "There are so many words I now understand the meaning of because of you." He sounded so serious and so sensuous that Raygan had trouble responding.

“For me, I think I knew the meaning, but had never felt the feelings. You give them new meaning, Data. I love you.”

“And I love you.” Data leaned in and kissed her ever so gently.

One gentle kiss led to another, which lead to a more passionate kiss. Data's hand roamed Raygan's body charting every sensuous inch of her. Her breasts were so soft yet firm. He ran his thumb over her nipple feeling it getting harder with each touch. He broke their kiss to take her breast in his mouth. His skillful use of his tongue on her nipple, the little nips and kisses, all left her moaning in pleasure. He ran his hand down her body, caressing first her stomach before moving his hand further down.

Raygan parted her legs for him, allowing Data greater access to regions of her body he had not seen, but had been. His fingers familiarized themselves with every fold as his mouth explored her other breast. Her body seemed a feast of tastes, scents and sensations. The gasps and moans she made as Data pleasured her enhanced it all. He tongued the curve of her breast and kissed his way down to her navel. She giggled as he licked her here. He surprised her by moving all at once and taking her clitoris and the surrounding area in his mouth, sucking gently. Raygan sighed deeply, but also squirmed slightly. Wishing to bring her as much pleasure as possible, Data carefully slid two fingers inside her and then out again, mimicking the rhythm of lovemaking.

Raygan’s gasps became more frequent as her body filled with fire. She began to writhe from the pleasuring Data was giving her. She let out another loud gasp as Data brought her to climax. Data was not finished yet. Her body had not finished experiencing the magnificent sensations when Data moved up and penetrated her with his rock hard erection.

Raygan took Data into her arms as she took him into her body. She opened her eyes to look deeply into his beautiful amber ones. The passion she saw there enthralled her. Data was always attractive to her, but now, wrapped up in desire, he was the sexiest man she had ever seen. Moving in a perfectly joined cadence, the tempo to this rhythm of love increased slowly. Data’s own gasps seemed to accentuate the downbeat. Raygan grabbed his face, needing to kiss him and be kissed by him. Every new thing he made her feel made Raygan want more. He was learning how to please her all too quickly and it was driving Raygan half mad with desire. She felt as though the heat they were generating would melt their bodies into one any moment now. The sweet abyss was fast approaching again and Raygan was only able to accede to this need and fall. This time, she took Data with her.

Through the throws of her ecstasy, Raygan tried to study Data's face as he experienced his own orgasm. She wanted to see his reaction to this pleasure they were experiencing. When both of their bodies' reactions had subsided, Data lay next to Raygan. He gently brushed some strands of Raygan's hair off her face and kissed her.

"I believe it would be prudent if we did see some of the sights of the area while we are here. I am sure your parents will ask about our visit."

"Later." She did not say anything else on the subject. She and Data were now lovers and Raygan wanted to bask in the glow of that. She intended to hold him and enjoy the feel of his body next to hers. It had been years since Raygan had been in a physical relationship and she had never felt like she had been in love before. This time it was different. Data was different. He was not one you took for a spin and then left the morning after, not that Raygan had ever gone in for that kind of thing. She did not have the time. But now, the time was right and the man was more than right. This time, she planned on making it last.

"Data, hold me. I want to lie here in your arms and feel you next to me."

Data kissed her gently as he wrapped his arms around her. "We can stay here for as long as you wish, Raygan," Data whispered.

They had been cuddling for some time when Data suggested Raygan take a shower. "If we are to go out, I think it best if you have a shower first," Data told her.

"Are you suggesting I stink?" she feigned indignance.

"More than suggesting," Data teased.

“Well, what if I don't want to go out?" Raygan teased back.

"That does not affect your aroma," Data laughed.

"You have been working on your humor too much," Raygan laughed. "Okay, I'll take a shower."

She was in the shower for only a few minutes but she already missed Data. Lost in thought as she re-played the events of the past several hours in her mind, Raygan was jolted back to reality when she suddenly felt lips on the back of her neck. She let out a gasp of surprise.

"You did not believe I wanted you to shower alone, did you?"

It took a moment for Raygan to regain her composure as Data had startled her so. Then, seeing him standing there in all his glory again, gave her pause. He was so desirable.

"Data, is the water dangerous for you?" she asked, suddenly alarmed. Causing Data any kind of harm was not on the agenda.

"If I am immersed for a prolonged period of time, the water can cause limited damage. A shower will not damage me, being away from you, just may." Data grinned and took Raygan into his arms to kiss her tenderly. Tender kisses again quickly turned to passionate ones.

"You’re full of surprises, Data," Raygan smiled and kissed him again. The combination of the water from the shower and Data's touch brought wonderful sensations to Raygan's body. Data took the soap and lathered it in his hands and began to wash Raygan's body sensuously.

There was not an inch of her that went untouched. Every touch relaxed and stimulated her at the same time. Once she was completely lathered, Data pulled her under the water spray to rinse away the soap. He shampooed her hair, making her scalp tingle. When she was under the spray again, he kissed her.

Raygan picked up the soap once they parted.

"Does the soap bother you, Data?" she asked.

"No," he assured her.

"Good because you had me all over you. So you must be very dirty as well." Raygan grinned at him and started with his chest. She worked quickly downward.

"My penis must have been very dirty with all the ahhhtention you aaaaare giving aaaaaaait."

"It's very dirty, Data. It will take a great deal of work to get it clean again," Raygan told him in a very suggestive voice.

Raygan cleaned Data for several minutes until he was unable to take it anymore. Taking the soap from Raygan, he dropped it on the floor of the shower. The water rinsed his body as he maneuvered Raygan against the wall of the shower. He kissed her hard as he entered her and began thrusting deeply within her.

Raygan pressed her body firmly against Data's, grabbing hold of his butt to assist him in penetrating her deeper. She realized she had never before been so consumed with desire for a man who filled her with fire as Data did. His touches were always so tender to start, quickly turning to touches of intent and then to ones of need. Every time he made a sound of pleasure, it felt like molten lava was being poured on her chest, slowly igniting the rest of her body in the flame of intense desire.

Everything about him had become sensual. Every time she looked at him, she was sexually stimulated. She thanked the gods she seemed to be having the same affect on him.

Data raised Raygan's leg with his hand, holding it at the level of his hip to allow him to penetrate Raygan deeper. Her gasp indicated her approval of this move. Data found so many things about Raygan to be intoxicating. Just the fact she made love with him rather than just having sex meant so much to Data. Her gasps of pleasure, the look on her face when she climaxed, the way she touched him and kissed him - everything brought such intense pleasure for him. A pleasure he thought he would never experience.

Data kneaded her bottom as he continued his deep thrusts. The next moment, Raygan pressed against the shower wall and called out his name. He could feel a shudder race through her body as her orgasm took her. She cried out again as she reached for him. She opened her eyes, staring into his intensely. Her expression was so serious it startled Data.

She moved with him faster, adding her strength to his and pulling him in deeper.

"I've never had a man turn me on like you do, Data. You're amazing," she leaned in to kiss him.

Data was enthralled by her words. The expression on her face still confused him. She looked almost angry.

"I want to excite you, like you excite me."

Determination. That was the expression. She grabbed his face and kissed him hard. Data lost all control, cumming powerfully as Raygan moaned with delight right along with him.

"You do excite me, Raygan. You excite me more than I thought I was capable of experiencing," he told Raygan between kisses.

"Data, every moment we are together I will remember and cherish forever. I love you so much."

"Raygan, you will be a part of me forever. I too love you more than anything."

They got out of the shower and dried each other off. Data surprised Raygan by scooping her up in his arms and carrying her to the bed. He put Raygan down in the center of the bed and sat next to her.

"I need to ask you something, Raygan," Data told her. He looked very serious as he spoke.

"Go ahead, Data. You can ask me anything," Raygan told him. Data took her hand in his and looked at her as though trying to decipher her answer before he had asked his question.

“You understand that as an android, I may live for a thousand years or possibly even more. I do have an aging program, however I do not wish to look too old to perform my duties. While I have considered taking a mate, I am concerned with the emotional effects my outliving her will have on both of us. Do you understand?”

Raygan smiled gently at Data. “The likelihood of a couple being killed together on a starship is greater than other places, but I do understand what you’re saying. The time we have will just have to be cherished.”

“You are thirty-three years old, Raygan. You may only have seventy more years, but it will most likely be less than-“

“Data, you’re not taking into account my Rekellian half. They are rather long lived. My mother is 268 years old and is expected to live to be close to 400. While there are not many Rekellian/Human hydrides out there, there are some and it seems the Rekellian genes are the dominant ones. I’m expected to live for 300 years or more.”

“Three hundred years or more," Data repeated.

"Now, if you don't think you can put up with me for that long, I'll understand," she teased. Data leaned over, kissing her hard.

"I am most certain I could put up with you forever," he smiled as he kissed Raygan again.

"You say that now. But when I'm a little gray haired old lady of 290 will you still mean it?" she teased again.

"Yes," Data said, pushing her back down on the bed. He covered her mouth with his as he positioned himself over her, nudging her legs apart and entering her once he had.

"Mmmmmmm" Raygan could not speak with Data kissing her (or with Data's tongue down her throat) but she could let him know how his actions pleased her. She wrapped her arms around him and her legs too.

It seemed as though Data had just discovered sex and decided he loved it. After some thought, Raygan decided that may just be what had happened. And he was not alone in that opinion.

Data did not fully understand what was happening to him. He knew he loved Raygan and found her to be very desirable however this feeling of insatiability was new to him. He could not get enough of her and wanted to stay in bed with her forever. Raygan's gasps became more frequent as he thrust deeper and harder in her. As Raygan was in the throws of orgasm, she began to call out his name but also words Data did not recognize.

Data’s curiosity was piqued, but the desire was building in him too. He lost the ability to think of anything, he could only go where this intense feeling was taking him. It seemed that Raygan’s orgasm had not been interrupted, but continued until Data joined her there.

"Raygan, I did not understand some of your words after you called out my name. What did you say?" Data asked. Raygan looked at Data a little confused. Data repeated her words in his voice, without the emphasis she had used. Raygan giggled when she heard him repeat her words.

"I said 'Data, I love you. So good, that's so good' in Rekellian." Raygan was a little embarrassed. "I actually learned to speak Rekellian before English. When I was a little girl and it was just my mother and I, we only spoke Rekellian. My father has learned to speak it too but isn't as comfortable."

"Then I will learn Rekellian immediately," Data smiled.

Raygan grinned, thinking how interesting it would be to teach Data to speak a language so few people they would come across would know. Rekell was not part of the Federation, being too far away and, as they were an older and rather powerful race, they did not feel they needed the protection. Everyone left them alone.

“I can teach you some right now, if you want?”

“I can learn the language in its entirety in only a few seconds by-“

“This will be more fun,” she told him, raising up on one elbow to look down at him. She grinned flirtatiously at him. “This is how you say, ‘I love you’ – eth di ownigh, Data.”

Data at once realized she was right. He was touched at the words she had chosen first.

“Eth di ownigh, Raygan. Eth di ownigh.”

Raygan taught Data a number of words and phrases. Kissing him gently, she smiled.

"Last phrase for today's lesson, repeat after me - 'oshu ownigh a mi'."

Data repeated the phrase. "What does it mean, Raygan?

"Make love to me," she smiled.

"I will," Data laughed and began to kiss her passionately.

Raygan was still trying to catch her breath from this latest lovemaking session when Data pulled her into his arms so she could rest her head on his chest. She ran a hand over his body, but Data caught this hand that had erotic intent and held it just under her chin.

"You need rest, Raygan. You did not sleep well last night and we have been very active this day already. Sleep, ownigh."

"I couldn't sleep because I needed to be with you. I don't think I'm ever going to be able to sleep without you again, Data."

"Then you will not. Rest now. I believe we will leave this bed when you wake."

"Why would we want to do that?" she only half teased. Data grinned and kissed her forehead.

"Food? Seeing the sights?" Data told her.

"Finding interesting places to hide and make love?" she suggested.

Data chuckled at her and gave her a squeeze.

"Maybe," he told her and ordered her to sleep.

It did not take long for Raygan to fall asleep in Data's arms. Data had been right as she was exhausted from all of the activity of the day both in and out of bed. Raygan slept for ninety minutes before waking, feeling quite refreshed. The pair got dressed and began to make plans for the rest of the day.

"Do you have any suggestions regarding where we should visit first, Raygan?" Data asked.

"Yes, Data. I know exactly where we should go first," she smiled. "There is a museum I think we will both really enjoy. You are going to have to wait and see what I have in mind though," she teased.

They began to walk the historic streets of London when Data noticed a street sign. It said Baker Street.  Raygan stopped them in front of a small museum with the numbers 221B above the door. It was a Sherlock Holmes museum. A huge smile came over Data's face. He kissed Raygan before they entered the ancient building.

The museum was fascinating. Both Data and Raygan enjoyed ever minute of it. Data was intrigued how, if Raygan moved from his side, his eyes were drawn to her. The intrigued expression on her sweet face, the look of happiness and contentment - it was astonishing to Data that he was part of why she had this expression on her beautiful face. He had never believed he would be able to make someone happy in this way. But she seemed as happy as any other woman he had seen who had fallen in love. She was in love with an android, but it did not seem to make any difference. Raygan loved Data and Data could not be happier.

The museum had many interesting displays and they took turns taking holographic photos to send to Raygan's parents and to their friends. They spent hours there before they had finally seen everything the museum had to offer. Data found that once again Raygan seemed to be leading him somewhere.

"Where are we going now?" he asked.

"Time to eat," she replied.

Data could tell she was taking him somewhere specific but decided he would not prod her further. He liked that she wanted to surprise him again. They walked to the Regent Park train station and boarded a reproduction of an early 20th century train.

"Our stop," Raygan told him as the train pulled up at Charing Cross station. When Data looked down the street, seeing the famous Strand Theatre that Holmes' enjoyed visiting, he turned to Raygan again.

"You have planned many surprises for me, have you not?"

Raygan smiled. "Tonight we will attend a performance by Chevlox but first, dinner at the Savoy."

The Savoy Hotel was magnificent. Data was amazed there were areas of the building original to the 1880's. They were seated in the Thames Foyer where they enjoyed High Tea. The food was exquisite as was the music being played on the grand piano at the end of the room. When they finished, they walked across to the Strand Theatre to take their seats for the rare performance of the Denobulan violin virtuoso. Raygan loved watching Data react to the music as much as she enjoyed the performance itself. When the concert ended, they decided to walk back to their hotel.

Data and Raygan walked slowly, hand in hand. It was quite dark, but there were streetlights. Data grinned at the idea forming in his mind regarding Raygan's suggestion about finding hiding places to make love. He released her hand but when Raygan looked for Data, he was already gone.

“Data," Raygan called out in alarm.

Suddenly, a hand shot out of the darkness, pulling her into it. Raygan gasped, but Data's mouth covering hers stopped the sound.

Data pulled her further into the darkness, pressing her back against a building wall as he wrapped her up in his arms. He let his hands wander down her body to her butt and squeezed her cheeks while pressing her body firmly against him.

"Release her if you know what's good for you," came a shout from behind them. Data and Raygan turned to see who this voice belonged to. As soon as their kiss had been broken, Raygan was grabbed away from Data by the man who had just spoken.

“Let go of me," Raygan shouted as Data moved to intercept.

"Unhand her or I will be forced to take action," Data said as he stepped out of the shadows to see Raygan's arm still being held by a large human male.

"What are you?" the man demanded incredulously.

"I am an android and you are holding my girlfriend against her will so desist with this behavior immediately," Data replied calmly although Raygan could see anger entering his features.

"An android." The man let go of Raygan's arm as he now became much more interested in Data. "You, android, represent everything that is wrong on Earth - a dependence on artificial intelligence."

Raygan moved quickly behind Data.

The man did not pay any mind to Raygan until he noted Data's protective stance. "Girlfriend? What kind of sick joke is that? You're just a machine. Why would you call her that?"

Data looked confused. "Because she is. I have no quarrel with you now that you have unhanded her. I will consider this incident to be a misunderstanding and we will be on our way." Data turned to Raygan and pulled her along with him as he moved to go. Raygan was still staring at the man as though he was out of his mind.

"You’re not going anywhere." The man, armed with a phaser, was aiming at Data's chest. Data, being familiar with this type of phaser, could see it was set high enough to not only severely damage him, but it would most likely kill Raygan.

“We are both Starfleet officers. Our whereabouts are known. If you do not desist, you face imprisonment-“

“Shut up or I’ll kill her where she stands.”

Raygan could see a change in Data's demeanor as soon as the man made her the target rather than him. In a motion so quick, she barely saw it, Data grabbed the phaser from the man before the thug knew what had happened. Data crushed the weapon in one of his powerful hands, dropping the pieces to the ground. The man lunged at Data, trying to punch him, but Data just grabbed his fist and squeezed slightly. The man was obviously in pain.

"Now, sir, I suggest you leave, before you are injured." Data pushed the man's fist out of his hand.

"I won't forget this, android!" the man called as he ran off into the night.

Raygan threw her arms around Data holding him tightly. Data could feel her trembling.

"I believe it would be best if we returned to the hotel," Data suggested. Raygan nodded as she was having trouble speaking.

Data had an arm around her waist, helping her to hurry. He had decided to contact Starfleet Security in San Francisco to inform them of the incident along with the local authorities.

Data took Raygan to their room, holding her as he tried to reassure her everything would be okay before he placed the call. Data drew a sketch of their assailant in a PADD and had the image downloaded to the officer he spoke with. Data was assured every step possible would be taken to apprehend this person.

“I am sorry I put your life in jeopardy, Raygan,” Data told her once the call had been placed.

“You? You protected me. You saved us both from that maniac. Data, you did nothing wrong. How could you think that?” She wrapped her arms around his waist, squeezing him tightly.

“I pulled you into the dark alley. Had we proceeded here, we would have been safe.”

"Data, we don't know that. If we had kept going, he might have seen us walking and fired without warning. Besides, I'm the one who talked about finding a hiding place before we left. I'm sorry, Data. I want to be with you so much that I didn't think about what would happen if someone found us," Raygan said as tears made their way down her cheeks.

Data took her into his arms, holding her tightly. "Perhaps we have allowed our preoccupation with each other to override our better judgment. We will be more careful in the future. Do you concur?" he asked her.

Raygan looked into his golden eyes. "Yes, I do."

Data pushed a stray hair away from her eyes before kissing her forehead. Lifting her chin, Data kissed her lips. Pulling back, he looked into her eyes to see the desire was already ignited. Drawing her back into his arms, he kissed her again, but this time with need.

The events of the evening had made Data realize how much he needed Raygan. He had known he loved and needed her a lot before but now those feelings had intensified tenfold. It was a feeling Raygan shared. The wanting in their kisses seemed to compare to the wanting of lovers reunited after being pulled apart. Data slid his arms around Raygan's waist and under her sweater, feeling the softness of her skin. They broke their kiss only long enough for Data to gently pull Raygan's sweater over her head and for Data to pull his own sweater off as well.

Raygan had her hands running all over Data's back. He loved the feel of her touching him. He began to undo the fasteners on her pants without breaking their kiss as Raygan eagerly helped. Once she was free, they turned their combined attention to Data. When they were both nude, Raygan pushed Data back on the bed. He opened his mouth to object, but she kissed him to stop the words. She ran her hands over Data's chest in circular motions. She kissed his chest as she moved her hand lower. Data was already erect, and that, fortunately, was her goal.

Raygan straddled Data, lowering herself on his wonderful erection. She rhythmically raised and lowered herself slowly at first but soon quickening the pace. She leaned forward to kiss Data hard. When she sat back up, Data's hands began to roam her body. He cupped her breasts in his hands, kneading them gently. He raised his head and ran his tongue around her nipple. Raygan moaned in pleasure and quickened her rhythm even more.

Data tried to continue his oral caresses of her breast but he could feel the tension, the pleasurable tension, building in him already. He threw back his head and gasped.

Data reached for the back of Raygan's head and pulled her down to him. He kissed her hard, hungrily exploring her mouth with his tongue. His hands moved from the back of her head to her back and then to her bottom. He assisted in her movements, quickening her pace until both of them were panting from impending release.

Raygan cried out, once again in Rekellian, as the powerful orgasm raced through her body. This time, Data understood what she was saying and it added to his own climax moments later. Once the sensations subsided, Raygan climbed off Data and lay next to him. As he wrapped his arms around her, Data whispered in her ear, "Eth di ownigh". Raygan smiled

"Eth di ownigh, Data, aush mok." Raygan fell asleep in Data's arms with a big smile on her face. Data kissed her forehead and activated his own dream program.

They had been sleeping for almost six hours when Data opened his eyes. Raygan lay next to him, still asleep. She was facing him with hair falling across her closed eyes. Data reached over to gently push the hair away from her face. She sighed in her sleep.

“Ithta omish owgeeca, Data,” she murmured in her sleep.

Data had not heard any of these words before. “What does that mean, Raygan?” Data wondered out loud.

“Ithta omish owgeeca - walking together forever. Eth di ownigh owgeeca.” She reached across the bed, searching for his hand but she was still asleep. Data helped her find it and laced his fingers with hers as tears streamed down his face. Even asleep, she loved him. Any doubt Data had harbored regarding her commitment to him vanished with these words. He wanted her to wake up now, he had a very important question.

Data kissed Raygan softly on the lips. Her eyes fluttered open to see Data smiling at her.

"Good morning, Data."

He leaned over to kiss her again when the door chimes to their room interrupted them. A male voice identifying himself as Lieutenant Sullivan from Starfleet was announced. They both sighed and threw on some clothes before Data reluctantly called out for the person to enter. After entering the room, Lieutenant Sullivan explained he had been instructed to interview Data regarding the incident as soon as possible. He requested Data bring a PADD with him. Data thought this was an odd request but turned to retrieve one. Raygan had a bad feeling about Sullivan. She did not know why, so she was keeping a close eye on him. She watched as he started to pull a small handheld phaser from his pocket and raise it in the direction of Data. Raygan called out to Data to get down just as Sullivan fired. Raygan grabbed Sullivan by the neck from behind and administered a Rekellian technique, similar to a Vulcan neck pinch, causing Sullivan to collapse to the floor. Data ran to Raygan.

"Are you okay, Raygan?”

"I'm fine. Are YOU okay? He was going to kill you. Oh Data, I can't lose you, I just can't." Raygan pulled Data to her, hugging him tightly. He ran a hand over her hair, almost as though she was Spot and he was petting her.

"I am undamaged, Raygan. I believe we should pack our bags and leave here. I will contact the authorities to arrest this person and then we will go.” Data pulled Raygan to the bed, looking her in the eyes.

“But where?” she asked.

“I believe, at this time, it would not be prudent to return to your parents’ home. As the captain is in mourning, it would not be appropriate to burden him with our troubles, however there is Commander Riker.”

“Didn’t he go to his home in Alaska?” she asked.

“Correct. And so shall we.”

By the time the authorities came, Data and Raygan were already packed and ready to go. Sullivan was taken away while an officer told Data and Raygan the man was actually a member of a radical anti-technology group and was most definitely not with Starfleet. They thanked Data and Raygan for apprehending the man as they had been looking for him for some time. The officer then told the couple they could leave at any time. Data thanked him before informing the officer he and Raygan would be leaving immediately.

"Shouldn't we let Commander Riker know we're coming, Data?" Raygan asked as he hurried her out of their room.

"The communications here may be monitored by associates of our attacker. I do not wish to take that chance. We will use a public communications device on the way.”

When Will was contacted, he was pleasantly surprised that Data and Raygan wanted to visit. He told them he was visiting with an old friend from his Academy days, but they were more than welcome. When Data warned there may be trouble following them, Will’s expression became completely serious.

“You two come here, Data. We’ll take care of it together, my friend.”

Pleased and warmed by Will’s words, Data agreed.

They caught a shuttle headed for Vancouver at which time they transferred to another that took them to Valdez, Alaska. Will Riker had checked on shuttle arrivals so he was there to greet them when they arrived. Once they made it to Will’s home, Data told the commander what had happened in England.

"Thank God you two weren't injured. I've never heard of this group but they sound like a bunch of fruitcakes. I'm glad you came here." Just then a woman entered the room and sat down next to Will. She gave the once over to Raygan while wondering if this woman was going to be competition for the affection of the commander.

"Data, Raygan, I'd like you to meet Lieutenant Mandy Jones. Mandy, this is Lieutenant Commander Data and Lieutenant Commander Raygan Silver."

They exchanged pleasantries but Raygan could sense the uneasiness of Mandy Jones.

Raygan and Data were sitting on a couch facing the one where Will and Mandy were seated. “Commander Data? You’re the android, aren’t you?” Mandy asked, casually.

“Yes, Data is the only sentient android known to exist,” Will answered for his friend.

“Oh, how marvelous,” Mandy said, not sounding like she thought it was marvelous at all. She slipped a hand through Will’s arm and gave Raygan a patronizing smile.

“May I use your computer, Commander? I wish to do some research on this group causing us trouble,” Data asked. Will nodded and rose to show Data where it was. Raygan got up too.

“I’ll come too, Data,” she offered, not liking the look on Mandy’s face when she did.

Data turned to her and smiled. He took her hand and brought the back to his lips, kissing it tenderly. Hand in hand, they followed Will. Mandy eyed them the whole way.

Will led the pair to his computer and watched with Raygan as Data accessed the information. Raygan was standing directly behind Data with her arms around his neck. Will could not help but smile to see Data with a woman who obviously cared a great deal about his friend. The three read what little information there was as it came up on the screen. The group was relatively small but the members were zealots.

There were pictures of destroyed buildings, reports of scientists being threatened, bomb threats and even kidnappings.

“My God, the destruction. I’m shocked no one was killed.” Raygan sounded very shaken.

Data pointed to some text on the screen. “No deaths, however there were twenty-six injuries reported - burns, smoke inhalation, injuries from falling debris. These people are very dangerous,” Data said. He closed out of the search and stood, taking Raygan by the arms. With a look of concern for her in the eyes, Data suggested, “It may be dangerous to be near me at this time, Raygan. Perhaps it would be best if I return to San Francisco.”

"Whether it is here or San Francisco, Data, I will be with you. I'm not going to let these crazy people come between us. Besides, I'm the one who saved your sexy butt in London, wasn't I?” she reminded him. “Let's stay here for a few days and then decide what to do."

"I don't know about the sexy butt part but I agree with Raygan," Will stated.

"Then we shall stay. Thank you, sir," Data said looking a bit embarrassed about Raygan’s description of his backside.

"Thank you for letting us stay," Raygan smiled. "Permission to hug a superior officer, sir?"

"Permission granted," Will laughed.

Raygan gave Will a friendly hug just as Mandy entered the room to find out what was taking so long.

Will grinned at Raygan, but Mandy did not seem to care for what she had just seen. She came over, gave Will a kiss on the cheek and immediately gave Raygan a look that confused her.

"I've been a rather rude host. Let me show you and Raygan a room. I assume you only need one, but if you want two-" Will offered.

"I assure you, Commander, one will be sufficient," Data said, taking Raygan's hand in his own.

Will grinned and led the way.

"I don't think Mandy likes me for some reason," Raygan told Data as they unpacked their bags in their room. "I know she didn’t like me giving Will a hug."

Data looked up, confused. "I do not understand why. I noted nothing inappropriate in your embrace of the commander."

"Nor did I," she noted, coming to stand in front of Data. "Now if I had done this," Raygan slipped her hands under the front of Data's shirt, running them suggestively over his chest. Data's eyebrows shot up.

"Yes, that would have been most inappropriate."

"Or this," Raygan wrapped her arms around him, tucking her hands into the back of Data's pants to caress his butt.

"Most unacceptable. Raygan, we cannot do this now. We are expected downstairs," Data insisted, but still pulled her against him, kissing her hard.

Raygan began to unbutton Data's shirt while they kissed. Data made no protest of her actions as she slid her hands across his chest and pushed the shirt off his shoulders. Data put his hands on Raygan's waist, picking her up off the floor. She straddled her legs around his waist as he carried her to the bed. He lowered himself and Raygan on the bed as their kisses grew more intense. Suddenly, the door slid open and a rather wide-eyed Will stood at the doorway. Data jumped off the bed and grabbed his shirt from the floor.

"I'm so sorry for interrupting," Will said looking very embarrassed. "I was just going to let you know dinner is ready."

"Yes, thank you. Commander. We will be right down," Data managed to say, almost stuttering from embarrassment himself.

Raygan covered her mouth with her hands and tried not to giggle as Data struggled to put his shirt back on and save his dignity. Once Will had left, Data cast a disapproving look Raygan's way.

"I told you we were expected downstairs," he shook a finger at her, but smiled as she just kept giggling.

"You're not really angry with me, are you?" she asked, moving to slide a hand over his knee and up his leg as he was still sitting on the bed. Data grabbed her, pulled her into his lap and kissed her.

"I am not angry with you, but we must try not to embarrass ourselves again. I have a reputation to uphold as second officer of the Enterprise and you are a department head. We have to maintain a certain level of professionalism." He kissed her once more. "So you must behave," he concluded, tapping her nose with affection. He came to his feet, setting her down on hers. He took her hand and pulled her towards the door behind him.

"Your wish is my command," she mused, grinning from ear to ear. She gave him a quick slap on the butt with her free hand. Data gave Raygan a mock look of disapproval. "I'll behave, I promise," she laughed. He leaned over to kiss her before they continued to the dining room.

Everything was set out when they arrived. Even though Data and Raygan entered the room holding hands, Mandy still glared at Raygan.

~ What is this woman's problem? ~ Raygan thought to herself.

The talk at dinner was mostly what Data considered to be small talk. He and Raygan were both making a conscientious effort to include Mandy in the conversation however she was not helping much. Once dinner was concluded, Will asked Data if they could speak privately. Both Data and Raygan worried the commander was going to be upset over what had happened earlier.

Once the two men were in the study, Will turned to Data.

"Data, I'm really sorry about walking into your room like that. I hope you'll forgive my intrusion."

Data was surprised by Will's words.

"You do not need to apologize, Commander. Raygan and I should not have been engaged in such behavior at that time."

"Why not? You're obviously in love and on shore leave. You should be able to engage in that behavior any time you wish. It's my fault for entering your room like that. To be honest, if I were you, I would have been doing the same thing," he grinned.

Meanwhile, in the other room, the two women were about to have a chat of their own.

Raygan and Mandy stared at each other for several minutes before Mandy finally said, “So, how long had you been aboard the Enterprise before she was destroyed. I assume that’s where you met Will, ah yes, and Commander Data as well.”

Raygan had to try very hard to keep her irritation out of her voice. Even the woman’s tone was challenging.

“Yes, I met them both when I beamed aboard the Enterprise. They were there to welcome me.” Raygan noticed this information did not make the woman happy at all.

“I suppose Will gave you one of his special tours of the ship?” Mandy’s tone was almost biting.

“No, I asked Data for a tour and he was pleased to do so. He and I have a lot in common, so we spend a great deal of time together.” Raygan smiled as she recalled some of her past moments with Data.

“I’m sure he is just wonderfully entertaining.” Mandy had that condescending expression again.

“Will can be too. I’ve heard him play the trombone. He’s very talented. Data plays the violin,” Raygan told her. Mandy did not even give her the courtesy of pretending to be interested. “I get the feeling you want to talk about Will, but I’m sorry, I really don’t know that much about him. I’m just getting to know him.”

Mandy grinned. “Yes, there is a great deal to learn, isn’t there. Now would be the perfect time to get to know him better. You’re on leave and so is he.”

“True. Though I didn’t expect to be here,” Raygan said, thoughtfully.

“And yet here you are.”

“With Data,” Raygan reminded her.

“Data - a machine,” Mandy said sarcastically.

“An artificial life form.”

“And Will is a real flesh and blood man,” Mandy emphasized.

Raygan suddenly burst out laughing. She finally understood what it was this woman was so upset about. It was her preconception of Data that did not allow Mandy to see that Raygan had no romantic interest in Will Riker.

“Data and I are in a serious relationship. He’s met my parents. They love him and so do I.”

"Do you really expect me to believe that?" Mandy responded sarcastically.

"You can believe whatever you want. Data and I are very much in love. From the first moment when we met I knew...oh what is it my mother says?" Raygan thought for a few seconds. "Ownigh n'ec ib un ronita moc ib un manow."

"What did you say?" Mandy looked very confused.

"Roughly translated it means 'Love is not in our choice but in our fate'," Raygan responded.

"What language was that?"

"Rekellian," Raygan responded.

"You're Rekellian?" Mandy was now curious.

"Half. My father is human and my mother is Rekellian. That's another reason I could never be involved with a human male - they're too fragile. That's why I'm an only child," Raygan smiled.

Mandy laughed.

"But Will is a very strong man?" Mandy defended. "And Data is so-"

"Much stronger. He once told me about a time when a Klingon captain asked him to participate in the B'aht Qul challenge. It's kind of like arm wrestling is for humans. Data beat the Klingon in one second. The Klingon became so enraged, he then headbutted Data. The impact propelled the Klingon across the room and he landed on his backside. Data was fine."

Mandy looked stunned.

"What is he made of?" she asked.

"Stronger stuff than you and I. But he's very gentle, when I want him to be," Raygan gave Mandy a wicked grin.

"He can?" Mandy raised an eyebrow.

"Oh God, can he! But I don't intend to let anyone else know how well. He's mine and I'm keeping it that way. So you see, I have no interest in Will. But keep your eyes off Data 'cause he's spoken for."

Raygan and Mandy started to talk and discovered they had some mutual acquaintances. By the time the men returned to the living room, the two women were acting like old friends. Both Will and Data were a little puzzled about the topic of their discussion when both women burst out laughing as soon as they spotted the guys. Once Raygan and Mandy calmed down, the foursome decided to go for a hike in the mountainside that bordered the area of Will's home. It was a beautiful day in Alaska and the fresh air would do everyone some good.

Mandy and Will were in front, holding hands while Data and Raygan pulled up the rear.

"I found out what it was that was bothering Mandy," Raygan told Data in a whisper.

"What was it?" Data asked.

"She thought I was interested in Will and was not interested in you. I made it clear that Will is just not suitable for my needs." Raygan gave his hand a squeeze.

"Why? What causes Commander Riker to be unsuitable?" Data asked, now curious.

"He isn't you. I'm very much in love with you, you know."

Data grinned, embarrassed. He pulled her close to give her a peck on the cheek. "I love you more than I thought possible, Raygan."

The hike was very relaxing and exciting with all of the beauty and wildlife to see. Will had ordered thick steaks to be delivered to his house, so dinner would be cooked outside as well.

Will Riker had always considered himself to be quite the chef and he managed himself very well with the steaks. The meal was delicious and the wine flowed freely. Everyone was having a great time, especially Mandy. The foursome sat outdoors where they talked while watching the sun set on the horizon. Valdez, Alaska was a very beautiful area.

As the day turned to night, Data was beginning to feel a little restless. He had helped Raygan clear away some dishes and she had brushed against him a number of times. But when she had dropped a utensil and bent over to pick it up, he had wanted to reach out and grab her beautiful rear.

~ Is this what is meant by feeling horny? ~ Data wondered.

"Excuse me, Commander. It has been a long day and I believe it is time for Raygan and I to turn in. Dinner was delicious."

Raygan looked at Data confused at first as it was not very late but then, noticing a slight bulge in his pants, she smiled.

"Yes, Will, the steaks were incredible. Good night Mandy, good night Will."

Data took Raygan's hand, rushing her inside. Once they were out of sight, Data grabbed Raygan and kissed her hard.

"Data, are you all right?" Raygan asked, as Data was again hurrying them to their room.

"Yes, everything is fine. I just need to be alone with you - now," he told her, directly.

Raygan grinned and hurried behind him. Once they were in their room, Data was taking off her clothes with blinding speed. His followed just as quickly. He could not get her on the bed fast enough. When he was finally inside her, he sighed as the tension seemed to leave his body. His thrusts were deep and hard into her body. He needed this. He had to have her. And at this point, he doubted once would be enough.

Data covered her mouth with his, kissing her ravenously. Raygan's response urged Data further. She was almost clawing at his back. Her legs were wrapped tightly around him and she pleaded with him to go deeper and harder. Data was only too willing to comply.

Data was surprised at the ferocity of Raygan in bed. He had always tried to be gentle, worried he would hurt her but now she was like a tigress. She continued to urge Data on - harder, deeper inside her and he continued to comply.

"I am not hurting you?" he asked, still pumping into her with more force than he had expected to be able to use.

"God, no! Oh Data, that is so good!" She pulled his mouth back, kissing him and moaning loudly. She pulled her mouth from his, kissing his face, neck and ears with intense hunger. Her actions were driving Data almost crazy with heated desire. He realized he too was moaning louder than he meant to. Surely the whole house was filled with the sounds of their lovemaking.

As Raygan kissed, tongued and nipped at any part of Data she could reach, Data too kissed and nipped gently. But as this continued, he knew he was kissing her harder, sucking harder, nipping slightly harder. Raygan almost screamed her explosive release. Data's breath caught. He was so excited by her orgasm that he exploded within her. Data began to move next to Raygan when she grabbed his face and kissed him.

"More, Data, I want more! More of you!" she pleaded.

He had never heard Raygan begging him like this before and it turned him on.

"I do not wish to harm-" he started.

Raygan, still holding his face, ordered urgently, "Access all files on Rekellian women's sexuality and intimacy. Dominant genes, Data, dominant genes! Please, I need you so bad!" There was such desperation in her voice so Data accessed the information as quickly as he could. As he processed it, his eyes went wider and a big grin crept across his face. ~ No wonder she is an only child. Being an android does have its advantages for a man in love with a half Rekellian woman, ~ he thought as he penetrated Raygan again.

Mandy and Will were just entering the house to investigate the strange sounds they could hear, but not identify, from outside. The type of sounds they were hearing became instantly clear once they stepped over the threshold into the house. Will's eyebrows shot straight up. Mandy looked stunned for a second before turning to Will, giving him an amused smile.

"Sounds like they have a jump on us, Will," she said with a grin.

"Never thought I would be picking up a gauntlet thrown down by Data, however-" He picked Mandy up in his arms and carried her to his bedroom "Far be it for me to refuse a challenge."

When the group gathered for breakfast the next morning, there were many big smiles around the table.

"All rested up now, Data?" Will asked with a bit of teasing in his voice. "You two didn't sleep too much I hope. That always makes me feel more tired."

Raygan slid her hand into Data's and kissed his cheek.

"No worries there, Will," she told him "I feel wonderful this morning."

Data looked slightly embarrassed, but braved a smile.

"I remind you I do not require sleep, nor can I feel tired. However, I too feel wonderful this morning." Data turned to give Raygan a knowing grin, which she returned.

"Sounds like last night was a very relaxing and enjoyable one," Mandy observed, grinning and trying not to laugh.

"I know I enjoyed myself," Will agreed, turning to look back at Mandy.

"Oh, me too. I had a wonderful...sleep." Mandy could not help but giggle here. Raygan giggled too.

"I agree, it was the best ‘sleep’ I've ever had," Raygan winked at Data.

"Why do I have the feeling none of you are actually referring to sleep when you say sleep?" Data asked.

The whole table broke into laughter.

"Do you think it was the mountain air or the wonderful dinner that made us so tired?" Mandy laughed.

"I don't know but, Will, can you make sure the Enterprise-E's replicators have that steak sauce on file, just in case?" Raygan requested and laughter once again filled the room.

The four ate breakfast in between bursts of chat and lots of laughter.

"So what do you two have planned for today?" Will asked.

"There are many sights and tours I have discovered are available in this area. There is a six hour boat tour of Prince William Sound I was hoping I could interest Raygan in," Data said. Raygan looked intrigued.

"Oh, sounds good. When does it start?" she asked, touching Data's arm.

"It leaves at 1000 this morning. We have the time to get ready if you wish to go," Data offered

"It's a date, love. I'll help with the dishes and then I'll get ready." Raygan rose to a stand, but Mandy waved her away.

"Will and I will get the dishes. You two go ahead. Take a warm, waterproof jacket, Raygan. I've been on that tour and parts of it get cold. Have fun. See you back here tonight."

Data and Raygan thanked both Will and Mandy before rushing up the stairs to get ready.

Raygan was wearing a white tee shirt, skirt and jacket which was not done up. Data admired how sexy she could look without even trying. They made it to the boat just in time and found there were not many people aboard for the tour that day. The first few hours were spent in an area of the Sound that was home to a pod of whales. Everyone was enjoying the view, especially Data, however he found himself not watching the whales but watching Raygan. Raygan had walked over to the railing and was leaning over slightly. Data could not help but stare at her beautiful behind. Suddenly, a whale jumped from the water and splashed the entire side of the boat, including Raygan. Data jumped up and ran to her.

Raygan was laughing, "I guess I should have done up my jacket."

Data could not help but stare at Raygan's chest. Her wet tee shirt clung to her and made her sexy bra visible. The coldness of the water had caused her nipples to harden. Data found himself, once again, very turned on by the sight.

It was very difficult to do, but he helped her towel off, using a towel provided by the tour guides, and fasten her jacket. Running the towel over her wet body caused Data to remember making love to her in the shower. He wanted to touch more of her, but they were in public and that would not be proper. Raygan shivered for part of the tour as they got closer to the glacier. Data gave her his unneeded jacket and held her. Her body vibrating against his was almost more than Data could stand. He was glad, in a way, that she stood in front of him, because he was rock hard and ready to be with her. It was driving him crazy that he could not. The fact he could not think of anything but times he had made love to her did not help. Last night had been almost beyond belief and it was the event he thought of most, desiring to repeat it.

Raygan knew Data was incredibly turned on. She could tell by the way he had looked at her while helping dry her off but, even more, she could feel his erection as he pressed against her. The man from the ship had mentioned a bathroom in case Raygan had wanted to take off her shirt. Raygan had declined as she liked the way it felt clinging to her and the effect it had on Data.

"Data, I think I want to take this shirt off after all. Come with me." She took Data's hand and led him in the direction of the room the man had pointed to. Raygan entered the bathroom, quickly pulling Data inside and locked the door. She took off her jacket and the sight of Raygan in that wet tee shirt with her rock hard nipples was more than Data could stand. Raygan undid Data's pants, pushing them down to free his erection while Data pulled Raygan's skirt to her waist and pushed her panties to the floor. Raygan had her back pressed against a wall when Data penetrated her. She wrapped her leg around his butt encouraging him to go deeper.

"I needed you so desperately, Raygan, I needed you," Data moaned as he plunged into her again and again.

"I'm here, Data. I needed you too. I loved feeling you getting hard against me. The look in your eyes was so sexy. I love seeing you turned on, Data. I love it." Raygan could no longer talk. Her need for him was too strong. The feel of him going so deep, filling her so completely, it was impossible to get him out of her mind. Raygan pulled Data so she could kiss him hard and explore his wonderful mouth. He was the sexiest kisser. His kiss had a way of pulling her to the brink. It had been so hard to kiss him before and then have to return to her quarters or let him go to his. She never intended to be forced into that again. This man was hers – forever.

Data found his way under her wet shirt to run his hand over her erect nipples and then began kneading her breast, with need. Raygan was almost panting now, she was so close.

She buried her face against Data's shoulder in an attempt to muffle the sounds of her orgasm. Data was pounding into her deeper and harder than he had ever before and it felt so good. He was beginning to truly understand she was not as delicate as a completely human woman. Her second climax was as powerful as the first. She felt her knees buckling a little as the incredible sensations surged through her body. Data pulled Raygan into a kiss as he came inside her.

Even this kiss could not stifle his deep moans of fulfillment. He moaned so low in his throat that it seemed to vibrate through Data to Raygan, restarting her orgasm. Data slowed his thrusts, but only stopped after both of them were completely spent. Raygan kissed him fiercely before allowing him to refasten his pants. Data helped her remove her wet shirt and restore herself to some semblance of order. But inside, Data cursed himself for bringing them on a six hour tour. Having her in the bathroom was not what he wanted. And he still wanted.

They left the bathroom and returned to the deck of the boat. Raygan noticed a couple of people staring at them and tried to contain her smile. She was thankful Data had not seen them or he would have been embarrassed and she did not want that to happen. When the tour ended, Data finally understood the concept of time standing still. His internal chronometer indicated the time that had elapsed between when he and Raygan had had sex and the end of the tour was exactly one hour thirty-six minutes and forty-eight seconds however it had seemed much, much longer to him. They rushed back to Will's home only to find it empty. Will and Mandy had left a note indicating they would be gone until 2100 hours. Data smiled and kissed Raygan.

"We should go upstairs," Data urged her. Raygan smiled.

“Sounds good. I want to get out of these wet clothes and get warm,” she told him as he pulled her up the stairs.

“That fits in with my plans exactly,” he said in a voice thick with desire.

“Good. Did you bring some swim trucks, Data, or do you need to replicate some? I think Will’s swimming pool is just the thing to warm me up.”

“The pool!” Data exclaimed, turning to stare at her from the head of the stairs with an incredulous expression on his face. Raygan shook her head at him and pushed him into their assigned bedroom. She used the bathroom to change into her swimming suit and this astonished Data. She gave him instructions to be in his suit when she returned, so despite being frustrated with her apparent lack of interest in him, he complied.

Raygan came out in a bikini that was more not there, than there. What there was of it was a dark green. The top came over her breasts, just barely covering her nipples while exposing the fullness of her curves there. The bottom also just barely covered her pubic area with a narrow strip of fabric, but it was when she turned around that Data almost felt sure he would go into cascade failure. Her sexy bottom was not hidden at all by this thong bikini.

Data could not help but stare at Raygan's behind as they walked down to the pool. He was already getting a stirring in his trunks when Raygan threw down her towel and walked down the steps into the shallow end of the pool. She stopped when the water reached just above the level of her breasts. Raygan took a few steps towards Data, who was still standing by the steps, which revealed a new surprise to him. The material of this bikini became sheer when wet.

"Are you coming in?" she called to Data.

"I cannot swim," he reminded her.

"You don’t have to swim, Data." Grinning, she motioned with her finger in a way that made it impossible to refuse. Data walked slowly down the steps that led into the shallow end. Raygan swam to him, rising out of the water just centimeters away.

Data wondered to himself how he was ever going to be able to work in a professional atmosphere with Raygan again after this vacation. Her being in this slip of a suit was driving him mad with desire, but since Data knew what every inch of her sexy body looked like underneath her full uniform, having even that on was not going to help. How was he going to keep from having an erection every time he saw her? And how was he going to convince her out of that slip of a suit now and get her into bed?

Raygan gave Data a quick kiss before going underwater again. She used her hands to spread Data's legs and swam through them brushing against Data as she did. She came up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist. As Data turned to face Raygan, she let go of his waist and was floating on her back. Data moved towards her but, with each step, she floated further away. Raygan stood up and dove under the water again brushing against Data as she swam by. She surfaced in the deep end now and was treading water just out of Data's reach.

~ She is teasing me, ~ he thought. ~ And doing an excellent job of it. ~

Data had gone deeper in the water when Raygan swam by him, back to the shallow end where she now stood facing him. Since the air in the room was cooler than the water, Data was able to watch her nipples harden through her sheer top. Data was getting just as hard, if not harder, than her nipples. He moved towards her again, determined to cut off any escape. He intended to have her in his arms so she could feel the level of his desire pressed against her.

Data intercepted Raygan as she tried to swim pass him and pulled her to him. His kiss was filled with desire. He wanted her so badly but Raygan was not finished yet. She wriggled out of Data's arms, her wet body stopping him from keeping hold of her.

"Raygan, you know you are driving me wild with desire, do you not?"

Raygan's smirk answered Data's question quite clearly. She climbed out of the pool as Data stood transfixed in the water. Raygan walked over to her towel and, bending over, wrapped her hair up in it. She could clearly see Data as she bent over. He was staring pointedly at her bottom. Raygan stayed in that position for as long as she could, even shifting her footing so her hips moved and her butt wiggled. Data came out of the water in a huge hurry as she stood to face him. Picking Raygan up in his arms, Data carried her at once to their bedroom. He ordered the door secured as he had tossed her on the bed.

“Teasing time is over,” he declared.

He pulled off his bathing suit and practically jumped next to her on the bed. He kissed her long and hard as he removed her bikini. Next, he moved his hand down between her legs where he massaged her clit with his thumb and inserted two fingers into Raygan. He wanted to make sure she was properly lubricated before he entered her. Raygan gasped out in pleasure as Data continued to finger her. Data removed his fingers and maneuvered himself on to Raygan. He slid his hardness within her as deep as he could and began to thrust in and out.

Data sighed with relief at finally being within her again. He had her and she was not escaping him this time. Data was surprised at how quickly he came within her. He almost beat Raygan to climax. But the moment she arched her back against him, Data let go. Plunging deep within her, he felt his fluids release, flooding Raygan's depths.

He held her tightly in his arms a moment later. Data found his thoughts moved to the future more and more with Raygan. He could not see a future without her. He needed her. Beyond a shadow of a doubt, Data did not want to be separated from her in any way, for any reason. He did not want her to have quarters apart from his. He did not want her to leave him, return to her own bed and sleep alone. He wanted her with him, to make love with him, to be in his bed every night.

Data sat up, getting Raygan's full attention. "Raygan, I want you to be my wife."

"What did you say?" Raygan asked incredulously.

"I love you and do not want to be apart from you. Will you marry me, Raygan?"

Raygan was surprised by Data's proposal. She had not been expecting it - hoping for one - but not expecting to hear one here and now. She looked at Data and opened her mouth but no words came out.

"Please, Raygan, I need you with me. I love you so much."

Words were still escaping Raygan. She smiled and nodded her head in the affirmative. She burst into tears and finally the words came.

"Yes, Data, I want to be your wife more than anything."

Data took a shaky breath and slowly let it out again. He had been so frightened Raygan might refuse. But this overwhelming need to know had caused him to do something very foolish.

"I am sorry I did not do this properly, Raygan. One should not propose marriage in this manner, but I could not wait another moment. I have been thinking about asking you since before I installed my emotion chip. I am continually astounded at the depth of emotion you are able to evoke in me. I believe I have been waiting for you my entire life. I have not told you before, but I have more operating space dedicated to you and my relationship with you than any other being I have previously encountered. It has been that way since before I installed the chip."

Raygan gave Data a knowing smile, threw her arms around his neck and hugged him tightly.

"I've given more of myself to you than anyone I've known before too, Data. Your proposal was wonderful. Please don't apologize. It's the words that mean more than anything to me and your words are so filled with love," Raygan said as the tears of happiness streamed down her cheeks.

"Raygan, would you like to get married right away? If we have a ceremony before we leave Earth, your parents would be able to attend. Are there any special Rekellian rites you wish performed? I want this to be perfect for you," Data babbled.

"Data, slow down. We don't have to plan everything this minute. Let's enjoy the moment," she said as she pulled Data to her, claiming his mouth in a passionate kiss.

Data, sighing happily, relaxed into her kiss. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into a close embrace. Feeling his erection return, Data laid back down with the woman he was going to marry. Her acceptance warmed his heart, her touch turned him to flame. Raygan pulled away from Data's kiss and began kissing her way down his body until she reached his hard length. Just as she was about to lower her mouth to the tip of Data's penis, Data grabbed her bottom and lifted her until she was straddling his face. Thrilled, Raygan lowered her mouth to his throbbing shaft as Data brought his tongue to her clit.

The pleasure they were giving each other was immense. Data's tongue flicked in and out of Raygan's slit as he fingered her clit. Raygan kissed the head of Data's penis before gliding her tongue under its edge. She took him completely in her mouth and began to move her mouth rhythmically up and down. Her free hand took hold of his balls, fondling them. Each would stop for a moment to moan but would quickly get back to the pleasure at hand, not wanting the other to miss out on anything.

Data slid three fingers within her as his other hand roamed over the soft skin of her ass. The feel of her mouth on his shaft, her hands fondling him, added to her taste, her scent and the feel of her. He was not sure how humans were able to process all of these sensations. He was having a difficult time doing just that now. Raygan did not stop her oral pumping of his length, but she was breathing harder and moaning in between her descent onto him. Data could feel that maddening inability to think clearly approaching the more she sucked on him. Finally, a shudder ran through Raygan's body and her juices almost poured from her. Data eagerly devoured every tantalizing drop. His attention to her seemed to cause her to grow fierce in her attack of his penis. She clamped her lips around him and sucked him harder and faster than before. In seconds, Data was unable to continue his delightful tongue lashing of Raygan. He was too busy crying out with his own powerful orgasm into Raygan's awaiting mouth.

After cleaning up the other's nectar, Raygan turned to face Data. She still had a few traces of his cum on her face so Data removed it with his finger, which Raygan then grabbed and licked off. She leaned over to kiss Data tenderly before resting her head on his chest, stroking it gently with her hand. Data smiled before he rose up and turned Raygan onto her back. He was already becoming hard once again.

"We have not finished this yet, Raygan." Data smiled before kissing her hard. He ran his hands over her body before positioning himself between her legs and penetrating her.

Data thrust into her, hard. He was worried he may have gone too far, but Raygan just threw her head back and moaned with abandon.

“Yes, that’s it, Data. Oh God, harder,” she pleaded.

It was time to see just how much his lover could take of his strength. Data pushed her harder and harder, using more and more of his android strength. Raygan was screaming his name like a mad woman. In her frenzy, Data could feel her fingers digging into his synthetic skin. He was astonished, but oddly excited as well. She had hold of his butt, still urging him on. Data increased his strength yet again as Raygan clenched him that much more and arched her back in ecstasy. The most powerful orgasm he had ever experienced coursed through Data’s body. He shot his passion into Raygan until he was dry. Curling his limbs around Raygan, he rolled them to their side, remaining within her.

"You are so amazing," Raygan smiled as Data withdrew from her and held her tightly. "I sometimes wonder whether my parents did know your father because we were made for each other."

They relaxed in each other's arms for a short time before they heard noises in the house. Will and Mandy were back. Data and Raygan decided they better get dressed and join their host.

As Data dressed, Raygan went to freshen up in the bathroom. She came back as Data was picking their respective swimsuits off the floor.

"We should lay these out to dry. It should not take long for your bikini to dry since there is so little fabric."

“You did like it, didn’t you?" Raygan asked, uncertain of Data’s expression.

Data pulled Raygan into his arms. "Woman I am to marry, there is nothing you can wear or not wear that will ever diminish my love or attraction for you. There are certain items that increase your attraction. That was one of them."

Raygan wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed Data.

"I'm glad you liked it, Data. It was definitely meant for your eyes only."

They left the bedroom, running into Mandy at the bottom of the stairs.

“Why am I not surprised to see what room you two just left,” Mandy teased.

Data began noticing that his modesty program had made some subtle changes as he was not embarrassed by Mandy’s words. He escorted Raygan and Mandy to the living room where they joined Will.

Will's eyes were dancing with amusement, so Data was certain Riker suspected what Data and Raygan had been up to in their absence. Knowing Riker's views on sex, Data decided to set the matter aside. Will may tease him, but he was not going to condemn or ridicule him. The four took seats on the couches and relaxed. Will poured everyone a glass of wine from a bottle Captain Picard had sent him.

“Data, I understand you are going to be working with Bruce Maddox when we get back, trying to repair the damage done to Lore,” Will said, starting the conversation.

“Correct, Commander. I am suspect of Commander Maddox’s intentions, however I believe he will be of assistance for this endeavor.”

“I’d watch your back around him, if you know what I mean,” Will said, with a very serious expression.

"Data, who is Commander Maddox?" Raygan asked with a great deal of concern in her voice.

"Commander Maddox is the Chair of Robotics at the Daystrom Institute," Data informed Raygan.

"And he's also the man who tried to have Data declared the property of Starfleet so he could take him apart to study," Will added angrily.

Data told Raygan about the hearing that had been convened to determine his sentience and how Will Riker had been forced to prosecute the case while Captain Picard had defended Data's interests. Raygan could tell that, after all this time, Will was not completely over the role he was forced to play.

"What do you think he might do to you?" she asked Data.

"I do not know."

"He shouldn't be doing anything to you, if I understand what you are saying. Shouldn't it be your bother that he's doing things to?" Mandy observed.

"I agree. Why would he need to do anything to you, Data?" Raygan asked.

"My assistance may be needed as a guide for repairing the damage done to Lore when I was forced to fire upon him. It may also be necessary to download some of my ethical sub-routines and rewrite Lore's behavioral patterns to reflect a new ethical directive. Much of his programming will need to be reviewed and possibly updated. My brother must not be allowed to continue his evil, self-interested pursuits. He must not be allowed to be active as he is. In order to see Lore repaired, I may be required to trust my life to Bruce Maddox."

No one in the room seemed to like the sound of this.

“Why can’t someone you trust be involved, like Geordi?” Raygan asked.

"It is not possible for Geordi to be present the entire time as he will be needed onboard the Enterprise-E during final preparations. I understand he also has plans to visit with his father and sister as well. I will have to trust that if Commander Maddox shuts me down that he will not-"

"Shut you down? Do you think he might do something you don't want him to do? I won't let him. If he’s going to shut you down, I want to be there." Raygan was so upset she was shaking.

"Raygan, please calm down," Data tried to comfort her in his arms.

"Data, would he need my consent to do anything to you if you were shut down? I won't give it to him." Will and Mandy exchanged confused glances at each other as Raygan spoke. "Data, we're getting married soon and I can't stand the idea he might take you from me.” Looking into his eyes, she asked, sounding subdued, "This is very important to you? Helping your brother?"

"Yes, it is," Data whispered back as he held her tightly in his arms. "I believe my father would have wanted me to help Lore."

"I will support your decision, however if this Maddox tries to do anything that will harm you..." Raygan buried her face against Data's chest. Data lifted Raygan's chin gently and kissed her.

Will and Mandy had been sitting quietly however one could tell Will was thinking about what had been said.

"Are you two getting married?" Will finally asked, still unsure if he had heard correctly.

The couple looked over at Will together. Data finally smiled. He looked back at Raygan, giving her an encouraging grin. It finally seemed to be contagious as she too grinned.

"Yes, Commander. Raygan has consented to be my wife," Data announced, proudly.

Mandy grinned happily and Will too was smiling with his eyes twinkling.

"Data, that's great! Congratulations to you both. Ah, when?"

Raygan allowed the joy of this announcement to push aside her fear of losing Data for just this moment. It was good to share this happy news. Data was lacing his fingers with hers and this action, along with the sweet expression on his precious face, warmed her.

"We're going to get married very soon." Raygan could see from the glow in Data's amber eyes how pleased he was to hear those words.

"We had briefly discussed having a ceremony before the Enterprise leaves orbit so Raygan's parents may attend," Data added.

"Well, my friends, this calls for a toast," Will announced. He refilled their glasses with the Chateau Picard. "To Data and Raygan, may you only find happiness in your voyages together."

Data kissed Raygan gently before sipping his wine. He could tell she was still upset and they would need to talk about Commander Maddox at greater length later.

It was too late for dinner, but Raygan had not eaten, so Will invited her to the kitchen. He felt in need of a snack for himself and they would find something more substantial for her.

Data and Mandy remained in the living room, relaxing and talking.

"Will," Raygan said, once they were in the kitchen. "What do you know about Commander Maddox?"

Will pulled his head out of the stasis box and grimaced. Then he sighed.

"I don’t like him. He forced me into a position where I could have been responsible for Data’s death. I don't think I'll ever get over that." Will had taken on a very serious expression now and it was not a pleased one. "I had to argue that Data was just a machine, something I’ve never believed. The JAG said that if I didn’t vigorously present that position, she would rule summarily against Data. I liked Data the first time we met but Maddox...he has never really taken the time to see there is more to Data than programming. Maybe if they work together that will change, but right now, I wouldn't trust Maddox. Hell, it took him over twenty years to refer to Data as ‘he’, not ‘it’."

"Maybe he will see Data differently when he finds out about me?" Raygan asked hopefully.

"I hope so." Will sounded like he was trying to convince himself about that possibility but Raygan could tell he had failed.

"I've searched for Data my whole life. He's my-" Raygan struggled to find the right word.

"Imzadi." Will grinned as he finished her sentence. Raygan was familiar with the Betazoid term.

"Yes, that would be an accurate description," she smiled.

They both picked up their plates and joined Data and Mandy in the living room.

Raygan took a seat next to Data and threw one of her legs casually over his. On her plate, Data could see a selection of five different types of finger foods. There were carrot sticks with a dipping sauce that Raygan tried first. She licked the sauce off the carrot, staring at Data the whole time before eating the vegetable.

"Would you like to try, Data? It’s very good."

Data looked over at Will and Mandy to see they were involved in a soft conversation of their own.

Data swallowed. "Yes, I would."

Raygan leaned closer and offered a carrot to him, feeding him after dipping it in the sauce. Once he had it in his mouth, Raygan, noticing some of the sauce on her fingers, began to insert and then slowly withdraw each finger from her mouth, one at a time. Data found it difficult to do anything but store his analysis of the food for later study, while giving Raygan his full attention now. Data reached over to her plate to pick up a cherry tomato. He offered it to Raygan, who bit into it, allowing the juice to dribble slightly from her lips. On impulse, Data leaned in to kiss the juice away.

Seeing that Data had noticed the Berami on her plate, she picked up a piece to feed him. The sensation caused by this treat was much different than the first time he had tried it and he now completely understood the sensuality of food. With his hand resting on Raygan's leg, he began to stroke it gently while they continued to feed each other sensuously. Data took the plate of food from Raygan before standing up and taking Raygan's hand.

"Excuse me, Commander, Mandy, I believe it is time for Raygan and I to retire for the evening." Will and Mandy almost did not have a chance to say good night to the couple as Data rushed Raygan out of the room quickly and led her back to their bedroom.

Once the door had closed behind them, Data noticed he still had the plate of food in his hand. He decided that since Raygan had not eaten very much, this was good. He wanted to make love to her, but he knew she would need food to provide her with enough energy to keep up with him. This thought gave Data pause.

~ Keep up with me sexually? Before Raygan, it had been six years, seven months, twelve days, fourteen hours, fifty-three minutes and thirty seconds since I had been involved in an intimate encounter at all and now I am the one to be kept up with? ~

Data realized his appetite for a physical relationship had grown by leaps and bounds once he had actually had one.

Raygan reclined on the bed and smiled at Data, invitingly. Sitting beside her, he dipped a carrot into the sauce and fed it to his lover. The expression on her face made it difficult for him to give the proper instructions to the servos in his arm as it made its way to her luscious mouth. Data could feel his desire rising quickly, but Raygan needed to eat.

Data continued to feed Raygan. He found himself getting messier on purpose. Each time he had sauce on his finger, Raygan would lick it off causing a surge of pleasure. If any sauce or juices were on Raygan's beautiful face, he took great pleasure in licking or kissing it away. Finally, when the food was finished, Data just dropped the plate to the floor and took Raygan in his arms, kissing her hard and long. They leaned back on the bed while Data's hands roamed Raygan's body. He slid his hand under Raygan's shirt, cupping her breast through her bra before undoing the clasp on the front.

Raygan saw no reason to be shy about her knowledge of what would please her man. She ran her hand down Data’s body until she came upon his growing erection. She rubbed her palm over the bulge in his pants repeatedly as Data moaned deeply. He opened his eyes to raise Raygan’s shirt high enough to allow his mouth access to one of her perfectly shaped breasts. Data loved the feel of them and the sensual sounds Raygan made when he took one in his mouth. Her hands worked on the fastenings of his pants, soon freeing his arousal. He sighed with heightened pleasure as she stroked his shaft. He was rock hard now and more than ready. She all but tore his shirt off, kissing his chest madly. Data helped Raygan out of her shirt and bra, reclaiming a breast, before allowing his hands to travel down her slim but muscular body to remove her remaining clothes.

Data moved his hand between Raygan's legs gently caressing her thighs before moving his hand to her clit to massage it. They kissed hard with tongues dancing as Data slid his fingers into Raygan. He moved down her body kissing, licking and sucking as he lowered himself. Finally, he positioned himself between Raygan's legs. He took Raygan's clit in his mouth, sucking on it and teasing it with his tongue. When she began to moan, he moved his tongue inside her while he fingered and massaged her clit. Her moans increased in frequency as his tongue darted in and out of her.

Judging her response carefully, Data lowered the caresses of his fingers and allowed them to slip into her very wet passage. He moved the attentions of his mouth to her clit, using his other hand to pull her labia open to give him greater access to the succulent treasure beneath. Raygan was arching her back from the moment Data’s tongue touched her hardened clitoris. She was writhing in rhythmic motions to the pace set by his fingers sliding in and out of her. The climax Data’s oral stimulation provided her caused her to almost come up off the bed, her explosion was so powerful. Data found the sounds and sight of her orgasm extremely arousing. The taste of her cum covering Data’s face was also driving his need for her to a frenzied level. He licked his lips with pleasure as he moved to slam into her with his steel hard shaft.

Raygan called out his name as she moaned. She moved her legs around Data's waist as he pounded inside her. Her cries of pleasure urged Data to go deeper and harder until he could feel her body quivering against him. She wrapped her arms around Data and dug her nails into his back as she experienced her strongest orgasm yet. Data kept up his thrusts wanting to bring her to climax again and again.

Data shifted Raygan to a sitting position, lifting one of her legs up to allow him greater access and deeper penetration. With her sitting like this, he could also reach her breasts and clitoris easier. His legs were spread wide too. He pulled her until she held on to his neck before he entered her again and began his deeply penetrating thrusts. Raygan gasped as she took in more of him than before.

Data stopped, horrified. “Have I hurt you, Raygan?” he gasped.

“God, no,” she sighed. “Oh God, Data. You are so perfect. Please don’t stop,” she begged, panting with need.

Her words and tone instantly re-lit the fire and Data began again, but slower this time. His pace soon quickened as his passionate need piqued. Data tried very hard to keep his lustful cries as quiet as possible, but he seemed to have very little control over his response.

They continued their movements, pushing each other further along the road to ecstasy. Data felt so good inside Raygan. Her moans and gasps always drove him further in trying to please her. She was constantly testing his sexual program - pushing it further than he thought possible but there was always a new level he was able to access. Data smiled to himself, ~ Maybe I really was made for Raygan. ~

Data gathered Raygan's other leg up and placed it over his shoulder in a position that was intended to allow the deepest penetration possible between two humanoid beings. Raygan moaned again with obvious pleasure at the change. In seconds, she was gripping the bed sheets and arching her back as a powerful orgasm coursed through her sexy body. Data loved the effects her climax had on her. The erect nipples of her perfect breasts, the way her hair sprayed across the bed as she threw back her head, the passion touched expression on her gorgeous face. Data felt the now familiar pressure building to a glorious pique within him. With a stifled cry, Data exploded within her.

They made love for hours taking short breaks to cuddle. Finally, during one such cuddle break, Raygan fell asleep in Data's arms. He was not sure why watching someone sleep could be so fascinating but watching Raygan sleep was. Data finally activated his dream program and joined her in rest. It was early morning by the time they began to stir. Raygan noticed Data seemed to be deep in thought as she moved to kiss him good morning. He smiled at her when she began to move and they kissed tenderly.

"You looked so far away, Data. Is anything wrong?" she asked.

"No, nothing is wrong. I was thinking it may be time for us to return to Barbados to retrieve Spot from your parents. We need to tell them of our marriage plans."

"I've been thinking about that too. I know they're going to love having you as a son-in-law." She ran a hand affectionately over his chest, smiling with an abundance of love in her eyes. "I can't wait to be your wife. I love everything I have learned about you and I look forward to spending the rest of my life learning more."

Data was very moved by her words. He pulled her hand from his chest and kissed her palm. It amazed Data that while he felt an overwhelming amount of love for Raygan at this moment, he was also becoming aroused by her nearness. He brought one of her fingers to his mouth, sucking on it slowly and with deliberation. The affectionate smile on his lover's face changed to an agreeable smirk as she threw a leg over his and moved closer.

"I guess packing can wait a little longer," Raygan noted as Data brought another finger to his mouth.

He licked and sucked Raygan's fingers, watching her reaction as he did. He lowered her hand and pulled her closer, kissing her with great vigor. She lay back on the bed pulling Data down on her. She reclaimed Data's mouth as her hands roamed his body.

Data moved his kisses down Raygan's neck, stopping only to whisper in her ear, "I love you," before continuing his quest. He gently caressed her stomach before cupping one of her breasts in his hand, fondling it.

His lips explored her other breast, his tongue moving around her nipple until he had to take it into his mouth, sucking gently. Raygan's hands ran through Data's hair in a manner he found tenderly pleasing. The warm glow between them was soothing this morning. The pace of their lovemaking was slow and leisurely, their touches, kisses and caresses tender and gentle. Words of love passed from their lips often and sweet smiles were exchanged. It was wonderful how their moods seemed to match more perfectly as time went on. She always seemed to want what Data wanted. It was somewhat confusing, yet wonderful at the same time. They rose from the bed together after they had made very sweet love and shared long lingering kisses. They touched frequently as they attended to their packing and dressing for the day.

Will and Mandy were in the kitchen when the couple came downstairs arm in arm. Data told the commander and his girlfriend of their plans over breakfast.

A few hours later, Data and Raygan were back in Starrock. It was mid-afternoon when they arrived at the Silver residence. They were greeted warmly upon their return, except by Spot who just looked at them and went back to sleep. They told Raymond and Nalla Silver about the wonderful time they had in Alaska with Commander Riker, which surprised the elder Silvers. Raygan hesitated to tell her parents what had happened in London to cause them to change their plans but did. Her parents were upset by the news but relieved both were okay. They were ecstatic though when Raygan told them of Data's proposal and her acceptance.

Data was stunned speechless when Raymond Silver turned to him, shook his hand and said. "I will be very proud when I am able to call you son. I welcome you to my family, Data. I look forward to walking my precious daughter down the aisle and giving her away to a man I have complete confidence in. I know you will love, take care of and make my daughter happy."

Nalla took advantage of Data's immobility to grab him and pull him in to a warm motherly embrace. When she released him, Data had a glowing smile on his face. Raygan beamed at him. Data was taken aback as he had not expected to be welcomed like this. He had been sure Raygan's parents would not object to their marriage but, to be greeted and accepted this joyously, Data was overwhelmed. That evening, Data contacted Geordi to fill him in on the events that had taken place since he had last spoken to his friend and also to ask him to be his best man.

“Data, I’m thrilled for you. I’m honored too. I’d be pleased to stand up for you. You got it, my friend.” Geordi was quite worried, however, about the AI crazy people and their attack. “You need to be...never mind, I know you’ll be careful.”

Raygan and Data told her parents they had decided to have a combination of Terran and Rekellian traditions performed at their wedding just like the Silvers had. Although Raygan had been born and raised on Earth, her mother had taught her about Rekellian ways and they followed many Rekellian traditions. In many ways, Raygan felt more Rekellian than Terran to the point that she actually felt more comfortable on Rekell than Earth, despite the fact she had only visited the planet a few times. Data would wear his dress uniform while Raygan would wear a traditional Rekellian wedding gown. Her father would walk her down the aisle followed by her mother giving a short speech to a representative of Data's family. Data told the Silvers he was going to ask Captain Picard to represent his family. He told them about Geordi La Forge, who would be his best man. Raygan would not have anyone standing up with her in keeping with Rekellian tradition. The ceremony itself would be short and would follow the Rekellian custom in which the couple pledged themselves to each other. A celebration would follow afterward at Starfleet Command banquet facilities, they hoped.

Both Nalla and Raymond seemed pleased by this arrangement. They continued to discuss details like what food should be served, whether to have live music and when this event would take place. Raygan insisted it be as soon as possible since she did not want Commander Maddox to believe no one would object or miss Data if something happened to him.

Data had made arrangements to begin work with Maddox in five days, so that did not leave much time. Raygan told Data she wanted to be his Mrs. before Data met with Maddox.

"Data, for my daughter to be your Mrs., don't you have to have a last name?" Raymond asked Data. Both Nalla and Raygan turned their gaze from the older man to the younger android, waiting for his response.

"My father's name was Dr. Noonien Soong. I have not used the Soong name myself however, should you wish to take it for your name, I would be most pleased. Raygan Soong has a pleasing sound to it," Data responded.

"I like the way that sounds too," Raygan smiled.

"And you won't have to change your monogram," laughed Raymond.

Over the next couple of days, the four were very busy getting ready for the wedding. Data had spoken to Captain Picard who was honored by Data's request. They spoke to a number of their friends and most would be able to attend. Things were going quite well considering the shortness of time to prepare.

Data discovered there had been an announcement of his and Raygan's engagement in the Starfleet Command news database. The time and place of the wedding was listed so any who saw this posting could come if no one had been able to find them during their shore leave or for some other reason. Data contacted his mother on Atrea IV to let her know of his upcoming nuptials as well. Juliana had been very excited for him and wished him well. Data promised to send her a holo-recording of the wedding and call again soon so she would be able to speak to his soon-to-be-wife, as she was out getting her dress altered at the time of Data's call.

Data had been working up an idea he had for a wedding gift for Raygan. It was a holographic copy of some of his memories of their times together, starting with the second time Spot had found her way into Raygan's quarters and ending with their time in Alaska.

Raygan too had decided to give Data something special as a gift. While visiting the Sherlock Holmes museum, Raygan had seen a beautiful, antique, leather bound edition of Conan Doyle’s Holmes stories for sale. She had purchased it, asking that it be sent to her parents’ address as she wanted to surprise Data with it. She had not thought it would be a wedding present at the time but it was the perfect one. She was so happy. Soon she would be married to the most wonderful man she had ever met.

~ Lieutenant Commander Raygan Soong of the USS Enterprise ~ she smiled as she looked at the dress she would be married in. She had decided to wear the gown her mother had worn. It had only required a few alterations, which were done quickly. The dress was perfect and Raygan knew the wedding the next day would be perfect too.

While many of the traditions Data and Raygan were following were from her Rekellian heritage, the one Raymond Silver wanted them to follow from Earth was Data not seeing the bride the morning of the wedding. Raymond took Data and all of their needed belongings to an inn for the night. What Mr. Silver did not know was that Raygan made sure Data had a communicator in his bag.

“I want you to contact me before you go to bed. Are you going to bed?” she asked realizing Data may not.

Data smiled and pulled her into his arms for a quick kiss. He was not going to see her until they were about to be married the following day, so he felt like he needed to stock up for the short drought. “I believe I will for a short time. I must allow your father quiet time to sleep. It would not be courteous to disturb him.” Data kissed her again before she could speak.

“Call me, okay?” she said, with a pleading expression on her lovely face.

“I will, I promise. But should you too not be getting your rest?” Data asked.

“How can I sleep without you?” she asked, giving him an incredulous look. Data grinned at this. He had been surprised that, upon their return, they had been allowed to share a bedroom. They had not made love during that time, however just being able to hold each other as Raygan slept and Data dreamed had been enough.

Raymond knocked on the bedroom door before entering to tell Data it was time to go. Raygan threw her arms around Data, giving him a final kiss goodbye.

When Data and Raymond had settled into their room at the inn, Raymond suggested he and Data have a talk. He told Data how happy he and Nalla are and what he considered to be the secrets to keeping a Rekellian woman happy. There were a few things Raygan had not mentioned to Data about Rekellians. He was not sure if she did not have these traits, because of her being half human, or whether she had just not mentioned them. However Data found the information to be most enlightening.

Data waited in the now quiet room for Raymond Silver to begin breathing in a way Data would know indicated sleep. Once he heard the telltale sounds, Data rose from the bed and retrieved his communicator. He tapped it to call Raygan from the darkness of the bathroom.

"It’s late. What took you so long? I miss you so much." Data had to smile at the first words of his lover coming through the communicator.

"Your father was feeling rather talkative this evening. It took him a great deal of time to settle into sleep. I miss you as well. I love you, Raygan," he told her.

"Oh Data, I love you too. I'm not going to get a bit of sleep tonight, lying in this bed without you. I need you here. Dad and his silly traditions. I just may decide I hate this one."

"You should not be angry with your father. He loves you very much and only wishes the best for you." Data could hear a quiet sigh from her at this and knew she was feeling regret over her words.

"I know. You're right, Data. I'm just lonely for you."

"There may be times in the future when you and I will be forced to be away from each other for extended times due to the call of duty. You will need to be able to sleep away from me, my love," he reminded her.

"Are you nervous at all, Data? If you're having second thoughts, please tell me," Raygan asked.

"I am not nervous. I am experiencing a number of emotions, Raygan. Excitement, anticipation, extreme happiness and some impatience."

"Impatience?"

"Yes. I am finding it very difficult to wait until you are my wife."

Suddenly Data heard a voice call out from the other room.

"Data, are you talking to someone?" Raymond called out.

"Raygan, I must go. Your father has awakened. I love you. Sweet dreams," Data said.

"I love you, Data," Raygan responded.

Data clicked off the communicator and returned to his bed. Raymond had already fallen back to sleep.

It was very difficult for Data to think of more than five things. He worried Raygan would not like his gift. He worried her parents would change their minds and decide they did not wish their daughter to marry an artificial life form. He worried about the future and working on Lore. He worried about working with Maddox. He worried about Raygan strangling Maddox. Basically, Data worried.

Raygan pouted. She did not want to be in this bed by herself and did not like that she had been forced to. The morning finally did dawn, but Raygan doubted she had slept for more than a few hours.

"Come, Raygan. You need to get ready to leave." Nalla came into Raygan's room after breakfast to hurry her daughter along. The shuttle car was packed with an overnight bag for Nalla and Raymond, but Raygan was still packing up her things. She would not be back so all had to go. Grabbing her bag in one arm and Spot in the other, Raygan left behind life as a single woman.

The trip to San Francisco did not take long. Raygan found herself getting nervous. ~ What if Data changes his mind after all? ~ she thought. Nalla could see Raygan's nerves were starting to bother her.

"You are a very lucky woman, Raysa," her mother smiled. "You have found yourself a wonderful man who loves you so much. My little girl is getting married today and I couldn't be happier."

When the two women arrived in San Francisco, they found the temporary quarters assigned for Raygan and Data for the time Data would be working with Maddox. Their next stop was a room Nalla had arranged for the bride to use so Raygan started to get ready there. As the wedding was less than three hours away, Nalla left Raygan for a short time to meet with Captain Picard and Geordi La Forge to go over details of the ceremony with them.

Data and Raymond arrived shortly after Raygan and Nalla so Raymond allowed Data access to his new quarters. Data grinned at the sight of Raygan's things already there. Spot was also here, and Data hoped she would stay here.     

Data left his own belonging in the room, envisioning putting his and hers away together later. Why was this simple thought so inviting? He did not care, it was and that was all that mattered. Three hours from now, Data would be married to the most wonderful woman he had ever known. He could not wait.

Going with Raymond, the men went to find Geordi, Captain Picard and Nalla. They found them all together.

His commanding officer and his best friend greeted Data warmly, congratulating him. Data was sure the smile plastered across his face would be there forever. Happiness was his. He had everything a sentient being could ever want.

Before he knew it, it was time for everyone to get ready for the ceremony. Data returned to his quarters, dressed and, noting his appearance in the mirror, left his bachelorhood behind.

All of the guests had arrived when Nalla Silver welcomed them and gave a brief explanation regarding the ceremony. When she finished, Data and Geordi moved into place at one end of the aisle as music from a violin and cello quartet started. Raygan and her father appeared at the other end of the aisle and made their way towards Data. Data had never seen Raygan looking more beautiful than at that moment. Raygan was equally struck by how handsome Data looked in his dress uniform. When they reached the end of the aisle, Raymond kissed Raygan's cheek before taking Raygan and Data's hands and joining them. Nalla then stood to address Data.

"Data, on this day I give to you my daughter, Raygan to love for eternity. This union has our blessing. You will forever be a member of our family," Nalla spoke in Rekellian.

Captain Picard now rose and spoke. "I am proud to represent Data's family for this blessed event. Raygan, on this day I give to you Data to love for eternity. This union has our blessing. You will forever be a member of our family."

Captain Picard and Nalla then exchanged kisses on the cheek and spoke together. "We have blessed this union. If anyone present should have reason the ceremony should not proceed, speak now." When no responses were made, Picard and Nalla spoke together again. "As there are no objections, the ceremony shall now proceed."

Nalla and Captain Picard took their respective seats as Data and Raygan turned to each other and both spoke in Rekellian.

"Today, Data, I join my life to yours, not merely as your wife, but as your friend, your lover, and your confidant. Let me be the shoulder you lean on, the rock on which you rest, the companion of your life. With you, I will walk my path from this day forward." Raygan smiled.

"Today, Raygan, I join my life to yours, not merely as your husband, but as your friend, your lover, and your confidant. Let me be the shoulder you lean on, the rock on which you rest, the companion of your life. With you, I will walk my path from this day forward." Data beamed and then kissed Raygan.

Geordi now moved from his place at Data's side to a spot in front of the happy couple and announced: "It is my pleasure to present to you Data and Raygan Soong. May they know nothing but happiness from this day forth. Please join us in the banquet room to celebrate their union."

Data and Raygan led the way followed by the Silvers, Captain Picard and Geordi.

Once again, keeping with Rekellian tradition, the ceremony was short. It was the celebration starting in the banquet room that would last for hours. While everyone else went to the reception, Data, Raygan and her parents went into a smaller room where Nalla took Data’s hand and joined it with Raygan’s. She instructed her daughter to proceed with the Ownigh Jetal, the love bond. Raygan smiled as she turned to face Data, placing her hands on the sides of his face. She nodded at him to mimic her actions. Once Data had complied, Raygan spoke a few words of which Data only knew a few. Nalla then touched a hand of each of them and, at that moment, Data felt a surge of emotion and what seemed like a tiny electrical charge from Raygan’s hands. It was a strange, yet pleasant experience.

“It is done, my daughter. You are joined. Now, go start your party,” Nalla told them as she ushered them out the door.

The reception started after the wedding party had been seated at a long table situated in front of a huge window, which offered a picturesque view of San Francisco Bay. Captain Picard, Geordi La Forge and the Silvers each made short speeches however it was Will Riker, acting as master of ceremonies, who left everyone in stitches. Following the toasts to the bride and groom, a wonderful buffet of Rekellian and Terran delights was brought out for all to enjoy.

Data had discovered when he acted as father of the bride at the O’Brien’s wedding that dancing was a big part of the celebration. This suited him just fine as he loved to dance. Having the opportunity to dance with Raygan was wonderful.

~ Dancing with my wife, ~ Data thought to himself, as he lead Raygan to the open area where their first dance as a joined couple would signify the beginning of their union. It was always wonderful to touch Raygan, but now there was more. The strange little electrical charge felt nice and seemed to happen every time he touched Raygan. Data realized he very much liked that feeling. He felt closer to her, connected, bonded. Data smiled and took his bride in his arms, grinning at the charge running through him as more of their bodies touched, both hands and cheeks. This must be part of what Raymond had been trying to explain about how being married to a Rekellian was better than just dating one.

Data and Raygan mingled amongst their guests, collecting congratulatory hugs and kisses from many. Will Riker was the first to hug the bride, followed next by Deanna Troi. As other members of the crew in attendance offered their congratulations, Captain Picard approached Raygan.

"Data, if you don't mind, I would like to steal your beautiful bride for a few moments.” Data nodded. “Raygan, may I have this dance?" Picard asked.

"Of course, sir," Raygan smiled.

They started to dance to a lovely waltz being played by the band.

"Thank you for allowing me the honor of being a participant in this wonderful event," Picard said.

"Data and I were both so happy when you agreed. I know how much you mean to him."

"Raygan, I think of Data as part of my family. When I spoke of you forever being a part of our family, I meant my family as well. I wanted to make sure you knew that."

"Thank you, sir. That means so much to me." Raygan kissed Picard on the cheek as they danced.

"I'm very happy for you, Data."

Data had been so intent on watching the captain dance with Raygan, he had not noticed his best friend's approach.

"Thank you, Geordi. I can hardly believe this is all real, yet I know that it is. I am now married. I had always hoped this was possible, that I could find someone who would see beyond my being an artificial life form-"

"Data, for those of us who know and love you, it's not about seeing beyond...well, maybe in some ways, but it’s also being able to accept you as the special and interesting person you are. The fact you leak instead of bleed has no bearing on how much we think of you, but sometimes it makes us think more of you."

Data smiled thoughtfully at his best friend. Geordi always had a way of making him feel so human.

"Come on, Data. Deanna needs a new dance partner and I'm gonna get my turn with Mrs. Soong."

Data danced with Deanna Troi, Beverly Crusher and Nalla Silver while Raygan danced with Geordi La Forge, Will Riker and then her father. When the music ended, the happy couple rushed to each other before anyone else could insist on a dance. Data kissed Raygan as they glided on the dance floor in each other's arms.

"I am the happiest sentient in the entire universe, Raygan Soong. You have enhanced my life in ways I cannot explain. I love you so much," he whispered as they danced.

Raygan kissed Data before whispering, "I will love you forever, Data."

The evening was long, but it was a very happy one. Finally, Raygan whispered in Data's ear that it would be a good time for them to make their exit, since it was not required for the bride and groom to stay until the end.

"Time for our one night honeymoon, my husband." Data's eyes got wide as she suggested this. They had not made love in days and he knew she was just as eager to end this dry spell as he was.

The couple said their good-byes and thank-yous before heading for their new quarters.

Spot greeted them when they arrived, but neither of the pair seemed to notice the feline as much as she wanted to be noticed. Data got her a bowl of food after he had carried his bride into the room and then reclaimed Raygan to carry her into their new bedroom. It was time to test out how firm the mattress was, and see if it could pass muster. Their formal clothing was careful put aside and the newlyweds stood naked before each other, gazing fondly into each other’s eyes. Data reached out and touched her cheek, feeling that now familiar spark at their contact. She came to his arms and kissed him, pressing her full body against him for the first time since their wedding. Both of them cried out at the increase of this wonderful sensation, pulsing through both of their bodies.

"Wow, I like that," Raygan said. Data heartily agreed.

The newlyweds moved to their bed to enjoy their first night as a married couple. They lay next to each other, gently stroking each other's bodies to experience the new bond between them. They kissed again feeling that wonderful surge.

Suddenly they stopped and spoke at the same time, "I have a present for you." They both laughed as they jumped up to retrieve the special wedding gifts they had for each other, which they opened at the same time.

"I will treasure this forever, Raygan," Data told her as he looked at the very old and very special book. "I love it."

"Data, this is wonderful!" Raygan cried as she watched the holographic memories that Data had created for her. "I love you!"

"I love you too, Mrs. Soong!"

Data put their gifts aside and took Raygan into his arms, kissing her with great passion. His hands moved along her body causing Raygan to shiver with pleasure. He moved his kisses down her body, making his way to her thighs. He ran his tongue along her supple skin, stopping at her clit. He sucked it as he inserted his fingers into her. Soon he switched so he was fingering her clit while his tongue moved in and out of Raygan's wetness. Her moans were becoming louder as he continued his oral assault.

"Oh God, Data, it’s like nothing I've ever felt before," Raygan moaned just before her body convulsed and her orgasm took her. Data moved his mouth to drink in the sweet juice of her climax, noting how pleasing he found her nectar to be. He licked her clean as the last wave of her orgasm pulsed through her sexy body. Raygan sat up and charged Data like a wild animal. She pushed him on his back, kissing him as though she would devour him. The new tingling in their tongues was so exciting. She moved her kisses down to his neck and chest, bringing that sweet sensation with her. When she took his erection into her mouth, Data gasped loudly and then moaned deeply. The whole of her mouth felt like a sensual electrical storm moving over the most sensitive area of his body. Data seriously doubted he could refrain from cumming in mere seconds. The intensity of what she was doing was marvelous, like nothing he had ever felt before, even with her. The idea of this ending, however, was abhorrent. Raygan quickened her pace, taking more of him into her mouth until he could feel the head of his penis make delicious contact with the back of her throat. He realized he was gripping the bed sheets for dear life. His back was arched just as she would do. He took a deep breath as the wave began to crash against him.

Data had his most incredible orgasm yet. Raygan swallowed as much of Data's cum as she could before it overflowed her mouth and ran down her face onto her chest. She licked and sucked every drop of Data's juices. She ran her fingers over her chest wiping up every last splash then licked her fingers sensuously. She crawled up to Data to kiss him. The electricity in each kiss was amazing. Data pulled Raygan close to him. He was already becoming hard again as she stroked his penis with her hand. When he was fully erect again, he kneeled between Raygan's legs and lifted her butt to enter her while she wrapped her legs around his waist. Data thrust into Raygan deeply as she moaned.

Data pulled Raygan's body tight into his over and over as he also pushed his hardness into her. The storm that had been in her mouth was now between her sexy legs. Data was enthralled that the feeling seemed to be stronger than when she had taken him orally.

He could not stop the moans and sighs coming from him. After a moment of trying, he realized he was in his quarters, making love to his wife. There was no reason to stifle his cries of ecstasy.

"Ah! Oh!" he cried out. This seemed to stimulate Raygan's vocal cords as she too began to moan loudly just after he did.

Data quickened his pace, wanting to please his new wife, and wanting her cries to reach a fevered pitch.

Data loved watching Raygan's beautiful face when she was in the throws of ecstasy.

"Data - oh my god – Data," she called out as she felt the massive orgasm rushing through her body like a tsunami crashing within her. The sight of Raygan experiencing such pleasure brought Data closer and closer to the brink until he too felt the incredible rush through his body as he came within Raygan. He slowly pulled out of Raygan before laying next to her and kissing her tenderly.

"This has been the most wonderful day of my existence," Data sighed. "I have married the most incredible woman I have ever or will ever know."

Raygan smiled. "Say my name, Data. I want to hear you say it again."

"I love you, Raygan Soong."

"I love you too," Raygan beamed. She grinned over at him as she traced the lines of his face with a finger. She leaned in to kiss his cheek as Data moved a hand over the curve of her hip. His hand moved lower to take hold of her bottom, pulling her closer. He scooted his other hand under and around her waist, pulling her into a deep kiss. She sighed happily and leaned into him, rubbing her groin against his, stimulating his tireless erection.

It was a good match, Data thought to himself. ~ An android and a Rekellian woman - a very good match, indeed. ~

He and Raygan kissed deeply for a number of minutes before Data flipped Raygan on to her back and entered her. Raygan gasped with surprise as Data thrust deeply in her. She brought her legs to his waist as he went harder and deeper within her. Her moans were loud once again as the incredible sensations pulsed through both their bodies. Raygan's hands roamed his body causing him to tingle at her touch. Their kisses became even more electric. It was not long before Raygan experienced the cascade of an incredible climax within her. Data kept going harder and deeper until Raygan was at the edge yet again. She dug her nails into Data's back and called out his name as she felt a second and third orgasm pulsing through her. The feel of Raygan soon had Data calling out as he too climaxed.

Data would have kept going all night with his delightful and delicious bride, but he had to report to Commander Maddox in the morning and he wanted Raygan to sleep so she could join him. He was not sure if having a wife would make any kind of impression on Bruce Maddox, but Data was sure Raygan would try her damnedest to see that it did. They slept until the morning and a new challenge arrived.