Chapter 2

Raygan entered Ten Forward at 1705 and, looking around, saw Commander Data had already arrived and was sitting at a table in the far corner of the room. Having seen Raygan crossing to the table, Data stood to greet her. After taking their seats, Data picked up a PADD lying on the table, handing it to Raygan.

“This is the information you forwarded from Stellar Sciences. I must confess I am at a loss as to how you reached the proper conclusion from the data available.”

"I had been studying the results of the earlier scans as well as the unusual readings Lieutenant Palmer had reported when he brought the sensor reading from 1220 to my attention.” She returned the PADD to the tabletop, without referring to it. “I could think of only a few possible causes for the anomalous readings but none of their criteria matched except for one. I didn't want to believe it at first since plazreon is so rare but, as the old axiom says, 'if you rule out the impossible, what remains, no matter how improbable-'"

"-‘Must be the truth’," Data finished. "You are familiar with the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle?"

"I’ve only read one of his Holmes’ stories but I did love it. I hope to have the time to read the rest one day but field-related studies and research papers, like the ones I have read on plazreon fields, have been dominating my reading time, I’m afraid. " She looked regretful, but this gave Data an idea.

"I have a book which features the complete works of Conan Doyle's Holmes. Although I do not wish to disrupt your field-related reading altogether, I would be pleased to loan it to you if you would care to read the others," Data offered, seemingly eager for her to accept.

"A book? It must be very valuable, Commander. I wouldn't want to roll over and fall asleep on it, tearing pages or something," Raygan admitted, hesitantly.

"The book was replicated. Even if it were not, it is too cumbersome to read lying down. If you do not wish to borrow it-" Data now seemed to be upset over her reluctance. He sure seemed emotional, this being who claimed to have no emotions. No matter. His expression was still having an affect on her.

"On the contrary, I would love to borrow your book,” Raygan interrupted. “Thank you, Commander."

Data's calm demeanor returned.

"May I inquire as to which story you have read?" Data asked.

"The Hound of the Baskervilles," she replied. "My roommate at the Academy told me the Holmes' axiom and I was curious. I’m looking forward to reading the others now, thanks to your gracious loan."

Data was pleased she seemed genuinely interested in the stories. He thought it would be pleasant to know someone who enjoyed the works of Conan Doyle as he did.

“I also have many of the works of William Shakespeare if you are interested in furthering your pursuit of leisure time reading material. I have often used Shakespeare’s plays in my attempts to emulate human emotional responses,” Data told her.

“Emulate, but not experience?” Raygan asked, softly.

“I am not capable of experiencing emotion, however I do try to mimic one’s typical responses in order to better understand and to help my fellow crewmates be more comfortable with me.”

“I guess you’re doing a good job then. I feel very comfortable with you, Commander.” Raygan gave him an easy smile.

"I am pleased to hear that. However, if we are to pursue a friendship, it would be best if you called me Data."

"Only if you'll call me Raygan," she responded, brightly.

"Would you like me to bring the books to you later?" he asked.

"You don't need to bother with the Shakespeare. The Conan Doyle book will be fine."

He looked a little disappointed when it seemed she did not share his interest in the great Terran playwright.

"Are you sure?" he quizzed. "I would be pleased to share..."

"Commander...I mean Data, I’m afraid when it comes to reading for pleasure, ‘m y endeavours have ever come too short of my desires’ ," she smiled.

"Ah, you are familiar with the works of Shakespeare already."

"I can honestly say I have read every word he ever wrote. Do you have a favorite?" she asked.

"I have been working on various acts from the ‘Tempest’ of late, but I am not sure I would characterize it as my favorite.” Data looked confused for a moment. “You have not ordered food or a beverage. If you are refraining on my behalf, you need not. I am not offended by others’ consumption of either in my presence.”

Raygan looked startled for a moment but recovered quickly.

“Actually, Data, I was just so absorbed in our conversation, I forgot about eating. I’ll order though, now that you reminded me. You can’t eat either?” she inquired. 

"While I do not require sustenance, I do sometimes ingest food. Would you feel more comfortable if I were to join you in consuming a meal?" he asked.

"You don't have to do that on my account," she replied.

The server then came to their table. Raygan ordered a pasta dish, salad and a drink. Data ordered the same.

"As it is a human custom to seal a friendship over a meal, I will join you," he informed Raygan. 

Raygan smiled, genuinely warmed by his thoughtfulness. When the drinks arrived, she lifted her glass to toast their new friendship. Now it was Data’s turn to look warmed.

~ No emotions, my ass, ~ Raygan thought to herself.

The meal was great, but the company was better. They continued to chat about a number of different topics - music, art, poetry. Raygan was impressed with how versed he was in all of them.

“I once wrote a poem about Spot. I could recite it for you later,” he offered.

She grinned and laughed. “I’d love to hear it,” she told him eagerly. “You are full of surprises, Data. Most men aren’t that sentimental.” 

No one had ever called Data sentimental before. He was pleased she thought that and even more pleased she had categorized him with men rather than androids.

"I will be performing in a music recital with Lieutenant Hanson and Lieutenant Smith tomorrow evening. I hope you will be able to attend. We will be performing selections by Mozart."

"I'll be there. What instruments do you play, Data?" she asked.

"I have been programmed to play many different instruments however I usually play the violin at recitals. Do you play any instruments, Raygan?"

"No, I don’t. Musical is one term that will never be used to describe me, I’m afraid. I do love to listen to many different types of music, including classical." She added with a humorous grin, "I can hum well.”

Data's expression lightened, coming as close as he ever did to a smile.

"Then I will be the more musical of the two of us in this friendship," he said, trying not to sound insulting.

"I can agree to that," Raygan grinned again.

After the meal had been consumed, Data believed this would be a good time to ask her if she would like to join him in going to his quarters so he could loan her the book they had discussed. However, she spoke before he could open his mouth.

"Well, Data, it has been a lovely evening, but I really need to get to that paper I mentioned. I'll catch up with you later about the book and the poem, okay?" She patted the back of his hand that had been resting on the table and left. 

Data found himself to be disappointed she had left although he definitely understood her reason for having to leave. He was familiar with the writings of Dr. Radu. The man was a brilliant scientist however Data thought he tended to babble in his reports which, coming from Data, really meant something. Data was certain anyone reading Radu’s papers would have to concentrate even more than normal in order to not miss the important parts. Captain Picard’s voice coming from his Comm badge brought Data out of his musings.

"Mr. Data, report to my ready room,"

"On my way, sir," Data responded. He had a very good idea what the captain was contacting him about. He had given Captain Picard a report on the plazreon particles and was sure the man most likely had more questions for him. Data had also recommended a commendation be placed on Raygan's file for her discovery of the danger that had lay ahead of the ship. 

Raygan headed for her quarters with a smile on her face. Dinner with Data had been much more interesting and fun than she had expected. She kept thinking how his reactions seemed emotional even if they were subdued.

Raygan decided to get ready for bed before reading the report as she thought she would be more comfortable reading in bed. By the time she finished, it was after midnight. She inhaled deeply to clear her mind, however, she found she could not stop thinking of Data. She grinned to herself before taking two more cleansing breaths and falling asleep. 

The computer woke Raygan promptly at 0500 hours as she had requested. She had slept well and felt even more refreshed after she got out of the shower. And then it was time for breakfast.

~ Breakfast, I haven't had a real breakfast in days. ~ She decided a little treat was in order for all her hard work over the past few days. Heading for the replicator, she ordered her traditional big breakfast before sitting at the table to eat. Once she finished, she threw on her uniform and headed down to Stellar Sciences. Her shift started at 0600 and it was never a good idea for the boss to be late. 

A very tired looking Matt, who arrived ten minutes late, apologized for his tardiness and got right to work. Other than that, the day went like clockwork. Raygan had dinner in Ten Forward with Matt and his girlfriend, Yalla that evening. She gathered from some of the things said that they had had an argument the previous night. ~ Must be why he was red eyed this morning, ~ she decided, putting that thought out of her mind.

Dinner had not been as good as the previous night, but dessert should be an improvement, Raygan thought with a smile. 

There was a special room that had recently been converted for plays and musical performances, so Data's recital was to be held there. Matt and Yalla were attending the recital as well so the three sat together in the front row and chatted while they waited for it to start. Captain Picard arrived a few minutes later with Dr. Crusher. The captain stopped when he reached Raygan.

"Commander Silver, it's nice to see you at the recital this evening."

Raygan stood to face the captain. "Thank you, sir. Commander Data told me about it last evening. I love Mozart."

"Data plays beautifully so you are in for a treat. The commander also briefed me on the events of yesterday. He was very impressed which means a lot coming from Mr. Data. I have entered a commendation on your file for your outstanding work. It looks like we definitely chose the right person for the job."

"Thank you, sir," Raygan managed, feeling flush.

"Have you met Dr. Crusher?" Picard asked, turning to give her a moment to recover.

"No, she hasn't because she hasn't been to see me for her physical since she arrived," Dr. Crusher injected. Picard introduced the two women.

"Are these seats taken?" the captain asked, pointing to the empty seats next to Raygan.

"No sir, they’re not," she told the captain, politely. "I promise to be in sickbay first thing in the morning, Doctor," Raygan vowed. Crusher gave her a confident nod.

"Yes, you will, Commander, and thanks for saving our butts yesterday," the redhead said with a pleasant wink. Raygan decided in that moment she liked Dr. Crusher.

A moment later, the doors to the ‘Playhouse’ opened and Data, Lieutenant Hanson and Lieutenant Smith entered, instruments in hand. The trio took their seats as the audience applauded in anticipation.

The concert could not be described in any other way but moving. When it ended, it took Raygan a moment to come out of her daze enough to join in the applause. How many were on their feet, Raygan did not notice, but she was quickly on hers, applauding the musicians.

Data looked her way as he took his first bow and something about that made her blush.

After the applause finally died down, people began going up to the musicians, congratulating them. Raygan shook the hands of the other two before moving on to Data. Data nodded at her as he had everyone else, but while he still had possession of her hand, he leaned in to whisper in her ear.

“Will you remain behind, Raygan? I wish to speak with you.”

"Of course," Raygan responded feeling the color rise once again to her cheeks.

Moving back to where she had been sitting during the recital to wait, she waved to Matt and Yalla as they left the room. She was looking around when she heard a voice coming from next to her.

"I told you you were in for a treat." It was Captain Picard. He sat down next to Raygan.

"It certainly was. He plays beautifully."

"Yes, he does. Now Commander...do you mind if I call you Raygan?" Picard asked.

"I don't mind at all, sir." She was a little flustered as his request surprised her.

"Good, so Raygan, how are you enjoying life on the Enterprise so far?" he asked.

Raygan and Captain Picard spoke for a number of minutes until Dr. Crusher and Data came over.

“I am pleased you were able to attend the performance this evening, Raygan,” Data said, once the two groups had joined together.

“I’m still overwhelmed. It was wonderful, Data. I’m going to make sure I don’t miss any of your future concerts,” Raygan told him with a bright smile.

Data’s expression made it clear he had an idea. “I could inform you in advance of all my performances. Do you wish me to inform you of Lieutenant Hanson and Lieutenant Smith’s concert dates as well?”

Raygan tilted her head to the side. “I think for the time being, I’ll just stick with the concerts of my friends.” She grinned and Data graced her with one of his distinctive “hmms”.

The four officers talked briefly before Captain Picard and Dr. Crusher excused themselves.

"Raygan, would you accompany me to my quarters? I thought this would be a good opportunity to provide you with the book we were discussing, if you are still interested?"

"Yes, I am still interested, Data. And I would also be interested in hearing your poetry as well," she smiled.

They walked to the turbolift together and went to Data's quarters to collect the book and have the poetry reading.

While talking in the corridor, Picard and Crusher observed Data and Raygan leaving the “Playhouse” together.

Beverly grinned and raised an eyebrow at Picard. “To quote Data, I find that intriguing.”

Picard gave her a disbelieving look. “Really Beverly. I hope you have not stooped to gossip monger.”

“No, but I can observe and hope. Data hasn’t really seen anyone since that Lieutenant D’Sora. How many years ago was that? I think those two make a cute couple.”

“She’s only just come aboard, Beverly. I hardly think Data has had time to-“

“Then we’ll just give him time. And hope Commander Silver does too.”

Spot wound her way around Data’s legs as soon as he entered ‘their’ quarters and stopped at his bookshelf. Data did not pay her any attention so Spot gave the female that had followed him in a try.

“I like what you’ve done with your quarters, Data,” Raygan said, picking Spot up to scratch behind her ear. Raygan’s eyes surveyed the room in detail before coming back to its owner.

"Thank you. Many people had told me my decorating style could best be described as sparse so I have tried to add items to counteract that opinion," he informed her.

"You did a good job then," Raygan smiled.

"Please, sit down and make yourself comfortable," Data said as he turned from his bookshelf. He had a large book in his hand. Raygan sat on Data's couch with Spot settling into her lap. Data placed the book on the table in front of Raygan before sitting in a chair. Spot's contented purring caught Data's attention as he still was fascinated at the ease in which Raygan had garnered Spot's approval.

"Is something wrong, Data?” Raygan asked, noting his scrutiny of the falling asleep feline.

“Not wrong, simply surprising. Commander La Forge has been my friend for as long as I have had Spot, yet she has never taken to him or to any of my other friends. You are the first one she not only likes, but seems to actively seek out.” Data studied his cat and then the owner of the lap she was resting in.

Raygan lifted the boneless seeming animal, looking her in the face. “So, you want to be pals, huh? Does that mean I’m going to have to write you poetry too?” Spot gave a well timed “meow” that Raygan took for agreement.

“Perhaps now would be a good time for the poem that has already been written about her?” Data asked his guest. Raygan lowered the cat back to her lap and gave Data her attention.

“Great idea, Data. I’m all ears.”

"I must warn you, Raygan. Many crew members have felt my poetry to be-"

"Data, if you don't mind, I would like to make up my own mind regarding your poetry. Now please proceed."

Data began to recite his poem ‘Ode to Spot’ to Raygan. When he finished, she smiled and applauded.

"That's wonderful, Data. Have you written any other poetry? I would love to hear it.” Noticing the look on Data’s face, Raygan asked, “Why do you look so surprised?"

"You are the first person who has indicated a liking for my poetry."

Raygan laughed. "I'm certainly not an expert on poetry but I know what I like and I liked that. Please recite another poem for me," she urged.

Data recited a poem he believed expressed, as well as he was able, the sense of belonging he had come to associate with the Enterprise and her crew. By the end, Raygan was in tears. She was quickly wiping the tears away and looking distinctly embarrassed, but she was not attempting to hide her feelings.

“That was very moving, Data. It must be wonderful to feel a part of a family that has chosen you.” Raygan’s voice broke twice as she spoke, but Data was still able to understand her words. Her meaning was a different matter.

“Chosen? I do not understand?” he confessed.

“Your poem spoke of belonging and acceptance, where before you have known only suspicion and ridicule. They chose to accept you and take you as family.”

Data contemplated this. Raygan was correct. The crew could have done as all of those in the past had done, treating him as a thing and not a person. He nodded his agreement, but also noted how tired she seemed.

"It is getting very late, Raygan. As much as I wish to continue this evening, I believe you do need to get some sleep as your shift begins at 0600 in the morning."

"Yes, sir, Commander, sir." Raygan stood and saluted. Data looked puzzled. "I'm sorry I was just kidding around," Raygan apologized.

"No need to apologize. Humor is one area where I have great difficulty in understanding. Would you like me to carry the book to your quarters for you?"

"Thank you, Data, but I think I can manage." She moved Spot from her lap and stood up to collect the book. "Thank you for inviting me to the recitals - both the music and the poetry. I had a wonderful time. Good night."

"Good night, Raygan."

Data watched her go and even though he had been the one to send her away, he wished he had not needed to.

Data did not see Raygan Silver for another two days. He found he looked for her if he went to Ten Forward, or as he went to and from his quarters. But it was not until the evening two days after the concert that someone rang at his door and when Data answered, the door slid open to reveal Raygan. She was holding a book in her hand that looked to be in perfect condition.

“I brought you a book but I don’t want you to think I’m making fun of you, because I’m not.” Data noticed she was holding the book in such a way that she hid the title from his view. “You said the other night that you don’t understand humor and humor is just too much fun to miss out on, Data. So I hope this will help.” She handed him the book. Finally, Data could see the title – ‘The Psychology of Humor’.

"Rest assured, I do not believe you are trying to make fun of me. Please come in," he invited.

"Thank you, Data, but I can't stay long. One of my colleagues sent me a paper to review yesterday. She wants my comments before the end of tomorrow and I haven’t started yet," she shrugged, apologetically. It was obvious she would rather not leave, but had no choice in the matter.

"Have you had an opportunity to read any of the Holmes stories?" Data asked. There was almost an eagerness in his voice.

She laughed. "That's why I haven't started on that paper yet. I read ‘The Study in Scarlet’ last night and was completely spellbound," she admitted with a sheepish grin.

Data was pleased she enjoyed the story. He would have to invite her to join him in the holodeck when she completed the rest.

Spot noticed their visitor and wound around Raygan's legs until she paid the cat some attention. "Hello, beautiful girl. You being good for Data and staying put or are you getting into trouble?" Raygan let Spot rub her face against her and instantly Spot was purring loudly.

"The answer to your question is she has behaved badly. I was called to Lieutenant Ritter's quarters yesterday when Spot escaped mine again," Data informed his guest.

"Well, I think I'm jealous, Spot. You didn't come visit me," Raygan appeared to be pouting at Spot. Then she turned her pouting expression to Data.

"And I haven't seen you in two days either," she said, tilting her head to the side.

Data was at a loss for what to say.

"I have looked for you in Ten Forward recently but did not see you. I assumed you were busy with your reading. Last night, however, was poker night. It was Commander Riker's turn to host the evening."

"Do you play poker every week?" she inquired.

"Yes, we do. Would you care to join the game?" he asked, again showing signs of enthusiasm.

Raygan smiled. "I'm afraid I'm not very good. I have never been able to find a really good poker face," she confessed with a shrug.

"Ah, yes. I have discovered how important a poker face is. I have lost many hands to Commander Riker's bluffs. Should you wish to join us, you are welcome."

"Thank you, Data. You have made me feel so welcome here and I really appreciate that." Raygan reached over, touching Data’s face. But she was almost overwhelmed with the desire to do more. This feeling surprised her, causing Raygan to pull back sharply. Data noticed her reaction and seemed confused.

"I’m sorry. I'm just so comfortable with you. I forget you’re my superior officer at times. I guess I should go. I hope you enjoy the book, or at least that it helps. See you around, Data." She almost walked out with Spot still in her arms, but realized at the last moment and handed her to Data before going.

"Good night, Raygan," Data called as she left. She turned and waved to him. Data was puzzled, not by her reaction to touching his face, but his own. He had felt a sensation he could not explain. He tried to analyze it, but could not find an explanation for what this sensation had been. With his self-diagnostic indicating he was operating within normal parameters, he decided further analysis would be necessary. He wanted to read the book Raygan had given him first, so Data moved to the couch, sat and quickly scanned the pages.

Data finished his reading with his usual speed, and then decided to analyze what he had read, as well as the sensation that had occurred from Raygan's touch this evening. He also considered Spot's unusual behavior towards Raygan.

Having finished reading the paper and preparing her critique of it, Raygan was now trying to get comfortable on her couch so she could read ‘The Sign of the Four’, but she could not seem to settle in right as Data's face kept coming to mind. She would shake herself, trying to focus on her reading, but something would again remind her of him and it would start all over again. She finally gave up and went to bed.

The next day seemed uneventful to Raygan. Charting the system had stayed on schedule despite the problems with the plazreon field. The real work had been analyzing the readings and preparing the reports. With that now done, things were returning to normal in her department. Raygan was very impressed with ‘her’ people. They had done an excellent job charting the area and worked very well under pressure. She decided it would be a good idea to have a get together for everyone in Ten Forward. It would be a chance for her to get to know them better and for them to get to know her.

 She spoke to each member of the dayshift inviting them to join her that evening at 1800. She was happy ten people were going to be able to join her.

That evening, two tables were moved together and the fun began. Everyone was relaxed and seemed comfortable in her presence. After thanking them all for their hard work and dedication, Raygan shared with them a portion of a communication she had received from the captain commending her department. As she spoke, Matt kept nodding at her in a way that told Raygan she was hitting all the right notes with this group.

Data entered Ten Forward to meet Geordi and noticed Raygan was also there, surrounded by people from her department. She was the only one standing and speaking. Data also noticed Matthew Palmer was constantly nodding in her direction. Data was not sure why, but this stood out in his mind. He proceeded to the table where Geordi waited, but sat where he could look over at the other meeting in progress and observe.

As the evening progressed, Data watched how Raygan and her staff interacted with each other. There was much talking and laughter, not only through dinner, but after everything had been cleared away except the synthohol drinks they were enjoying. Geordi had noticed his friend's interest in the group at the other table.

"Data, you seem distracted tonight. Is there something you would like to talk about?"

"I have been observing the gathering of the Stellar Sciences personnel. I am impressed at how quickly Raygan...I mean Commander Silver has won the admiration and respect of her team. I believe her to be an excellent addition to the crew."

"Raygan?" Geordi asked, "Are you two friends, Data?"

Data was not sure why he was hesitant to admit that. He considered the matter for .025 seconds and decided admitting this was not something that should adversely affect his relationship with Raygan, so he nodded. “I have discovered she has an interest in Holmes mysteries. I loaned her my book of Holmes stories which I hope to discuss with her once she has read them all.”

Geordi grinned at his friend. “You know, Data. He wrote quite a few stories. She may not be able to remember them in the detail you can. You may not want to wait until she finishes them all if you want to discuss them with her.”

Data looked taken aback. He had not fully considered that aspect.

“Does she know you want to talk about the stories, Data?” Geordi asked trying to ascertain how close a friend this woman was so far.

“No. Perhaps I should rectify that omission,” Data said, again glancing in Raygan’s direction.

Geordi grinned and nodded. “Maybe you should, my friend. Maybe you should.”

"Geordi, there is something else I have found to be most fascinating. It has to do with Spot."

"That cat hasn't attacked her or something?" Geordi asked with a disapproving sigh. It was clear the man had yet to forgive Spot for the last scratches she had given him when Data had been away at a conference the previous month.

"No, Geordi, just the opposite. Spot likes Raygan. She seeks Raygan out for affection and has even crawled onto her lap to sleep. I know of no other member of the crew Spot has taken such interest in."

Geordi seemed almost stunned by this revelation. He had had many run-ins with Spot and found it hard to believe Spot was capable of such behavior.

“The she-devil likes her,” Geordi exclaimed. He covered his mouth from embarrassment over his outburst a second later. “Does the commander keep catnip in her pocket?” Geordi joked.

“I have not detected the scent of catnip on her person, Geordi...ah,...you were making a joke, were you not?” Data asked, trying to put some of what he had read in the book Raygan had given him to practical use.

“Yeah, Data, I was. I’m glad Spot approves of your new friend. I guess that means you won't have any incidents of a scratched commander stalking angrily from your quarters that way.”

The gathering at Raygan's table began to break up. Soon there was only Raygan and Matt left.

"This dinner was a great idea," Matt smiled. "They like you and so do I."

"And I like you too, Matt, and everyone. This is the most talented group of people I have ever worked with. You’ve all kept me on my toes. I really like it here," Raygan said with a satisfied sigh.

"Well, I hate to leave you by yourself but my lady awaits. See you tomorrow."

"Bright and early, Matt," she laughed, teasing him over being late.

Raygan was walking towards the exit to Ten Forward when she heard someone calling to her. It was Commander La Forge.

"Commander Silver, would you care to join us?" he asked.

"Thank you, Commander, I would like that. Hello, Data," she said smiling and nodding at the android.

As Data greeted her, Geordi took note that while he was ‘Commander La Forge’, Data was greeted by name. Data had jumped to his feet and pulled out a chair to seat Raygan. Data had it bad...for Data, Geordi decided.

"How has your evening been?" Data inquired, once he had retaken his seat. Raygan beamed at the question.

"Very satisfying. I had dinner with members of my department to congratulate them on a great first week. It was good to get to know some of them better. How was yours?” she asked, looking back at Data. “Oh and yours, Commander?” she added, remembering Geordi was also still at the table.

~ So the feeling is reciprocated. ~ Geordi thought, with a smile. ~ This could be very good or very bad. ~

"It was a productive day," Data replied. "Geordi and I were able to complete a number of projects in Engineering. Some of the modifications we made to the sensor arrays will benefit Stellar Sciences. If you have some time available tomorrow, I could come to see you about the modifications."

"Any time will be fine. I'm looking forward to hearing about them."

Geordi was definitely feeling like a third wheel. He knew his friend had wanted to discuss other things with Commander Silver, so he decided it would be best if he left the two alone.

"You two will have to excuse me but I have some reports I have to get to tonight. You will be okay without me I hope," he joked.

"I think we can manage. Good night, Commander," said Raygan.

"Good night, Geordi." Data was a little puzzled. ~ That's odd. Geordi had not mentioned any reports earlier. ~ Data returned his full attention back to Raygan. "It has come to my attention that I may have made an error in judgment, Raygan," Data told her.

"Regarding what, Data?" she asked.

"The Holmes mysteries. I had very much wanted to discuss them with you, so I intended to wait until you had finished reading all of the cases before I suggested this. Geordi indicated it may be prudent to speak to you now as your memory is undoubtedly not as perfect as mine." Data was apologetic, but Raygan just smiled.

"I would love to talk to you about the ones I've read so far. Do you want to talk here or somewhere else?" she asked him with an amiable smile.

"I would be happy to discuss them wherever you would be most comfortable, Raygan."

"Why don't we talk in my quarters," she suggested.

Once the door of the turbolift had closed behind them and the command given to go to deck two, Raygan turned to Data with a question.

"Data, if you have the time in the near future, would you give me a tour of the ship. Other than finding Stellar Sciences, the bridge, Ten Forward and both of our quarters, I don't really know my way around."

"I would be happy to show you around any time that is convenient for you." Data sounded pleased she had asked.

"Would tomorrow after our duty shifts be okay?" she asked.

"Yes, it would be...okay," he agreed, more than willing.

They left the lift and ambled towards Raygan's quarters. Raygan had finished “The Study in Scarlet’ the previous evening, so she suggested they begin their talk with that one. 

They had been discussing the story for some time when Data suddenly jumped to his feet.

"I believe I should bid you good night, Raygan."

Raygan came out of her relaxed place on the couch and sprang up, blocking his path to her door. The suddenness of Data’s action had startled her.

"Wait! Data, why are you leaving? I’m not boring you, am I?" she questioned, reaching out to take hold of his arm.

Data was completely confused.

"No, you are not boring me. I have thoroughly enjoyed our discussion, however, it is late. If I do not leave now, you will not be sufficiently rested tomorrow and I will not be able to take you on the tour of the ship."

"You're sure that's the only reason you’re leaving, Data?" she questioned.

"Yes, although I do not require sleep, you do. As it is now 2355 hours and your next duty shift is at 0600, I believe I have already kept you from getting sufficient rest."

"Okay, Data, you've made your point." Raygan stroked Data's arm. "I'm looking forward to the tour tomorrow. Good night." Her smile was again relaxed and warm.

"Good night, Raygan."

Data waited for her to release his arm before moving. She did not at first. It took a full five seconds for her hands to drop to her side. Data nodded at her and headed for the door. Before leaving, Data turned back to look at Raygan and, seeing that she had turned and was watching him, he nodded again and was gone. Left alone, Raygan sighed. She still felt a tightness in her chest from when she had believed she had been boring Data. She thought briefly about how Commander La Forge had left them in Ten Forward. She felt kind of guilty about that because she knew he and Data were good friends. Maybe the next time she ran into the commander, she could apologize for her rudeness. There was just something about Data she found appealing. She could not put her finger on it, but there was definitely something about him.

Raygan got ready for bed but her mind kept going back to Data. She had had such a great time with him that evening. She enjoyed talking to him about the stories. She was really looking forward to spending more time with him the next evening. She got into bed and shut off the lighting to her quarters.

Data was sitting at his computer working out a tour route that would be the most efficient and also emphasize areas of the ship he thought Raygan would be most interested in seeing. As he was working, he found he was replaying the events of the evening. Seeing her smile, listening to her laugh and her touch, Data was still puzzled by his response to her touch. He had felt that sensation again when she stroked his arm. Like before, it was not an emotional response but it was different.

Raygan had the hardest time first thing that morning once she arrived in Stellar Sciences. She kept thinking about how she would get to see Data that evening and it was impossible to concentrate. Finally, when Matt even commented on how distracted she seemed, Raygan excused herself. She went to her office and took a few minutes to meditate and clear her head of all her stray thoughts, most of which centered around a certain second officer.