Chapter 5

Raygan was feeling very apprehensive in the morning. She was having trouble eating breakfast as she kept thinking about Commander Maddox and that made her stomach feel upset. They were dressed and at the lab by 0700 hours. Maddox was late which really annoyed Raygan. When he finally arrived fifteen minutes later, he did not apologize for his tardiness. He saw Raygan with Data and approached them.

"Are you authorized to be here, Commander?" he said to Raygan.

"Commander Maddox, I would like to introduce you to Lieutenant Commander Raygan Soong, my wife," Data told Maddox before Raygan could say anything.

"Your wife?" Maddox echoed incredulously.

"Yes, Commander, Data and I were married yesterday," she said as she slipped her hand into Data's to emphasize their togetherness.

"I see. You still haven't answered my question yet. Are you authorized to be here?"

"She is. I have arranged for Commander La Forge and my wife to have access to the lab. They wish to be present to observe our work," Data said diplomatically.

"Just as long as they don't get in the way," Maddox stressed with an impatient expression on his tight little face.

Data's expression became one of irritation. "I remind you, Commander, that you are here at my request. If Commander La Forge or Commander Soong get in your way, you will politely ask them to step aside. I will not have either of them treated with disrespect. Is that understood, Commander?"

Maddox's expression got even tighter. He had not liked being reminded of this fact one damned bit. Maddox stared at Data with his pinched expression for several minutes before speaking. "You installed the emotion chip, didn't you?" the man asked.

"Yes, almost a mouth ago. As such, it is now possible to offend me, sir. I will try to be patient, however I cannot guarantee I will not become angry should actions be taken of which I do not approve." Data did not intend to sound threatening, but that was how it sounded.

Maddox recoiled slightly from the android, now appearing stunned.

"If you are ready, sir, I will have Lore's head and body beamed in," Data informed him, before tapping his comm badge.

Lore’s head was sealed in a locked case only Data could open without destroying the contents inside. When the cases materialized, Data picked up the smaller case, bringing it to a table in the lab where he unlocked and opened the lid. He carefully removed Lore's head and placed it on a stand on the table. Raygan was shocked by how identical Data and Lore look and a little shaken at the sight of seeing Lore's head. Data turned to Raygan before proceeding with opening a panel in Lore's head.

"Raygan, we will be running diagnostics on Lore for most of the day. If you wish to visit with your parents before they leave..."

Raygan nodded her head. "Call me if you need me," she told Data. She kissed him before leaving the lab. "I love you," she called from the door. Data looked up and smiled warmly at her.

"I love you too. I should be home by 1800 hours," he told her. Raygan nodded her head as she hesitantly exited the room.

"Is she afraid I'm going to dismantle you, Data?" Maddox asked, his expression indicating both displeasure and disbelief of the display he had just witnessed.

"Yes, both my wife and Commander La Forge are concerned you may indeed try just that, Commander. However, I have faith you will not do anything to jeopardize my life."

Maddox still looked doubtful. "Why did you marry her, Data? And more to the point, why did she marry you? Is it some kind of trick you're playing on me?" He did not look amused, if it was.

"This is no trick, Commander. We were married for the same reason as any other beings marry. We love each other very much and we are bonded together by that love in a very special way," he told Maddox.

"And her family approves of this marriage?" Maddox asked doubtfully.

"Yes, Commander, they do. They participated in the ceremony and have welcomed me into their family. I fail to understand why this surprises you," Data was becoming a little irritated of Maddox’s questioning his relationship with Raygan.

"What does that mean to you, Data? Love?" Maddox looked at Data, staring deeply into the android's golden eyes. Data stared right back, doubting anything he said would change this stubborn man's mind.

"It means I wish to share myself, all that I am, with her. I want to know all there is to know about her. I respect her, trust her, and believe in her. I wish to be there for her should she be in trouble, I trust her to be there for me. I will do anything in my power to see to her happiness. I would die for her."

It was the last sentence that seemed to penetrate Maddox's veil of disbelief. The graying man recoiled slightly, almost as though Data had struck him.

"You were very protective of your life the last time we met, Data. You fought me tooth and nail to do what you saw as protecting your life, and now you say you would give it up for one woman?"

"Would it then surprise you to learn she too would give her life to protect me?" Data asked, in a cocky voice.

"You believe that do you, Data?" Maddox asked in disbelief.

"Yes, Commander, I do. Raygan has saved my life once already," Data stated in a matter of fact tone. "Now, if you do not have more questions of a personal nature, I suggest we begin our work on Lore."

They began by running a series of diagnostics on Lore’s systems in order to start repairing the damage caused when Data was forced to fire upon him. Data also downloaded copies of all of Lore's programming to study, in order to find any differences between the two that may need to be adjusted in Lore. They worked straight through the day with infrequent breaks and few words, except regarding the work on Lore.

Repairing the damage to Lore's body was much easier than repairing the errors to his programming. The installation of Data's emotion chip in Lore had further corrupted his systems, causing a path of scrambled neural pathways that traversed the whole of Lore's neural nets. It did seem the most extensive damage centered in Lore's ethical program and some of the emotional routines dealing with anger. This seemed to cause Lore to go from disturbed to enraged instantly and curtailed his ability to calm himself for an extended period. With the corruption to his ethical program, the anger Lore could not control had no ethical boundaries to prevent him from acting out on that anger.

It would take time to rebuild these pathways, but the damage was readily apparent. Lore's ethical programs would definitely need to be replaced. Logically, copying Data's ethical sub-routine over Lore’s corrupted one would be the most practical answer. Their research indicated Data's sub-routines would be compatible to Lore, so they made plans to do just that when the time came.

It was getting late in the evening when Raygan returned to the lab. She still found it unsettling to see Lore like that as visions of Maddox over Data's disassembled body haunted her. But Data beaming when he saw Raygan helped to push back her fears.

"I don't mean to interrupt your work, Data. I was just wondering how late you were going to be this evening?" Raygan asked quietly as she could tell Maddox felt she was interrupting them.

"We have just completed analyzing the last diagnostic so I believe now would be a good time to end our work for today. Do you not agree, Commander?" Data asked Maddox, who nodded his head in forced agreement. "I will lock up the lab, Commander. Good night." As soon as Maddox had left, Data pulled Raygan into his arms and kissed her.

"Let's get out of here, Data. I get such bad feelings when I come in here. It scares me."

"There is no reason to fear, Raygan. Lore has not been fully activated and will not be for at least a week. There was extensive damage, however we believe all of it can be repaired." Data locked Lore's head back in the box where it had been stored. He then took Raygan's hand and led her out of the lab. They headed to the lounge for dinner and arrived just in time to run into Geordi and Lieutenant Reg Barclay. The pair joined the couple for dinner and exchanged stories of each other’s day of work.

"Do you think you and Maddox will be able to get Lore on his feet again, Data?" Geordi asked over after dinner drinks.

"I believe so. However, it will require trusting Maddox to transfer some of my sub-routines to Lore."

Raygan did not look very happy to hear this news.

They talked about Lore and the work with Maddox for a short time before Raygan spoke up.

"Would you mind if we talked about something else for a while?" Raygan asked in a shaky voice. "Geordi, Reg, why don't you tell us about your shore leaves."

The three men could see Raygan was becoming rather pale.

"Raygan, are you okay?" Data whispered.

"With everything you’ve told me about Lore, Maddox scares me more," she admitted.

They spent the rest of dinner talking about what they all did on shore leave. It was a nice diversion for Raygan, although Maddox was never completely out of her mind.

When they returned to their quarters, Data and Raygan silently got ready for bed. After Raygan lay down, Data slid next to her.

"Data, hold me please. I need you to hold me tightly," she pleaded.

Data wrapped his arms around Raygan and held her snuggly against him.

"I don't trust Maddox, Data. I want you to promise me you will not, under any circumstances, allow him to touch you without either Geordi or I there. Please, Data, I beg you, promise me!" She was in tears as Data pulled back to take her chin in his hand.

"I will comply with your request, Raygan. I have limited trust in the man as it is. But you need not be this concerned, I-"

"I have every reason to be this concerned. You are my husband, my life. I would choose you over anyone or anything. I don't even want to think about trying to live without you." She was trying to keep control of her voice, but failing.

Data smiled at her. He thought back to this morning and how Maddox seemed to disbelieve Raygan felt as strongly about her android husband as Data claimed she did. Data kissed her forehead tenderly and pulled her close again.

"I do not foresee any danger of us being separated, Raygan. I love you now and I will love you forever, no matter what happens."

Data and Maddox had been working on Lore for two weeks when it was finally time for some of Data's sub-routines to be copied and transferred to Lore. Both Geordi and Raygan were present in the lab. Data had requested Geordi be there for Raygan and Raygan had asked Geordi to be there to keep an eye on Maddox. The transfer went smoothly at first but then Geordi could see something was not right.

"Commander, stop the transfer!" Geordi called out.

"There’s nothing wrong, La Forge. You are here to observe and nothing more," Maddox replied angrily. Data's body began to twitch when Geordi rushed over to Maddox.

"Stop it now or I will," he demanded. Maddox shut down the transfer as Raygan rushed to Data. Maddox and Geordi ran diagnostics to determine what had happened and whether Data had been damaged. It was twenty long minutes before Data opened his eyes and sat up.

"Geordi? Commander Maddox? What has happened?" Data asked. Maddox explained the problem from the download and both men asked Data how he was.

“I do not understand what is happening?” Data looked more confused after the explanation and even more so when Raygan came over and took hold of his arm. "Commander Silver, what are you doing here?" he asked.

Raygan was now in complete shock. "What did you call me?" she asked in disbelief.

"Commander Silver, that is your name," Data stated matter of factly.

Geordi and Raygan exchanged confused looks as Maddox just stood by, looking bored and guiltless.

"Data, who is Raygan to you?" Geordi asked, with a sense of urgency in his voice. Data gave him a very puzzled expression.

"I am familiar with her. She is a crewmate. She has been aboard the Enterprise for five days, eight hours and twenty-three minutes. Geordi, I do not believe I am functioning properly, I-I feel something. How is that possible?"

Geordi was at a loss. Raygan had grabbed on to his shirt and was gripping it in stunned silence as tears ran down her face. His best friend had just lost a significant portion of his life, including the installation of his emotion chip and falling in love with his wife. Geordi ordered Maddox to bring a chair for Raygan and sat her gently into it.

"Let me check him over, Raygan. It may be he just can't access the memories right now. Let me get in there and see what’s going on, okay?"

Raygan nodded with desperately hopeful eyes.

Glaring at Maddox, La Forge ran several scans while briefly explaining to Data that he appeared to have lost some of his memories.

It took Geordi only twelve minutes to find a number of Data's memory engrams had been terribly damaged due to a power surge that had run through Data's net.

"Why the hell didn't you have the power levels set up for constant monitoring? You could have killed him." Geordi's temper flared at this total lack of alarm Maddox was displaying. Geordi removed the engrams affected and showed them to Data. The android looked sick. With a sad expression on his face, Data whispered, "Geordi, what have I forgotten?"

"A lot, my friend," Geordi replied. He then tapped his communicator, "La Forge to Counselor Troi, please report to cybernetics lab #4 as soon as possible." Deanna Troi's voice came back acknowledging the request.

Raygan was sobbing uncontrollably when Deanna arrived. Data was still very confused by what was going on. Geordi and Deanna spoke for several minutes so he could fill her in on what had happened. Deanna then approached Raygan and suggested they go to her quarters to talk. Raygan was too distraught to argue so she left with the counselor.

"We have a lot to talk about, my friend. These memory engrams seem to represent about three and a half months of memories. I don't know where to start," Geordi told him, helplessly.

Geordi and Data went to Geordi's temporary quarters. Geordi told Data about the destruction of the Enterprise-D as they walked. After they reached his quarters, Geordi watched as Data accessed the report of the inquest.

"Geordi, I feel. Why is that?" Data asked.

"You installed your emotion chip about two months ago."

"I see. Why was Commander Silver so upset?"

"You can't remember anything about your time with Raygan?"

"Raygan? You are on a first name basis with Commander Silver?" Data questioned.

"You and Raygan have a very special relationship, Data. You formed a strong friendship, which grew into more. You installed your emotion chip so you could feel love. Raygan is upset because her name isn't Raygan Silver. It's Raygan Soong. Data, you married Raygan two weeks ago. I was your best man."

Data sat in stunned silence. "I do not remember any of that," he finally said.

“I know, Data, I know.” Data and Geordi talked for quite a while, but Geordi decided what he had told his friend about his relationship with Raygan was enough. Anything else about her, Data needed to get from Raygan. But that was not going to be easy for either of them. While Data did not remember anything from this missing time, Geordi had told him it may be possible to retrieve something from the damaged engrams, but it would take time. Data decided he should talk to Commander Silver - Soong? Raygan? - himself.

Data found out from the computer she was in quarters which were listed as belonging to both of them. He headed there with uncertainty. Emotions were strange things. He was sure he was afraid, but he was not sure why. He entered a room he found partly comforting and partly foreign. Spot greeted him and that was pleasing, but when a tearful woman appeared from the bedroom, Data was at a loss.

“I do not know what to do. Geordi tells me we were wed. You married me?” The very thought seemed almost ridiculous. She was a young and very beautiful woman. Why would she love him?

“Yes,” was all Raygan could bear to say. Troi had warned Raygan to take things slowly with Data. He was, in some ways, a victim of amnesia but, as it was unlikely Data’s memories would be recovered, Troi was not sure how best to advise Raygan.

“Do you remember anything about us?” she asked, moving towards the couch. Data came further into the room and joined her when she sat. He did not sit close, though.

“I only remember greeting you when you came aboard, giving you a tour of your quarters and your department and then escorting you to a briefing. I had very little contact with you after that. What happened next? Can you tell me please?” Data inquired, politely.

“Spot found her way into my quarters a second time. She decided she liked me and I liked her, too. Then there was this phenomenon and you wanted to know how I figured out what it was, we got to talking about Sherlock Holmes and-“

“You have read Sherlock Holmes?” Data asked, with wonder and enthusiasm.

Raygan gave him a slow, but gentle smile.

"That is how our friendship started, Data. We were in Ten Forward talking about the phenomenon and I used a Holmes axiom. You reacted exactly like you just did. Later, you lent me your volume of the complete works of Holmes and, as I read each story, we would discuss it for hours. Those were very special times for me."

"Please tell me more," Data encouraged Raygan.

"We spent a lot of time together, Data, but not just discussing Holmes. You took me on a complete tour of the Enterprise-D. We had dinner together more and more often. We just clicked from the very start,“ Raygan paused. "When we were on the Farragut, after the crash, we were invited to the holodeck for a Dixon Hill mystery by Captain Picard," Raygan then pointed to a picture hanging in their quarters. "You painted that. It was a gift for me."

Data stood up and walked over to the painting to study it closer. It was definitely one of his works. He was amazed at the depth of emotion the painting displayed. It was certainly one of his best. He rejoined Raygan on the couch.

"Please continue," Data urged.

“It got to-" Raygan broke off her sentence, unable to continue. It was killing her that Data could no longer remember their time together. What would happen now? Would he want to end their marriage? She lowered her head, covering her face with her hands. The tears came again.

"Please do not cry, Comman- Raygan," Data pleaded. He felt compelled to comfort her, but was unsure how. Slowly he reached out and just touched her shoulder. Raygan sniffed. Turning to scan the room, Data found a towel and brought it to Raygan to dry her eyes.

"Thank you. I'm sorry. I promised myself I wouldn't fall apart again, but I just don't want to lose you, Data."

Data sat back down beside her. "I am not completely lost. I do remember meeting you. I did enjoy that meeting," he told her, trying to be encouraging. Raygan gave him a grateful smile and reached over to place her hand in his. Puzzled, Data looked down at their hands, his golden hand holding her light tan one. ~ Married. I am married to this woman. Does that mean... ~

"Raygan, we were married two weeks ago, correct?" Data asked, hesitantly. She nodded sadly, realizing this was not a resurfacing memory. "Then, would I be correct in assuming we have been intimate?"

"Yes. We made love just last night - five times," she admitted, oddly embarrassed.

"Five times!" Data repeated, astounded.

"We're newlyweds. We're allowed to be amorous. You see something wrong with a husband and wife enjoying a healthy sex life?" she asked, defensively.

"No," Data said, taken aback. "I simply would not have expected it to be that healthy."

"Yes, it was that healthy and wonderful. Access information on Rekellian women and sexuality. My mother is Rekellian and my father is human. My Rekellian genes are dominant," she instructed Data.

Data took a few moments to access this information. "Ah, I see," was his comment once he had finished processing what he had accessed.

Spot jumped up on the couch and curled up in Raygan's lap. Raygan absentmindedly stroked Spot's fur. The cat's loud purring soon stopped as she had fallen asleep.

"That is amazing. I know you said Spot liked you but I have never seen her behave like this...that I can remember," Data added quickly. Data watched Spot sleep for a moment before turning to Raygan. "I am surprised a woman as beautiful and intelligent as you would marry an android," Data commented.

"I married you because I love you, Data." Raygan sounded offended by his remark.

"I did not mean to offend you. It has been my experience that most woman do not wish to become involved with an artificial life form," Data apologized.

"Well, I'm not most women. From the first moments of our friendship it surprised me that you weren’t involved with anyone romantically. You are the most incredible man I've ever known." Raygan said as the tears began to form in her eyes again.

Spot woke up, sensing her distress. The feline rubbed against the female in an attempt to calm her mistress. Data was again astounded at this behavior coming from his always selective pet.

“I am regretful that this situation has caused you so much pain. If you wish, I will leave you alone for a time.” Data got to his feet and Raygan jumped to hers, displacing Spot, who yowled her objection.

“Where will you go? These are our quarters. Are you...are you planning on leaving me?” Raygan asked, fighting back sobs.

“Raygan, I cannot stay here with you at this time. It would not be proper. I will stay temporarily with Geordi or I will see if I can acquire new quarters. Geordi and I will work together to see if any information can be saved from my damaged memory engrams. I will inform you of our progress.”

She was devastated. “That’s it then? It’s over? You’re not even going to try and continue our marriage? How will you know what you’re giving up if you leave?” she all but shouted at him. Raygan looked around the room in desperation. Spotting her target, she raced across the room, retrieving a holo-frame from a table. She handed it stiffly to Data. “Look at it. It was your wedding gift to me. You want memories, here are some. You loved me and I love you.”

Data looked at the image currently showing. While he did not remember it, he had added this image of their wedding just three days ago. Data took the frame and moved to sit back on the couch. He touched the activation button and the two people in the wedding scene embraced and kissed, passionately. While he watched, the scene changed many times.

Data watched the images over and over again as Raygan sat at the other end of the couch to study Data's expressions. He was still so confused. The more he watched the images, the more it seemed like he was watching himself in a play. How could these be real?

"We look like we were very happy," he finally commented.

"We were," Raygan whispered.

"I still believe it would be best if I stayed with Geordi on a temporary basis. I would like to get to know you better, Raygan, before we make any decisions on our respective futures." Data turned to leave their quarters.

"Data, it's very late. Stay here tonight. I won't bother you."

Raygan turned and went back to the bedroom, exhausted from the emotional turmoil of the day. Data decided it would be better to not bother Geordi, as the hour was quite late. He sat back down on the couch and picked up the holo-frame to watch the images again. He put the frame down and moved to the computer where he began to access his personal logs starting with the first day he could remember. There was a gap in his logs from the day the inquiry ended until the day of the wedding. Still, he was amazed at how much he had spoken of Raygan in his logs and how his affection for her was so evident even before he had installed the emotion chip. As he finished watching the entries starting the day after the wedding, he noticed a file in his logs entitled ‘Ceremony’ and opened it. It was the holo-recording his log had indicated he had promised his mother. It puzzled him that he did not understand much of what was said during the ceremony. It was his voice speaking a language he did not understand. Was that Rekellian? When he finished accessing everything, he quietly walked to the entrance of the bedroom and looked in. Staring at Raygan while she slept, he analyzed everything he had seen from his logs. He returned to the couch, laid down and activated his dream program.

Data was only on the couch for two hours when Spot jumped heavily onto him, pulling him from his dreams. He sat up in the dark to stroke his pet’s fur. He thought of his past attempts at forming this kind of relationship and how he had utterly failed. He found it so inconceivable that he had not only fallen in love with this woman but convinced her to marry him too. Data went back to the computer to re-watch the wedding now that he had finished processing Rekellian from the Federation language banks and understood it. As he watched himself kissing the bride, Data wondered what that kiss had been like. Raygan had told him they had made love only the night before. What had that been like? Data again found himself standing at the door to the bedroom, staring at his sleeping wife.

Spot walked by him and jumped on the bed, licking Raygan's face and waking her. "Spot," Raygan complained. "What is it?" Raygan sat up and noticed the confused looking android standing in her doorway before he turned away.

Raygan got out of bed and went to the living room to check on Data.

"Data?" she called out softly. "Computer, raise lighting level to half illumination." She could see Data sitting on the couch looking at her. "Would you like to talk some more?"

"I would but I do not wish to disturb your sleep time," he replied.

"You aren't. I'll be fine," she assured him.

"I have processed all available information and I am very confused," his voice trailed off. "There is a gap in my personal logs from when the inquiry into the Enterprise-D's destruction ended until just before our wedding. Were we together during that time?"

"Every moment," she responded. "I went to my parents' home in Barbados during the inquiry and then you and Spot joined me there. We made love for the first time in Barbados." Raygan paused for a moment. “We then went on a holiday together while Spot stayed with my parents."

"Spot likes your parents too?" Data asked incredulously.

"Yes, she does. We went to London and visited the Sherlock Holmes museum. We ran into some trouble there from some anti-technology crazies and left the next day though. From London we went to Alaska and stayed with Will. We had a wonderful time there. In fact, it was in Alaska that you proposed." Raygan smiled at the memory of that day.

"Then Commander Riker witnessed my proposal?" Data asked, considering a meeting with the man to ask him what he remembered of the events that Data did not.

"No, he wasn't there, Data. We were in bed when you asked me to marry you. We had just made love," she explained.

"We were in Commander Riker's home in Alaska and we were intimate? Had I suffered damage to my modesty sub-routine?" he asked, incredulously. The events she relayed sounded so unlike him. But he was not used to having emotions. He found his new feelings shockingly difficult to deal with in addition to learning all of what he had lost.

"No, you were fine until Maddox," she said, suddenly angry. She got to her feet and started to pace, furious. "I knew something was going to happen. That bastard hasn't even offered up an apology. You told me he kept asking you little questions about us, like he didn't believe we could really be in love. Well, he found a way to ruin it, didn't he?" she fumed. Data got to his feet and came to stand in her pacing path.

"I am sorry," he told her.

Raygan's shoulders slumped. "Oh Data. No, I'm the one who's sorry. I'm being so selfish. You don't know how thankful I am you weren't seriously hurt. Of all the things that could have happened, this is minor. I know all this is extremely confusing. Do you have any questions you’d like to ask?"

"Do you believe this was not an accident?"

"I've thought about it a great deal. I don't know if it was an accident or he did it on purpose. Maddox dismissed Geordi's concerns during the transfer and when Geordi asked why he hadn't been monitoring the power levels, Maddox didn't answer. If Maddox didn't plan it then he let it happen." Raygan stated. "I don't know if Geordi feels differently but that's the way I feel."

Data decided to discuss what had happened with Geordi to get his perspective. He also decided he would have to talk to Commander Riker to find out what had happened in Alaska.

"Data, when you look at me, do you feel anything?" Raygan asked.

"I feel many things but I do not understand what they mean," he responded.

"I hope in time you will." She reached out and touched his hand.

"When you touch me, what is that?" Data asked confused. "That is the second time you have touched me and I have felt an energy.”

Raygan smiled at the knowledge Data could still feel their special bond. "After we were married, we had a Rekellian bonding ceremony. The energy you feel is the special bond created by our love. The more we touch, the greater the energy." She held both of Data's hands to demonstrate this to him. "When we make love, it’s even more incredible."

Data eyes turned to saucers at the thought. “I see. Raygan, I do not wish to upset you again, but I believe it would be best for me to go now. I have much to process and you still need your rest. I will go to the lab and review what Commander Maddox and I have done thus far with Lore. I do not recall any of the details there either. We will speak again soon, I am sure.”

Raygan decided Data just wanted time to work through this as he said, and agreed to let him go but she kissed him on the cheek first. Data left their quarters with his hand over that spot and a bemused expression on his face.

There was much to review in the lab. Data was still there when Maddox arrived in the morning. Still cocky and completely unabashed about the events of the previous day, Maddox’s only concern was if the transfers had been successful. Geordi came in just as the commander was suggesting Lore be completely reactivated. Data agreed so Geordi contacted security to make sure the restraints they had were in perfect working order. Once four fully armed guards were there, Data activated Lore.

Lore opened his eyes instantly. Data faced him, watching as his brother ran a self-diagnostic.

“I’m pleased to see you, my brother, but- Data, what have you done to me?” Lore’s eyes were moving in the particular way that told everyone he was processing information. His expression turned to one of disappointment. “Data - a new ethical program - why did you have to that? We could’ve had such fun together. Hmmmm, you took the chip out too.”

“Yeah, it’s where it belongs now, Lore - in Data,” Geordi piped up, coming into Lore’s range of view.

“You lived? You humans are more resilient than I expected.” Lore gave Geordi a patronizing grin and shook his head. “What the hell?”

Everyone turned to see Raygan Soong walk angrily into the room.

"None of you had the decency to inform me about this?" Raygan pointed towards Lore.

"Why would we need to inform you?" Maddox questioned. "You have no vested interest in our work here. We didn't-"

"I disagree and I apologize for not informing you of our decision to activate Lore," Data interrupted.

"Will someone remove these restraints and introduce me to the beautiful lady?" Lore requested.

"Is he fixed?" Raygan asked.

"We need to run a number of diagnostics, however the new ethical program appears to have been successfully installed," Data responded.

"Commander Soong, I think it would be best if you left us to our work," Maddox said condescendingly.

"Please, come see me later, Data?" Raygan asked.

"I will," Data agreed.

Raygan left the lab, leaving Data, Geordi and Maddox to continue their work on Lore.

"Commander Soong? Data, what haven't you told me?" Lore prodded Data.

"If you consider we have not spoken for over two years and even before that, you and I did not exchange much in the way of chit chat, I would say, quite a lot," Data answered, rather flippantly. Geordi looked surprised at this, but Lore looked delighted.

"You really did install the chip, Data. Is the woman yours?" Lore asked, eager to know. Data did not look eager to tell however. “Tell me, brother, is she or isn’t she. I want to know if she's fair game."

"Are you sure that ethical program is working, Data?" Geordi interjected. He frowned at Lore. "I don't want him trying to pretend to be you again and upsetting Raygan."

"Raygan - lovely name, lovely woman, " Lore smirked.

"I believe I will deactivate your speech center, brother. You are irritating me." Data reached over and, applying a tool to an area of Lore’s neck, did just that as Lore gave him a frustrated glare.

They ran the diagnostics on Lore and were happy that all of his systems were operating within normal parameters especially the new ethical program. Data reactivated Lore's speech and reluctantly released Lore from the restraints at Maddox's insistence.

"You didn’t answer my question regarding Raygan, Data. Are the two of you together or is she free to see others. I would never try to come between you and your wife."

"It is a very complicated situation at the moment. I would appreciate your staying away from Raygan until we have resolved things," Data instructed Lore.

"Of course, brother. Anything you want although I would like to at least be introduced to this new member of our family. Would that be possible, brother?" Lore requested.

"I will ask Raygan if that is acceptable. And if you are considering impersonating me to meet Raygan, as Geordi has suggested, it will not work. She will know it is not me."

"Brother, I would never think of impersonating you. That would be unethical," Lore grinned.

Data wanted to believe Lore, but made a note to speak with Raygan to be sure she would only feel that special energy if he touched her and not Lore.

Maddox had devised several tests for Lore to analyze his emotional responses and determine if he was reacting closer to human norms. Two security guards where left behind to watch Lore while Data excused himself to go speak with Raygan.

"Data," Geordi called, following him into the corridor. "I know you don't remember your feelings for Raygan, but I want you to promise me not to be too hasty in deciding what to do. Give it time. Get to know her again. She's a special woman and you were lucky to find each other."

Data smiled at his friend. "Thank you, Geordi. I will remember your advice. I have no plans at this time to take steps, however, I would request to be allowed to stay with you for a time until Raygan and I are better acquainted." Data's expression was one of earnest regret.

"Data, are you sure you want to move out of your quarters?" Data explained it was only a temporary measure so Geordi reluctantly agreed. Data continued on to speak with Raygan.

She was sitting at their dining table, picking at a meal, but not eating. She stood up when Data entered and had to fight the impulse to leap into his arms.

"I apologize for not informing you of Lore’s activation,” he began. Coming close to the table he asked if he could join her with a look. She nodded and he sat.

"I was simply worried, Data. You've told me that Lore was a danger to the Enterprise and especially to you in the past. I don't want you hurt more. I was worried. I'm sorry if I embarrassed you by the way I reacted." She did look very remorseful.

"You did not embarrass me," Data smiled. "Raygan, this energy we have when we touch, can it be felt with any others?"

"No, Data, only you and I. Why?" Raygan asked.

"Lore has impersonated me in the past. I have told him you would be able to tell the difference between us should he try to impersonate me again. I wanted to confirm that was true."

"Even if we did not have this bond, I would still be able to tell you apart, Data," Raygan smiled.

"Lore has asked to meet you. If you do not wish it, I will inform him that you have declined his request."

"If you’re present, I will meet him but not now. Can you stay for a while so we can talk some more?" Raygan asked.

"Yes, I can stay to talk longer.” As they moved to the couch, Data added, “Geordi has agreed to let me stay with him temporarily however I think it would be best if Spot were to stay here with you." Raygan nodded her head in agreement. "What do you wish to talk about?"

"How about ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles’?" Raygan smiled.

Data smiled slowly. “But would we have not discussed the story previously?” he asked.

“Do you remember it?” she asked.

“No,” Data answered, with an apologetic frown.

“Then we can make a new memory to share.”

Data gave her an uncertain smile, but nodded. Data was slow to join in the discussion, being somewhat uncomfortable, but that uneasiness quickly vanished as things progressed. Raygan teased him about having a secret wish to be Sherlock Holmes, which Data could not deny with anything approaching convincing. He found himself smiling with her and also laughing out loud at many of the things she said or caused him to say. But when she came closer and touched his hand, Data shied away. He was not sure why, but the energy that pulsed through his body intimidated him.

Raygan was so incredibly beautiful. Data found he was having a great deal of difficulty understanding why she would have chosen him as a spouse. Surely she could have had any male she wanted. Why would she want an artificial man?

Raygan had noticed the change in Data's demeanor. "You look like you want to ask me something, Data," she said.

Data looked surprised that Raygan seemed to be able to read him so well. "Yes, I do. I do not understand why you wanted to have a relationship with me. You are a very beautiful, intelligent, funny woman and I am an android. You could have your choice of so many men. Why would you chose an artificial life form?" he queried.

"We have a lot in common, Data. You told me how you had not felt accepted until you had been assigned to the Enterprise. When I was growing up, I was a target because my peers considered me to be different. At the Academy I started to feel acceptance but when I came to the Enterprise...I felt like I had found a home, just like you. When I look at you I don't see an artificial life form. I see a man and, the more I got to know that man the more I liked him until I found myself to be head over heels in love with him - with you," Raygan smiled.

"I believe I understand. May I ask you another question? Did you not date anyone else on the Enterprise? I would think there would have been a large number of males-" Data started to say.

"You were the only one to ask, Data," Raygan interrupted. "If other men had shown an interest in me, I didn't notice. I only had eyes for you."

Data found all of this just too much to believe. Was she hiding something? Why would she prefer him to any of the other man on the Enterprise or beyond? Data had no answer for this and did not think it wise to ask. He decided to invite her back to the lab to formally meet Lore. Raygan seemed disappointed, but agreed. It looked as though she intended to take Data's arm as they left their quarters, but she stopped herself just before she made contact. Data sighed inwardly and relaxed. Her touch still made him very nervous.

Maddox was hard at work at his computer when the pair arrived. Lore was watching and making comments that the commander was doing his best to ignore. Turning to see who had entered the lab, Lore grinned brightly when he saw Data and Raygan pass through the door. This smile caused Raygan to tense.

"You do know how to pick them, my brother. Your bride is very beautiful." Lore moved closer and extended his hand to Raygan. Data nodded at her, so she took Lore's hand. Lore smirked widely before bringing her hand to his lips and kissing the back of it with care. "I'm so happy to make your acquaintance, Raygan. I am Lore. Data's big brother." Lore's gaze was penetrating.

"We are physically the same, Lore," Data corrected him.

"Yes, that is true, my brother," Lore agreed, giving Data a nod before turning to look deeply into Raygan's eyes. “Exactly the same.” Lore’s tone made it obvious what he was referring to.

Raygan took her hand back from Lore but held his gaze.

"Data told me you asked to meet me. May I ask why?" Raygan asked.

"My motives are pure. I only wished to meet my dear brother's new bride. After all, we are related now and I would like nothing more than to get to know you better,” he smiled innocently. “I know, why don't the three of us have dinner this evening?"

"I do not think that would be a good idea, brother," Data answered.

"Come now, brother. I only wish to become reacquainted with you and find out how you managed to capture the heart of this beautiful woman."

"Raygan?" Data asked.

"Fine. If you're there, it’s fine," Raygan answered.

"Excellent. How about Data and I come by at 1900 hours?" Lore offered.

"Excuse me, but we really should get back to work," Maddox interrupted.

"I'll see you then," Raygan replied. She glared at Maddox as she turned to leave.

Raygan set the table for three. She had no idea what type of food Lore would like, but she knew Data's tastes, or at least she hoped she did. She went to get ready, picking out a one-shoulder sheath dress. It was sexy, but not too sexy. She was just replicating the last of the food when the door opened and the brothers walked into the room. Raygan wished painfully she could race to Data and fall into his arms. She ached for him and it killed her that he seemed to fear her touch.

"Hello," she greeted them with a cheerfulness she did not feel at that moment.

"We must have gone to the wrong quarters, Data. This vision cannot be the woman you married. No android could be that lucky." Lore eyed Raygan, grinning at her in a way that reminded her of the way Data used to, before he had lost his memories.

"Thank you, Lore," she said, trying to pull her eyes from his. Data seemed uncomfortable to be in the presence of both of them.

Raygan brought dinner to the table. Data seemed uncertain as to how to react to her choices as he had no memory of what many tasted like.

"What a wonderful meal you have prepared for us. You have somehow managed to chose all favorites of mine," Lore smiled.

The conversation during dinner was a little forced in the beginning, however soon Lore turned on the charm. Data could not help but notice how Lore was interacting with Raygan. He was flirting shamelessly with her. Raygan was being polite to Lore, however Data could not help but wonder if his brother's behavior was beginning to have an affect on her, and on him. Raygan had noticed Data was only picking at his food and was disappointed her meal selection had not been better received.

"Data, if you don't like it, I can get you something else," Raygan told him. "I tried to pick things you liked but maybe that's changed now."

"Everything is delicious, Raygan. I have been distracted," he said as he looked at Lore. "Please accept my apology."

"How could he not be distracted? You look beautiful, your wonderful scent is so alluring, even above that of the exquisite food you have provided," Lore said suggestively causing Raygan to blush.

"Lore," Data said, in a warning tone. "I believe that is quite enough. You will stop-"

"Commander Data, report to the cybernetics lab immediately." The voice of Bruce Maddox interrupted Data through his communicator. Data grimaced, but tapped the device.

"I am on my way, Commander." He tapped the badge again to close the channel and gave Raygan an apologetic smile. "I regret I have been poor company this evening. There are two guards outside, call them if he gives you any trouble unless you would prefer he accompany me to the lab?" Data asked her.

"He can stay, Data. Come back as soon as you can." She smiled at him, but found her gaze was drawn back to Lore. With a disconcerted nod, Data left.

“Well, with a meal as fine as that one, I can’t wait to taste dessert,” Lore commented with a delicious smirk.

"Have you ever had Berami?" Raygan asked. She had specifically chosen this in the hope Data would remember something about it.

"No, I haven't," Lore said as he picked up a piece and took a bite. "It's delicious. Please tell me about it."

"It's a Rekellian dish," Raygan replied.

"Rekellian? And how do you know about Rekellian food, Raygan?" Lore asked, looking genuinely interested.

"I'm half Rekellian. My mother is Rekellian and my father is human," she responded.

Lore ‘accidentally’ dropped a napkin so Raygan would not see him accessing everything he could on Rekellian females.

"That must make this situation with Data all the more difficult for you, having better recall and memory than Data has at the moment, that is," Lore said sounding sympathetic.

"Yes it does. I remember everything so vividly..." her voice trailed off.

"And looking forward to spending the next 300 years together and now you can't even look forward to tomorrow," Lore added.

Raygan sighed deeply. Lore reached over and took her hand.

"Let me help you, Raygan," Lore whispered. He stood up and led Raygan to the couch. "Do you think Data is making as much of an effort to come back to you as he should be? He's left you alone here. Such a beautiful woman, I would never leave you alone, Raygan. I would want to be with you every moment of every day."

Tears began to roll down Raygan's cheeks as Lore continued. Lore reached over and gently wiped the tears away.

"I would never make you cry. I bet you have the most beautiful smile. When was the last time you really smiled? I can give that back to you. Let me help you, Raygan."

Raygan sat motionless on the couch. Lore gently ran his hand along Raygan's cheek before sweeping his fingertips slowly over her bare shoulder and down her arm.

"Your skin is so soft, Raygan. When was the last time Data touched you like this?" He continued running his fingers up and down Raygan's arm. "I would never want to stop touching you. I would want to be with you forever, Raygan. I would make love to you for hour after hour, wanting only to bring you pleasure." Lore kissed Raygan's shoulder. Suddenly, he slid over to the far end of the couch as the door to the quarters opened and Data stood there. Raygan stared blankly ahead with a pained look in her eyes.

"Raygan, are you okay?" Data asked. Raygan nodded her head while continuing to stare straight ahead. "Lore, I think you should leave now." Data instructed the security personnel to escort Lore to his quarters.

Lore took Raygan's hand and smiled. "Dinner was wonderful. I hope we will have an opportunity to do this again soon." He again kissed Raygan's hand. "Good night, Raygan." Lore moved towards the door. "Good night, brother," he smirked as he walked past with the security personnel.

Once Lore exited the room and the door had closed, Data went back to Raygan. "What happened? Did he hurt you?" Data asked, sitting next to her on the couch.

"No, he didn't hurt me." She turned to face Data for the first time since he had returned. "You hurt me!" she exclaimed, angrily. Data's eyes went wide with shock. He opened his mouth to ask how, but she beat him to it. "I understand you don't remember what we had, but how can you not even try? Can't you have a little faith in what everyone has told you? When you look at the holo-pictures and recordings of us, can’t you see how happy we were? You act as though you don't believe any of it.  You won’t even touch me anymore. You sent Lore away, now I'm sending you. Leave, you don't really want to be here anyway so just get out. Good night, Commander Data." She turned from him and ran to the bedroom with tears flowing down her face.

Data could not believe this was happening. He had gotten married two weeks ago, remembered none of it and now it was over. She wanted him gone, out of her life. Data walked over to the gift he had supposedly given her for their wedding. He picked it up and took it with him as he left the quarters of Data and Raygan Soong.

"Give her some time, Data. This has been tough on you both. I know you’re upset that you’ve lost all of this, but I think I may be able to restore small pieces of your memory. Don't give up hope." Geordi was trying desperately to cheer his friend up, but Data was not helping much since he would not tell him what had happened. He had found Data in his quarters waiting for him. Geordi had been able to see something was wrong, since all Data would do was stare at the moving holo-frame.