Chapter Three

The lounge was busy, but Geordi had indeed called ahead, reserving a table for two. They chatted briefly about some of the outlandish complaints the miners had made while on board the Enterprise and each shared stories of similar troubles with guests or even crewmen they had experienced in the past.

“I think the one that gave me the most trouble was a Zebyerin ensign who would complain every morning that the water in his quarters was the wrong color. He could not find anyone who would do anything about it.” Geordi laughed as he told Gemma about this. “I think Data finally told him some long-winded reason why nothing could be done, after a month of his mouthing off. He was quiet after that,” Geordi said shaking his head and grinning at the memory. “I think he decided the odd water color was better than another twenty minute lecture about the filtration process of the water aboard a starship.”

Gemma laughed too, but when she took a moment to have a sip of her tea, Geordi decided to change the subject. “Gemma,” he began, “Were you really serious about having a get-together in your quarters sometime soon? I’m interested in learning more about you...and your home world too, of course,” he added quickly.

“I was serious. Now I just hope I can make it work. I’m not adept at planning social gatherings. I stand in the glimmering of my mother in that area,” she said with a shrug.

“Stand in the glimmering? I don’t quite follow...” Geordi admitted.

“Oh...hmmm, I don’t...measure up. My mother is the cook in the family and she could also plan a large gathering between breaths.” Gemma smiled at the thought of her family and this appealed to Geordi.

“But you can cook?” he asked with a curious grin.

“Yes, if you come, I promise I won’t kill you through the stomach,” she promised with a grin.

It was late when Geordi finally escorted Gemma back to her quarters, but the time they shared was very enjoyable. He was delighted at how effortless it was to talk to Gemma, while most women just caused his tongue to wrap itself in a knot. 

When they arrived at her door, Geordi told Gemma that he hoped she had enjoyed the evening as much as he had. At her sheepish nod, he took a cleansing breath and leaned in to kiss her softly on the cheek.

Blushing slightly, Gemma moved quickly and kissed him on his cheek before saying goodnight and ducking into her quarters.

As Gemma got ready for bed, she replayed the events of the evening over in her mind. She had enjoyed her time with Geordi and it felt so good to actually go on a date again. She had put her personal life on hold in favor of her career but, then again, there hadn't really been too many offers either. She changed into her pajamas and crawled into bed. She was tired from the early morning and the late evening but it was a good tired. Sleep came quickly for her.

The next day, Data and Geordi were having breakfast together in Data's quarters. They didn't do this often but Data had left a message for Geordi the night before, asking him to come. He was curious about how Geordi's date went and didn't want to wait until later in the afternoon to find out.

"How was your dinner with Gemma last night, Geordi?" Data asked as he finished laying out the breakfast he had replicated.

"I knew that was why you asked me here this morning," Geordi laughed.

"If you do not wish to talk about it, I understand. I did not mean to pry. I only..."

"It's okay, Data," Geordi interrupted. "I don't mind. I had a really nice time. I felt comfortable with Gemma. She's very easy to talk to."

"Will you be seeing her again?" Data asked.

"I hope so, Data, I hope so."

As Data and Geordi talked, Gemma was finishing her own breakfast. She was in a good mood this morning, thanks in large part to Geordi. It was 0555 when she started to make her way to the bridge. She was looking forward to seeing what this day would bring.

Data had some things to think about as he took his shift on the bridge that morning. He had talked to Geordi regarding his promise to coach Gemma on her knowledge of human slang, proverbs and sayings, but her having gone on a date with Geordi caused the android to doubt if that was now appropriate.

“We just had a first date, Data. I don’t have a problem with you meeting with her and keeping your promise,” Geordi assured his friend when Data had broached the subject over breakfast.

“If you are sure...” Data began, skeptically.

“I’m sure. She’s a very nice woman...and I do want you to get along with her...no matter what.” Geordi had a meaningful expression on his face. “I know you two had a rocky start, so that should help mend the bridge.”

Data assured his friend that he and Gemma had overcome their difficult beginning, but he thanked him for his concern, nonetheless.

Deciding that it would be acceptable to ask, Data found a moment when Gemma was taking a routine scan at Science One and went to speak to her.

“I was curious to know if you would still be interested in my instructing you on-“

“Things like how it’s rain check and not snow check?” Gemma finished for him with a grin.

Data nodded. “If you feel it would not be appropriate-“ he began again.

“Did Geordi think it would be inappropriate?” Gemma asked, sensing the android would know the answer to this question.

“No. If you feel it would be, however-“

“Would tonight be good for you, Commander?” she asked, cutting him off a third time.

“Only if you promise to allow me to finish one of my sentences.” He raised an eyebrow at her, but when she turned red, he chuckled. “May I invite you to my quarters at 1800 hours?” he asked, still wondering if that was a good time and if he should have invited her for dinner as well, or avoided that out of respect for Geordi...This was very disconcerting.

Almost as though she sensed his confusion, Gemma smiled and told him that would give her just enough time to change and have something to eat.

Suppressing a sigh, Data nodded. “I look forward to it. I have an extensive file on this subject...it may take more than one meeting...” He was back to wondering if this was a good idea, again.

“Sounds good. It will give us the opportunity to get to know each other better. I think the relationship between the first and second officers is an important one and the benefits will extend beyond just you and I if we are comfortable with each other.”

Data was impressed by the logic of this statement. “I agree,” he said. With a smile and a final nod, he returned to his station.  

Captain Picard was in his ready room going over the details of the Enterprise's next mission. It was another shakedown mission that called for the reseeding of the ozone layer on Corius IV. The planet had developed a large hole in the ozone layer because of outdated weapons testing procedures causing radiation levels to rise to near dangerous levels.

Picard rose from his chair and tapped his communicator "Dr. Selar report to the briefing room." He then walked onto the bridge, giving orders as he moved. "Helm, set a course for Corius IV, warp 5. Number One, Commander Corazon, you're with me."

Data and Gemma followed the captain to the briefing room as Dr. Selar arrived and followed them inside.

"We are proceeding to Corius IV on a mission to reseed the planet's ozone layer. There is a massive hole over the central continent, which is causing an increase in radiation levels on the planet. Dr. Selar, we will need a large supply of hyronalin to treat the planet's affected populace. It has been estimated that four million people will be suffering from radiation poisoning by the time of our arrival. Commander Corazon, you are in charge of the reseeding efforts. I would like you both to coordinate your efforts with Commander Data. Dismissed."

Reseeding an ozone layer was a relatively simple procedure. It only took a few minutes for Gemma and Data to iron out the details while Dr. Selar returned to sickbay to have her medical personnel begin replicating the necessary hyronalin.

They arrived at Corius IV three hours later and the mission was completed before the end of the shift. The reseeding had gone flawlessly while the hyronalin had been transported to the surface. The Corians informed Picard the Enterprise's assistance in inoculating their people would not be necessary and thanked him for StarFleet's help in alleviating the situation.

Data and Gemma were riding the turbolift together after their shift. Both agreed they hoped this would be the last of the shakedown missions. When Gemma arrived at her quarters she waved to Data and smiled as she entered. After the doors had closed, Data continued to his quarters trying to decide where to start with his lesson. He was looking forward to this although he did still harbor some guilt that he would be seeing Gemma. He tried to push the guilt aside since both Geordi and Gemma had told him everything was fine. As he approached his quarters, he noticed a new crewmember walking down the corridor - a woman. He looked at her and, once again, thought of Q's words before entering.

Data fed Spot and sat at his computer console to record his First Officer’s Log. He was pleased with the working chemistry he and Commander Corazon were developing. He was surprised when the minor gripe she expressed today, regarding shakedown missions, was one he shared.

He also recalled Geordi making a similar comment about Gemma, which caused Data to again be plagued with guilt. He was tempted to turn his emotion chip off, but the words of Counselor Troi came back to him, reminding Data that he would never get used to his emotions if he kept turning them off.

Data finished his log entry and called to Spot with her favorite play toy. While playing with his beloved pet, he thought over which sayings he would discuss with Gemma tonight and how to make the lesson interesting.

His door chime rang at 1757 hours. Leaving the cat and cat toy on his couch, Data rose to greet Commander Corazon.

“Greetings,” Data said, once the door slid open to reveal his guest. He discovered that she had changed her attire. She wore a dark green sweater that almost appeared to be covered in a fur. It looked as soft as Spot’s. Gemma also wore a pair of gold, formfitting pants and little matching gold shoes. While she wore her auburn hair clipped back during her duty shift, she had taken it down now. Her hair curling in, just at the end, seemed to draw one’s eyes to the nape of her neck and the trail of pigmentation there. Data was disconcerted by this effect, so he turned away, to allow her room for entry.

“Nice quarters, Data. I’ve been a Lieutenant Commander for eighteen months now...how much longer before I can hope for a promotion?” Gemma chuckled as she followed him into the room.

Data turn to her and said, “Ask me no questions and I will tell you no lies.”

“What?” Gemma asked, confused. Data led her to a furniture grouping and invited her to sit. They both did before he answered.

“It is one of the phrases from Earth’s history. I hope I can help you recognize one when you hear it. The list of examples is extensive, so I hope I have not bitten off more than I can chew.” He gave her what he hoped she would see as a “meaningful smile”.

“Bitten?” she gave him a confused look for a moment, before her eyes went wide. “Oh! That was another one? Say it again?” she requested.

“Have I bitten off more than I can chew. One of the difficulties is also deciphering the phrase’s meaning. In this case, I would be wondering if the task in question was too complex to achieve success,” Data explained.

“I see...hmmm. Give me anther one!” she urged him, enthusiastically.

Seeing Spot walk by and eye Gemma suspiciously, Data was reminded of one from his past. “The cat is out of the bag.”

“I was going to try to guess what some of these mean, but I’m beaten with the first one. Why would you put your cat in a bag? That was a cat that just ran under that chair, wasn’t it?” Gemma asked, leaning over, trying to see where Spot had gone.

“Yes, that was my cat, Spot. I would not put her in a bag, though I have been forced to place her in a  case that was designed for the transport of live animals. The saying refers to a secret being divulged.”

Gemma laughed and shook her head. “What a strange way to say that.”

Data smiled. “Agreed. I have heard of numerous colorful sayings from many cultures, but it has been my experience that humans have the most unusual selection. For instance, I was once told to mind my P’s and Q’s three years ago. Being that the captain’s name is Picard and his nemesis at that time was Q, I believed it was a reference to them. I discovered it was actually a reference to pints and quarts, a measurement of alcoholic beverages. The saying has many meanings, but one is from old Earth. One would go to a place called at bar, tavern or pub and drink pints or quarts...P’s or Q’s...payment was due at the end of the evening for what was consumed and the barkeeper would keep a tally of how much one drank. If one became too intoxicated, the barkeeper may add to one’s tally, thus cheating the patrons.”

“Wow, and this saying comes from how long ago?” Gemma asked.

“It is not known, but it may be over 600 years old.”

"This is fascinating. Tell me more please," Gemma asked excitedly.

"There are a number of old sayings that originate from the game of poker," Data informed her. "An example is when someone states an opinion they may say they are putting their two cents in.“

“I’m curious. What other ones did you have trouble with, Data?”

“Be careful. Curiosity killed the cat,” Data smiled.

“Data, I would never hurt Spot!” Gemma sounded horrified. “Or is that another saying?”

“Yes, it means you should be cautious when investigating situations.” Data continued. “Shortly after I arrived on the Enterprise-D, I was assisting Commander Riker with some research. He made a comment that we were looking for a needle in a haystack, which to me seemed very unproductive. The saying refers to searching for something almost impossible to find.”

“There are so many. I’m sure what you’ve told me is only the... peak of the glacier, isn’t it?”

“Tip of the iceberg,” Data corrected.

“I’m hopeless!” Gemma groaned.

“I have made similar mistakes as well, so do not give up. I once told Dr. Crusher that I was in pursuit of an untamed ornithoid rather than on a wild goose chase,” Data laughed.

Data and Gemma spent another hour going over various proverbs and axioms before Gemma’s attention was drawn to an object on Data’s desk.

“Is that a violin?” she asked.

“Yes. While I have been programmed to play many instruments I gain my greatest pleasure from playing the violin.

“I would love to hear you play sometime.”

“I will be participating in a recital in two days time. You are more than welcome to attend.”

“I’m looking forward to it...with bated breath,” Gemma grinned. “I got one right, didn’t I?”

“Yes you did,” Data laughed.

“I’m afraid I’m going to have to go now. It’s getting rather late. Thank you for your help Data. I hope we can continue this another evening.” Gemma said, her eyes glowing with the same enthusiasm Data had seen there almost all evening. 

“I would be happy to further assist you. Good night.”

Gemma stood and made her way to the door. She looked back and smiled at Data before leaving. Data sat back down on the couch. He couldn’t remember the last time he had laughed so much. His guilt returned as he realized just how much fun this evening was.

Data met Geordi for lunch the next day and was hesitant about dealing with the moment when Geordi asked him about his meeting with Gemma last night. Data knew there was no avoiding it, so he just waited for it to happen, feeling the anxiety grow with each passing moment. Finally the words were said...

“So, did you and Gemma get along last night?” Geordi asked, between bites of a huge sandwich.

Data sighed. “Yes, it was a pleasant evening.” When this was all that Data said, Geordi gave him a look of disbelief.

“It was that bad? I thought you two had buried the hatchet, Data?” Geordi had obviously taken his brevity for a bending of the truth.

Silently groaning and wishing he could turn the chip off for the 47^th time in the last thirty minutes, Data corrected his friend. “You misunderstand. I did not equivocate in my statement. We did indeed have a pleasant evening. Gemma expressed an interest in attending the recital tomorrow. Perhaps you should offer to escort her.” Data suggested.

Geordi narrowed his eyes at Data. “You’re sure everything’s okay between you two? I don’t want something to happen between Gemma and I, if you two can’t get along. You’re my best friend, Data and I’m not letting anything or anyone get in the way of that.”

Geordi’s words had a calming affect on Data. He was correct, their friendship had seen them through...hell and back more than once. If Data was also comfortable with Gemma, that was a good thing. It would mean that Geordi would not have to choose between them, they could all spend time together or just two of them at a time...they could all be friends and then no one lost and no one got hurt.

Data pushed the guilt he had been feeling away. It was a useless emotion at this time. His new confidence gave him an idea. “Perhaps you and Gemma could enjoy dinner before the recital and after its conclusion, the three of us could enjoy each other’s company...if you would not mind?” Data ended, with a returning hesitance in his voice.

Geordi patted Data on the arm with enthusiasm. “That’s a great idea, Data! I’ll ask Gemma as soon as possible. This is gonna be great! Damn, now I wish tomorrow would hurry up and come!”

Data smiled at Geordi’s excitement and was pleased that he had had a hand in it. Seeing his friend this lit up meant the world to Data...

~ Now if I can find my treasure...we could double date! ~ he thought, absently scanning the room and taking note of all the unattached females present.

Gemma was enjoying her first day off since coming aboard the Enterprise. She spent part of the morning reading a research paper that had been prepared by a Commander Bruce Maddox. She had only gotten half way through it before she had to put it down. It didn't seem to matter how good his research was, his writing style always made her feel as if he felt he had to talk down to people so she could only take his papers in small doses.

~ I need to relax, ~ she thought. She looked around her quarters until she spied something out of the corner of her eye that made her smile. It was her sketch board. She had almost forgotten she had brought her art supplies, she’d been so busy. She collected everything she needed, her sketch board, her pastel and charcoal sets, her blending brush and paper, before heading for the arboretum.

The arboretum was where Geordi found her later in the day. She was so caught up in her art that it took her a few minutes before she realized Geordi was watching her.

"Hi!" she smiled as she placed the pastel stick she was holding into its case.

"Hi Gemma. I hope I'm not disturbing you."

"Of course not. Please sit." She patted the space beside her and smiled up at him warmly.

Geordi sat down next to Gemma, peeking at the drawing she was working on.

"You’re really good. That's amazing." Geordi’s voice had a hint of awe to it.

"Thank you. Would you like to pose for me one day?" she asked.

"I'd be honored!" he smiled, taken aback. "Gemma, would you have dinner with me tomorrow evening. I was hoping that we could go to the recital afterwards."

"I'd like that, Geordi."

"I was talking to Data earlier. He was hoping the three of us could get together after the recital, if that's okay with you."

"Sure, sounds like fun."

"Great. I'll see you tomorrow then. Pick you up at 1730 for dinner. That will give us plenty of time before the recital starts."

"Sounds like a plan," Gemma smiled.

"What?" Geordi asked surprised.

"Did I say that wrong?" Gemma groaned.

"No, you got it right. Is that one Data taught you last night?" Geordi asked.

"Yes, it was. I can't believe how complex your sayings are," Gemma laughed.

"Looks like you got off to a good start last night. I'll see you later. I've got to get back to Engineering."

After Geordi had left, Gemma returned to her drawing. She spent the rest of the afternoon drawing the various plants and flowers although her thoughts did wander quite often to her date the next night.

The Enterprise had been assigned an area to patrol due to recent reports of abductions from planets that were members of the Federation. The abductions were disturbing in and of themselves, but the fact that those taken were all young females made the rumors of sex slave raiders more believable. 

The bridge of the Enterprise was a solemn place that day, but Gemma still looked forward to the evening. When she and Data headed for the lift at the end of their shift, Gemma touched his arm.

“I’m really looking forward to this evening’s recital and getting together with you and Geordi afterwards. That is still the plan, right?’” she asked, making sure.

Data grinned. “Yes, I was pleased to find out through Geordi that you had agreed to the idea. I too look forward to getting to know you better.”

She grinned and gave his arm a squeeze, showing greater excitement. “I looked up something...it’s supposed to be a phrase of good luck before a performance, but it doesn’t sound like one...break a leg, Data.”

She looked so proud of herself, that Data hated to tell her, but he had to. “That is typically used for performers in a play, not a musical recital,” he explained, his expression pained for having to burst her bubble.

She looked downcast for a moment before she brightened. “Well then...break a string!” she said hopefully.

Data had to laugh, but he decided to take that one in the manner in which it was intended and...to hell with the correctness of it. “Thank you, Gemma. I will do my best with the luck your wish will surely grant me.” He patted her hand that still rested on his arm and grinned at her.

She tilted her head to the side, knowing he was placating her. “It’s still wrong, huh?” she asked, knowing it was.

“A saying does not have to be old. Perhaps you have just coined a new one.”

This seemed to please her, or at least pacify her. Data was not trying to patronize Gemma, since he was truly flattered she had tried to find a phrase that could be used to wish him well tonight. She waved at him as she made her way to her quarters to prepare for her date and Data went to...feed Spot.

In his quarters, Data tried to busy himself with five or six different tasks that he wanted to research, but found his attention was drawn away as he replayed his encounter with Gemma in the lift.

After this occurred the thirty-sixth time, Data felt a wave of cold fear crash over him. Why was he thinking about her? And why could he not seem to stop thinking about her???

The more Data tried to push these thoughts from his mind the more frequent they became. He admonished himself a number of times, repeating 'Geordi is my best friend’ until the thoughts finally left him.

Gemma changed into a royal blue dress with a high scoop neck front and an open back that featured crisscross straps and a velvet tie. She had just finished getting ready when Geordi arrived.

“Wow! You look fantastic!” Geordi exclaimed.

“Thank you Geordi,” Gemma said blushing slightly.

Dinner in the lounge was quite enjoyable.  The pair spoke about their respective families. It saddened Gemma to hear how Geordi had lost his mother some years before. He remained close to his father and sister, seeing them whenever he could. Gemma spoke of her parents in glowing terms but her expression changed when Geordi asked about siblings.

“I have an older brother, Thierry,” she began. “We don’t get along though. He and I are so completely opposite it’s hard to believe we have the same parents and had the same upbringing. He only cares about himself and how things affect him.” Gemma sighed before continuing. “He has a position with the Ministry of Interplanetary Affairs. He’ll do anything to advance his career and he doesn’t care who he hurts in the process.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Geordi decided a change in topic away from her brother would be advantageous. “Are you the only artist/musician in your family?”

“My mother, besides being the master planner, is also a master entertainer. She passed along to me her love of the arts and thankfully I inherited some of her talent as well,” Gemma grinned.

When they finished their dinner, they made their way to the recital room. The room was filling up quickly as this was the first social gathering since leaving dry dock. Captain Picard was sitting in the front row when he saw his second officer and chief engineer enter. He called to them and invited them to sit with him for the performance. The captain asked Gemma how she was enjoying her new assignment and the three enjoyed some general chitchat until the trio of musicians entered to the applause of the audience. They took their places and began the concert, which featured selections from the works of the Vulcan composer Delvok, and the ancient Earth composers, Bach and Vivaldi. Data had many solos throughout the recital, which he not only played flawlessly but with great emotion. When the recital concluded, the musicians were met with a standing ovation. Data smiled when he noticed Gemma wiping tears from her eyes. Once the audience started to clear out, Data made his way to Geordi and Gemma.

“I need to return my violin to my quarters before we begin our time together. Are there any suggestions as to what activity we should undertake?” Data asked.

“I have an idea. Let’s go to the holodeck but I’m not going to tell you what I have in mind. I want it to be a surprise” Gemma said coyly.

It wasn’t until they began to leave the recital room that Data got his first glance at the back of Gemma’s dress. He desperately tried to suppress a gasp at the sight as he found it so appealing. The way the dark pigments made their way down the center of her back almost seeming to end where the straps crisscrossed was very alluring.

When they arrived at the holodeck, Gemma punched in a set of commands before turning to her companions.

“Gentlemen,” she started as she moved to the holodeck entrance, “You are about to get your first look at one of my favorite places back home. I hope you like it.”

The doors opened and the trio entered. Geordi and Data looked around in awe at the surroundings. There was a small outdoor café that featured a breathtaking view of a spectacular waterfall. You could feel a light mist coming from the basin of the falls at your table and it felt marvelous. A holodeck waiter appeared and Gemma ordered them each a morsalov, the traditional ale enjoyed by Kriosians at special gatherings. Geordi and Data were still taking in the view as the drinks were brought out.

“This is incredible, Gemma!” Geordi said as he continued to take in the beauty.

“I concur with that assessment. I also find this beverage to be quite delicious.” Data added.

Geordi chuckled at his friend, but went ahead and tried the drink, trying not to visibly grimace at the abhorrent flavor. Gemma looked at him directly, looking disappointed.

“You don’t like it?” she asked, knowing he didn’t.

“It’s...” he coughed. The grimace he had been trying to hide could not be now. “I think it went down the wrong way.”

Gemma gave him a gentle smile. “It’s okay to say you don’t like it, Geordi. Your feelings on the matter are coming through loud and clear. It’s hard for me to block out...revulsion.” She gave him an understanding smile.

Geordi smiled back, apologetically. “I like the food,” he offered. Gemma grinned.

Data smiled. “Perhaps this is one of the benefits to being an artificial life-form,” he said as he took another drink of ale.

Gemma looked at him with confusion. “What do you mean by that, Data?”

“As an android...a machine, my thoughts cannot be detected by telepathic races.” Data stated, lifting the glass and enjoying the color as the reddish sun shone through.

“Well, I can’t speak for telepaths, but I can sense emotions from you. I am just an empath.”

Now it was Data’s turn to sputter on his ale. With feelings of dread ripping through his mind along with guilt, terror and embarrassment, Data turned very worried eyes of amber in her direction.

“May I ask what you have sensed from me?” As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Data wondered if that had been a bad thing to ask here and now.

Gemma looked contemplative. “Well, I’ve only tried a time or two. When I was trying to figure out if I had done something to offend you...but I do get a jumble of emotions. It takes me a few minutes to sort them all out, but I can definitely sense you, Data.”

At that moment the expression about getting a sinking feeling in one’s stomach became understandable to Data. He was relieved to hear that she had not attempted to discern his emotional state in recent days. But that may not remain a constant. Data looked down at the bluish liquid in his glass and wished it would effect him like humanoids at this moment.

“It doesn’t take an empath to see you’re disturbed by this, Data.” Gemma said, touching his hand as it rested on the table. “I don’t make a habit of reading people, but if their feelings are particularly strong, I have trouble blocking them out. Like when Geordi took a drink of the ale, my stomach hurt for him.” she grinned and shrugged helplessly.

“I see. I will keep that in mind. I did not mean to offend you, it is just that while Counselor Troi could sense Lore, my brother, she could never sense me. I had assumed the difference in our brains...it is an intriguing revelation.” Data closed his mouth to stop the flow of words before something came out that would further embarrass him. 

The waiter came out to check on the three diners so Gemma ordered two more morsalov ales and a Kalamar Sunrise. The waiter left but returned quickly with the drink order.

“I think you’ll like this drink, Geordi. It tastes very different from the ale” Gemma said hopefully.

Geordi took a cautious sip before making his pronouncement. “This is much better” he grinned. “Are you going to be serving both the ale and the Kalamar Sunrises at your Kriosian night?”

“I will now,” she laughed. “I think I have all the details worked out, thanks to a few communications back and forth with my mother. My next day off is in six days so that will give me lots of time to prepare everything. Would you both be available to come that evening?”

Gemma was happy when both Geordi and Data said they would be able to attend.

“However, I do wish we could hear you play the ooblet prior to that evening” Data said hopefully.

“Are you really sure you want to put yourselves through that torture?” she asked half seriously. When both men nodded, Gemma sighed. “Okay, but don’t forget, I will know if you don’t like it.” Gemma ordered the computer to create an ooblet. She ran the bow across the strings, making sure it was properly tuned. It was. She moved her chair away from the table and took the proper position with the ooblet between her legs. “This is a piece composed by Raisat Kriam. She is one of our most celebrated composers.” Gemma took a deep breath and began to play. The beautiful sounds of the ooblet soon filled the holodeck as Geordi and Data sat entranced. Data wondered whether the expression on Gemma’s face was similar to his own when he played a particularly moving piece on his violin. She seemed to have merged herself completely with her instrument and the music. When she finished playing she looked over at her audience.

~ Well I don’t feel revulsion from them anyway, ~ she thought.

“You play beautifully, Gemma!” Data beamed. “I hope we can play together some time. Do you have any sheet music for this and other pieces composed by Ms. Kriam that I could borrow?”

“Sure Data,” she smiled. “Geordi, what did you think?”

“That was breathtaking!” Geordi answered sincerely.

They stayed in the holodeck for another hour before calling it an evening. They made their way back to deck two, with Data being the first to reach his quarters. Geordi escorted Gemma to her quarters, stopping outside her door.

“I had a great time this evening.” Geordi smiled softly.

“So did I, Geordi” Gemma concurred.

Geordi reached over with his hand, stroking Gemma’s check gently. He then leaned over to give her a tender kiss on her soft lips.

“Good night, Gemma.”

“Good night, Geordi.” Gemma walked into her quarters, turning her head to smile at Geordi as the door closed. She sighed as she thought about the fun she had had at dinner with Geordi. The recital had been wonderful and the time spent in the holodeck had been especially incredible. She had kept her empathic shield up when Geordi kissed her but wondered if she should lower it the next time. ~ The next time ~ she thought. ~ At least I hope there is a next time. ~

The following duty shift was rather disturbing for Gemma. There had been twenty-eight young girls abducted from their homes during the night. The slave ship had apparently gotten wind of the Enterprise’s presence and stepped up their operation. It was believed they would now move on to another area.

The abductions had taken place on Treiet III, so an away team was dispatched to gather any information they could to assist in tracking the slave traders down. While Data was in command of the mission, Gemma led the team that was questioning anyone who would be able to give helpful information. Lieutenant Commander Worf was a part of Gemma’s team and he and Gemma questioned the families of fifteen of the missing young ladies.

With each statement they took, Worf became more and more angry. “These slavers have no honor. I cannot even begin to count the ways in which they defile their names.”

“I agree with you. It frightens me to think of what is being done to those girls as we stand here.” Gemma looked horrified as she said this.

Worf turned to face her. His scowl covered his face and now he even growled with fury, but Gemma didn't flinch. She discovered it was best to keep herself open to him, so she knew exactly what it was she had done or said to upset him. Being that she was tuned into him, she knew Worf was angry with the slavers and not her. The image she had just given him caused his fury to rise, but with it, his determination also rose.

The pace he set was exhausting, but considering what was at stake, Gemma just ran along beside him and did her best to keep control of her own emotions. It was a relief to return to the ship and her station at Science One, where she worked with Worf, Data and Lieutenant Ryan correlating data. 

Gemma was still at her post well after her shift ended, working with Data. When he finally ordered her to allow her relief to take over, a sort of depression settled over Gemma. When she stepped into the turbolift with Data, she was still lost in thought regarding the missing girls.

“Are you all right, Gemma?” Data asked. He looked worried, she noted.

“No, not really. I can’t stop thinking about those girls and what could and likely is happening to them.” She sighed. “It scares me, Data. I’ve encountered cruelty before, but not this kind. I can’t get it out of my mind.” The lift door opened on deck two. Gemma walked slowly out with Data following the disconcerted second officer.

When they reached one of the places set aside for people to stop, sit and talk, Data asked her to join him there. “Perhaps it will help to talk about this. It is late and you will need to sleep soon. If your mind is troubled now, you will have difficulty relaxing in preparation for sleep.”

Gemma looked at Data, sadly. “I’m not sure I will even be able to perform the eeltot tonight,” she admitted.

Data accessed the reference, his eyes moving quickly. “The meditation and prayer before sleep in your culture?” 

Gemma nodded. “I don’t know how you can do it, Data...not just you...all of us. It’s so-“

“Gemma,” Data interrupted with just a word and a touch to her arm. “You must put it out of your mind. Tomorrow, dedicate yourself to stopping this travesty, but tonight, you must relax and try to ready yourself for sleep.” 

“I can’t,” she insisted.

Data moved his head in that particular way that told those who knew him that he had an idea. “Come to your quarters, Gemma. I will help you relax.” In his thinking mode, Data simply rose from the chairs and headed towards her quarters. Gemma had to almost run to keep up with him.

They entered and Data took a moment to familiarize himself with her quarters. He saw her ooblet in the corner, the sketching supplies that Geordi had told him about and many plants.

Data told Gemma to sit at her table, but she just looked at him.

“What are we going to do?”

“First, distraction,” Data admitted.

Gemma smiled. “Well then let me get out of my uniform...if you don’t mind?” she was turning towards her bedroom when she stopped, uncertain if this would be inappropriate.

“You find your uniform uncomfortable?” Data asked.

Gemma laughed. “You don’t?” as she did now head for her bedroom. Data ran his hand over the material of his uniform, considering the texture as he waited for her to return.

She came out in lounging wear of a shimmering royal blue color. The pants and top were both loose fitting and the pants flared at the bottom, flowing about her ankles as she walked back to him in bare feet. Data noticed her feet also had the alluring spots, but pulled his eyes away.

He asked her to sit and then replicated her a chocolate sundae, chocolate mousse and a slice of double chocolate cake with chocolate icing.

“Our former counselor always indulged in chocolate if her mind was burdened with unwanted troubles,” Data explained and encouraged Gemma to try them.

 “Ah, chocolate...I have tried it...but never this much of it.” She grinned at him from across the three bowls. She did try some of each and while she did, Data told her some more sayings, old wives’ tales and proverbs. Gemma grinned between bites.

Finally, when she was full of all the chocolate she could stand, Data could see Gemma was still not fully relaxed. “Perhaps you should try a bubble bath,” he suggested.

“I’ve heard of that too, but never tried one. I never quite saw the point,” she admitted.

Data smiled. “It is not an efficient way to clean one’s exterior, however, I have tried it and it is...pleasant. I will show you.” Data cleared the dishes and then replicated a bubble bath scented with tiltash oil, a flower native to Gemma’s home world, and one she had suggested. He asked her to show him to her bathtub and followed her there.

Ordering the computer to set the water at the exact temperature he wanted, Data poured a generous amount of the liquid into the water flow and both of them watched the mound of bubbles as it grew and spread across the surface of the water. The fragrance also filled the air inducing Gemma and Data to inhale deeply.

“I love that scent.” She sighed. Kneeling down to touch the bubbles she smiled. “I like this idea, Data. They’re...soft.” she ran her hand over the top and then plunged her hand in, bringing a handful out again, with it.

“The idea is to bathe in them, Gemma.” Data said, smiling at her childlike enthusiasm. “The combination of the fragrance, the warmth of the water and the soothing effect of the bubbles should help you to fully relax.” He touched his finger to the pile of bubble in her hand and drew away a few. He touched them to her nose, grinning.

Gemma laughed for the first time since reporting for duty that morning. She grinned at him and lifting her hand, blew some of the bubbles off towards him. Laughing, Data caught most of them, but some got in his hair and Gemma laughed again while brushing it away.

“The thickness of that mass of bubbles makes them opaque, Data. If I were in there, you couldn’t see a thing,” she noted. Looking from the bath and back to Data, she blushed slightly. “Turn around, Data. And close your eyes.”

“Gemma, I-“

She didn’t let him finish. “You want to know if this works, don’t you?” she motioned for Data to turn around and this time he did. He heard a small splash a moment later. “Okay,” she laughed again. “By the light of Ordarin, you were right, Data. This is wonderful.”

Data turned around to see her head and shoulders out of the water, but that was all...however that was enough. The little trail of spots went down each of her shoulders and then down her back and her front, it seemed. Data found himself breathing harder and he knew he must leave immediately.

“Then I will leave you to your bath. Pleasant dreams, Gemma.” Data nodded at her and turned to go, but before he could, she lifted a leg out of the water and he saw the trail went all the way down to her toes.

“Goodnight, Data. Thank you for all your help. I’m sure my dreams will be good,” Her voice sounded very relaxed...and alluring...

The more relaxed Gemma became the more her empathic shield lowered. She suddenly felt a jumble of emotions coming from Data as he was leaving, causing her to sit up in the bathtub. As she lay back down she tried to make sense of what she had felt coming from her friend. It was an odd mixture of emotions but the emotion that seemed to be the strongest was guilt.

~ I think Data needs to take his own advice ~ she thought, assuming the guilt he was feeling had to do with not being able to find the missing girls. She stayed in the bathtub until most of the bubbles had disappeared at which time she released the water, got out and quickly dried herself off with a towel. She made her way to her bedroom, slipping on her pajamas before moving to a small area where she performed the eeltot each evening. When she was finished she slipped into bed feeling much more relaxed than she thought possible. She ordered the computer to turn off the lights and was soon sound asleep.