Chapter Six

Things continued to grow stronger between Gemma and Data. The next few missions the crew was assigned were rather routine, but still interesting. The calm allowed the couple to spend time together. There was poker night, dinner and breakfast dates, long walks anywhere and everywhere. Gemma still insisted that they spend time with other friends, and Data reluctantly agreed, but still pouted a bit.

They had been dating for almost three months and the holodeck program of the shooting stars had become their favorite. They would sit as they had that first night, with Gemma between Data’s legs, keeping her warm, as they talked. This night, Gemma was telling Data about how traditionally a birth was handled on her world.

Data just held her, enjoying the story, the feel of her and the sound of her voice. Her empathic abilities created a connection of sorts between them and now Data could better tell if she was happy or sad even if she wasn’t in the room with him. While Data knew she could also sense him, what Gemma neglected to inform him was that she could also feel his emotions as he dreamed.

She knew Data wanted to be intimate with her, but she had held back...now it was time to tell him why and see where that led. Caressing the arms that encircled her, Gemma leaned back to kiss Data’s cheek. “There is something I need to tell you,” she whispered.

Data pulled back so he could look her in the eyes. “Your tone indicates distress and I can also feel it from you. What is wrong?’

“Nothing’s wrong...exactly. But I have two things I have been needing to tell you and I don’t think I can wait any longer.” Gemma shifted so she could look directly at him. She took a deep breath and plunged in. “I have never had sex before with anyone. I’ve had the opportunity, but I never wanted to before...before you. For my people it’s an act with meaning...so it would be with you.”

Data looked thunderstruck. He was nervous, but he could feel that some of her reactions to him now made more sense. He waited for her to finish, but impatiently.

“That was the first thing...the other one is...bigger.” She took his face in her hands and looked deeply into his eyes. “I am in love with you, Data and I want to bond with you.”

Data’s eyes grew wider still. He had read of and she had also spoken to him about this bonding, so Data knew it was a very serious step forward in their relationship that she was offering him. Her offer was pleasing...but the words that had preceded it, made him near speechless.

“You love me?” It was only half a question.

She moved to sit on her feet and grinned at him. “You know I love you, Data. And I know you return the feelings. We already have half of a bond now, I want to complete it...and be with you.”

Data’s nervousness increased. “If you are not ready, I can-“

“Shhh, I am.” She touched his lips with a finger and them kissed him there instead. Getting to her feet, she held out her hands to him. Data stood, taking her hands in his. “I am nervous, though,” she admitted, shrugging.

“So am I,” he told her. “But you are correct, I love you, Gemma.” Data leaned in to kiss her and was stunned to feel the connection between them....open. Gemma took his hands and brought them to her temples and then she began to caress his face as she had in the past. Mimicking her movements, Data could feel...more. She moved to kiss him and though he was worried, he let her feel the desire he tried to keep in control for so long.

 When Gemma deepened their kiss, Data was overcome by the entwining of their emotions. There was no way he could doubt her love for him, he could feel it, it pulled at him, enveloped him and invited him to drown in it.

Gemma too was caught up in delving deeper in to Data’s feelings, not just regarding her, but how he felt about everything. There was so much to him she was sure she could lose herself in his emotional waves, but Data had moved one hand from her temple to her back, causing Gemma to be pulled back into the here and now.

She could feel a hardness pressing into her, where none had been a moment before. She knew what it was, and it was exciting to think she had caused this reaction in the man she loved, but Gemma was still very uncertain about actually doing this. She decided another taste of home would help. 

Breaking their kiss, she smiled gently at Data. “Computer, save this program and close. Run program Gemma/Data one.” The scenery changed. It was no longer night, but there was still water. A small, sparkling waterfall with a gentle drop was just ahead of them. Gemma pulled Data to the water and facing him, took his hands.

“This is where bondings take place in my family. I don’t think I can...begin it, Data. Help me.” She sounded almost pleading and this worried Data, until she moved to kiss him. He worried their clothing would get wet, but realized it was too late for that. The water level only reached their ankles, and they were both barefoot, but worrying about their clothes was foolish now.

Slowly, Data encouraged her to help him remove his shirt. She moved her hands to his waist and gently pulled his shirt out from the waistband of his pants. She lifted his shirt up to his chest before Data pulled it over his head, dropping it in the water. She slowly caressed his chest with her hands, marveling at the sensations that this created. Data lifted her chin with his fingers, smiled and then kissed her tenderly.

Data slowly caressed Gemma’s bare arms with his fingers, causing her to gasp. When his touch reached the straps of Gemma’s dress, he slowly nudged them off her shoulders. He leaned down to kiss her again before whispering in her ear.

“Are you certain you are ready?” he asked.

“Yes, Data, I am” she smiled.

He lowered the straps down her arms until her dress dropped in the water.

“You are so beautiful” Data ran his fingers along the trail of Gemma’s Tears of Howniya as he spoke. He was completely enthralled by the woman he loved. The softness of her skin, the allure of the tears, the look in her eyes as he touched her had a wonderful effect on the emotions that coursed through his system. He took her in his arms, kissing her slowly and tenderly at first. Soon the passion of their love took over as their kisses grew deeper and their tongues danced together.

When their kiss broke, Gemma reached for Data’s waist. Her hands were shaking slightly from nerves as she undid Data’s pants. She pushed them down until they dropped in the water. Data stepped out of them as he reclaimed her mouth. He now pushed the straps of Gemma’s bra off her shoulder before undoing the clasp at the front. After her breasts were freed, Data swept his fingers along the top of her cleavage. Gemma’s breathing was becoming heavier as his hand lowered to her right breast. His fingertips traced the outline of the areola before gliding to her other breast to trace a similar route there. Gemma reached for Data’s face, pulling him closer to once again lay claim to his lips.

Data’s hands slowly moved down Gemma’s sides until they reached the top of her panties. He pushed them down over her hips until they too dropped in the water below. He then lowered his boxers until they joined the rest of the clothing floating on the water. Gemma now took Data’s hand and led him to the bottom of the waterfall.

The waterfall itself was very unusual as it was very narrow at the top before gentle curves in the rock caused it to expand more and more as it dropped. There were small plateaus that seemed to form steps. From a distance the resemblance to a Tear of Howniya was unmistakable.

As they stood on the bottom plateau, Gemma once again brought her hands to Data’s temples and caressed his face. Data, following her lead, raised his hands to her temples and began the gentle touches. Gemma guided Data to the next step where they repeated the soft stroking of each other’s faces. As they moved up each plateau, the depth of emotion each could feel from the other became more intense with each touch.

When they reached the top of the waterfall, Data wrapped his arms around Gemma’s waist, pulling her closer as he brought his lips to hers. Gemma’s arms slid up Data’s chest before moving around his neck as their kiss continued. They slowly lowered themselves to their knees when they broke the kiss. Gemma now laid back in the water as Data moved beside her. He moved to kiss her again as his hand glided down her body, cupping her breast. Data guided his kisses down Gemma’s neck before continuing lower. He ran his tongue along the edge of her nipple as Gemma moaned in pleasure. He brought his mouth to her breast, licking, sucking, and teasing her nipple until it was hard. Gemma’s fingers stroked his hair as he then moved to her other breast to continue his feasting. When he reclaimed Gemma’s lips, he started to slide his hand lower down her body.

Gemma spread her legs as Data’s gentle touch swept between them. He slid one finger, then two in and out of her vagina, starting to prepare her for the final act of the bonding. He then began to massage her clit with his thumb as he now thrust three fingers into Gemma. When he was certain she was ready for him, he removed his fingers and positioned himself between her legs.

“I love you Gemma,” he whispered before slowly penetrating her with his erection.

“I love you, too Data,” Gemma sighed as she wrapped her arms around Data’s back.

Data’s rhythm was slow and gentle as he thrust in and out of Gemma. The motion caused waves to form in the warm water, which acted like a second set of hands caressing their bodies. Gemma's hands were roaming over Data’s back as they shared a deep kiss until Gemma pulled her mouth away to let out a breathy moan. Data quickened his pace slightly as he brought Gemma closer and closer to the precipice. Calling out Data’s name as her back arched, Gemma was completely overcome as her first orgasm rushed through her. As the emotions and sensations that he was feeling became combined with Gemma's, Data experienced a climax stronger than he thought possible.

Data gently kissed Gemma as he moved next to her. When he had withdrawn from her, a mixture of their sexual secretions came together with the water creating a wondrous effect.

“Gemma, what has happened?” Data asked incredulously as the water below took on a luminescent glow.

“Our bonding has been blessed by Howniya, Data,” Gemma smiled. “Or at least the holographic version of her... I hope one day you will come with me to Krios and...” She didn’t seem to be able to complete her sentence.

“I would happily join you to repeat this...anywhere and anytime you wish to,” Data assured her. They both laughed, knowing just what he meant.

“That was nice...very nice...wonderful. But now we need to have the computer create a drying unit, or we are never getting out of here.” Gemma reached up to push some of Data’s hair back into place, looking a little nervous again.

Data kissed her and then moved to get to his feet, helping her to a stand as well. They ordered the program ended in order to find their clothing, and then went about getting them dry. It did take some time, and Data found himself wishing for more intimate time with Gemma. He came to her, taking her back into his arms. She looked up at him, knowing very well what he had on his mind.

“We just did that,” she reminded him, giving him a look of disbelief.

“Yes, I remember...I liked it and I want to do it again.” Data’s expression was near pleading.

Gemma could feel his desire returning quickly. “Data, please! I can’t just yet. I...I want to get out of here and...I hadn’t thought about the fact that it wouldn’t make you tired...I’m tired, Data.” She looked apologetic, but Data could also feel fear from her.

“What do you fear?” he asked her, taking hold of her shoulders.

“I’m just realizing what...as your bond mate, I have the responsibility to keep you emotionally happy and...physically satisfied. Is that possible, Data? Since you don’t tire...” Gemma was very worried that she had just gotten in over her head.

Data took her face in his hands and smiled reassuringly at her. “As your bond mate, it is also my duty to keep you emotionally and physically content. If you wish to wait, then I can wait. You will inform me when you wish to make love again?” he asked, gently.

She smiled, sighed and threw her arms around his waist. “Yes! I love you!” she squeezed him tightly, but Data pulled her away, with a sheepish grimace on his face.

“We are still naked and your skin touching mine is very arousing, Perhaps we should try to...avoid physical contact for the moment.” Data looked very embarrassed and Gemma could feel this, mixed with the desire that he was trying desperately to combat.

Chastising herself for her foolishness, she moved away. The computer informed them the drying process was complete only a moment later. They retrieved their clothing and dressed quickly.

Data took her hand as they made their way to deck two and their respective quarters. Data had hoped she would join him in his, but she blushed and ducked into hers. Once he reached his own quarters, Data passed his mirror on the way to his shower and saw his reflection. His hair was a mess. Gemma had pushed his hair back earlier, but she had not done the best job. From the look of his and how she looked, Data realized that it was obvious to any who had seen them, and there had been many, that they had been making love in the holodeck. The strange looks they had received as they passed others now made sense to him.

Data sighed, but then laughed out loud. He did not care. He had not done anything unbecoming of an officer. He had made love to his...bond mate... Smiling as he entered the shower, he hoped he got to repeat that act very soon.

Data returned to her quarters once he was presentable again, to find her feeling at odds with herself. “Why are you distressed?”

She looked sadly at him. “I’m afraid I’m going to disappoint you. I need to know what your needs...physical needs...what are they?”

Data came to her and pulled her into his arms. “I need you. I am capable of...greater endurance than you, however...” Data sighed. He needed to speak clearly to her, but hoped he would not embarrass her. “Your assumption that I desire you is correct. I wish to make love again right now, but I can wait until you are also ready. I wish to bring you pleasure, not just receive it from you. There are many things that we can share that will satisfy me and not tire you as much, if you wish to try. It is late and we both have a duty shift tomorrow.” Data kissed her on her forehead and then lifted her chin to kiss her sweet lips. After a moment, he could feel her body and mind relax into him. He used the bond to send her his feeling of love and tenderness. “I love you, Gemma. I will leave you to rest. Sleep well.” He kissed her again before pulling away.

“I love you, Data. See you in the morning?” she called.

“Sleep late, Gemma. You are tired and I can feel how much now.” With a parting smile, Data left her to sleep.  

Over the course of the next week, Gemma and Data were virtually inseparable while off duty. Their happiness seemed to be contagious as it surrounded everyone around them as well.

Exactly one week after they had bonded, Data decided to surprise Gemma with a romantic dinner in his quarters. He prepared a special meal featuring a number of her favorite foods. He had even been able to obtain a bottle of real Kriosian wine. The table was beautifully set, including a small floral centerpiece with a Risan candle which, when lit, released the beautiful scent of a native flower, and soft music played in the background. Data lowered the lights to the perfect level and lit the candle before going to collect Gemma for this special evening.

As Gemma entered Data’s quarters, she let out a quiet gasp as she took in the ambience that Data had carefully created. Data led her to the table and pulled out her chair. He brought each dish to the table causing Gemma’s smile to broaden as she saw that each was a favorite. However it was when Data produced the bottle of wine that Gemma once again gasped.

“Data, how did you get a bottle of real Vorim wine?” she asked awestruck.

“I know someone who knew someone who knew someone who was able to obtain it for me,” he grinned as he poured two glasses of the aqua colored wine. He raised his glass, “To our love and bond,” Data smiled.

“To our love and bond,” Gemma repeated as they lightly clinked the glasses together. “This is a wonderful vintage,” she remarked after taking a sip of the wine.

Not only was the wine wonderful, everything about dinner was wonderful. Their eyes seemed fixed on each other throughout as they talked, laughed and enjoyed each other’s company. When they finished they took their wine glasses and adjourned to the sitting area. Data took Gemma’s glass from her hand and set it on the table next to his.

“Dance with me,” he asked as he gently pulled her to her feet. He took her in his arms as they swayed to the music. As Data and Gemma became enveloped in the music, Data kissed Gemma tenderly on the lips. This kiss led to another and then another, each more passionate than the one before. It was then that Data pulled back looking concerned.

“Gemma, what is wrong? I sense your uneasiness, your fear.” Data caressed her cheek as he spoke.

“I don’t know what is wrong with me Data. I love you so much but...”

“Gemma, do you regret our bonding?” he asked gently. Gemma could now sense fear from Data as he waited for her to answer.

“No, Data, I don’t regret it. I...I don’t know why...” she stopped. “That’s not true, I do know why.” She paused again before continuing, “Data, I am still so scared that I will disappoint you. I really want to make love with you again but...there is a part of me that is terrified...”

Data placed his finger on Gemma’s lips, cutting off her words, “You could never disappoint me, Gemma. I love you.” Deciding that it was time to show her since telling her for this last week had failed to do the trick, Data lifted her in his arms and carried her to his new bed.

“Didn’t you used to have a smaller bed?” she asked as he gently placed her on the much fuller bed.

“Yes, the first officer who was to take my place, when I was reported lost, was single and did not wish the fuller size bed. I saw no reason to replace it when I was reinstated.” Data tapped her nose with affection. “You gave me a reason to rethink that,” he admitted, grinning. He sat down next to her and just held her for a moment.

“You ordered a new bed to make love to me...” Gemma seemed to be thinking out loud.

“Yes, and because tonight I wish for you to stay with me, Gemma.”

Gemma pulled back to look him on the face. “Stay? Data, I told you...I can’t-“ she swallowed the rest of her words when she felt something from him that caused her to believe she was thinking the wrong thing. “What do you mean by stay?”

“To sleep. I wish to make love to you, yes, but I want you to stay here and sleep with me.”

“You don’t sleep, Data.” Gemma reminded him.

Data grinned again. “No, but I can shut down my cognitive functions and dream with you. Will it make you uncomfortable to be with me in this way?” he asked.

Gemma imagined Data asleep. She imagined him holding her as she slept. Gemma leaned back into Data’s embrace. “It does sound nice, Data.”

Data moved to kiss her. She tensed a bit as he lowered her back to his bed, but Gemma could feel their bond opening wide and his love for her wrap her up in warmth. Data brought a hand up and caressed Gemma’s temple, sending her soothing thoughts. Gemma wore a jumpsuit that fastened up the front, so Data reached up to open it by sliding his hand from her waist, up and over her breasts. She tensed just a bit, but he could also feel her own arousal begin.

To keep her busy, Data brought her hands to his shirt. She took a moment to begin, but when Data kissed his way down to the newly opened top of her jumpsuit, Gemma sighed and bit back a moan.

“Do you love me?” Data asked, softly.

“You know I do,” she insisted, breathlessly.

“Then do not hold back. If my touch moves you, I wish to know it.”

He moved back to kiss his way down her cleavage and once he had pushed aside her bra, he took one of her nipples in his mouth, gently teasing it with his tongue. It seemed she could hold back no longer and let loose with a deep moan. She was gripping the sides of his shirt so tightly she ripped open two buttons in her attempt to reign in her emotions.

Gemma gasped at what she had done but Data just laughed and took the shirt off. “I’m sorry,” she whispered.

“There is no need.” He grinned at her, fondly. “I love you, Gemma, and it is true that my desire for you overpowers me, at times. It is good to see that I can bring it out in you as well.” He moved towards her breasts. “Allow me to do it again.”

Gemma couldn’t help but gasp as he took her nipple into his mouth once again. She reached for him and the fact that she made contact with his bare skin delighted her, despite her fears. Data moved her further down the bed until they were comfortable, then he took control again. He gently pulled the suit from her body and softly instructed her to help him out of his pants. She still seemed like a frightened kitten and would not even look at him below his chest. Data decided his mate needed to see and allow herself to be seen.

Her hand was on his chest, so he put his hand over hers and guided it down his body. Her eyes were locked with his, and she knew what was coming. “I am yours. Touch me.” His delicate plea had an affect on Gemma. She didn’t pull her hand away. Through their bond, she could feel Data’s excitement, but when her hand touched the tip of his erect penis, the level of excitement jumped tenfold.

He could not help but moan. “Gemma,” he called out softly. Enthralled by the affect her touch had on him, she tentatively brought her free hand to his waist. Data rolled onto his back and studied his lover as she slowly moved to explore his body. It took her ten minutes before she was ready to touch his penis on her own, but it was worth every nanosecond of the wait.

He could not feel hot or cold before the chip, but now Data felt hot desire burning through him. He moaned again, but longer this time. Gemma looked up to see him watching her, his expression almost looked as though he was in great pain, but she knew that wasn’t so.

“Should I be doing something? What...you said we could do things that are not so tiring?”

“Yes,” Data gasped, she was still caressing his erection. “If you wrap your hands around me...my penis, as though you were creating a vagina with your hands and stroke gently up and down.” She was awkward at first, but he sat up and helped her and she was soon pumping his shaft with enthusiasm. His thrashing and moans excited her. But Data did now wish to cum this way.

Gemma, please...come to me. I wish to be inside you.” He removed her hand from his erection and pulled her down to kiss her. Moving her so she straddled him, he eased her down on his aching need, sighing heavily as she sheathed him with her sweet body.

He assisted her in beginning a rhythm, but made sure he was positioned to bring her pleasure as well. It had been too long. Data had waited so long to be with her and having to wait again...he could not hold back. He came within her much sooner than he would have wished, but he did not let her stop until Gemma too cried out in climax.

He pulled her into his arms and down beside him once the climax had washed over her, leaving her flushed and beautiful. “Are you tired?” he asked.

“A little. I pleased you?” she asked.

Data smiled and nodded. “Immensely. If you are not ready for sleep, I wish to give to you some of the pleasure you just gave me. Will you allow me to, Gemma?” he asked.

She tensed slightly, but nodded.

Moving her on her back, Data kissed her lips and then following a trail of tears, he kissed his way down her body until he was between her legs. She was nervous when he spread her legs apart to move between them, but when he touched his tongue to her clitoris, she arched her back and was quickly writhing in ecstasy.

Data brought her to climax and enjoyed the sounds, feel and taste of her. He felt a great deal less hesitation from her when he pulled her back into his arms.

“I am tired now,” she admitted, still breathless.

“Then we will sleep now.”

Gemma sat up, aghast. “I don’t have a nightgown on, I haven’t performed the eeltot, I have to brush my teeth!” she looked at him as thought he was crazy.

Data sighed and got out of bed. He replicated them both nightwear and joined her in getting ready for bed. It was a trial waiting, but she finally joined him again in his bed and let him hold her tightly as she drifted off to sleep. Data soon joined her in dreaming, happily sated.

Gemma awoke to the smiling face of her mate.

“Good morning.” Data leaned down to kiss her. “I hope you slept well.”

“Good morning. I slept very well” she replied. “I didn’t know it would feel so…so fulfilling to wake up in your arms.” Data held Gemma in his arms until it was time for her to return to her quarters to get ready for her shift.

When Gemma entered her quarters she made her way to the bedroom to start getting ready. After a quick shower, she started to pull on her uniform. She sat on her bed for a moment to think. She smiled and said to herself ~ It’s the right thing to do. ~ Data stopped at her quarters so they could head to the bridge together.

“Data, I would like to do something special for you. Will you come for dinner in my quarters tomorrow night?”

“I would love to” he smiled. “Do not forget we are having dinner with Geordi in the lounge tonight.”

She nodded her head and then surprised him by kissing him as they rode in the turbolift to the bridge. The day was pretty typical except for some personnel transfers that had been processed and approved by StarFleet Command. Data was pleased that he would have some good news for both Gemma and Geordi that evening.

Data came to Gemma’s quarters at 1725 to collect Gemma. It seemed like each time he saw her she looked more stunning than the last. She was dressed casually in a teal dress that followed the curves of her body stopping just above her knees.

“You look so beautiful” Data smiled before kissing her.

“I have the feeling you would say that even if I was wearing a ranumea,” she grinned referring to the extremely shapeless, loose-fitting style of clothing from Hiragye IV.

“And you would be correct” he laughed. “Now, it is time to meet Geordi in the lounge.” They held hands as they made their way to join their friend.

Geordi had already arrived when Data and Gemma entered. He waved to them as they approached. Geordi had been a little preoccupied lately. Kaylith had told him she had applied for a position that had opened up in the Enterprise’s Engineering section. Because of their personal relationships with Kaylith, both Geordi and Gemma had thought it best if they remove themselves from the process of choosing who would fill the position. Captain Picard had agreed it would be best. Data had made his recommendation to the captain after reviewing the applications but it was ultimately up to him to accept or reject Data’s recommendation. Picard trusted Data implicitly to make an unbiased decision on the matter so he accepted Data’s recommendation and had sought approval from StarFleet Command.

Dinner was a wonderful diversion for Geordi. The banter and laughter of the evening was helping him relax. When they talked about how routine the day had been, Data casually mentioned that other than receiving StarFleet Command’s approval on various personnel transfers, including the position in Engineering that nothing out of the ordinary had occurred. Both Gemma and Geordi looked expectantly at Data.

“Oh did you wish to know the status of…” Data asked trying to keep a straight face when Geordi interrupted him.

“Data! Yes, I want to know!” Geordi exclaimed.

Data didn’t have to say anything as his broad smile gave it away.

“Kaylith got the position?” Gemma asked excitedly.

“Yes. She will be transferred to the Enterprise in two weeks. I am very happy for you Geordi.”

“Thanks, Data. I know you didn’t let our personal relationship affect your decision, but thanks anyway.”

Geordi spent the rest of the evening with a silly grin plastered on his face and both Gemma and Data could not be happier. The evening seemed to end too soon. Data was almost surprised when Gemma yawned and told the men she was retiring for the evening. Data offered to walk her back to her quarters, but she just kissed him and told him to do some man bonding.

“Male bonding,” Geordi corrected, gently, but laughed too. Gemma just shrugged, came over to kiss him on the cheek and walked away from the table, leaving the men alone.

“I still think it’s funny how you two started out not getting along at all,” Geordi commented.

“I must admit to being responsible for that entire situation. It would seem that I not only miss the sensory input from people if they are gone, but I missed the input from my duties at ops.” Data shrugged helplessly at this.

“I think I can understand that since every time I take a long leave, I dream of Engineering.” Geordi admitted, with a grin.

“Yes! That is what happened to me!” Data exclaimed, excited that his friend understood. “I did not dream of Engineering, but I had the same experience.”

Geordi just laughed.

It did not go unconnected by the team from Maintenance that both Lieutenant Commander Corazon and Commander Data requisitioned bigger beds in the same week. The knowing expression that covered Ensign Seth’s face in addition to his emotions caused Gemma to blush crimson when he delivered it the following afternoon. The fact that Data appeared as the ensign was installing it made Gemma wish he would hurry, so she could crawl under the new bed and hide.

“Did you decide you needed more room?” Data asked her, smirking. They both stood watching the ensign work and Gemma was wondering just why they were doing that.

“Yes, I did. I...I’ve been tossing and turning a lot and I worried that I’d fall out of the old one.” Gemma said this with a straight face and then gave him a quick glare.

“I see. Perhaps we should ask the ensign to install restraints as well.” Data was trying to look very innocent with this comment.

“Data!”

Even the ensign couldn’t help but snicker now.

“Do they make restraints strong enough for androids?” Gemma asked, with hands on her hips and one foot tapping impatiently.

“If they do, I have no intentions of telling you how to make them.”

Gemma sighed, rolled her eyes and walked out of the room. Data’s eyebrow went up as he turned to follow her. “I was only teasing, Gemma. I would never-“ lips covering his stopped him from speaking further. Gemma wrapped her arms around Data’s waist and slowly slid her hands up his back.

With one eyebrow raised, Data pulled her even closer and deepened their kiss. 

A sudden sound of coughing caused them to break their kiss and look in the direction of the noise.

“I’m finished now,” Ensign Seth said as stood at the opening to the bedroom. “Enjoy...I mean...”

“Do not worry Ensign, we know what you mean. I am certain Commander Corazon will sleep well in her new bed,” Data grinned as the embarrassed ensign made his way to the door.

“Thank you, Ensign,” Gemma smiled as he left. She then turned back to face Data. “As for you, you’re early. I haven’t even started getting ready for dinner...and you’ve seen the surprise I had for you,” she pouted.

“You wanted your new bed to be a surprise for me?” he asked.

“You’ve been so patient and understanding with me as I’ve struggled with my insecurities. I wanted you to know that they’re...well, under control. They may try to escape occasionally but I wanted to make sure you know how much I want to be with you.”

“So you have not actually been tossing and turning in bed?” he asked.

“You’re terrible!” she reproached as she swatted him on the chest as Data laughed. She started to pull out of his arms but he pulled her back in to kiss her again.

Eventually, Data and Gemma sat down for dinner. It wasn’t the elegant affair that Gemma had originally planned but it was still wonderful. When dinner was finished, they adjourned to the sitting area and cuddled on the couch.

“I am sorry I teased you earlier about the bed,” Data said in a hushed tone as he ran his fingers through Gemma’s hair.

“You have no idea how sorry. I was going to ask you to stay with me tonight,” she sighed as she stroked Data’s free hand. “It’s getting a little late now Data. I think I want to go to bed now.” Gemma rose from the couch, holding out her hand to Data. He sighed quietly as he accepted it, sure that she was going to lead him to the door.

When she started to lead him towards her bedroom instead, Data grinned. “Now who is terrible?”

Gemma laughed and turned to face him, wrapping her arms around his waist. “If you wish to leave...” she started to say. Her words were cut off by Data’s kiss.

Gemma let Data kiss her for a bit longer enjoying the emotional high he brought them both, before breaking their kiss and moving to a drawer. She pulled out a new pair of pajamas that looked to be just Data’s size. She handed them to him with a grin. “I’m going to get ready for bed in there.” She pointed to the bathroom. “You can get ready in here, okay?”

Data nodded, but wondered why they had to do this separately. Deciding it was still linked to her insecurities, he put this aside for now and changed into the pajamas she had provided. Gemma took longer, but returned soon, in her own pajama set of rich green, setting off her auburn hair.

“I was hoping that you would join me in performing the eeltot tonight, my bond mate.” Gemma smiled at him warmly as she suggested this.

“I would like that. I was tempted to ask you the night before, but I was uncertain...I did not wish it intrude.”

Gemma touched Data’s temples, pulling his face closer, allowing her to kiss each one. “How could my mate be an intrusion? Come, I will show you the ritual. It’s very relaxing. It’s possible it will help you, even when you’re stressed about me holding out on you,” she teased.

“I do not incur stress over our sexual encounters,” Data assured her.

“No, just over the lack of their frequency. Don’t protest, Data. I know better.” She kissed him once and then pulled him to the alcove where she kept her eeltot candles and statuettes. Pulling the veil off the arrangement, she told Data which god was represented by what statuette. Gemma then knelt on the floor and motioned for Data to also kneel. She lit one of the glass globes filled with a lavender liquid that burned evenly. She handed the lighting stick to Data, so he could light the globe next to him.

Gemma brought the statuettes down from the shelf and placed the one that represented masculinity in front of Data.

“Do you not have a god of machinery?” he quipped, but she shook her head at him.

“Machine or flesh, a male is a male and you, my mate, are male! There is no doubt of that.” She put the statuette that stood for femininity in front of her and then placed the god for peace and love between them. In front of them but also between she placed the god of friendship. “For Geordi and Kaylith,” she explained.

“You do not use all the statuettes, only those that are appropriate at the time?” Data questioned.

“Right,” Gemma blushed as she pulled out the god of romance. “I’ve been using him a lot lately. But I think he’s answered my prayers, so I’m letting him take care of someone else’s dreams now.” She grinned, sheepishly. She reached over to take Data’s hand and began the eeltot.

She said a prayer of thanks for the many gifts she had been given that day, and that it was another day that she was able to love Data. A blessing she would not have had, had Q not intervened. It was startling for Data to realize that Gemma was thanking her gods for Q’s intervention. He did not mean any disrespect for any of the beings mentioned, but the notion was still difficult to fathom for Data. Still, much of what Gemma was thankful for was linked in some way to Data.

He found himself watching her in fascination as she continued. She eventually grew quiet, and he could feel through their bond that she was calm and very relaxed. Not knowing if there was something he too should do, Data closed his eyes and thought of the things that he was thankful for.

Almost at once, a wonderful feeling of peace settled over Data as well. It was astonishing, since Data knew that Gemma was not the source of this feeling. What seemed like only a second later, Gemma was pulling Data to his feet.

He smiled, blissfully at her. He helped her to blow out the candles and replace everything in its proper place before following her to the bedroom. He expected her to fall into bed and just close her eyes. Once they were lying on her new bed, Gemma smiled at Data as a wave of passion swept from her, through their bond, into him. Then she began to unbutton her top.

Data sat up, “Gemma...” he started but his words were cut off as Gemma, now sitting up, crushed her lips to his as her passion grew. Data and Gemma were completely enveloped in a cocoon of emotion as their bond continued to intensify. Gemma unbuttoned the remaining buttons on her top, quickly removing it and throwing it to the floor. She now was working on Data’s pajamas top and soon it was on the floor as well. She wrapped her arms around Data’s neck, pulling him back down as their kiss continued. Data’s hand slid up the curves of her body, starting at her waist. As he cupped her firm breast in his hand, he could feel how hard her nipple was already. Data moved his kiss down Gemma’s neck until he reached her chest. He looked up, giving her a quick kiss on her sensuous mouth before moving his attention to her breast. He traced his tongue along her areola and then her nipple before taking her breast in his mouth.

Gemma moaned as Data continued his oral manipulation. He now moved his attention to her other breast as her moans increased. He continued his downward movements, first running his tongue along the underside of her breasts, before following the trail of tears lower. When he reached her waist he pushed down her pajamas bottoms as Gemma raised her backside off the bed enough to assist in their removal. Once she was nude, Data resumed his downward explorations, as he kissed and licked his way down each of her legs to the tip of her toes. He massaged one foot and then the other as he sucked each of her sexy toes. Data pushed his own pajamas bottom off as he moved up between Gemma’s legs. He massaged her clit with his fingers before taking it in his mouth. As he licked and sucked her clit, his fingers were thrusting in and out of her wetness causing Gemma to moan and thrash on the bed until her orgasm exploded. Data now moved to reclaim Gemma’s lips in a passion-filled kiss.

Gemma, seeming to have lost all of her insecurities, maneuvered Data to his back. Now it was her turn to offer her mate the pleasure her mouth could bring. Her hands swept across Data’s chest before she lowered her mouth to his nipple, licking and teasing it with her tongue. As she moved lower she positioned herself between his legs. She stopped when she reached his erection but instead of nervousness, Data was sensing confidence radiating from Gemma. She lowered her mouth to engulf the head of Data’s penis causing a loud gasp to escape Data’s lips. She raised and lowered her mouth on his shaft as she firmly held it with her hand. She then pumped it with her hand as she kissed and tongued the head. Data’s moans were becoming louder as he felt a rush building up in his body.

When Gemma looked up to quickly study the effects she was having on her mate, Data pulled her next to him bringing his lips to hers once again. He moved between her legs, penetrating her still dripping sex. His thrusts began slow but soon quickened as the fire that filled them both built to a molten level. Gemma’s back arched as she moaned his name loudly as his pleasure encompassed her body and soul. Data continued his thrusts bringing Gemma to orgasm again before calling out her name as he exploded within her.

Data moved next to Gemma, wrapping his arms around her, kissing her temple. They lay silently basking in the moment.

“Gemma, you were incredible. It would appear that your self-doubts have left you,” Data said softly.

“Something happened this evening, Data, when we did the eeltot together. The doubts disappeared and were replaced by knowledge and with the knowledge came confidence. I love you so much, Data.”

“I love you too, Gemma,” Data whispered as Gemma fell asleep in his arms.

The comfort level between Data and Gemma continued to rise as Geordi’s impatience also seemed to rise. The two weeks were taking forever, in his opinion, to pass. He and Kaylith talked each night, and Geordi was getting to know more and more about her, but that only made him long for her more.

Data made Geordi join him and Gemma for dinner the night before Kaylith was due to arrive, so the engineer would get out of his quarters while he was off duty. Geordi protested, but Data threatened to make it an order or bodily carry his friend to Gemma’s quarters for dinner, so Geordi relented. It was good to be with friends, but he still felt all bottled up. The woman he wanted was not here to spend time with, and it was driving him crazy.

When dessert was served, Geordi put his napkin on the table and got to his feet. “I’m sorry, guys. I just can’t do this. We’re due to arrive at Halon III in the morning and I’m just a nervous wreck. Everything was wonderful, Gemma. I’m going to try to get some sleep. See you tomorrow.” Geordi moved to give Gemma a quick kiss on the cheek and nodded at Data.

Once he was gone, Gemma sighed. “He is a nervous wreck, but some of his emotions remind me of things I felt from you when he and I were still dating.”

“I also had to hold back much of what I felt for you. I am not certain which situation would be more difficult to endure.” Data admitted, contemplatively.

“I agree. But, I don’t want to think about it. I love you, you love me and Geordi will, I hope, be fine tomorrow.”

“As do I,” Data agreed. He finished his dessert and took up the plate. “I have a question for you now, though.”

“Okay, I have an answer...yes.” Gemma grinned at him.

“You know what I was going to ask?”

“You want to know where you’re going to be tonight. Yes, I know. I want to be in your arms again tonight, Data. I sleep much better when you’re here with me, so I think I’ve finally fully adjusted. Will you perform the eeltot with me again tonight?” she asked, eagerly.

“I would enjoy performing it with you once again. It is always a most intriguing experience,” Data noted, moving to take up her now empty plate. The couple moved to the bedroom to prepare for bed.

The next afternoon, the transporter room was filled with tension, nervousness, and uncontrollable excitement, and that was just from Geordi. Data was manning the bridge, so only Gemma was with Geordi other than a few ensigns to help guide the other two new crewmembers to their new quarters.

When the transporter chief informed his senior officers he had received the ready signal from Halon III, Gemma could feel the excitement in Geordi jump. When Kaylith finally formed on the pad, all the nervousness and tension faded, while the excitement jumped again. Gemma welcomed everyone and guided the two new ensigns to crewmen who would take them to their new homes. She then turned to Kaylith and hugged her warmly.

Geordi seemed almost frozen in place. His hands were at his sides and he stood still as a statue.

“I think I’ll leave you two alone for a minute. Come on chief. We’re going to have a little break in the corridor.” Gemma motioned to the man who just grinned and followed. She looked back just as the doors were closing behind her to see Geordi pull Kaylith into his arms for a passionate kiss.

It was a few minutes before Geordi and Kaylith emerged from the transporter room.

“I’ll show you to your quarters, Kaylith…unless you two want to be alone” Gemma kidded.

“If only I didn’t have to get back to Engineering” Geordi sighed. “I’ll see you later.” He kissed Kaylith on the cheek before heading for Engineering.

“Kaylith, I’m so glad you’re here. You’re going to love it here, I promise” Gemma declared.

“How could I not love it. I’ve certainly got an advantage on other newcomers. I’ve already got friends here” she smiled.

“Friends? From what I saw before the doors to the transporter room closed, I think you and Geordi are a little more than friends” Gemma teased.

“He’s really incredible, Gemma. I’ve never met anyone like him,” Kaylith smiled broadly.

“Geordi is a wonderful man. I’m so happy for both of you.”

Gemma led Kaylith from the turbolift to her new quarters, which were located on deck four.

“Very nice” Kaylith said as she surveyed the rooms. “Not as nice as the senior officer’s quarters I’m sure but still very nice. Do you have to get back to the bridge or can you stay for a few minutes?”

“If a few minutes for us really was a few minutes, I’d stay but I do need to get back to my station” Gemma responded. “You settle in now. We’ll make plans for the four of us to have dinner together later in the week.”

“You don’t want to join us tonight?” Kaylith asked.

“I don’t need to lower my shield to know that you and Geordi would much rather spend this evening alone together” Gemma laughed. “Tomorrow night is poker night. Data’s hosting and we’ll expect you and Geordi to be there at 1730 sharp.”

“Okay,” Kaylith grinned. “Gemma, I don’t think I really thanked you for introducing Geordi and I.” Kaylith embraced Gemma warmly. “You are such a wonderful friend.”

“You’re going to make me cry if you keep this up,” Gemma protested. “Looks like I’ve finally been able to repay you for all that you’ve done for me. I don’t know if I would have made it through the Academy if you hadn’t help me acclimatize to Earth like you did.”

Gemma returned to the bridge a few minutes later. As the turbolift door closed behind her, she could hear Data acknowledging a communication over his comm badge from Captain Picard. He turned to Gemma and smiled.

“Commander Corazon, you have the bridge,” Data instructed as he headed to the turbolift.

“Aye, sir,” Gemma acknowledged. She sat down in the captain’s chair. ~ Comfortable chair, ~ she thought.