The Experiment (Data x reader)

Inquisitive

You closed your eyes and took in a deep breath, trying desperately to calm yourself down. Once you had recollected yourself, you opened your eyes once more, but instantly regretted doing so- Data had evidently run a hand through his perfectly groomed hair, and now it was messy, adorably messy, but he didn't pay it any mind- he was still consumed in staring out at the stars.

"Data... your hair..." you said faintly, gesturing vaguely at your own.

"Oh," he said, glancing over at the mirror beside one of your bookshelves and slicking it back down once more. Now he stood at attention, considering you with an inquisitive tilt of the head. "Miss y/l/n, I have a question."

"Go ahead, Data," you said, mentally exhausted from trying to repress your attraction.

"Why does Geordi display amusement at our living conditions? Is this another facet of humor that I have yet to learn about?"

"Um... well..." You closed your eyes, preparing for the answer that you'd have to give. "Geordi probably thinks it's funny because it's somewhat comparable to the living situation that couples usually have. Like, um, how Beverley and her husband lived together before he died. Kind of like that."

"Oh." Data fell silent. "Is... is that idea really so laughable?"

You nearly choked on your tea.

The android looked almost hurt. Misery suddenly intruded upon his handsome golden eyes, and he was looking down at the floor rather than making eye contact. "I feared that would be the reply. In fact, I was almost certain it would be. I do not know why I still feel saddened by it," he said softly.

Your heart was racing. "Da... Data... don't be sad," you finally managed to say.

"Y/n... does my presence not improve your mood, similar to the manner in which significant others improve each other's moods? I am confused as to why that concept is humorous to Geordi." Data looked up at you, and, well, if androids could have sad puppy-dog eyes, Data would have the cutest. You bit your lip; you felt a headache coming on, all your feelings for Data were nearly exploding out of your chest, and you clutched your tea, attempting to regulate your breathing.

Data was obviously expecting an answer from you, but you were too overwhelmed to speak. His face gradually became calmer, and he looked back towards the stars, the light hitting his features beautifully. You wished he would stop being so attractive- maybe then you could get your thoughts in order and regain control of your vocal cords.

"Data," you managed finally. He turned towards you, his expression challenging and resentful- he'd obviously been hurt by your silence. You set down your tea and slowly crossed the room to where he stood, not entirely sure of what you would do when you got there.

Finally, you stood before him, about a foot away; his eyes became less resentful and more inquisitive. Without thinking, you enveloped him in your arms and pressed a passionate kiss to his synthetic lips.

He stiffened at first- you nearly let him go. But he quickly responded, skillfully and with an almost eager intensity. You felt his arms raise slightly, obviously confused as to what to do with them, so you simply clasped his hands in yours, continuing to kiss him. You could sense his confusion, and yet, it was the most pleasurable kiss you'd ever had. After a few seconds, you pulled away, not wanting to overwhelm him.

Silence reigned for a few more seconds, before Data finally tilted his head to the side and asked the inevitable question. "I do not understand. Why did you choose this particular display of affection?"

"Well... Data, you were sad," you said, squeezing his hands fondly.

"Y/n." Data's voice was unusually husky. "Were... were you expressing attraction?"

"Do you want me to be?" you asked quietly.

"I... I am unsure. My assumptions regarding you are often challenged. You have proven to be... somewhat mischievous," Data replied, tilting his head to the side.

Your heart was beating a million times a minute. You tried to swallow your fear and looked the android directly in the eyes. "Data. I need to know. Are you attracted to me?"

It was blunt, but there was no other way to put it. Data tightened his grip on your hands and said gently, "I feel... something different for you. Ever since I felt my first emotion, you... stood out to me somehow. I have been attempting to conduct research on this phenomenon on my own. I have read Shakespeare's romances in an attempt to try and match my feelings, and- and I believe I have succeeded. Your kiss... I believe that the kiss confirmed it. I have reached the conclusion that... that, yes, attraction to you is among all my various new emotions."

You didn't have time to react to this speech before you were in Data's arms, and he was kissing you, passionately. His embrace was warm and welcoming, and you allowed your entire world to be consumed by the kiss, joy erupting in your heart. There was so much emotion, so much intensity that Data displayed, that made you realize that your wildest dreams had finally, finally come true. Data Soong could feel, and most importantly, he felt for you. 

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By far my favorite part of this story to write <3 hope you enjoyed!