| Primary Characters: | Will Riker, Ro Laren, Data, Worf, Picard, Tom Riker |
| Rating: | M |
| Spoilers: | Some |
| Warning: | m/m sex |
| Description: | Riker and Ro get into a discussion that leads to bet, that will, if Riker is lucky, lead to an involvement with Ro. Before he gets there, though, he has to sleep with three, relatively farfetched persons. Needless to say, he’s up to the challenge. |
The discussion had started in Ten Forward. Guinan had produced some real alcohol, because neither Riker or Rho were too much into the synthohol, no matter how much StarFleet swore by it. So they’d had their drinks, Riker had been flirting wildly and as the evening wore on, his smile kept getting wider. Ro – wasn’t just responding to his flirting but was actually flirting back. This would be almost too easy.
At some point, they retreated to Ro’s quarters to – finish the bottle and to – talk some more.
Afterwards, Riker couldn’t remember how the new topic had come up. There was no denying that the whisky was a whole lot stronger than the synthohol version. However, he had no trouble recalling the conversation itself.
”So – I bet you that you won’t dare to accept my terms.”
”Dare? Don’t you know who you’re talking to?”
”Yeah, a spoiled rotten Federation boy, who doesn’t know anything about – sorry. That was uncalled for. So you think you’re up for it?”
”What do I get if I win?”
”I don’t know. What would you like?”
Riker laughed a laugh that many women had responded to before. Ro did too, but that wasn’t going to stop her from having her fun. If only he’d agree –
He leaned over and whispered something into her ear. She laughed too, with a similar result on her guest.
”You know what? That can be arranged. So, would you like to hear my – terms?”
”Uh – sure.”
He swallowed a hiccup, almost forgetting that he’d have to fulfill the terms of the bet, before any of what he’d outlined in her ear could happen.
”Ok. I want you to – sleep with three -”
”What? You want me to sleep with others?”
”Sure. That’s what the bet is about. To challenge your – assuming you have any – prejudices.”
”Uh – ok. Go on.”
”Ok, first person up – Data.”
”Data?”
Riker was still smiling. The idea of having sex with Data seemed a bit – vague – at least now, in the pleasant whisky buzz. He wasn’t really thinking about how he’d make the suggestion to Data, but – after all, his colleague was an android. How difficult could it be?
”Ok, why not?”
Ro was smiling. This was shaping up to be just as interesting as she’d hoped. She was wondering how he’d feel about her next suggestion. That would not be as easy, she predicted.
”Great. I must admit that I’m impressed. A little surprised too. So – next -”
”You’re surprised? Ha. Ok, who did you have in mind?”
”Worf.”
Riker’s smile faded. What? She had to be joking.
”Are you serious?”
”Aha. I knew it. So you want to back out? You’re – what’s that expression – a chicken?”
”Me? No. I’m no chicken. Wait a minute. But Worf? Come on. You’re not serious. Please tell me you’re not serious. How about Guinan? I’d love to try.”
”So, you like older women?”
”Why not? A woman is a woman, and – well, Guinan’s really attractive. Not like you, of course.”
”Good answer. Sorry, though. I’m not changing my mind. I’m totally serious. It’s Worf or no one.”
Riker began to feel slightly less drunk by now. He was beginning to wonder if getting Ro would really be worth it. Data was one thing. An android, that might actually be interesting, but a Klingon? Sure, he’d been with two Klingon women once and – lived to tell about it, as if he would – tell about it. Worf – would be different. Riker began to dwell uneasily on the Klingon anatomy, wondering if it would even be safe. If he agreed to this – he’d have to find out if – or rather – how much medical attention he’d need afterwards. Not that he liked the idea of backing down from any challenge. Would it be so – weird – to have sex with a man? He’d done it before in the past – or close enough – and he wasn’t prejudiced.
”Well? I knew you wouldn’t do it.”
”Hey, wait a minute. I have to think. Have you – uh – been with a Klingon?”
”Sure. More than once. Don’t be a chicken. It’s perfectly safe. I mean after a bit of medical attention.”
”Yes, I know. I’ve been with Klingon women in the past so -”
”That’s the spirit. So? How about it?”
Her voice seemed to warn him not to disappoint her. He could easily imagine her withdrawing the offer and just laughing the whole thing off. Besides, now it was getting personal. She thought he was a coward? That William T Riker would back down from any challenge? He’d manage somehow, if – and this was an important consideration – Worf agreed, and Riker had no idea if the Klingon would even take his suggestion seriously. He’d just have to take that chance.
”Ok, fine. I’ll do it – if Worf agrees.”
”Naturally. I suppose I shall have to think of a replacement if he turns you down.”
Riker caught himself hoping he would. He could think of plenty of others he’d be far more interested in – connecting – with.
Now Ro was looking smug again. Feeling it too. She was going to get him to do it.
”You impress me. But remember, I haven’t told you the third person yet. All three, or the deal is off.”
Riker sighed resignedly. He might as well hear her out. This last person would be someone completely impossible, he could just about guess that. Maybe her intention had never been to actually agree to sleeping with him. It might be easier to just go for Guinan right away.
”Are you ready?”
”Yes, I suppose so. Just tell me and get it over with.”
”Ok, here goes. Captain Picard.”
”No. You can’t be serious. He’ll never go for that.”
”Well, I don’t know about that. It’s up to you to at least try. And I mean really try.”
”Ok, I’ll try, but really, he won’t even – you don’t seriously believe he’ll even -”
”It wouldn’t be much of a challenge otherwise, would it?”
No, he had to admit that she had a point there. He was beginning to think that this wouldn’t be happening after all – or that she’d let go of the bet – after he’d tried and failed to get the – other parties – interested. That was all he had to hope for, but then again – even if at the moment, it was Ro he wanted more than anything, he knew there would be others. He might even hit on some guy just out of curiosity. It was something he’d hardly considered, at least not after the academy. He’d never fallen for men, at least not so far. It might actually be interesting. Maybe he’d been missing out on something he might actually enjoy.
”No, you’re right. So, how long do I have?”
”As long as it takes – within reason. Days, even a week or two, more if you run into difficulties. But wouldn’t you rather win this bet and move on to – your reward?”
She accompanied her words with both a smile and a very intimate kiss. Riker wasn’t stupid, he knew she was sweetening the bait, but he had to admit it was working. He found himself responding to her touch. This bet – was going to be – so difficult to get through, but backing out was unthinkable. He’d give it his best try, there was no question about it.
Soon after, he reluctantly broke free and returned to his own quarters. He had an early shift the following day. Better make sure he didn’t oversleep.
After his shift, he decided to tackle Data right away. There was no time to waste. For all he knew, Ro might change her mind and tire of the game.
He found Data working on his own research in one of the labs.
”Hey.”
”Commander Riker. What can I do for you?”
”I wanted to discuss something – personal with you.”
”Oh? Of course.”
Data put away his tools and faced Riker. The expression on his face looked inquiring. Maybe it actually was? Riker had never made much of a study of Data’s facial expressions.
Riker caught himself smiling winningly, as he would when trying to woo a woman, then realized that most likely Data wouldn’t interpret that smile the same way a human or other humanoid would.
”This may be a little delicate. I’ll be honest with you. I have been seeing Ensign Ro for a while.”
”I see. Congratulations.”
Riker’s smile faded a little. Congratulations might be a little premature.
”Well, when we saw each other last night, Ro and I entered into a bet. She thought – that I wouldn’t be up to the challenge, but I’m determined to prove her wrong.”
He could have sworn Data looked a bit puzzled. Of course, he’d have to go into details. Better get it over with.
”The bet involves me – pursuing and – uh – having sexual relations with three different, rather – some might say – farfetched persons.”
He was hoping Data wouldn’t be offended by the expression ‘farfetched’.
”I see.”
Data didn’t seem offended, but it was obvious that he still didn’t know what Riker was talking about. Time to get the question out.
”One of those persons was you, Data.”
”Are you asking me to have sexual relations with you, Commander Riker?”
”Uh – yes.”
”You are not asking me to have a romantic relationship?”
”No, just – sex – once.”
”I see. May I ask if that is something humans normally do?”
”Yes, absolutely. It’s very common.”
”I see.”
”So – will you help me?”
”I have never had sexual relations with a male, but I am sure I can – adapt.”
This reminded Riker of what Data had confided in him when they were preparing the memorial service for Lieutenant Tasha Yar. His mind got to work trying to guess how that might have been. Also, hadn’t Data talked about learning to date a woman? He was considering asking Data straight out – but knew he couldn’t do that. If Data had intended to tell him he was sure he would have.
”Thanks.”
”This will be interesting.”
”Uh – yes. Just one thing – let’s keep this between the two of us – except – if Ro asks you, please confirm that we – uh – did – what we were supposed to do.”
”Yes, I will. When would you like to do this?”
”How about tonight? If you have time.”
”Yes, my shift ends at 19.00 hours. Would you like to have dinner first or should we just proceed to -”
”Why not have dinner first? Shall we meet at 21.00 hours?”
”That would be fine. See you then, Commander Riker.”
That was almost too easy. Now that he’d come to an agreement with Data, he was wondering what he was getting into. At least he would most likely not have to worry about any physical injuries. By now, he was starting to wonder about the difference between sex with an ordinary human and sex with an android. Of course, he’d touched Data before. His hands felt almost exactly like those of a human. He still vividly recalled pressing that off button. Data’s skin felt a little cooler to the touch than a human’s but not cold enough to be unpleasant. At the moment he was torn between dread and expectation. In any case it should be interesting.
The evening went faster than Riker had expected. Soon he found that it was time to leave for Data’s quarters. They had decided on meeting there. Riker had even thought of a cover story in case anyone should ask why they were meeting, but as it happened, no one did.
He considered bringing something – some flowers or chocolate – but decided against it. Data might flirt with the idea of mimicking human customs, but Riker would only feel silly if he brought anything like that. When he came to Data’s quarters, he found Data setting the table. It turned out he had somehow found out what Riker’s favorite dish was. Riker found himself curiously touched by the gesture. Despite not being an ‘ordinary’ human, there was no question about it, Data was a good guy. A good friend. Was he crazy to want to risk that friendship on a dare? But he knew Data wouldn’t be influenced by something like that, so why should he? It wouldn’t be the first time he’d crossed the line and slept with someone, in this case a woman, he formerly considered just a friend.
They had dinner and some synthohol. When Data put away the dishes, Riker knew it was time. Despite his years of experience, this did feel a bit – awkward.
”Shall we begin?”
Riker didn’t know if he should laugh or wince. He’d never met anyone who was quite that direct. Then he decided to smile. It was all part of the experience. Something new wasn’t necessarily bad.
”Why not?”
”I have downloaded new subroutines for this purpose.”
”You downloaded -”
”Some subroutines for performing homosexual sex. Was I wrong to do that?”
”No, not at all. It’s probably a good idea. I don’t – uh – have that much experience with that either.”
”I see.”
They walked over to the bed. Riker was beginning to feel even more awkward, but still quite motivated. Normally, both parties would be more – spontaneous. Still, he was going to try something new, so he might as well learn to enjoy the experience, different as it might be.
Not waiting for Data’s new subroutines to come into play, Riker decided to make the first move. He pulled Data into his arms and began to kiss him. It felt – not as different as he’d imagined. Sure, Data’s lips were a little cool to the touch, but not unpleasantly so. The same applied to his tongue. Maybe this wouldn’t be so difficult after all.
They removed their uniforms. Riker found that his arousal increased as they went along. He had to admit that Data’s studies had been worthwhile. There was a lot that he’d never thought of himself, even though he’d always thought the difference wouldn’t be all that great. Just a matter of – different body parts.
Afterwards Riker was quite happy with his experience. It had been something new to try and – in reality it hadn’t been at all bad. Quite pleasant, actually. Something he was quite willing to repeat, with a human partner later on. Even so, he seriously doubted he’d ever fall in love with a man. Physical attraction was something else. Still, he was prepared to be open to all possibilities.
He considered going straight to Ro to inform her that the first part of their bet had been successfully concluded. Then he decided that Ro would most likely merely smile and nod. She was serious about him fulfilling the terms of the bet before anything else happened between them.
He decided not to waste any time and try to get his courage up to ask Worf the following day. The sooner this was over the better.
Approaching Worf seemed far more intimidating. Riker suspected he’d feel some sort of resistance even to the idea of asking Geordie, since – it would be hard to describe his sudden change of heart. And even if Geordie did agree – he’d probably find the idea of sleeping with someone for a bet, a bit odd, at the very least. Worf – there was no telling how he’d react. With a sinking feeling, Riker realized that even with his comparatively great knowledge of Klingon culture, he had no idea how they would feel about gay relations. He knew he’d never heard of any, but that didn’t prove anything. Gay epics were rare in human culture too, though why that should be, he wasn’t sure.
Since Data had asked him to dinner, he thought he might use the same tactic with Worf. There was no reason why two colleagues shouldn’t have dinner together. Again, he thought up an excuse to use if anyone else should ask, but once again, no one did. Worf didn’t seem to wonder, or perhaps he was too tactful to ask. Riker decided that this time he’d make his suggestion during dinner. He couldn’t bring himself to bring up the topic face to face, standing in the turbolift between two decks. Even if they were alone at the moment. Anyone could walk in at any time.
Dinner turned out to consist of a mix of human and Klingon dishes. Riker always had the impression that Worf mainly ate Klingon food to prove a point. His personal preferences ran more to Earth dishes, probably mainly Russian ones. Riker liked a great deal of variety in his diet so he was usually happy to try just about anything. Just not gagh. He’d forced some down on occasion, but wouldn’t like to repeat the experience for anything.
While they had dinner, they mostly discussed work, but Riker also asked about Worf’s family. After that, Riker got up and cleared away the dishes. Worf’s face didn’t give anything away, but Riker knew he had to be wondering why he’d been asked to dinner in his colleague’s quarters, rather than in Ten Forward and also, most likely, the two of them alone, instead of with a number of other friends and colleagues.
At least Worf was single at the moment. If Deanna had been involved, Riker knew he wouldn’t have been able to go through with this. In fact, the thought of Deanna made him question the whole thing. He was sure Deanna would be able to accept his ‘experiment’ with Data – but Worf – Riker had an idea she might take that personally. As in getting involved with her new lover to – spite her maybe?
No, he couldn’t think of Deanna right now, or he’d abandon this less than halfway through. It was Ro he should be thinking of, not Deanna, and at the moment, Worf. He had to admit that the idea of giving himself to the formidable Klingon didn’t seem appealing. Sure, he’d endured and while it lasted, even enjoyed the physical abuse sex with Klingons involved, but surely a male would be even more forceful?
He wasn’t looking forward to explaining his injuries to Dr Crusher later on. Since there was only one Klingon aboard the Enterprise, there was no way he could hint at having been with a female. He also concluded that he wouldn’t be able to explain his injuries away as being sports related. That was something he hadn’t even considered until just now. He felt an impulse to back out anyway, and giving up on Ro, but some shred of stubborness and pride made him ignore that possibility. Beverly – she was really attractive too – was a professional. She’d understand and her professional code of ethics would exclude any possibility of telling anyone of what he’d done.
He braced himself for the difficult moment ahead. There was no putting it off any longer.
”I suppose you’re wondering why I asked you to dinner tonight?”
”Yes?”
”You see – I was wondering – if maybe – ok, there’s no easy way of asking this so I’ll just go right ahead and say it – do Klingons have – uh – sex with other males?”
Worf stared at him for so long, Riker was beginning to think he’d definitely made a mistake. Maybe this was even cause for some ritual combat to the death. Had he offended Worf too much to even continue working together?
Then Worf appeared to consider.
”Yes. It’s called – warrior love. In the old days, males and females would fight their battles separately. Males away from females, sometimes even for years on end, would – form connections. May I ask why you wanted to know?”
”Well, I suppose I should just go right ahead and say it. I was wondering if you’d like to try it? I’m assuming you haven’t already, but maybe I shouldn’t.”
”Are you asking if I have had – uh – sexual relations with a male?”
”Uh – yes.”
Worf looked just as embarrassed as Riker was feeling, but now it was out in the open.
”No. And may I point out that we are not in battle or for that matter far away from any females at the moment? You should have no trouble finding suitable female companionship in Ten Forward, if you do not already know anyone you could – approach.”
”Yes, I do. It’s just that – I would like to try this too. Once.”
”I see.”
Worf didn’t bother asking ‘why me’, since it had to be obvious to him that there were no other Klingons around for light years around.
”I’m assuming you mean sex with a Klingon male, because I seem to recall that you have already experienced sex with Klingon females?”
”Exactly.”
”Very well. It is an honorable thing. Warriors who engage in warrior love are close friends and brothers in arms. I would be honored to do this with you.”
”Thank you.”
”I don’t suppose I need to remind you of the – physical injuries you will inevitably sustain?”
”No. I’ve been there before, remember.”
Worf nodded, his face once again an unreadable mask.
As Riker had half suspected there was some sort of ritual movement involved. In fact, it even reminded him of the workout preparing for the Klingon combat technique. Then Worf tackled him so hard, he lost his wind and collapsed on the floor. No bed for the Klingons, apparently, though he’d already experienced that, so it didn’t come as a surprise.
An hour or more later, Riker painfully limped up off the floor and went to get a drink. Worf got up effortlessly and said goodbye. It was a relief to be on his own. The physical violence was probably less severe than what he’d experienced at the hands – and other body parts – of the women – but – there were other aspects that had shocked him, even though he hadn’t really had time to dwell on them in the heat of the moment. Contrary to his worst fears, he had been carried away with it and he suspected he’d enjoyed it almost as much as Worf, always assuming that Worf actually had enjoyed it. It was a little hard to tell, with the mixture of ritual, old customs and possibly – physical need.
It was time he made his way to sick bay, though at the moment, his legs felt weak enough to justify a personal call. He was hoping, despite everything, that it would be Beverly responding to his call, because the thought of facing almost any of the other doctors would be even more intimidating.
To his relief, but also surprise, it was Beverly who responded to his call.
”Dr Crusher – Beverly – this is a bit – unusual – but I was wondering if you might make a house call.”
”Is this a medical emergency?”
He hesitated. It was, but he was wondering what Beverly would think.
”Uh – yes.”
”I’ll be right there.”
Now all he had to do was think of a way to explain what had happened. And – maybe – why. Because he was pretty sure that Beverly would wonder. In her position, he would have.
It wasn’t long before he heard her outside.
”Come in.”
She walked in alone, which was a relief. He knew she could handle the procedure, but he hadn’t been quite sure anyway.
”What’s wrong?”
”Uh – it’s a long story.”
”So I can imagine. Well?”
”I – uh – we – uh – Worf and I – had sex.”
”Oh. I see. Right. Lie down on the bed. Face down, first.”
”Ok.”
”I can get you something for the pain, if you prefer, but I should get to work on that -”
He didn’t see her gesture, but could guess which part of of his injuries were in most urgent need of attention.
By the time Beverly was done with that, the pain began to recede. At least in that particular spot.
She continued working on the broken bones, then finished up by healing the worst of the bruises.
”There. All done.”
There was still a dull pain almost all over, but he felt much better and was able to sit up. He felt more dignified that way, even though he knew that after this, Beverly would always have images in her mind about him and Worf –
”I suppose you’re wondering.”
”I can’t say that I’m not surprised, but – it’s your business.”
”Yes, of course. It’s a long story.”
”I can imagine. Well, if you’re feeling better, I should get going. Just to be on the safe side, no more Klingon sex for a few days at least. In fact, try not to have any sex at all for the next few days and avoid strenuous physical exercises. Actually, you might want to consider calling in sick tomorrow. It’s not strictly necessary, but it would probably help with the deep healing.”
”Thanks.”
Now that it was over he felt mainly numb with fatigue and a bit foolish. Beverly, who knew his reputation, must be wondering, whatever she said. He knew he’d have a difficult time explaining himself and he was far from sure that either Beverly or Deanna would prove understanding. Most women would probably see this as a frivolous behavior. Having sex with different partners merely for a bet.
Too late to worry about that. He was even too tired to think much about his greatest challenge – Captain Picard. Deep down he suspected that would prove impossible. Even if it was, he found himself feeling a little bit proud of himself. He’d done it. Who else would be up for the challenge of sex with a Klingon male?
The following day he fully intended to do his usual shift in the early afternoon, but when he got out of bed, he groaned and fell back onto the bed. Yikes. Maybe he was getting old. His entire body ached. Beverly was right, of course, and he resigned himself to calling in sick. He spent the day and evening mostly lying stretched out on the bed, reading old novels on his padd. If he’d been up to it, he might have followed some classic movies on the holodeck but decided he was better off in his own quarters. It was for the best really. If he’d run into someone he knew, he’d have had to explain his injuries and while someone not trained as a medical professional might have bought his excuse about the workout accident, he’d rather not face the risk.
The following day he was back at work. He ran into Ro and couldn’t help smiling at her in a way he knew she’d understand.
”How’s it going?”
”Fine.”
”I see. You’ll have to tell me more about that later. See you soon.”
Oh, yes, she would. He was already looking forward to it. After all, he’d been through worse in the past. The pain was almost all gone and after – then he remembered who he had to go after next and began to wonder if he would get Ro in the end. He was a fool to have agreed to this bet, but part of him was proud of himself. No prejudices for William T Riker. He’d surprised her there, he was sure of it.
After three days had passed, he judged his injuries sufficiently healed to try to approach Picard. Somehow, he suspected that in this case, his injuries would be the least of his problems.
He decided to speak to Picard in the turbolift on their way back to the bridge after a meeting. Fortunately, they were alone and he knew he might not get such an opportunity for a while. Seeking the Captain out in his ready room would be far too conspicuous. He knew from experience how quickly a rumor spread on the Enterprise, even though he knew no one would be able to guess his real purpose for seeing the Captain.
”Sir – I was wondering if – you’d like to have dinner with me some time this week.”
”Dinner? Well, I suppose so. Three nights from now? I have nothing planned for that evening.”
”That would be fine. My quarters at 21.00 hours?”
”Yes, very well. Thank you, Number One. I’m looking forward to seeing you.”
”Likewise, sir.”
That part was out of the way anyway. But he knew the difficult part was still ahead of him.
He spent a few hours planning the dinner, then was struck by the enormity of what he was doing. Sexual relations between a Captain and anyone under his command wasn’t strictly speaking forbidden – perhaps Star Fleet knew how hard it would be to enforce such rules – but it was definitely frowned upon and under other circumstances – such as the Captain having a long term relationship with – say Beverly Crusher – which wouldn’t be entirely out of the question, Riker knew – would eventually lead to one of them, most likely Beverly, being forced to ask for a transfer.
After taking the time to order an unusually fine wine – knowing Picard’s background – then spending a few hours cooking some of the food from scratch – he was hoping he wasn’t spoiling any hopes for advancement or even – who knew how Picard would take this suggestion – maybe even ruining what he’d already achieved.
Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea, after all. Picard was a reasonable man. He even had a sense of humor, but this – how on Earth could he even explain his sudden urge to – have sex with his Captain? Of course, Riker was familiar with the strange lure of the Captain. The concept was almost mythical. He could recall hundreds, maybe thousands, of romantic, sometimes not quite realistic stories about Captain – crew relationships. Everyone had a sort of partiality to the idea of being with his or her commanding officer. There was just something about the close relationship that included an emotional closeness that could be strangely alluring to most people.
In reality, though, Riker had always imagined that it Just Wasn’t Done. Just one of those fantasies that almost everyone shared.
What would he say? How would he approach this? He couldn’t in good conscience pretend to be in love with his Captain, not even admit to a sudden physical attraction. And the truth – just wouldn’t do. Could he simply try to – come on to the Captain and hope that there was a tiny part of him that would be responsive to that sort of thing? Of course he knew the whole thing was doomed from the start. He knew Picard too well to imagine anything else, but on the other hand, he knew he had to try. Ro had hinted that if he failed, after trying his best, she might offer an alternative.
Picard arrived almost twenty minutes too late, apologized profusely and sat down. Riker hastily poured the wine. To his relief, Picard seemed to enjoy it.
”Thank you, Number One. This was excellent.”
”Thank you, sir.”
Riker placed the dishes on the table. To his relief, Picard didn’t hesitate to tuck in. He appeared hungry and to appreciate his choice of dishes.
Throughout the meal, Riker’s mind was hard at work trying to find a way of approaching Picard. Weakly, he began to mention their Star Fleet Academy days, distant as they were.
”I was thinking of the Academy.”
”Ah, yes. The old days. I don’t suppose you ever really forget that time.”
”No, it was – quite an experience. We’re lucky to have such opportunities.”
”I know. We probably don’t consider that enough.”
”And I had such fun. I remember, falling for a few of my professors.”
To Riker’s surprise, Picard’s face lit up in a delighted grin.
”Ah yes, the old ‘falling for a professor’ thing. I remember Professor Grant. What a woman. She was probably at least thirty years older than me, but I had no idea. Of course she didn’t look it. Remarkably well preserved woman. Exquisite.”
Of course, it would be a woman. But how could he blame Picard? He, himself, had always fallen for women, only more or less accidentally ending up in more crowded and diverse situations occasionally. Worst of all, after all these years, Picard knew him and his reputation. This would be all but impossible to explain. He racked his brains to come up with another approach, but in the end, with a sinking feeling he gave up. Looking at Picard’s smiling benevolent face, he couldn’t do it. He’d feel too much like a fool.
At the end of the evening, Picard got up, excused himself and left, turning back in the doorway, smiling warmly.
”This was a very nice initiative, Number One. Very nice indeed. We should do it again some time. Work aboard a space ship doesn’t always give one time to – pursue social interactions with one’s friends and colleagues. We should make time for that. Thank you again.”
”You’re welcome, sir. And absolutely. Looking forward to it.”
And he was too, quite apart from his – project. Picard was right. They really ought to socialize more. He was even considering inviting Beverly over some time, unless that counted as encroaching on Picard’s territory. If that was out of the question, he could always invite Data and Geordie. At least he could count on Data’s silence.
It was time to a see Ro again. He was considering doing it tonight, but thought better of it. If she was going to be unreasonable, he didn’t want to know that. Not yet. Time enough the following day.
So he went to bed, feeling a strange mix of disappointment and relief. At least he hadn’t made a fool of himself before his Captain. Despite his current obsession with Ro, he had to consider his career too.
The next day he sent a message to Ro asking her to meet him later that evening. She let him wait so long, he knew she was trying to make some kind of point, but he could let that pass. After all, it was part of the game. He definitely didn’t mind.
Just an hour or so before he’d been hoping to see her, she let him know he was welcome to join her in her quarters. He’d been pretty sure she would agree in the end.
He showered and changed, then took the turbo lift to her deck. On his way to her cabin, he passed two different female ensigns, who smiled invitingly at him. He couldn’t stop himself from responding. The Enterprise had its share of beautiful women. Maybe he ought to pay more attention to the males as well? But this was no time to think of others. He was seeing Ro, and that was all he wanted at the moment.
Ro offered him a bottle of some Bajoran wine, that wasn’t synthohol and he accepted. It was good, maybe not quite as good as the one he’d offered Picard last night, but still quite good. She had set the table with a simple meal, that was a mix of Federation and Bajoran. They both knew they weren’t meeting for the food.
”So, tell me about it. How was it? I’m assuming you’ve had at least some success?”
”Yes, you could say that. Data wasn’t a problem. I just told him the truth. He was perfectly willing to accept, after asking me if it was common practice among humanoids. Of course I told him that it was, that it is.”
”Of course. Good. How was it?”
His smile widened.
”It was – interesting.”
”You’ll have to tell me more about it later. I might even be tempted to try it with him myself some time.”
”I’m sure you won’t regret it. He’s quite – knowledgeable.”
”Oh, that sounds promising. What about Worf?”
”It was – interesting too.”
”And you had no trouble convincing him?”
”Not at all. I had no idea, but they have a tradition among warriors. He mentioned being away at battle sometimes for years. Males and females mostly fought apart, so -”
”I see. Fascinating. You have to tell me all about that too, later. And you had no trouble – afterwards?”
”The usual.”
”Of course. Well done. About Picard -”
”I’m sorry. It just wasn’t – I couldn’t.”
Ro’s gaze hardened.
”Did you even try?”
”Yes. I invited him to dinner. Offered him an exclusive wine. I tried to mention the old ‘falling in love with your professor’ thing from the Academy. But he simply didn’t understand and then I thought – he never would. You know him. He’s not even that much into women, for crying out loud. Even though he did share an anecdote about a much older female professor he was infatuated with when he was very young.”
”I see.”
Ro was silent for so long, Riker was beginning to worry that the bet was off, despite his partial success. In the end, she appeared to come to a decision.
”Well, I suppose I might offer you an alternative. Let me think for a moment.”
”Ok, anyone.”
”I hope you won’t regret that.”
The malicious smile she shot him, made his stomach lurch a bit. What was she going to spring on him? His mind dwelled unpleasantly on rare species that had such unusual mating habits he was afraid he might not escape physically or even mentally unscathed. If so, he’d be forced to back out anyway. This game was extremely stimulating, but – he hadn’t lost all trace of reason.
”Ok, I’ve got it. I want you to proposition your brother.”
For a second his mind was a blank.
”My brother?”
”Or your copy, whatever you like. Tom Riker, isn’t it? Your twin.”
”Oh.”
He wasn’t exactly sure how he felt about that. On the one hand, he knew Tom wasn’t his brother. He’d never had any siblings. They hadn’t grown up together. On the other hand, they were identical. How would that feel? Was it a turn-on or a turn-off? In the end, he decided to consider it an interesting challenge. And he had a vague idea that Tom might actually feel the same. He also suspected that Tom might want to come along and share the fruits of his victory.
”Well?”
”Ok, I’ll do it. I’ll try. But it’s going to take a while. I’ll need to find out where Tom is and see if I can get him to come here or if I’ll have to take some time off and go and see him.”
Ro made a careless gesture.
”You figure out the details. Just come back and tell me if you were able to do it.”
Her face was moved by a crooked smile.
”And do tell me all the dirty little details. In fact – why don’t you tell me about how it was with Data and Worf? It just occurred to me that maybe I should have had you do it with both of them at the same time.”
Riker smiled, but felt a bit uncertain. Was she going change the rules in the middle of the bet? She would be fully capable of doing that. He wouldn’t put anything past her. Which was part of why he was so attracted to her.
”I’m afraid that might have been a bit of a problem. Can you see Worf agreeing to have sex with an android?”
”Maybe not. So, tell me all about it.”
He might as well. Clearly, that had been part of the deal all along.
So he shared as many of the details as he felt comfortable with and noticed that she was getting excited. He began to expand on his topic, in the hopes of getting her to agree to a little more – physical proximity. To some extent, his hopes were realized. She did move a little closer and kissed him passionately enough for him to begin to hope for more, but she kept the rest of her body some distance away all the time, clearly not about to break the rules of their little game, not even for this. In the end, he left, feeling frustrated. Now he’d have to find Tom and make sure they met, if that was even possible at the moment. He wasn’t sure how long Ro would wait. If Tom couldn’t get back to him for a month, would Ro still be interested? Would she have yet another alternative for him? He suspected not. It was lucky that she’d been as reasonable as she had.
He waited until the morning, just before he started his next shift, to send a subspace message to Tom. Actually, he wasn’t quite sure where his double was, but the message was coded to seek out Tom wherever he was. Not that it would work all the time. If Tom was really out of touch, he would simply have to give up. He thought Tom himself might get in touch sooner or later, but that could take a year or more. They weren’t all that close. Maybe that would change now. He didn’t exactly feel excited about what they were about to do, as much as proud that he’d accepted the dare. Geordie wouldn’t have, he was willing to bet on that. Picard – wouldn’t even see the point. Worf wouldn’t either. He was convinced that neither Deanna or Beverly would even consider such a thing.
To his surprise, he received a reply from Tom only the day after. Clearly he’d been closer than he’d expected. Tom’s face met him live over a subspace channel, looking so much like his mirror image, that Riker actually felt a stab of excitement at the pit of his stomach. How could he have imagined he’d find this distasteful somehow? This was no more distasteful than doing it with any man. In fact, quite a bit more exciting. He suspected that most men harbored a desire to have sex with themselves, in a more complete sense than the usual.
”Hey, Tom.”
”Hello, brother. Long time no see.”
”Listen, are you busy? I’d like to meet you, if that’s ok. There’s something I’d like to discuss with you.”
”That sounds intriguing.”
Riker smiled expectantly.
”You have no idea. I think you’ll find this suggestion – fascinating.”
”Great. I’m not too busy. In fact, I can probably meet you – three or four days from now. Will that do?”
”Sure. Will you come here or should I come to you?”
”It’s up to you. Though – no, I think it would be better if I come to you. See you soon then, brother.”
”See you soon.”
That was easy. He was hoping it would be the same, all the way. After all, no matter what he was guessing, he didn’t really know Tom. For all he knew, Tom might react the way he might have ten years ago. Because he was pretty sure he wouldn’t have seriously considered going after sex with a number of different men like this, only a couple of years ago. It just wasn’t his thing. If Tom was as – successful – with the ladies, as he was, then this might simply be out of the question for him. Then again, Tom might be just as ready to face a challenge as he had. All he could do was hope and also hope that Tom wouldn’t insist on sharing his prize. Although Riker found himself warming up to that idea as the days went by. Four days later, a small shuttlecraft made contact with the Enterprise and Tom showed up on the screen.
”Tom Riker here. Permission to come aboard?”
”Of course. Nice to see you again, mr Riker.”
”Thank you.”
”Sir? May I meet Tom in the transporter room?”
”Of course.”
Another officer moved to take over Riker’s seat and Riker made for the turbolift. It was all coming together nicely. He hoped he wouldn’t be defeated almost at the finish line, as it were.
The female ensign moved the controls and Tom’s figure began to materialize on the transporter pad. As soon as he was solid, he stepped off it and walked over to greet his double.
”Hey.”
”Hello. Shall we?”
Riker walked Tom to the guest quarters. Perhaps it would have been easier if he’d put his double up in his own quarters, but that might have been a bit hard to explain, all the more so since they weren’t even all that close. No, it was better this way. Under the circumstances, no one wondered at his wish to greet his double by offering him dinner.
”I’ll have to leave you now, but why don’t we meet up tonight? For dinner?”
”Sure. Ten Forward?”
”No, I was thinking my quarters.”
”Ah, that reminds me of the intriguing suggestion you mentioned.”
”Exactly. Until tonight then. 21.00 hours?”
”Ok. See you then.”
Riker returned to the bridge and continued his shift. He returned to his quarters at around 19.00 hours and began to prepare for dinner. Since he assumed he knew Tom’s taste in food and drink, he didn’t worry too much about it. Just like himself, his double was open to most cuisines. Hopefully he would be equally open to other experiences.
Riker considered letting Ro know about his plans, but knew that she’d most likely heard of Tom’s arrival through the grapevine and would know he’d be close to finalizing his plans. There would be time enough to enjoy the fruits of his success later.
At exactly 21.00 hours, he heard Tom’s voice from the corridor outside.
”Come in.”
Tom wasn’t wearing a uniform, preferring instead to appear in plain, everyday clothes. He looked – confident and cheerful. Nothing diffident about his double.
”Are you going to tell me?”
”Oh, about my – suggestion? You’re sure you don’t want to have dinner first?”
”I am rather hungry so, I’d like that, but why can’t we just talk over dinner?”
”Ok, no problem. It won’t be long now.”
”I’ll help set out the dishes. No need to stand on ceremony between the two of us.”
”You’re reading my mind.”
Riker’s smile widened, and he began to relax. This was going to work out. Maybe as early as tonight, he’d be able to go to Ro and –
”What are you smiling about? You look like you have a secret you’d like to share with me. Have you met someone? Are you going to get married? Or – maybe this is more up your alley – are you getting a promotion? I wish they’d considered me your equal in rank. Then I might be heading for a promotion too. I’m getting a bit impatient and a bit tired of obeying orders. Do you never feel that way?”
”No. It’s worth it. The work we do – it’s worth some -”
”Sacrifice?”
”Yes, if it comes to that.”
”I suppose with your rank, the work gets more interesting. For me, it’s just about dull routines. Makes me focus more on my time off and what I can get up to then. I’ve been considering leaving Star Fleet, but then again – it’s the best career opportunity I’ve run into so far.”
”I have time to focus on my time off as well.”
”Oh, so it is something to do with that. Are you getting married?”
Riker quickly considered the idea of marrying Ro and found it not too deterring, but he was sure Ro wouldn’t go for it.
”No, no marriage. And no promotion either. There. All done. Shall we?”
They sat down at the table and began to eat. The wine was now considerably less expensive, but Riker liked it and he could tell that Tom did too. He even had a few beers stacked away in a cooling unit, to be enjoyed later.
He had expected Tom to ask him again, but for the moment, both men were content to just eat and chat, catching up on what they’d been up to since they last met. There were no promotions coming up in Tom’s life, and Riker wasn’t surprised. His double didn’t put his mind to his career. There would be no marriage in the foreseeable future either, that was pretty clear. Not that Tom seemed to mind. He was quite happy to take things as they came, just like Riker himself. They were a lot alike.
Once they’d finished, Riker went to get the beers. They sat down on the sofa and opened their beers. For a while, they didn’t say anything. When Tom was finished, he put the empty beer can on the table. Riker considered getting up to put the empty cans back in the replicator but decided it could wait.
”Well? Aren’t you going to tell me? Is this some kind of big mystery?”
”No. No big mystery. I’m not about to get married, but I’ve been seeing this Bajoran. Ro. She’s really something. Last week she suggested a bet. If I fulfil the terms of it, she’ll let me -”
”Oh, so you haven’t -”
”You have no idea how – complex – she is.”
”Ok. What was the bet about?”
”She dared me to have sex with three rather farfetched people. An android -”
”Data?”
”Yes, you remember him, of course.”
Tom’s smile widened.
”You surprise me. How was it?”
”Interesting. Not bad. I know you remember that I’ve never been into men before, but – like I said – it was actually not bad at all.”
”Ok, I’ll take your word for it. And?”
”Worf.”
This time it was Tom’s eyes that widened. He whistled softly.
”You’re really not pulling any punches.”
”No. I figured it was all or nothing.”
”I’m assuming she’s worth it?”
”You have no idea.”
”So, how was it?”
”It was – how shall I put this – interesting, to say the least. Completely – no, I don’t know what to say.”
Tom digested this in silence.
”I had been with two Klingon women a few years ago so I knew a little of what to expect, but this was different.”
”I’ll bet it was. Ok, I’m not sure I’d have been up for that – I mean, another man, sure. It wouldn’t be the first time, even for you. Yes, I do remember that time at the Academy and that thing during the peace negotiations. And it’s not the first time since, not for me either. But a Klingon? I guess I have a little more sense of self-preservation than you do.”
”Don’t say that. I’m doing ok. Of course I had to call the doctor, but -”
”The lovely Beverly Crusher?”
”Yes, it actually was her. Which was a relief, despite everything. But it was – a bit embarrassing. Fortunately, she didn’t ask any questions.”
Tom shot him a suggestive smile.
”That was lucky for you. Do you have any image of this Ro? I’d like to take a look. Maybe I’d be insane enough to the same for someone like her.”
”Hold on a sec. I’ll bring up her personnel file.”
He grabbed a padd that was lying around on a shelf, and quickly found Ro’s file. There she was. The image didn’t do her justice, but it would have to do.
”There.”
He handed the padd over to Tom, whose smile widened again. Apparently, the image was good enough.
”Ok, I think I get it now. Yes, I might be dumb enough to follow her rules. It should be worth it.”
”Oh, I’m betting on that.”
”But who’s the third person?”
”First she told me to try with Captain Picard. I had no luck there, as you might be able to imagine.”
”Are you out of your mind? You have career prospects. What did he say?”
”I couldn’t bring myself to really say it out loud. I hinted, but he didn’t take the bait, so I came to my senses.”
”Wise move. But what did you tell her?”
”I told her what happened and she was reasonable enough to offer me an alternative.”
”Ok, who? Anyone I know?”
Riker paused a while to brace himself. It was now or never.
”You.”
For a second, it looked as if Tom didn’t get his meaning, then his eyebrows shot up. Riker held his breath. This was it. If he didn’t go for it – Then Riker could see a smile spread across his double’s features.
”Really? I see. Interesting. I can see why she picked me. Well, I wouldn’t like to be the one who lost you your bet, so I suppose I shall have to agree. Why not? It could be – really interesting. Now?”
”Yes, why not now?”
”Right. No problem. Just one thing – she really is worth it, right?”
”You have no idea.”
”I’ll go for that.”
In a way, this was the least different of the three options, yet in another way, it was probably the most different. It all depended on your perspective. If you considered Tom his twin, then this was probably the most kinky thing anyone had every asked of him, but if you just saw him as a double – an alternate version of the original – himself – then this wasn’t at all weird. Just a lot more – stimulating than the usual. Tom seemed to have picked up a thing or two since they’d parted ways. Clearly he’d been busy meeting all sorts of people. Riker was sure Ro would enjoy hearing about it afterwards. For himself, he had nothing to complain about. It was amazingly attractive to be with himself. A remarkable experience. It was like doing it facing a mirror, except a lot more real and visceral.
When it was over, Tom rolled over and faced him.
”You know, it would only be fair if you let me tag along to see your lady. After all, I was the one who won you your bet.”
”Hold on a sec. I was the one who did it with Worf. As you say, it was quite an experience. In more ways than one. I’d like to see you do the same.”
”Not literally see it, I hope, though, come to think of it, why not? You know, I just might try it too, if he’s up to it. And Data – do you think he’d be agreeable?”
”Data, yes. Worf – I’m not sure. Did you know that they have something ritual called ‘warrior love’?”
”No, but now you think about it, isn’t it something they would have?”
”True. Anyway, it’s to do with the old days and doing battle away from the home world, sometimes for years on end, males and females fighting separately -”
”I get the picture. And so the warriors ‘loved’ each other instead of the wife?”
”Exactly. He considers me his brother-in-arms and – well, you can guess the rest.”
”And he might not see me the same way. Oh, well, I can always find another Klingon. Even if they are a bit rare among our crowd. Never mind. So, how about it? Can I tag along? Think she’d be up to it?”
Riker considered. She might. The question was, would he? In a way, Tom was right. He had helped him win the bet. On the other hand, this was between Ro and him. He wasn’t at all sure he liked the idea of sharing her with anyone. Then again, this had been strangely stimulating. The two of them with the same woman – it held a great deal of appeal. He was wondering how serious Tom was about his suggestion. It could be just a joke.
”She might. How serious are you about this?”
”Completely serious.”
It looked as if he was too. Riker decided to give in. It might be interesting and he was sure Ro wouldn’t be offended, unlike most women he knew. She might even like this better.
”Ok. I’ll suggest it to her.”
”What are we waiting for?”
”You’re serious? You’re up for more this soon after -”
”Why not? I haven’t broken every bone in my body having sex with a Klingon. I’m up to pretty much anything.”
Riker considered this, then realized that he too, felt up to seeing Ro. Why shouldn’t he enjoy his victory? He’d done it. This time, nothing would come between him and Ro.
”Ok, me too, actually. I’m pretty much all healed now. Beverly did a great job.”
”I’ll bet she did. That’s a very lovely woman. Did you hint there was something between her and Picard?”
”Yes, maybe. I’m not sure about that. It’s sort of – unspoken. I don’t think they’re actually involved, but -”
”That’s good enough for me. I’ll have a go before I return to my ship. If you don’t mind?”
”I have my hands full with Ro at the moment, at least I hope so. So sure, go ahead.”
”Thanks.”
They walked through the corridor to the nearest turbolift, then picked Ro’s deck. Riker had purposely avoided messaging her. For this, it was better to see her in person.
He pressed the buzzer on the side of her door and waited. For a second he worried she wouldn’t be there, or would refuse to see him or even – he wouldn’t put anything past her – which was why he found her so irresistible – that she’d be with someone else and would refuse to acknowledge the bet.
Then she opened the door, looking just as desirable as always, a slight smile on her lips. That widened as she caught sight of Tom behind him.
”I’m guessing you have come to call in your prize? And you brought your double. Interesting. Do come in, both of you.”
She stepped aside and let them in.
Once inside, she turned to face them.
”So, tell me about it.”
”Well, needless to say, Tom agreed to do this and – we did.”
”Can’t you be any more informative than that?”
”Sure. As much as you like. It’s just that – he wanted to tag along. Are you into that?”
Something in her eyes shifted, then a smile spread across her face.
”Absolutely. Great idea. Do you have anything to say, Tom?”
”Nothing but – thank you. This would never have occurred to me – but it was actually quite – interesting. And then I saw an image of you and – well, it was definitely worth it.”
”Wonderful. Now I’d like to know all about it. In detail please. Then we’ll take it from there.”
Riker had to admit that it was even better this way. He and Tom could be quite a team. That was something he’d never have guessed. Ro seemed happy too. This might go on for longer than he’d expected. If so, he’d definitely be up to it. Besides, he’d have all the time in the world alone with Ro, after Tom returned to his ship. Tom was right, it had definitely been worth every single moment of it. He loved the way Ro’s mind worked. They would have a lot of fun together. And even when it ended – he still had Tom. The two of them could probably get up to a lot of fun together in the future. He’d never expected that. Just like he’d never expected to enjoy sex with men. Apparently, he still had a lot to learn. With or without a promotion, he’d say his future looked bright.
FIN
© Tonica