A 62-Day Study of the Human Grieving Process by sloanesomething (G)

[idella]

Fandom: STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION
Pairing: None
Length: one-shot
Author on LJ: sloanesomething
Author Website: Just her LJ, I think
Why this must be read:

This short, poignant fic follows Data in the days after the death of a crewmate and friend. Data is precisely and endearingly himself, and sloanesomething does an excellent with the rest of the crew, as well. Be prepared to miss everyone all over again.

Picard asks him to the captain’s quarters.

"Data," he says, and indicates a chair, "Beverly has told me that you’re, ah, trying to come to terms with Lieutenant Yar’s death."

"Yes, sir," Data says, files away the use of Doctor Crusher’s first name.

The Captain sits opposite him. "Is there. Well, is there anything I can do?"

"Not advisable, sir," Data says. "The human mourning period is, on average, three to six months. Multiple studies have shown that intrusion upon or deferment of grief often manifests in unhealthy behavior such as nightmares, insomnia, drug and alcohol abuse, loss of appetite, pathological narcissism, morbidity –"

"Yes, Data. Thank you. I meant, is there anything I can do for you?"

Data frowns. "No, sir. I have no mourning period."

After a long time, The Captain says, "I see."

Data files away the length of the pause for future study.


A 62-Day Study of the Human Grieving Process