Little is crying in the corner, holding onto a plushie, when Data approaches, asking what is wrong. The little one can't find the words but reaches out for a hug.
Data gives a hug. His hugs feel firm and cool, but they bring their own special comfort. The hug lasts for a couple moments, before Data brings the little to his quarters for some peace and quiet.
Data sits next to the little and wipes away their tears. "I am here, little one. You are safe here." He watches the little intently, and places his hand on their back.
The little stops crying and pauses, to think before babbling and pointing to an old paper book that is on a table.
"That is my copy of The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle. We have to be very careful with the pages, but I can read some of it to you, if you would like"
The little one nods excitedly, and Data gets up to retrieve the book. He knows he could tell the story without risking damage to the item, but something tells him that it will mean more to the little one if he can read directly from the page. As Data prepares to tell the story, he carefully calculates which details to omit for the little one's comfort.
The little one curls up next to Data, and looks at the book closely as Data reads, happy to share this moment with their caregiver. They get lost in the rhythm of Data's voice and the turning of pages, and begin slowly drifting off.
Data of course, is aware the little one is drifting towards restfulness, but makes sure to read the first story of the book to completion. By the time "A Scandal in Bohemia" has been solved, the little is fast asleep, holding onto Data's arm.
Data stays still for a while allowing the little one to rest and cuddle, before gently getting up, returning the book to it's proper place, and leading the little to their own quarters to rest for the night.
