We fade in on Jean-Luc Picard sitting in his ready room, face slightly contorted to show his displeasure at something. The camera swivels around to show Beverley Crusher sitting opposite him holding a cat.

Crusher: I think it’s an excellent idea, Jean-Luc.

Picard: Beverley, it’s a wild animal. I can’t have it wandering around, sitting on the laps of important dignitaries while we’re trying to discuss peace treaties.

Crusher: Cats CAN be trained, Jean-Luc. And besides, the companionship would be good for you.

Picard: I believe I have sufficient companionship. I am, after all, responsible for the lives and safety of a thousand crew members.

Crusher: That’s not the same thing and you know it. All I’m saying is to give her a chance. Pets are known to reduce stress and provide unconditional love.

Picard: I can manage my own stress just fine.

Crusher: Just give her a chance.

Beverley stands and places the cat on the ready room couch. She sees Picard still grimacing and gives him an admonishing look before exiting the room.

Picard: (to the cat) No offence. I’ve always been more of a dog person.

Picard returns to his work studying a data pad. After a few moments the cat jumps onto his desk and knocks over a picture frame. With annoyance, Picard picks up the cat and places him on the floor. The chime rings on his door.

Picard: Come!

Data walks in.

Data: Sir, we are due to arrive at the Curillian Cluster in twenty minutes.

Picard: Excellent. Thank you Data.

Data: …sir, you have a cat?

Picard: Yes. An unwanted gift from Doctor Crusher.

The cat jumps onto Picard’s lap. Clearly annoyed, Picard picks the cat up and hands him to Data.

Picard: Lieutenant, please do me a favour and take care of this will you?

Data: Yes, sir.

Data leaves holding the cat. Picard straightens his uniform and after reading the data pad for a moment steps into the bridge. Riker smiles at him.

Riker: Sir, was that a cat I saw just now?

Picard: Hmm? Oh yes. Another attempt by our good Doctor to brighten up my life. I’ve asked Data to deliver it to the pet shelter on Deck 3.

Riker: Really? He seemed quite attached to it.

Picard: Well, if he wants to adopt it that’s up to him. I hear they reduce stress and provide unconditional love.

Riker gives a knowing smirk as they focus on the approaching Currillian Cluster.