Picard's romance with a crew member tests his judgment.
Captain Picard meets Lieutenant Commander Nella Daren, the new head of stellar sciences, and the two quickly find that they share a love of music. They begin a relationship, which develops into a romance, while Picard struggles with how to balance his feelings with his duties as Captain.
When a crisis arises, Picard has to make a command decision that puts Nella at risk, and he has to choose between his heart and his duty. The episode is a quiet, romantic story, with a touch of tragedy. Picard's love of music, and the flute, plays an important role. It is a mature character piece that gives the Captain a rare chance at love.