(Daphne's POV)

Daphne sighed with frustration, silently cursing her brother-in-law. But she was partly to blame as well. When it came to things that people said about Niles, her husband was the most sensitive man she knew. Damn Frasier for telling Niles that he talked too much, even if at times it was true. So what? He'd always been there for her, listening to her often long, drawn out stories about her family and her brothers, so why shouldn't she do the same for him? But now he remained silent, a result of his brother's insensitive chiding.

She sat beside Niles on the fainting couch, running her fingers through his soft hair. It was darker, thinner than it had been when she'd first met him. But there was no denying that after so many years, he was still the most handsome man she'd ever known. And now his silence was breaking her heart.

"Niles, Sweetheart, are you all right?"

He sighed but said nothing, paining her heart even further. And unexpectedly tears fell onto her cheeks. The fact that he appeared not to notice pained her yet again. His handsome face blurred as more tears fell.

"Niles, please… talk to me. Say something, anything." She knew that she couldn't force him to talk, but she couldn't resist cradling his face in her hands and kissing him.

His lips were so soft and she could have kissed him forever. But he barely responded to her touch.

"I love you so much, Sweetheart. I just want you to know that." She kissed him one last time and draped the blanket across his shoulders. It was clear that he wanted to be alone. But she missed the sweet sound of his voice. She missed it so very much.

She rose from the sofa and went to the stairs but she'd barely made it there when she heard her name.

"Daphne?"

She turned and found herself in his arms but before she could speak, he was kissing her. The kisses went on and on and when they ended he lifted her into his arms and carried her up the stairs. When they reached the bedroom, their bedroom, he laid her gently on the bed where no words were needed. Their kisses and touches said all that they needed to say.

THE END