A/N: Many thanks to Kristen, Leigh Ann, Billie, Melinda, Mary, Andress, Anika, Pat, Sydney, and my wonderful husband.

Café Nervosa was bustling with customers but Niles hardly noticed. Nor did he notice the irritated glance from his brother, who was going on and on about some ridiculous caller that he'd recently helped on his radio show.

As if Niles wasn't reminded enough of Frasier's fame. The city buses did a good job of that.

Leave it to Frasier to lower his standards with his shameless advertising. And on a bus of all things! Why it was the most absurd thing Niles had ever heard of! Imagine, having one's face plastered all over-.

"... So then the woman says-Niles, are you listening to me?"

Absently, Niles looked up. "Hmm?"

"Dear God, do I have to begin the entire story once more? I was almost to the climax!"

Niles rolled his eyes. "No, Frasier. That's quite all right. Just resume from where you left off."

"Fine. So then the woman says-."

But Niles wasn't listening. For when the café door opened, he found himself looking at a vision of loveliness.

He stared, unable to take his eyes off of her and he wondered how it was possible for someone to be so beautiful.

"Hey, Fras! Niles."

"Hey, Dad. Hello, Daphne."

Even after all this time, Niles was still as nervous as a lovesick schoolboy whenever he spoke to his angel. And he was sure that his burning cheeks showcased his embarrassment.

"Hello, Dr. Crane." Daphne said. Her laugh was a sound that was music to Niles' ears.

"You know, it sounds kind of funny when I address both you and your brother in the same way. Almost like I'm repeating meself!"

Niles sprung from his chair to help her with her coat and then offered her his seat. And he simply could not stop staring at the exquisite dress that she was wearing.

It was one he'd never seen before; a simple A-line dress in a beautiful shade of cream, accented with tiny flowers in every color of the rainbow. And when her subtle floral scented perfume wafted into his direction, he inhaled deeply, wanting to keep the aroma with him for the rest of his life.

"It's all right, Daphne." Niles said. "A-about addressing me as Dr. Crane. I like the way you say it."

Beside him, Frasier grumbled. "Oh, for God's sake, Niles!"

Daphne scoffed. "Just ignore your brother Dr. Crane! I'm flattered. Although..."

When she paused for dramatic effect, Niles became intrigued.

"Although, what?"

"Well, this sounds silly but sometimes I wish there were something else I could call you. Other than Dr. Crane. Y-you know, to avoid confusion?"

Niles grinned as his heart rate increased. Now was his chance.

"You could call me Niles. I mean, that is my name."

Daphne smiled and took his hand, a gesture that nearly caused him to spill his latte that was adorned with the faintest hint of cinnamon.

"It's a lovely name, Dr. Crane. Much better than Frasier, if you ask me." She added, squeezing Niles' hand as she glared at his brother.

"Thank you, Daphne."

"But I'm afraid I can't do it."

He was momentarily confused. "Do what?"

Ignoring Frasier, Daphne gave Niles her undivided attention.

"Call you by your first name. It wouldn't feel right. Your brother is me boss and I was brought up by me mum to always show respect. And in a way, I feel like you're me boss too. I know I've said it before, but I can't thank you, your father and your brother for hiring me."

She paused and took a deep breath, her voice breaking with her next words. It's like a... dream come true."

To Niles' dismay, she began to cry.