She stared at Niles, unable to calm her beating heart. Even in his state of worry, he was incredibly handsome. And a sudden shyness came over her. "Hello…"
He walked into the room and stood beside her, holding something in his hand.

"What's that?"

She could see his hand trembling and he gave her a small gift bag.

"Niles…"

At the sound of his name, his eyes met hers. "You just called me…. You said my name…"

Daphne smiled and took his trembling hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Yes, I did."

"This is for you…"

"Another gift? But I don't deserve…"

"Of course you do, Daphne. You're kind, generous and the most caring person I've ever known and I love you."
She gasped at the words that were so unexpected. She cared for Niles so much and she knew that they had a future together. But she wanted to take things slowly.

"I know that's not what you were expecting to hear, but-"

She took the gift bag and opened it, smiling when she removed the tissue paper. And in her hand was the most adorable and sweet stuffed teddy bear that she had ever seen. It was every color of the rainbow and the sweetness of it brought tears to her eyes.

"It's lovely. And I love you too."

His mouth fell open, making her smile. She reached out to caress his cheek. "You're sweet, and kind and I appreciate your being herewith me more than you could possibly know." She kissed his lips on more, smiling at the way he shivered.

"Are you going to be all right, Daphne?"

"I think so. I'm a bit tired."

He smiled and kissed her forehead. "I'll let you get some rest."

"I don't…."

"What?"

"I don't think I can stay here by myself. Will you stay with me? The hospital staff might not like it, but I'm afraid…"

He drew her into his arms and held her close. "I'll keep you safe. And I would love to stay with you, Daphne. If the hospital staff doesn't like it, so be it. But I don't ever want to leave you again. I'll always love you."

"Thank you. Now, if you don't mind, I'm going to get some sleep."

"Of course, Daphne."

He climbed on the bed next to her and she settled herself into his arms, drifting off to sleep. And for the first time in a long time, her dreams were sweet, filled of images of the man who loved her while she held the sweet teddy bear against her heart.

THE END