A/N: This is an expansive rewrite of a story called Simple Kiss that I found by a writer who seems to have abandoned their account. Although the original story was quite short and it did convey the message, I felt compelled to expand on it. I was unable to contact the writer directly but I did my best to keep the overall feel of their work, so you may notice that it's a little different than anything I've written before.

"This is your last chance, Niles. Are you sure you won't change your mind and come with us?"

Niles smiled, grateful for the invitation. "Thanks Frasier, but I think I'll pass. A fishing trip to British Columbia doesn't interest me right now."

"Oh Niles, how long are you going to stay cooped up in my apartment? You know, it's about time you spread your wings."

Niles' smile disappeared but he refused to let his hurt show. "If you're referring to my recent separation, I'll have you know that-."

"All right, that's enough of this!" Martin interjected. "If he doesn't want to go, he doesn't want to go! End of story! But Niles, I think you're a damn fool for passing up an opportunity like this! How often do you get to ride in a twin engine float plane that takes off and lands right in the water?"

Niles shuddered at the thought. "Thanks Dad, but I'm content to stay right here, but I have to wonder what possessed Frasier to agree to such a trip."

Frasier laughed a little too enthusiastically. "Are you kidding, Niles? This is a chance to bond with Dad like never before! Out in the wilderness!"

"That's bull and you know it, Fras!" Martin snapped. "The only reason you're coming is because you dragged me to that damn opera last month when Niles couldn't go with you. Believe me, this is nothing compared to the hell you put me through!"

"Oh Dad, please!"

Martin grabbed his cane and headed for the door. "We'd better get going if we're going to get to the dock in time! Those people won't wait for anybody!"

"All right, fine." Frasier sighed. "But Dad, couldn't you have picked a closer location place to have a fishing reunion with your buddies...like Puget Sound? None of those guys even live in Canada!"

"That's the point, Fras! British Columbia has the best fishing around, according to the television! And there's no way I'm letting this passport go to waste! I waited in line for too damn long to-."

"All right, fine Dad Let's go." Frasier said, ushering Martin to the door. "Oh wait... I forgot one more thing!"

Martin watched with annoyance as Frasier rushed through the living room and into the hallway, returning with a book.

"Come on Fras, let's get going! Eddie's going to suspect something's up if we don't leave now!"

Frasier rolled his eyes. "Well we wouldn't want Detective Eddie to miss an important clue, now would we?"

Daphne laughed and hugged Frasier and Martin. "Goodbye you two, and don't worry. I'll take good care of Eddie and Dr. Crane while you're gone. Have a good time! Oh, and Happy Thanksgiving!"

"Happy Thanksgiving!" The men waved absently as they headed out the door.

Silence filled the condo as Niles turned to Daphne. And suddenly he was filled with a familiar shyness.

"Daphne, if you're uncomfortable by my being here... a-alone with you, just say the word and I'll find a hotel. I'm sure they have plenty of rooms and-."

Her fingers went to his lips to silence him; the softness of her skin making his pulse quicken.

"Nonsense. You'll do no such thing. This is your home now and it has been for the last six months. You have every right to be here."

When he lowered his head, she hugged him warmly, filling his senses with the heavenly aroma of her perfume.

"I'm sorry that your marriage didn't work out, Dr. Crane. I know how much it must hurt. But I can't say that I'm sorry you're here."

He pulled out of her arms and stared at her in amazement. "Y-you... you're not?"

She smiled shyly. "You're such a sweet man and a wonderful friend. Thank you."

The kiss she placed on his cheek surprised him and he felt his face flush.

"Oh..." He tried to say more but the words wouldn't come.

Damn...

" It's so peaceful here without your father and brother, isn't it?"

When his eyes met hers she gasped lightly. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean... I love your father and brother as if they were me own family. I hope you know that. And... I love you, too."

A second hug caused his knees to buckle and he held onto her, finding it hard to let go.

Thank you, Daphne. "I love..."

The rest of the thought resonated in is his head, but as before the words wouldn't come. And when he attempted to try again, he turned to find that she was gone.