Author's Note: Thanks once again to Annika (BaronessBlixen) for allowing me to continue her wonderful story. I hope this lives up to the original! :)
"Dr. Crane!" Daphne said in surprise as she opened the door.
"Hello, Daphne," Niles replied. "I hope this isn't a bad time."
Daphne shook her head. "Your father's taking a nap, and your brother's at work. I was just about to start on me chores, but I can wait." She stepped back so he could enter.
Niles smiled. "I wanted to apologize for...last night. I can't believe I actually fell asleep there in the theater." He tried not to think of the particularly vivid dream he'd had as he slept.
"Oh, that's all right. I guess it was me own fault, picking a movie like that. It's more of a 'chick flick,' as your father says."
Niles hung his head. He hated the fact that Daphne thought his falling asleep was due to the movie...or worse, her company. But neither was at fault. "I can assure you, it had nothing to do with the movie. I'm so glad you asked me to go with you. Especially considering my...living situation."
Daphne reached over and took hold of his hand, squeezing it. Niles nearly gasped when he felt her hand on his. "When I read in the paper that the theater was showing The Way We Were, I just knew I had to go. And it's more fun to go with someone. It was nice, going out with you. You're always saying such sweet things."
Niles blushed. He wondered if she ever thought about why he complimented her so often. "Well, in any case, I feel I should explain why I fell asleep like that. You see, my apartment – if you can call it that – at the Shangri-La isn't very comfortable. I've been having trouble sleeping lately."
"Oh, Dr. Crane! Why didn't you say anything?" Daphne asked. She knew he didn't like living in such a tiny apartment, but she'd never dreamed it was as bad as this."I'm sure your brother would let you -"
Niles shook his head. "I've imposed on Frasier enough. I suppose this is just the price I have to pay for my freedom."
"Nonsense, Dr. Crane. It's not healthy to go without sleep. Now, your brother's not here, so why don't you go lie down in his room? I'll come and bring you some tea."
Niles could hardly believe this. Was Daphne really this concerned for his well-being? His heart warmed at the thought. He wanted to protest, knowing that Frasier would not be happy about his little brother taking a nap in his bed. But he knew Daphne wouldn't take 'no' for an answer. And besides, Frasier's bed was awfully comfortable.
Within minutes, he was sitting on his brother's bed, taking off his shoes. Daphne came in, carrying a tray with a cup of tea on it. "I'll just be in the living room, straightening up a bit. I won't disturb you. If you need anything, just let me know."
The smile on her face nearly made Niles lightheaded. He watched as she turned and left the room, turning out the light. "Goodnight, Dr. Crane. Pleasant dreams."
As Niles drifted off, his last thought was that his dreams could never be anything less than pleasant, when they were about a certain English healthcare worker.