Author's Note: This is an idea I've had for a while now, but after Melinda (samanddianefan10) mentioned Baby to me the other day, it got me thinking again about finally doing this story. It's not quite done yet, but I figured I'd go ahead and post what I have. I'm sure the rest will be written soon! :)
Niles hated to do this. He lifted up Baby's cage so that he could see the bird eye-to-eye. "I'm sorry. I don't want to leave town, but the psychiatrists' convention needs a speaker. I'll only be away for a few days. Frasier has agreed to let you stay at his place while I'm gone. At least I'll know you're here with Daphne when I can't be." He sighed. He'd gotten the call only yesterday that the convention's speaker was ill, and Niles was chosen to be the replacement.
At the mention of Daphne's name, Baby suddenly became alert. "Ark! Daphne's an angel!"
"Sh!" Niles said. He was now standing just outside his brother's door. The last thing he needed was for Daphne to learn of his feelings via a talking bird. It occurred to him what might happen while he was gone. If indeed Daphne would one day find out about his affections, he would much prefer to be present when it happened. But it seemed fate had other plans.
With one last stern glance at his bird, Niles knocked. Barely a second later, the door was opened. "Hello, Dr. Crane! Are you excited about your trip?" Daphne smiled warmly.
Niles gave a reluctant sigh. "I suppose I should be. This is going to be a wonderful opportunity to speak with my colleagues. But I can't bear to be separated from Baby."
Daphne reached over to squeeze his hand as she used the other to take the bird's cage. "Now, I know your brother isn't thrilled about this arrangement, either, but you have my word that Baby will be in safe hands."
The sight of Daphne's smile, along with the feel of her hand in his comforted Niles a great deal. "Thank you, Daphne. That means so much to me."
"Well, I'm glad. Have a safe trip, and don't forget to bring me back a souvenir!" Daphne couldn't resist teasing him. The convention would be held in California. Daphne glanced out the window at Seattle's usual gray skyline and wished she were going, too.
"Don't worry, Daphne, I won't forget about you while I'm away." Niles laughed, although it was a bit forced. For there was no chance he could forget her.
"Of course you won't," Daphne said immediately. "Your brother's at a late meeting and your father went out with some of his friends. Would you like to wait to say goodbye to them?"
"No, I'm afraid I can't. I still have some packing to do, and I want to revise my speech a bit more. Tell Dad and Frasier I'll see them the day after tomorrow."
"All right, then. I'll tell them." She hugged Dr. Crane tightly. "I know you're a bit nervous about this trip, but I have a feeling it's going to be good for you," she whispered in his ear.
"Thank you, Daphne." Niles was grateful beyond words for her. Knowing she would be taking care of Baby was the only thing allowing him to go through with this trip.