Author's Note: This is what happens when you reread an old story. You end up writing a sequel you never planned on! If you haven't read "The Accident," you probably should do that before reading this. But please do R&R! :)
When Frasier opened the door to his apartment, Niles immediately held something out in his hand. "Here."
Frasier took the piece of paper, puzzled at what it could be. "A blank check? What is this for?"
"It's to cover the cost of having your car fixed. I know Daphne offered to pay for it herself, but she works so hard, and -"
Frasier held up a hand, signalling for Niles to stop. "I've already decided to take care of it myself. Daphne's a member of this family, and I can't expect her to spend money she doesn't have to pay for my car. Besides, that's what car insurance is for."
Just then, Daphne emerged from her room. She knew it was wrong to eavesdrop, but she froze upon hearing her name.
"Dr. Crane," she said when she heard what her boss had just told his brother. "I told you yesterday that I'll pay for the damage I've done to your car. It really was me own fault. I wouldn't feel right if I didn't make it up to you."
"That's very sweet of you, Daphne. But it's all right. Really. I mean, under the circumstances..." Frasier looked from her to his younger brother.
"I don't want any special treatment just because I love your brother," Daphne said. "I still intend to do me chores around here and pull me own weight. And that includes your car!"
"But, Daphne, how can I not give you special treatment?" Frasier grinned at her.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, I haven't seen my brother this happy in months. And that's thanks to you. Daphne, whether you like or not, I'm afraid I am going to treat you differently from now on." He pulled her into a hug.
Daphne felt tears in her eyes. "Thank you, Dr. Crane." She pulled out of the embrace and walked over to the other Dr. Crane. She put her arms around his waist, causing him to immediately hold her close. "Your brother is the sweetest man I've ever met. I know we've only been a couple for a short while, but I've never been more certain of anything in me life."
Niles lifted Daphne's chin, gently kissing her lips. "I've waited so long to hear those words. I've known since the moment I met you that I could never be happy with anyone else."
Frasier watched his younger brother, the way he held Daphne, treating her as if she were the most precious thing he could imagine. It made him remember Lilith. Their marriage may have ended, but he knew he would always love her in some way. And yet, even back when they were together, he could never remember treating her the way Niles did Daphne. All his life, Frasier had envied his little brother for many reasons. Most of them were petty jealousies caused by a need to compete over nearly everything. But what he saw when he looked at these two struck him in a different way. He knew all too well how risky and painful love could be. But, when it looked like this, the risk was more than worth it.
The End
