"Daphne, aren't you ready yet? The party's about to start!"

"I'll be right there, Dr. Crane!"

Daphne took one last glance in the mirror to make sure that she looked absolutely perfect. She'd gone to great lengths to pick out her clothes; a pink floral skirt and a soft pink sweater.

But the reflection that stared back at her indicated that she was far from presentable.

It didn't matter anyway. What had gotten into her, making such a fuss over herself for Frasier's birthday party? It wasn't one of his black tie events by any means. Just a simple family party to be attended by herself, Martin, Frasier and Niles.

Niles...

Just the thought of him made her cheeks flush.

God, why was this happening now? She was engaged to a wonderful man and wanted nothing more than to spend the rest of her life with him. But thanks to Frasier's back injury, her world had turned on its Axel.

And all because of those four little words.

"He's crazy about you."

She remembered how her hands stilled above Frasier's back when he blurted out the words she was clearly not supposed to hear.

Who knew that pain medication could have such a profound affect on someone... someone other than the patient?

When his massage was over, Frasier told her he was worried that he'd said something that he shouldn't have, and she wanted so much to tell him. But she couldn't force the words from her mouth. Because doing so might make it untrue.

Tears splashed onto her cheeks and she quickly brushed them away. She couldn't let anyone see her crying over something so ridiculous. Why was she letting words from a loopy psychiatrist get her all worked up?

"Daphne, come on!"

Martin's harsh tone rang in her ears and she grabbed Frasier's gift from her nightstand. It was just a simple gift; a book that he'd been thumbing through during several visits to the Elliot Bay Bookstore.

No doubt Frasier would get receive far more impressive gifts from his friends and colleagues. Still... it was the thought that counted.

"Daphne!"

Angrily she stormed into the living room.

"All right, I'm coming old man! Just pipe down!"

"Okay, now put this on."

Daphne rolled her eyes when Martin handed her a paper party hat.

"I can't wear this! I mean... me hair-."

"Oh geez, your hair is fine!"

"But-."

"Come on, do it! Look, I've got one on, Eddie has one on and even Frasier and Niles are going to wear one!"

"Dad-."

"Now, don't start with me! It may be your birthday but it's my party, Fras! And even though you're wearing that damn robe, there's nothing wrong with having a little fun!"

"That's a beautiful cake, Mr. Crane." Daphne said.

"Sure as hell hope so. It cost enough." Martin replied. "I just hope that some people appreciate it."

"Dad, of course I appreciate it. I just-."

When the doorbell rang, Daphne's heart leaped inside her chest.

"That'll be Niles." Frasier said.

After a moment's pause, Daphne sighed with annoyance.

"I'll get it."

She crossed the room and opened the door; her heart beating faster at the sight.

Niles stood in the doorway, looking so handsome that he nearly took her breath away.

In his blue shirt and grey suit, she wondered how it was possible that she never really noticed him before.

A/N: Thank you for reading Ch 1. Reviews are appreciated.