This is our joint entry to the 2001 Frasier Fan Fiction contest.
The usual disclaimers to the characters apply...
Rating: G
Moxie says: The man from Mexico started this story, just when I thought there were no more plots for these endearing characters. I contributed my ideas and edited for English (if we could all read Spanish, I'm sure no editing would be needed). We've been sending it back and forth from Mexico to New England, USA. Writes and rewrites. And since the spellcheck from his original is in Spanish, I had to (shudder) spell check the old fashioned way. But it's been fun, and we hope you enjoy reading it.
And Vick says: A long term project finally sees the light of day; a 4 chapter voyage through the torturous world of decisions and destiny for the sake of real love. This project began about 6 or 7 months ago so, you can imagine all the hours invested. I want to remark how much I admire Moxie for her patience (this one was used on me because I have a very anxious gen...you know, family genetics) and good work, her additions and editiing made this story take the real shape we planned.
The Story with No Name
Chapter One
Daphne
By Moxie and Vick
To quote the lyrics of Tim Rice, from the musical "Chess":
Long ago
In someone else's lifetime
Someone with my name who looked a lot like me
Came to know
A man and made a promise
He only had to say
And that's where she would be
Lately
Although the feelings run just as deep
The promise she made has grown impossible to keep
And yet, I wish it wasn't so
Will he miss me if I go?
In a way
It's someone else's story
I don't see myself
As taking part at all
Yesterday
A girl that I was fond of
Finally could see
The writing on the wall
Sadly
She realized she'd left him behind
And sadder than that she knew he wouldn't even mind
And though there's nothing left to say
Would he listen if I stay?
It's all very well to say, you fool, it's now or never
I could be choosing
No choices whatsoever.
I could be
In someone else's story
In someone else's life
And he could be in mine
I don't see
A reason to be lonely
I could take my chances
Further down the line
And if
That girl I knew should ask my advice
Oh, I wouldn't hesitate, she needn't ask me twice
Go now!
I'd tell her that for free
Trouble is, the girl is me
The story is, the girl is me.
Daphne knocked twice and waited for an answer. No response. Maybe Clarice had been right and he was not in his office, but she didn't want to leave. She needed to learn the reason why Niles Crane was avoiding her; why hadn't he returned her phone calls?
It was three months after the wedding and, even though she wanted to maintain the friendship between them, Niles had vanished in the mist. His brother was no help, refusing to tell her anything, not to mention Mr. Crane, who wouldn't even discuss the matter. She thought she was happy with her marriage but, deep in her heart, where Niles had once resided there was now an aching hole. It was hard to explain, but the feeling was always there as she struggled to go about her daily life.
She hoped she had managed to hide that feeling from the others. She kept her questions about him casual. She even managed to hide it from Donny, or so she thought. But as the days wore on, her need to find Niles grew more and more until it became an unbearable pain in her heart.
She had been hurt when he hadn't shown up at her wedding. Frasier had said something about an emergency in another city. She could tell he was covering, though; his expression had betrayed him. There was some other reason, but what that was she couldn't know.
She had enjoyed the wedding reception, or rather, forced herself to, playing mental games to avoid thinking about him. The bond between her and Niles was something really special for Daphne; it had grown ever stronger over the years. She had watched him gradually transform from the snobby psychiatrist to a gentle, charming and handsome friend. Once total strangers, they had become very close.
Until now.
Which was why she needed answers.
Daphne knocked again, harder this time. Suddenly the door opened, slowly. She stepped in cautiously. The office was tidy and clean, as he always kept it.
But Niles was not there.
Daphne walked over to his desk. There was evidence of his having been here quite recently. The coffee was still hot, there were papers spread across the desk, along with some open books. The scent of his aftershave hung in the air.
"Dr. Crane?"
"Why don't you just leave him alone!?"
She jumped at the response, which had come from Clarice, right behind her. The voice was chilling.
Daphne spun around. Clarice was usually very kind, but her tone now stopped Daphne cold. She could only look at the assistant. She waited, hoping for some sign of apology. It never came.
"What?"
"Leave him alone." Clarice folded her arms. "Don't you think you've made him suffer enough these last few months?"
Daphne stepped back, shocked. What was this woman talking about? Made him suffer?
Clarice looked reproachful. "Don't play innocent with me," she said sternly. "Now, leave! Get the hell out of here or I'll call security."
Daphne bolted from the office as the door slammed behind her. She continued down the hallway, now in a trancelike state, taking no notice of other people's scornful looks. What had caused Clarice to threaten her like that? The words she had spoken echoed in Daphne's head.
Her need to find Niles intensified.
It was pouring out, a torrential Friday afternoon. She was grateful she had remembered to bring her raincoat when she left her house. People were running through the streets, trying to get in from rain. It was impossible to stay dry. She saw a young couple holding hands and just walking, indifferent to the the downpour. They were soaked but didn't seem to care.
Daphne came to an intersection. A black Mercedes was stopped at the light. Its driver looked out at the woman on the sidewalk. Could it be . . .? When she saw the face of a stranger she just crossed the street with her eyes down.
Daphne approached the café. While she didn't wish to, she knew, due to the hour, she knew she could run into Frasier, Martin, or Roz. Café Nervosa was sort of a sanctuary for all of them. She had always enjoyed meeting Niles here; it was a nice place to share a latte and chat about anything and everything.
The café was packed with people, but she spotted a free table and took it, leaving her coat on the rack.
A waiter approached and she asked for a cup of cinnamon tea. Her table was by the door, a good spot to see him if he showed up. If only destiny would let them meet here now, their often shared place. If that were to happen she would just smile at him and invite him to join her, as she had so many times before. Donny had said that he had a late meeting with his partners, which would give her time to chat with her old friend. The thought of that warmed her heart.
As the minutes passed, her mind dragged her deeply into the labyrinths of memory. She revisited the Snow Ball and they danced the tango again, making her smile. Then she was on his fainting couch on a hot summer night, inches from the face of this handsome man in white. She felt sparks fly between them and wondered . . . should they . . . but no, Niles was a gentleman. He would never take advantage of her vulnerability.
Donny had expressed his opinion of Niles more than once. He thought Niles Crane was a wimp, a spineless puppet in women's hands, unable to risk an inch of his neck for fear of rejection. He once described Niles as a clown in Armani suits. She hated that part of Donny, now her husband . . . hated how he made fun of Niles while not knowing the man she knew.
The memory of Donny's words made her angry. After all, Niles was responsible for their wedding. His advice had finally broken her fear of commitment. She wanted to thank him.
God, where could he be?
Perhaps . . . the Montana? It wasn't far from the café; if she just casually dropped in he wouldn't refuse to talk to her, would he? Daphne pondered this for a moment, until the voice hit her.
"He won't come in here anymore," the voice said. Daphne looked up to see Kit, the waitress. Her face was unfriendly and cold, just as Clarice's had been. "And it is your fault."
"What do you mean?" Daphne rose from her chair, startled. "What's my fault?"
"Why don't you get the hell out of here?" Kit demanded. "You've done enough damage. Go concentrate on your new life and just leave him alone!"
Daphne was baffled; what was happening?
"What are you talking about?" she asked. "I don't want to harm anyone."
"About time," chimed in a waiter. Daphne looked around. Everyone was staring at her.
She grabbed her purse and coat and rushed out. Glancing back, she saw them serving coffee. People inside chatted away and the café was normal again.
Daphne stopped on the sidewalk, incapable of believing all that had happened. All of these people were angry with her. Clarice and Kit were blaming her for something, something to do with Niles... what was it? Was she guilty of something?
She was more confused than ever.
Daphne began to cry as she walked to the bus stop. The idea of showing up at the Montana was not appealing anymore. Maybe some other day. No one noticed her tears, thanks to the rain. When she made it to the bus stop she collapsed on the bench, alone.
What is going on?
For some reason she felt guilty. The pain in her chest was now lacerating. Had something happened she didn't know about? Was it something she'd said? Done? So many question flew through her mind. She just wanted the bus to come; she needed to get home as quickly as possible.
"Hello."
Daphne looked up to see a young girl, perhaps twelve or thirteen, protected from the rain by a black parka. Her voice was kind and soft, and somehow... familiar. Like that of an old friend.
"Oh, hello," Daphne replyed.
"Bad day, huh?" the girl asked, taking a seat to her right. "People can be so rude, they never seem to understand."
Daphne looked at her with curiosity; was she that transparent?
"How . . . do you know about that?"
"I just know," the girl said, shrugging her shoulders. "My name is Hester, but you can call me Hess if you like."
Daphne smiled weakly.
"Well, in that case, you can call me..."
"Daph," Hester interjected. "I know. But I like Daphne better."
"How did you know my name?" Daphne asked, dumbfounded. "Are you psychic or...?"
Hester shook her head, smiling. The hood of her coat fell back, revealing long blonde hair tied in a ponytail. Her face was cute; she had large brown eyes and a warm smile.
"Are you waiting for the bus?" the girl asked.
"Don't you know?" Daphne asked in amusement.
Hess laughed.
"And you?"
"Oh, I just was taking a walk," Hess said. "Rain happens to like me a lot. I like walking in it."
"Me, too." Daphne suddenly remembered the rain.
"But your husband doesn't like it," Hess said.
"That's true." Daphne said, thoughtfully. "Have... have we met before?"
"Yes and no," Hester said, then pointed at the approaching bus. "You have to go now."
"Yes, I do," Daphne stated.
When the bus stopped in front of her she spotted a familiar face plastered on the side. It looked at her with a fake smile. "He's listening," the ad said.
The doors of the bus opened and she turned to say goodbye to her new friend. "Nice meeting you, Hess," she said, looking toward the bench.
It was empty.
"Lady, are you getting in or not?" the bus driver asked impatiently.
Daphne nodded and got on the bus.
***
Suddenly she was home, having dinner with Donny.
"You're so quiet, Daph." Donny asked, his mouth full. "Are you ok?"
Daphne forced a smile.
"Yes, a little tired, that's all." she said. Her fork toyed with her untouched meal.
"Are you... ?" he asked, hopefully. "Oh, Daph, are you...late? "
She knew what he meant and smiled, sincerely this time.
"No, I'm right on schedule," she said rising from her chair.
Donny snapped his fingers. "Maybe we could... delay the train at the station?"
Daphne shook her head. "Yes, but not tonight. I really am tired."
He shrugged his shoulders. "Well, then, I suppose I'll have to wait... for today, anyway."
"Yes." She walked into the living room. "For today."
Donny followed her and hugged her from behind. She cringed slightly but didn't resist.
"I love you," he said in low voice.
"I know."
"Hey," he spun her around. "That's not the answer I wanted to hear."
"Donny, I told you, I'm tired."
"Is that all?"
"Yes," she said, pulling away.
"Are you sure you feel ok?" Donny scratched his head.
Daphne sat on a sofa. "I just had a bad day, that's all."
"Oh, honey..."
She decided to tell a mild lie to reassure him; he seemed truly worried.
"I ran into Clarice this afternoon."
Donny looked confused.
"Dr. Crane's assistant." Donny nodded. "I ran into her at Café Nervosa and she acted a little cross with me.
"That's odd," he whispered.
"I know," Daphne said rubbing her head. "In a bad mood, guess."
Donny folded his arms. "And how is Niles doing?"
The question startled her; maybe he knew that she went to his office and was trying to see what she was up to.
"I haven't seen him," she shot quickly. "Why do you ask?"
"Well, I have some papers for him." He walked over to the table where his briefcase was and opened it. He pulled out a large manilla envelope. "These are the files on his divorce case, I wanted to give them to him." He shook his head. "I imagine the poor loser would like to toss these in the fireplace for therapy!" He laughed but Daphne remained silent. He looked at her, puzzled. "What?"
"You shouldn't say such things," Daphne said angrily. "The man has suffered a lot, and why?" She threw her arms out. "Because he has a really big heart," she rose from the sofa, "and I really wish you would not laugh at him, at least, not in my presence!" Daphne breathed deeply, trying to regain her composure.
Donny's face was angry, perhaps a little jealous.
"Why are you always defending him?" he said, raising his voice.
"And why do you always make him out as a clown?"
"Well, well, what do we have here?" Donny folded his arms. "You really care for him, don't you?"
Daphne tried to control herself. She was suddenly very aware of her husband's profession.
"He...he is my friend... "
"And I am your husband!" he yelled, slamming the table.
"This is not a matter of titles," she said looking away. "You should have respect for the people I care about, Donny. They have all helped me a lot, especially Dr. Crane!"
"And how was that?"
Daphne played her last card; she had to get out of this hole.
"Before we got engaged I was afraid of commitment," she said. "I didn't know if I wanted to marry you." That hit Donny; he just stared at her, waiting. "I talked to him about it and he helped me get over it. I... and you... owe him my decision to marry you."
"Oh, my," he rubbed his forehead, his expression now more calm. "Well, I guess I will have to thank him one of these days." He went to her and hugged her, acting guilty. "I am sorry, dear, I didn't know."
"Well, I thought you should."
"OK, no more jokes about my `savior'," he smiled. She returned the smile but looked away. "Now, let's go to bed, I have a very difficult day tomorrow."
Twenty minutes later Daphne, curled up in bed, could not sleep. The argument she had with Donny was not the reason. She needed Niles, now more than ever. She missed him. She needed to see him, talk to him. The tension was consuming her, making it impossible to think about her new home and marriage. The void he left was filled with a strange pain.
Suddenly she sat up.
The envelope!
Donny had said that he wanted to give the papers to Niles. That was her ticket! All she had to do was to take the envelope to the Montana. Of course! She could talk to him then, she was sure that he wouldn't refuse to have a chat with her. After all, they were friends and he seemed very happy when she was near. She had noticed that he liked to smell her hair. A lovely compliment, she thought, one more to add to the list.
Tomorrow, she thought. I will see him tomorrow.
***
Tomorrow became today.
With no memory of anything beyond that last thought, it was daylight, bright and sunny. Daphne found herself fully dressed and groomed, standing in front of the Montana.
Holding the envelope.
Now or never, she thought.
She entered the building and got on the elevator. She immediately felt the icy stares of the other passengers. Two of them huddled to whisper.
Feeling most uncomfortable, she hurried off the elevator to Niles apartment. Swallowing to calm the butterflies in her stomach, she rang the bell.
After a moment the door flew open.
"Dr. ... Crane!"
On the other side stood Frasier.
"Well, if it isn't the little troublemaker. What are you doing here?" She had seen Frasier angry before, and this rivaled the best of them.
"I... I... " She couldn't talk.
"Niles isn't here, Daphne. I assume it is he you have come here to see."
She tried to calm herself. This was only the bellowing Dr. Crane, after all. At one time she'd been amused by it.
She found her voice. "Yes, I have these... papers to give him. Donny... "
Frasier snatched them out of her hand. "Thank you. I'll see that he gets them. Off you go!"
The door was promptly slammed.
Daphne was stunned, and now getting really scared.
They were all so angry at her! Why? It all seemed to have something to do with Niles. Oh, God...
Daphne ran down the hall and found the building's staircase. She raced down to the street. She was trying to get away.
From herself.
She was panting when she reached the street. She collapsed to the front steps, sat down, and began to sob.
She felt a light touch to her shoulder.
She looked up through her tears into the face of her new friend.
Hess smiled sadly and handed Daphne a crisp handkerchief.
"Oh, Hess, thank you," she said, wiping her eyes.
"It's OK, Daph. Tough having them all mad at you, isn't it?"
Daphne sniffed. "Yes, it is, it's so... how... how did you know that? And why do you keep... showing up... and when I'm upset... ?"
Hess smiled and shrugged her shoulders. "It's my job."
"What do you mean?"
Hess' brown eyes twinkled. "Don't worry, Daphne. They'll all forgive you."
Daphne surrendered to the fact that this girl knew things that she herself did not. And could not, even with her psychic powers.
"When, Hess?"
"When you find him."
Daphne looked down at the pavement beneath her feet. "Oh, Hess. Will I ever find him?"
She raised her head.
Hess was gone.
Daphne then realized she was still clutching the handkerchief the child had given her. She began to fold it, intending to return it if... when she ran into her again.
Then she noticed a monogram sewn onto one of the corners. She squinted to make out the initials.
Her heart skipped a beat when she read them.
N.C.
***
N.C....
N.C...?
Daphne now found herself in the park, with no memory of how long she had been there... suddenly, there she was, sitting on a bench. Could she be that confused? Was she that worried about all that had happened? The only thing she was sure of was that something dramatic had just occurred. Hester... and the handkerchief with his initials. Perhaps it was just a coincidence. NC could mean a lot of things. Norbert Callahan... Natalie Clayton... who knew? But she knew, somehow deep in her heart, that the handkerchief belonged to Niles Crane. Does Hester know him? Maybe she knows where he is. She could be helping the others keep her away from Niles. Maybe all that `I am your friend' thing is a lie, she thought. But, no... that couldn't be it... after all, Hess had given her the handkerchief, and... Daphne did like her. The child seemed to be very kind and sincere... and so familiar! Maybe, she thought, next time I see her I'll get some answers.
Her thoughts returned to Niles. Where could he be? She laughed a bit at the irony. What a wonderfull psychic I am. Just when I need my visions most they completely desert me.
There were children playing in the park. Some of them were playing football, others smaller games. But they all had something in common: they seemed very happy. They were all giggling, smiling or laughing.They surrounded Daphne, making her realize her misery. `But there's nothing to feel miserable about', she thought angrily. `I have a new life, a lovely home and a wonderful husband and ...and...damn!'
In a frustrated impulse she threw the handkerchief to the ground. It landed in the mud, the initials still visible. She wanted to jump on it, to destroy it... something related to Niles was always making her miserable when all she wanted was to be happy. Niles Crane. This person she missed was making her feel so much pain. She loved her husband, but all she wanted to do was to see her friend. She needed answers... but all she got was the anger of the people she loved, the ones she had always known as kind and friendly. Now it was all changed. Because of Niles.
Oh, I mustn't blame him, she thought. After all, I am the one looking for him, not the other way around. He is probably out there, just going about his life while I am here on a bench, obsessing about him. Perhaps it's for the best that I just continue on with my own life, just as he does his.
Daphne reached down and slowly picked up the handkerchief. It was muddy but the initials were still clear, as if it were impossible for the mud to cover them. The sight of them caused her to emit a sob. He was such a tender man. Was friendship like this? A feeling of total pain when you miss a friend?
Daphne rose quickly from the bench when a familiar figure appeared, hobbling in her direction. An also familiar dog was with him. Mr. Crane, walking Eddie. Martin... oh, was he angry with her too? She didn't want to find out. She just wanted to leave, to run away from him, but it was too late. Martin spotted her and was looking at her with a very serious expression. Daphne looked down. She didn't know why, but she suddenly felt guilty.
"Daphne," he said in greeting, but with no cheerful tone.
"Mr. Crane," she answered, cautiously waiting.
"I came to talk to you," he stated in a grave voice. "Sit down."
"I . . . I have to go," she said quickly.
"You're a lousy liar, you know that? C'mon, have a seat!" Martin said. It was not a suggestion.
She obeyed, sheepishly.
"Frasier told me you went to the Montana. Is this true? "
She nodded.
"Why?"
"I... had to deliver an envelope to Dr. Crane," she said quickly. It didn't sound convincing.
He just sighed.
"Frasier was very rude to you, wasn't he?"
He was looking her in the eye. She just was completely puzzled; at this point she didn't know what to expect from any of them.
"I guess he was in one of his moods," she said dismissively .But she knew it was nearly impossible to fool the eldest Crane.
"That wasn't it," Martin stated, looking out at the kids playing football. "He is just angry for all you did in the past."
That comment struck Daphne...what was he talking about?
"What have I done?" she pleaded. Martin shook his head, watching the nearest kid, the one holding the ball. "Oh, Mr. Crane, why are you all angry with me?!"
"You just keep away from Niles, Daphne. I tell you this not as your friend but as his father. I love him the same way I love you but do this favor for me. Just stay away and live your life. You made your decision, remember?" Martin looked at her long and hard. Daphne began to sob. "Don't cry, this is favor I am doing for you, too. Don't you remember you said you'd love your husband `til death do you part?"
"Yes!! But I just want to talk to Dr. Crane ... he is my friend!"
"Just that?" Martin laughed, sarcastically. "Oh, boy."
That question made her leap from the bench again; what was he implying? That she was in love with Niles? Were those the words? The real words for this feeling in her chest? Could it be... love?
"I am not in love with him, if that's what you're saying," she said, not convincingly to either of them.
"Yeah, right," Martin rose and began to hobble away. "Think about it."
Daphne watched him disappear into the crowd. The children's parents began arriving to take them home. In a blink, all of them were gone, leaving her alone. All alone in a park once full of people. A cold wind began to blow, as cold as the worst winter night, and there she was. Standing as alone as a being could be, by a bench in the park. Night was approaching at an incredible speed. Clouds covered the sky in preparation for a storm.
`How can Martin walk so fast with that injured hip?', she thought as she walked to the nearest exit. Her thoughts were whirling in her head. Like the growing storm, sharp, confusing and with no control. The words Martin had spoken still shocked her when she recalled them.
"Just that?" he had asked. He had seemed amused, sarcastic. Now these latest events gave Daphne a new perspective. There was a new piece to the puzzle about Niles.
The park exit was closed.
Daphne stared at the gate; it was locked with a chain and a huge padlock. She took it in her hands and tried to open it, but it was rock solid. Daphne looked for someone in the street, out on the other side of the gate. But the street was deserted. She saw no cars, no people. There was nobody to help her. She spun around and walked in the opposite direction where she spotted another gate. She had to walk a long way to reach it, crossing through a cluster of trees. The tall trees covered the now black sky.
She heard a dog barking. It was Eddie, she knew it. She quickened her pace to try to find him; wherever Eddie was would also be Martin. He wouldn't refuse to help her out of there, she was sure. The trees surrounded her like a black blanket, covering the now faded daylight. The lamp posts were not yet lit, making it hard to see beyond a few feet. But she was able to clearly hear the dog's barking, coming from the right near the intersection.
She ran quickly to catch up with them, but the barking stopped and . . . there she was. Hester, in her black parka, holding Eddie.
"It looks like it's going to rain again," she said, petting the little terrier.
"You... " Daphne began to be afraid of the young girl who, was smiling in the dark but whose eyes where as bright as a clear day. "Who are you!?"
"Gee, like you don't remember," she said, giggling. "I am Hess, of course," and then spun around in a circle until she was facing Daphne again.
"The park is empty," Daphne said, now desperate to get out. "What are you doing here?" Then a new thought occurred to her. "Are your parents with you?"
Please, let me know who she is.
"Not yet," she said, holding Eddie's leash as she put him down. "I told you, I like to walk in the rain."
"You've told me a lot of things!" Daphne shot, just to see her reaction. Hester just smiled. Daphne pulled the handkerchief from her pocket and showed it to her to the girl. "Is this Dr. Crane's handkerchief?"
Hester giggled. "It is. It will be mine one day."
Hers?
"He will give it to me on my birthday, when I ask for it," she stated, puzzling Daphne even more. "When everything is put right."
"Who are you!!??" demanded Daphne. Eddie barked defensively. "And why do you keep showing up like this?"
Hester moved closer. Daphne tried to step back but couldn't; she was frozen in place, looking at the child's bright brown eyes.
"Come with me, Daph," Hester extended her hand to Daphne. "You have nothing to be afraid of."
Daphne found, stunned, that she was taking Hester's hand; it was warm, and she felt comfort in her touch. The girl and Eddie pulled her along the path.
"We'll get you out of here," Hester assured.
Daphne couldn't resist and began to walk alongside her and the dog. The wind was blowing hard now and thunder muttered in the skies. It was not raining yet but threatened to in a matter of minutes. As they walked briskly through the empty park the girl was completely silent.
"Do you know where Niles is?" Daphne asked hopefully. "You do, don't you?"
"Martin loves his son," was the child's answer, said without looking at Daphne. "And he does love you too, sometimes. He thought of himself as your father, so please don't blame him . . . he is doing what he thinks is correct."
"Tell me where Niles is," Daphne said. "Please."
"Find him," Hester demanded, and it seemed a plea, a plea from this mysterious girl, her face now covered by the hood of her parka. "You have to!"
"Where is he?" she asked once more. "I need to know!" Daphne felt angry again; she had to have the answer to all of this. It was driving her crazy! No matter what she could say about Niles, no matter what anyone's opinion was, she knew the answer lay with him: the reason for all of what was happening was in his hands, wherever he was.
Hester continued walking. The gate was very close now and wide open. Cars passed in the street beyond; people walked quietly, immersed in their own thoughts. Eddie ran directly to the gate when the girl released the leash and began to bark in their direction.
"You see?" Hester asked. "There was nothing to worry about."
* * *
Daphne looked back. The storm was ready to hit the with a fury; the trees were now blowing wildly. The park was still empty, all the lights were off, and she, Daphne Esmeralda Moon, was standing with...
"Hey, sweetheart, this is the place." Donny's voice made her tremble. She was looking at an old painting on a wall, a painting of a park viewed through a tall, open gate. In the painting there was a dog barking at a young girl in black parka.
"Sweetheart?"
Daphne caught Donny's concerned expression when she turned around; he was looking at her with full attention. She tried to figure out where they were... oh, they were in a restaurant! A hostess seemed to be waiting for them and the place was packed.
Daphne was beginning to panic.
"Are you ok?" Donny asked again. "Do you want to go home?"
"Er..no, no," she said nervously, shaking her head, trying to concentrate and not faint right there. She felt exhausted and weak, with no memory of how she had gotten there with Donny, or when she had gone home and changed, or... or when her sanity decided to escape.
"It's ok." She attempted the best smile she could, and it worked. Donny seemed relieved. "I was just contemplating this painting."
"Well," Donny clapped his hands together, his good mood returning. "Let's go eat, I'm starved!"
Daphne followed him, looking around at the people in the packed restaurant. All of them were chatting, but all sent her cold glances, then returned to their own business. The hostess pointed to a table and Donny sat down. She sat across from him, her back to the door.
"You look tired, honey," Donny said. "Is something wrong?"
Come on, Daphne, she thought, try to calm down. Donny does not know anything and he is the only one who still acts normally with you. For now, at least, all the Cranes can go to hell.
"No. Shall we?" she asked, taking the menu from the hostess.
Donny nodded. "I want to apologize to you about the other night." Daphne looked at him, placing the menu on the table. Was he talking about... "I mean, Niles is a good person and I was being insensitive."
No, please no!!! Why must everything be about Niles Crane!!!??
"Forget about him, Donny, please?" she said. She could have been talking to herself. The hostess had poured some water; she took a sip, trying to buy time to control herself.
"When I talked to him this morning, I..."
"What?!" Daphne almost choked on the water. Niles was available for a call from Donny but not from her, who had spent forever looking for him? She coughed, trying not to spray the table. Donny looked puzzled.
"You talked with him??!!!" Daphne managed to ask, frantically. "When?"
"This morning," Donny stated casually. "You were still in bed."
Unbelievable. Daphne leaned forward, her mouth agape, eyes wide open.
"Where is he?" she asked, her anxiety increasing. "Where is he?!"
"Hey, calm down," Donny said, pressing a hand into the air. "I gave him your best regards."
"That was not my question, Donald." she said, angrily. "Where is he?"
"Are you ready to order, sir?" the hostess interrupted, but Daphne was not about to let this opportunity pass.
"No, we are not," she shot back. The hostess smiled at her, defiantly, and turned to find Donny looking with great interest at his menu. "Off you go!"
But the hostess stayed, looking at Donny who was clearly ready to order.
"I love Mexican food," he declared. Daphne just leaned back and folded her arms. Donny studied the menu. "I'd like," he said in his poor Spanish "Shiles Pobleinos. And you, honey?"
"I need to use the powder room," she said.
"Ok," he said, cheerfully. "I'll order for you."
"Whatever," she said dryly.
What kind of game was destiny playing with her? She had been looking for Niles for what seemed like forever, with no luck. Then Donny calls him and he answers the phone! Daphne was really angry now, her mind racing, trying to figure all this out. On her way to the bathroom patron after patron got in her way, as if each wanted to stop her. She found it almost impossible to make her way through. Suddenly, the crowd opened a path directly to a table. Daphne spotted a familiar suit, Armani, blonde hair . . .
Niles!
Daphne stopped a few feet away. His face was hidden as he was seated with his back toward her. He was alone. Her heart began to pound harder. Donny was not in sight, so she had the opportunity she'd been waiting for. After all that had happened, she was going to get the answers she needed. She especially wanted to see what Mr. Crane had been talking about. She needed to know if she loved him. Daphne made her approach, smiling, trying to act casual.
"Well, look who's here," she said, placing her hand on his shoulder. In the gesture was affection and incredible relief. "Dr. Crane!"
"Well, hello, Daphne! This is a surprise!"
His face... of course, now she knew who this was, and it wasn't Niles. The similarity struck her ironically. Had she been aware of how much Rodney Banks resembled Niles? Not really, she thought, until now. The man smiled at her but she withdrew her hand, disappointed.
"Hello, Rodney," she said, politely.
"Join me, please," he offered formally. She sat, exhausted again. "So, you thought I was Niles?"
"Of course not," she said, trying to smile, unsuccesfully. "I know who you are."
"Really?" he asked, showing that he believed the opposite. "Daphne, that is why you dated me, remember?"
"That's not true!" she said.
"Of course it is." Rodney sipped his wine exactly in the same way Niles would. "Look at me . . . you mistook me for him, didn't you?" She nodded. "I am not who are looking for but I certainly look a lot like him," he giggled, amused by the irony. "That's why you liked me that day in Granville's," he stated. "Why don't you just quit behaving stupidly and be honest with yourself?"
This was getting out of control.
"Good to see you." She rose from the chair. Rodney leaned forward and grabbed her arm. "Let go of me . . . my husband is right over there!"
"And you are here looking for Niles," he teased. He hit home with that statement. Daphne tried to pull away but his grip was firm. "Daphne... Hester can't be here forever to help you. Remember that."
Daphne couldn't do anything but scream, which attracted the entire restaurant's attention. Donny ran to her side, but when he finally got there Rodney was not holding onto her anymore. Daphne was breathing fast; she was scared, but also determined not to seek comfort from Donny. So she just stood there. Rodney sipped his wine.
"What's going on here?"
Good question...oh, nothing. I just came over here because I thought he was Niles. I wanted to find out what I feel for him... nothing, hon, just go back to our table.
"I..." she didn't know what to say.
"I must apologize," Rodney rose from his chair. "The lady mistook me for another person."
Daphne shot him a warning glance... be careful, Rodney Banks....you don't want to tell him what is going on here, do you?
"Oh, well, " Donny said. "I suppose she startled you, screaming like that."
"To be honest..." Rodney began, but Daphne didn't want to continue with this, so she stepped between them.
"Let's go, Donny, it is not important..."
"Well, sure it is..." Donny stated. "You have been acting strange lately...I want to know what is going on. And who is this guy, anyway?" His voice proved he was not going to let it go easily.
Daphne was on the verge of tears.
"I am Rodney Banks," the man said, extending his right hand. Donny just looked at it for a second so Rodney withdrew it. "An old friend of your wife's."
"What you have done to her?" Donny was really angry now.
"Donny, please...." Daphne pleaded. "Please... Rodney, please leave us... "
Rodney shook his head and sat again. He seemed very amused.
"He has done nothing to her." The sound of Hester's voice made Donny look to the right. The girl ran toward them. "I - we - can explain everything."
"Who the hell are you?" Donny's harsh tone didn't ease even though he was talking to a little girl.
"And what business is this of yours?"
Daphne was about to defend Hester; she opened her mouth to speak. At that moment Niles rushed in and proceeded toward them. A soothing relief filled Daphne's heart. After all these days, after all those people blaming her, after all that had happened, finally, he was there. But... there was something different about him. He was not smiling at her like he always did. He looked quite upset.
"Hester! I told you, I changed my mind. I can't do it!" Niles cried. "Come here, we have to leave!"
"No! You have to, Niles. You need to do this!" For the first time since she'd met her, Daphne heard Hester's voice tremble. "For you and for her, and... for me!"
What on earth was she doing with Niles?
"Niles?" Donny said, surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"Never mind, we're leaving," Niles said, not looking at him. His eyes were fixed on Hester, who took shelter behind Daphne. "Come on, Hester!"
"No!"
"Dr. Crane..." Daphne started; for the first time he looked at her. When their eyes met she saw... undeniable love, hope, dreams, all mixed up in his eyes. They were a direct path to his soul. But she also saw frustration, dejection and sadness. "How do you know this child?"
Niles sighed and looked away.
"Hester, come here at once!" he commanded, avoiding Daphne's question. "I specifically asked you not to come in here. There is nothing you can do to fix this... so come on..."
"Please!" Hester cried. "I had to try... I needed to..."
"I will drag you out of here if I have to," Niles warned, taking a step toward the girl. But Daphne stood firmly in his way.
"What are you doing with her?" Daphne asked protectively.
"Daphne, please stay out of this." Niles said.
"Talk to her!" Hester cried. "Please!... you're both here now... it may be possible that..."
Donny faced Niles.
"What do you have to say to Daphne?" he wanted to know.
"Nothing," Niles lied, unconvincingly. "Hester....this is my last warning."
Niles reached for the girl but Daphne hugged Hester tight, stopping him.
"You are not taking her anywhere," she said firmly.
"Daphne, you don't understand..." Niles said, sadly. "This is not what I wanted for us, but..."
"Please," Hester cried. "You promised that you'd do everything in your power to be with her!!" Niles sighed once more.
"To be with Daphne?... Niles, I demand an explanation." Donny was shooting glances among Niles, Daphne and the little girl.
Niles remained silent for a moment, his eyes now fixed on Daphne.
"All right." He took a deep breath. "Daphne," he finally said. "There is no easy way to tell you
this..." he threw up his hands, trying to find the right words. "I... am in terrible pain. You are the person I love most in this world. I love you deeply, there is no denying it, and believe me, I have been trying to." Daphne held her breath as a chill crept down her back... he was finally telling her... "I was devestated when you got engaged and married; I could never understand how you could have been so blind as to not see how much you mean to me... " Hester was looking at Daphne, intently, hopefully. "And now... no matter what happens... "
Donny grabbed Niles by the collar, looking like he was about to hit him.
"What are you saying?!!!" The fury in his voice was overwhelming. "How can you propose to a married woman?!!"
"That's not what I'm doing!" he said, and Donny released his grip slightly. "I have given up... she is your wife, Donny. I lost. She has no feelings for me...." Donny released him. His eyes began to tear up. "Hester nursed the hope that we might get together, but that is impossible. She does not love me."
Daphne looked down, slowly, trying to get a clear picture of all this... Hester was hoping that they would be together?... why?...and who was she anyway?... how did she even know Niles?..and finally, was Niles right when he said that she didn't love him?... was he right?... when her eyes met Hester's she saw tears...
"Daphne... " Hester begged. "Tell him he is wrong!! Tell him how much you love him!! Tell him how much you wanted to see him, tell him!!" she cried, her voice breaking. "You were looking for him, why don't you want him to know?"
"You were looking for Niles?" Donny let Niles go and grabbed Daphne's arm. "Why?"
"Let her go!" Hester cried.
Donny ignored her. "Daphne, I demand an explantion!"
Daphne looked at Niles, who just stood there in defeat. There was no taking it back now; he had finally told her that he loved her. And it was finished.
Daphne had never felt so torn. Of course, she had to tell him he was right. She had a new marriage and a promising future, all she had to do was tell him. She had made her decision. She was married. But . . . was it not true that she couldn't stop thinking about Niles? Wasn't it the truth that she missed him to the point of physical pain? Wasn't it true that she wanted to find him, just as the girl said?....YES, it was all true... and now she knew why. She wanted to find him because she wanted him to tell her everything he had just said. She wanted Niles to tell her how much he loved her. OK, she got what she wanted. Now what?
Donny's voice dropped to a pleading whisper.
"Daphne... you can't be... in love with him, can you? After all we have been through...we have a wonderful marriage... I trusted you...." he said, and he meant it. He was a tender and wonderful man who loved her. But he didn't love her like Niles did. She knew that now. No matter how much Donny loved her... it would never be the same... "Tell me it is not true, honey."
"Donny... I... "
The girl was sobbing when Niles took her hand and pulled her to his side.
"Daphne, please don't say anything," Niles pleaded. "I just want you to be happy."
"Of course she is happy!" Donny yelled. "Aren't you, Daphne?"
"Yes." she said, and promptly burst into tears.
"But... " Hester tried to free herself but Niles began to walk away, dragging her. Daphne took a step in their direction but Donny was in her way.
"Daphne... why?! Why are you doing this??!!" Hester cried. "You know you love him!"
"Quiet, Hess, please, give it up..!" Niles screamed. "You're wrong. She does not love me!"
"Daphne!!!" Hester called desperately.
"Hester, she does not love me!" Niles repeated, and then stopped. "Daphne... sometimes you caress a sweet dream so much and when you finally realize you can't have it it, you try to fight back, to twist fate in your own favor... Hester tried that... but I can't... you have your own dreams now... go on with them, Daphne... we will not interfere anymore."
"Niles, wait! What...what will happen to Hester?" she asked frantically. There had to be a reason this was all so important to the girl. She was suddenly afraid she would never see Hess again. The tears in the child's eyes supported that feeling.
"She will be fine." Niles looked away as he walked to the door, with Hester fighting to get away. "No matter where she goes, now that you made your decision, she will be eventually fine."
"No...Niles!" ...he was wrong. He was wrong and Hester was right when she said they should be together... she...oh, God... they're getting away...
What the hell are you waiting for?
"Niles! Wait! I do love you!"
Daphne tried to run to the door but it was impossible. Donny was still holding her arm.
"You think I'm going to just let you go?" he asked.
"Let go of me!!"
He turned her to face him.
"I will not let go!" he said and shook her shoulders. Daphne tried to break free but she couldn't. Donny shook her again, this time more forcefully. "You're my wife now! Remember that. Even if you love someone else. It's too late!" He shook her once more.
Daphne tried to scream her voice was frozen. The room began to spin, faster and faster, and she tried to hit him. But each time she swung at him her fist passed through him as though he were a ghost. His laughter filled her ears, and she heard the girl call her from a distance. It made her fight even harder...
End Part 1
The usual disclaimers to the characters apply...
Rating: G
Moxie says: The man from Mexico started this story, just when I thought there were no more plots for these endearing characters. I contributed my ideas and edited for English (if we could all read Spanish, I'm sure no editing would be needed). We've been sending it back and forth from Mexico to New England, USA. Writes and rewrites. And since the spellcheck from his original is in Spanish, I had to (shudder) spell check the old fashioned way. But it's been fun, and we hope you enjoy reading it.
And Vick says: A long term project finally sees the light of day; a 4 chapter voyage through the torturous world of decisions and destiny for the sake of real love. This project began about 6 or 7 months ago so, you can imagine all the hours invested. I want to remark how much I admire Moxie for her patience (this one was used on me because I have a very anxious gen...you know, family genetics) and good work, her additions and editiing made this story take the real shape we planned.
The Story with No Name
Chapter One
Daphne
By Moxie and Vick
To quote the lyrics of Tim Rice, from the musical "Chess":
Long ago
In someone else's lifetime
Someone with my name who looked a lot like me
Came to know
A man and made a promise
He only had to say
And that's where she would be
Lately
Although the feelings run just as deep
The promise she made has grown impossible to keep
And yet, I wish it wasn't so
Will he miss me if I go?
In a way
It's someone else's story
I don't see myself
As taking part at all
Yesterday
A girl that I was fond of
Finally could see
The writing on the wall
Sadly
She realized she'd left him behind
And sadder than that she knew he wouldn't even mind
And though there's nothing left to say
Would he listen if I stay?
It's all very well to say, you fool, it's now or never
I could be choosing
No choices whatsoever.
I could be
In someone else's story
In someone else's life
And he could be in mine
I don't see
A reason to be lonely
I could take my chances
Further down the line
And if
That girl I knew should ask my advice
Oh, I wouldn't hesitate, she needn't ask me twice
Go now!
I'd tell her that for free
Trouble is, the girl is me
The story is, the girl is me.
Daphne knocked twice and waited for an answer. No response. Maybe Clarice had been right and he was not in his office, but she didn't want to leave. She needed to learn the reason why Niles Crane was avoiding her; why hadn't he returned her phone calls?
It was three months after the wedding and, even though she wanted to maintain the friendship between them, Niles had vanished in the mist. His brother was no help, refusing to tell her anything, not to mention Mr. Crane, who wouldn't even discuss the matter. She thought she was happy with her marriage but, deep in her heart, where Niles had once resided there was now an aching hole. It was hard to explain, but the feeling was always there as she struggled to go about her daily life.
She hoped she had managed to hide that feeling from the others. She kept her questions about him casual. She even managed to hide it from Donny, or so she thought. But as the days wore on, her need to find Niles grew more and more until it became an unbearable pain in her heart.
She had been hurt when he hadn't shown up at her wedding. Frasier had said something about an emergency in another city. She could tell he was covering, though; his expression had betrayed him. There was some other reason, but what that was she couldn't know.
She had enjoyed the wedding reception, or rather, forced herself to, playing mental games to avoid thinking about him. The bond between her and Niles was something really special for Daphne; it had grown ever stronger over the years. She had watched him gradually transform from the snobby psychiatrist to a gentle, charming and handsome friend. Once total strangers, they had become very close.
Until now.
Which was why she needed answers.
Daphne knocked again, harder this time. Suddenly the door opened, slowly. She stepped in cautiously. The office was tidy and clean, as he always kept it.
But Niles was not there.
Daphne walked over to his desk. There was evidence of his having been here quite recently. The coffee was still hot, there were papers spread across the desk, along with some open books. The scent of his aftershave hung in the air.
"Dr. Crane?"
"Why don't you just leave him alone!?"
She jumped at the response, which had come from Clarice, right behind her. The voice was chilling.
Daphne spun around. Clarice was usually very kind, but her tone now stopped Daphne cold. She could only look at the assistant. She waited, hoping for some sign of apology. It never came.
"What?"
"Leave him alone." Clarice folded her arms. "Don't you think you've made him suffer enough these last few months?"
Daphne stepped back, shocked. What was this woman talking about? Made him suffer?
Clarice looked reproachful. "Don't play innocent with me," she said sternly. "Now, leave! Get the hell out of here or I'll call security."
Daphne bolted from the office as the door slammed behind her. She continued down the hallway, now in a trancelike state, taking no notice of other people's scornful looks. What had caused Clarice to threaten her like that? The words she had spoken echoed in Daphne's head.
Her need to find Niles intensified.
It was pouring out, a torrential Friday afternoon. She was grateful she had remembered to bring her raincoat when she left her house. People were running through the streets, trying to get in from rain. It was impossible to stay dry. She saw a young couple holding hands and just walking, indifferent to the the downpour. They were soaked but didn't seem to care.
Daphne came to an intersection. A black Mercedes was stopped at the light. Its driver looked out at the woman on the sidewalk. Could it be . . .? When she saw the face of a stranger she just crossed the street with her eyes down.
Daphne approached the café. While she didn't wish to, she knew, due to the hour, she knew she could run into Frasier, Martin, or Roz. Café Nervosa was sort of a sanctuary for all of them. She had always enjoyed meeting Niles here; it was a nice place to share a latte and chat about anything and everything.
The café was packed with people, but she spotted a free table and took it, leaving her coat on the rack.
A waiter approached and she asked for a cup of cinnamon tea. Her table was by the door, a good spot to see him if he showed up. If only destiny would let them meet here now, their often shared place. If that were to happen she would just smile at him and invite him to join her, as she had so many times before. Donny had said that he had a late meeting with his partners, which would give her time to chat with her old friend. The thought of that warmed her heart.
As the minutes passed, her mind dragged her deeply into the labyrinths of memory. She revisited the Snow Ball and they danced the tango again, making her smile. Then she was on his fainting couch on a hot summer night, inches from the face of this handsome man in white. She felt sparks fly between them and wondered . . . should they . . . but no, Niles was a gentleman. He would never take advantage of her vulnerability.
Donny had expressed his opinion of Niles more than once. He thought Niles Crane was a wimp, a spineless puppet in women's hands, unable to risk an inch of his neck for fear of rejection. He once described Niles as a clown in Armani suits. She hated that part of Donny, now her husband . . . hated how he made fun of Niles while not knowing the man she knew.
The memory of Donny's words made her angry. After all, Niles was responsible for their wedding. His advice had finally broken her fear of commitment. She wanted to thank him.
God, where could he be?
Perhaps . . . the Montana? It wasn't far from the café; if she just casually dropped in he wouldn't refuse to talk to her, would he? Daphne pondered this for a moment, until the voice hit her.
"He won't come in here anymore," the voice said. Daphne looked up to see Kit, the waitress. Her face was unfriendly and cold, just as Clarice's had been. "And it is your fault."
"What do you mean?" Daphne rose from her chair, startled. "What's my fault?"
"Why don't you get the hell out of here?" Kit demanded. "You've done enough damage. Go concentrate on your new life and just leave him alone!"
Daphne was baffled; what was happening?
"What are you talking about?" she asked. "I don't want to harm anyone."
"About time," chimed in a waiter. Daphne looked around. Everyone was staring at her.
She grabbed her purse and coat and rushed out. Glancing back, she saw them serving coffee. People inside chatted away and the café was normal again.
Daphne stopped on the sidewalk, incapable of believing all that had happened. All of these people were angry with her. Clarice and Kit were blaming her for something, something to do with Niles... what was it? Was she guilty of something?
She was more confused than ever.
Daphne began to cry as she walked to the bus stop. The idea of showing up at the Montana was not appealing anymore. Maybe some other day. No one noticed her tears, thanks to the rain. When she made it to the bus stop she collapsed on the bench, alone.
What is going on?
For some reason she felt guilty. The pain in her chest was now lacerating. Had something happened she didn't know about? Was it something she'd said? Done? So many question flew through her mind. She just wanted the bus to come; she needed to get home as quickly as possible.
"Hello."
Daphne looked up to see a young girl, perhaps twelve or thirteen, protected from the rain by a black parka. Her voice was kind and soft, and somehow... familiar. Like that of an old friend.
"Oh, hello," Daphne replyed.
"Bad day, huh?" the girl asked, taking a seat to her right. "People can be so rude, they never seem to understand."
Daphne looked at her with curiosity; was she that transparent?
"How . . . do you know about that?"
"I just know," the girl said, shrugging her shoulders. "My name is Hester, but you can call me Hess if you like."
Daphne smiled weakly.
"Well, in that case, you can call me..."
"Daph," Hester interjected. "I know. But I like Daphne better."
"How did you know my name?" Daphne asked, dumbfounded. "Are you psychic or...?"
Hester shook her head, smiling. The hood of her coat fell back, revealing long blonde hair tied in a ponytail. Her face was cute; she had large brown eyes and a warm smile.
"Are you waiting for the bus?" the girl asked.
"Don't you know?" Daphne asked in amusement.
Hess laughed.
"And you?"
"Oh, I just was taking a walk," Hess said. "Rain happens to like me a lot. I like walking in it."
"Me, too." Daphne suddenly remembered the rain.
"But your husband doesn't like it," Hess said.
"That's true." Daphne said, thoughtfully. "Have... have we met before?"
"Yes and no," Hester said, then pointed at the approaching bus. "You have to go now."
"Yes, I do," Daphne stated.
When the bus stopped in front of her she spotted a familiar face plastered on the side. It looked at her with a fake smile. "He's listening," the ad said.
The doors of the bus opened and she turned to say goodbye to her new friend. "Nice meeting you, Hess," she said, looking toward the bench.
It was empty.
"Lady, are you getting in or not?" the bus driver asked impatiently.
Daphne nodded and got on the bus.
***
Suddenly she was home, having dinner with Donny.
"You're so quiet, Daph." Donny asked, his mouth full. "Are you ok?"
Daphne forced a smile.
"Yes, a little tired, that's all." she said. Her fork toyed with her untouched meal.
"Are you... ?" he asked, hopefully. "Oh, Daph, are you...late? "
She knew what he meant and smiled, sincerely this time.
"No, I'm right on schedule," she said rising from her chair.
Donny snapped his fingers. "Maybe we could... delay the train at the station?"
Daphne shook her head. "Yes, but not tonight. I really am tired."
He shrugged his shoulders. "Well, then, I suppose I'll have to wait... for today, anyway."
"Yes." She walked into the living room. "For today."
Donny followed her and hugged her from behind. She cringed slightly but didn't resist.
"I love you," he said in low voice.
"I know."
"Hey," he spun her around. "That's not the answer I wanted to hear."
"Donny, I told you, I'm tired."
"Is that all?"
"Yes," she said, pulling away.
"Are you sure you feel ok?" Donny scratched his head.
Daphne sat on a sofa. "I just had a bad day, that's all."
"Oh, honey..."
She decided to tell a mild lie to reassure him; he seemed truly worried.
"I ran into Clarice this afternoon."
Donny looked confused.
"Dr. Crane's assistant." Donny nodded. "I ran into her at Café Nervosa and she acted a little cross with me.
"That's odd," he whispered.
"I know," Daphne said rubbing her head. "In a bad mood, guess."
Donny folded his arms. "And how is Niles doing?"
The question startled her; maybe he knew that she went to his office and was trying to see what she was up to.
"I haven't seen him," she shot quickly. "Why do you ask?"
"Well, I have some papers for him." He walked over to the table where his briefcase was and opened it. He pulled out a large manilla envelope. "These are the files on his divorce case, I wanted to give them to him." He shook his head. "I imagine the poor loser would like to toss these in the fireplace for therapy!" He laughed but Daphne remained silent. He looked at her, puzzled. "What?"
"You shouldn't say such things," Daphne said angrily. "The man has suffered a lot, and why?" She threw her arms out. "Because he has a really big heart," she rose from the sofa, "and I really wish you would not laugh at him, at least, not in my presence!" Daphne breathed deeply, trying to regain her composure.
Donny's face was angry, perhaps a little jealous.
"Why are you always defending him?" he said, raising his voice.
"And why do you always make him out as a clown?"
"Well, well, what do we have here?" Donny folded his arms. "You really care for him, don't you?"
Daphne tried to control herself. She was suddenly very aware of her husband's profession.
"He...he is my friend... "
"And I am your husband!" he yelled, slamming the table.
"This is not a matter of titles," she said looking away. "You should have respect for the people I care about, Donny. They have all helped me a lot, especially Dr. Crane!"
"And how was that?"
Daphne played her last card; she had to get out of this hole.
"Before we got engaged I was afraid of commitment," she said. "I didn't know if I wanted to marry you." That hit Donny; he just stared at her, waiting. "I talked to him about it and he helped me get over it. I... and you... owe him my decision to marry you."
"Oh, my," he rubbed his forehead, his expression now more calm. "Well, I guess I will have to thank him one of these days." He went to her and hugged her, acting guilty. "I am sorry, dear, I didn't know."
"Well, I thought you should."
"OK, no more jokes about my `savior'," he smiled. She returned the smile but looked away. "Now, let's go to bed, I have a very difficult day tomorrow."
Twenty minutes later Daphne, curled up in bed, could not sleep. The argument she had with Donny was not the reason. She needed Niles, now more than ever. She missed him. She needed to see him, talk to him. The tension was consuming her, making it impossible to think about her new home and marriage. The void he left was filled with a strange pain.
Suddenly she sat up.
The envelope!
Donny had said that he wanted to give the papers to Niles. That was her ticket! All she had to do was to take the envelope to the Montana. Of course! She could talk to him then, she was sure that he wouldn't refuse to have a chat with her. After all, they were friends and he seemed very happy when she was near. She had noticed that he liked to smell her hair. A lovely compliment, she thought, one more to add to the list.
Tomorrow, she thought. I will see him tomorrow.
***
Tomorrow became today.
With no memory of anything beyond that last thought, it was daylight, bright and sunny. Daphne found herself fully dressed and groomed, standing in front of the Montana.
Holding the envelope.
Now or never, she thought.
She entered the building and got on the elevator. She immediately felt the icy stares of the other passengers. Two of them huddled to whisper.
Feeling most uncomfortable, she hurried off the elevator to Niles apartment. Swallowing to calm the butterflies in her stomach, she rang the bell.
After a moment the door flew open.
"Dr. ... Crane!"
On the other side stood Frasier.
"Well, if it isn't the little troublemaker. What are you doing here?" She had seen Frasier angry before, and this rivaled the best of them.
"I... I... " She couldn't talk.
"Niles isn't here, Daphne. I assume it is he you have come here to see."
She tried to calm herself. This was only the bellowing Dr. Crane, after all. At one time she'd been amused by it.
She found her voice. "Yes, I have these... papers to give him. Donny... "
Frasier snatched them out of her hand. "Thank you. I'll see that he gets them. Off you go!"
The door was promptly slammed.
Daphne was stunned, and now getting really scared.
They were all so angry at her! Why? It all seemed to have something to do with Niles. Oh, God...
Daphne ran down the hall and found the building's staircase. She raced down to the street. She was trying to get away.
From herself.
She was panting when she reached the street. She collapsed to the front steps, sat down, and began to sob.
She felt a light touch to her shoulder.
She looked up through her tears into the face of her new friend.
Hess smiled sadly and handed Daphne a crisp handkerchief.
"Oh, Hess, thank you," she said, wiping her eyes.
"It's OK, Daph. Tough having them all mad at you, isn't it?"
Daphne sniffed. "Yes, it is, it's so... how... how did you know that? And why do you keep... showing up... and when I'm upset... ?"
Hess smiled and shrugged her shoulders. "It's my job."
"What do you mean?"
Hess' brown eyes twinkled. "Don't worry, Daphne. They'll all forgive you."
Daphne surrendered to the fact that this girl knew things that she herself did not. And could not, even with her psychic powers.
"When, Hess?"
"When you find him."
Daphne looked down at the pavement beneath her feet. "Oh, Hess. Will I ever find him?"
She raised her head.
Hess was gone.
Daphne then realized she was still clutching the handkerchief the child had given her. She began to fold it, intending to return it if... when she ran into her again.
Then she noticed a monogram sewn onto one of the corners. She squinted to make out the initials.
Her heart skipped a beat when she read them.
N.C.
***
N.C....
N.C...?
Daphne now found herself in the park, with no memory of how long she had been there... suddenly, there she was, sitting on a bench. Could she be that confused? Was she that worried about all that had happened? The only thing she was sure of was that something dramatic had just occurred. Hester... and the handkerchief with his initials. Perhaps it was just a coincidence. NC could mean a lot of things. Norbert Callahan... Natalie Clayton... who knew? But she knew, somehow deep in her heart, that the handkerchief belonged to Niles Crane. Does Hester know him? Maybe she knows where he is. She could be helping the others keep her away from Niles. Maybe all that `I am your friend' thing is a lie, she thought. But, no... that couldn't be it... after all, Hess had given her the handkerchief, and... Daphne did like her. The child seemed to be very kind and sincere... and so familiar! Maybe, she thought, next time I see her I'll get some answers.
Her thoughts returned to Niles. Where could he be? She laughed a bit at the irony. What a wonderfull psychic I am. Just when I need my visions most they completely desert me.
There were children playing in the park. Some of them were playing football, others smaller games. But they all had something in common: they seemed very happy. They were all giggling, smiling or laughing.They surrounded Daphne, making her realize her misery. `But there's nothing to feel miserable about', she thought angrily. `I have a new life, a lovely home and a wonderful husband and ...and...damn!'
In a frustrated impulse she threw the handkerchief to the ground. It landed in the mud, the initials still visible. She wanted to jump on it, to destroy it... something related to Niles was always making her miserable when all she wanted was to be happy. Niles Crane. This person she missed was making her feel so much pain. She loved her husband, but all she wanted to do was to see her friend. She needed answers... but all she got was the anger of the people she loved, the ones she had always known as kind and friendly. Now it was all changed. Because of Niles.
Oh, I mustn't blame him, she thought. After all, I am the one looking for him, not the other way around. He is probably out there, just going about his life while I am here on a bench, obsessing about him. Perhaps it's for the best that I just continue on with my own life, just as he does his.
Daphne reached down and slowly picked up the handkerchief. It was muddy but the initials were still clear, as if it were impossible for the mud to cover them. The sight of them caused her to emit a sob. He was such a tender man. Was friendship like this? A feeling of total pain when you miss a friend?
Daphne rose quickly from the bench when a familiar figure appeared, hobbling in her direction. An also familiar dog was with him. Mr. Crane, walking Eddie. Martin... oh, was he angry with her too? She didn't want to find out. She just wanted to leave, to run away from him, but it was too late. Martin spotted her and was looking at her with a very serious expression. Daphne looked down. She didn't know why, but she suddenly felt guilty.
"Daphne," he said in greeting, but with no cheerful tone.
"Mr. Crane," she answered, cautiously waiting.
"I came to talk to you," he stated in a grave voice. "Sit down."
"I . . . I have to go," she said quickly.
"You're a lousy liar, you know that? C'mon, have a seat!" Martin said. It was not a suggestion.
She obeyed, sheepishly.
"Frasier told me you went to the Montana. Is this true? "
She nodded.
"Why?"
"I... had to deliver an envelope to Dr. Crane," she said quickly. It didn't sound convincing.
He just sighed.
"Frasier was very rude to you, wasn't he?"
He was looking her in the eye. She just was completely puzzled; at this point she didn't know what to expect from any of them.
"I guess he was in one of his moods," she said dismissively .But she knew it was nearly impossible to fool the eldest Crane.
"That wasn't it," Martin stated, looking out at the kids playing football. "He is just angry for all you did in the past."
That comment struck Daphne...what was he talking about?
"What have I done?" she pleaded. Martin shook his head, watching the nearest kid, the one holding the ball. "Oh, Mr. Crane, why are you all angry with me?!"
"You just keep away from Niles, Daphne. I tell you this not as your friend but as his father. I love him the same way I love you but do this favor for me. Just stay away and live your life. You made your decision, remember?" Martin looked at her long and hard. Daphne began to sob. "Don't cry, this is favor I am doing for you, too. Don't you remember you said you'd love your husband `til death do you part?"
"Yes!! But I just want to talk to Dr. Crane ... he is my friend!"
"Just that?" Martin laughed, sarcastically. "Oh, boy."
That question made her leap from the bench again; what was he implying? That she was in love with Niles? Were those the words? The real words for this feeling in her chest? Could it be... love?
"I am not in love with him, if that's what you're saying," she said, not convincingly to either of them.
"Yeah, right," Martin rose and began to hobble away. "Think about it."
Daphne watched him disappear into the crowd. The children's parents began arriving to take them home. In a blink, all of them were gone, leaving her alone. All alone in a park once full of people. A cold wind began to blow, as cold as the worst winter night, and there she was. Standing as alone as a being could be, by a bench in the park. Night was approaching at an incredible speed. Clouds covered the sky in preparation for a storm.
`How can Martin walk so fast with that injured hip?', she thought as she walked to the nearest exit. Her thoughts were whirling in her head. Like the growing storm, sharp, confusing and with no control. The words Martin had spoken still shocked her when she recalled them.
"Just that?" he had asked. He had seemed amused, sarcastic. Now these latest events gave Daphne a new perspective. There was a new piece to the puzzle about Niles.
The park exit was closed.
Daphne stared at the gate; it was locked with a chain and a huge padlock. She took it in her hands and tried to open it, but it was rock solid. Daphne looked for someone in the street, out on the other side of the gate. But the street was deserted. She saw no cars, no people. There was nobody to help her. She spun around and walked in the opposite direction where she spotted another gate. She had to walk a long way to reach it, crossing through a cluster of trees. The tall trees covered the now black sky.
She heard a dog barking. It was Eddie, she knew it. She quickened her pace to try to find him; wherever Eddie was would also be Martin. He wouldn't refuse to help her out of there, she was sure. The trees surrounded her like a black blanket, covering the now faded daylight. The lamp posts were not yet lit, making it hard to see beyond a few feet. But she was able to clearly hear the dog's barking, coming from the right near the intersection.
She ran quickly to catch up with them, but the barking stopped and . . . there she was. Hester, in her black parka, holding Eddie.
"It looks like it's going to rain again," she said, petting the little terrier.
"You... " Daphne began to be afraid of the young girl who, was smiling in the dark but whose eyes where as bright as a clear day. "Who are you!?"
"Gee, like you don't remember," she said, giggling. "I am Hess, of course," and then spun around in a circle until she was facing Daphne again.
"The park is empty," Daphne said, now desperate to get out. "What are you doing here?" Then a new thought occurred to her. "Are your parents with you?"
Please, let me know who she is.
"Not yet," she said, holding Eddie's leash as she put him down. "I told you, I like to walk in the rain."
"You've told me a lot of things!" Daphne shot, just to see her reaction. Hester just smiled. Daphne pulled the handkerchief from her pocket and showed it to her to the girl. "Is this Dr. Crane's handkerchief?"
Hester giggled. "It is. It will be mine one day."
Hers?
"He will give it to me on my birthday, when I ask for it," she stated, puzzling Daphne even more. "When everything is put right."
"Who are you!!??" demanded Daphne. Eddie barked defensively. "And why do you keep showing up like this?"
Hester moved closer. Daphne tried to step back but couldn't; she was frozen in place, looking at the child's bright brown eyes.
"Come with me, Daph," Hester extended her hand to Daphne. "You have nothing to be afraid of."
Daphne found, stunned, that she was taking Hester's hand; it was warm, and she felt comfort in her touch. The girl and Eddie pulled her along the path.
"We'll get you out of here," Hester assured.
Daphne couldn't resist and began to walk alongside her and the dog. The wind was blowing hard now and thunder muttered in the skies. It was not raining yet but threatened to in a matter of minutes. As they walked briskly through the empty park the girl was completely silent.
"Do you know where Niles is?" Daphne asked hopefully. "You do, don't you?"
"Martin loves his son," was the child's answer, said without looking at Daphne. "And he does love you too, sometimes. He thought of himself as your father, so please don't blame him . . . he is doing what he thinks is correct."
"Tell me where Niles is," Daphne said. "Please."
"Find him," Hester demanded, and it seemed a plea, a plea from this mysterious girl, her face now covered by the hood of her parka. "You have to!"
"Where is he?" she asked once more. "I need to know!" Daphne felt angry again; she had to have the answer to all of this. It was driving her crazy! No matter what she could say about Niles, no matter what anyone's opinion was, she knew the answer lay with him: the reason for all of what was happening was in his hands, wherever he was.
Hester continued walking. The gate was very close now and wide open. Cars passed in the street beyond; people walked quietly, immersed in their own thoughts. Eddie ran directly to the gate when the girl released the leash and began to bark in their direction.
"You see?" Hester asked. "There was nothing to worry about."
* * *
Daphne looked back. The storm was ready to hit the with a fury; the trees were now blowing wildly. The park was still empty, all the lights were off, and she, Daphne Esmeralda Moon, was standing with...
"Hey, sweetheart, this is the place." Donny's voice made her tremble. She was looking at an old painting on a wall, a painting of a park viewed through a tall, open gate. In the painting there was a dog barking at a young girl in black parka.
"Sweetheart?"
Daphne caught Donny's concerned expression when she turned around; he was looking at her with full attention. She tried to figure out where they were... oh, they were in a restaurant! A hostess seemed to be waiting for them and the place was packed.
Daphne was beginning to panic.
"Are you ok?" Donny asked again. "Do you want to go home?"
"Er..no, no," she said nervously, shaking her head, trying to concentrate and not faint right there. She felt exhausted and weak, with no memory of how she had gotten there with Donny, or when she had gone home and changed, or... or when her sanity decided to escape.
"It's ok." She attempted the best smile she could, and it worked. Donny seemed relieved. "I was just contemplating this painting."
"Well," Donny clapped his hands together, his good mood returning. "Let's go eat, I'm starved!"
Daphne followed him, looking around at the people in the packed restaurant. All of them were chatting, but all sent her cold glances, then returned to their own business. The hostess pointed to a table and Donny sat down. She sat across from him, her back to the door.
"You look tired, honey," Donny said. "Is something wrong?"
Come on, Daphne, she thought, try to calm down. Donny does not know anything and he is the only one who still acts normally with you. For now, at least, all the Cranes can go to hell.
"No. Shall we?" she asked, taking the menu from the hostess.
Donny nodded. "I want to apologize to you about the other night." Daphne looked at him, placing the menu on the table. Was he talking about... "I mean, Niles is a good person and I was being insensitive."
No, please no!!! Why must everything be about Niles Crane!!!??
"Forget about him, Donny, please?" she said. She could have been talking to herself. The hostess had poured some water; she took a sip, trying to buy time to control herself.
"When I talked to him this morning, I..."
"What?!" Daphne almost choked on the water. Niles was available for a call from Donny but not from her, who had spent forever looking for him? She coughed, trying not to spray the table. Donny looked puzzled.
"You talked with him??!!!" Daphne managed to ask, frantically. "When?"
"This morning," Donny stated casually. "You were still in bed."
Unbelievable. Daphne leaned forward, her mouth agape, eyes wide open.
"Where is he?" she asked, her anxiety increasing. "Where is he?!"
"Hey, calm down," Donny said, pressing a hand into the air. "I gave him your best regards."
"That was not my question, Donald." she said, angrily. "Where is he?"
"Are you ready to order, sir?" the hostess interrupted, but Daphne was not about to let this opportunity pass.
"No, we are not," she shot back. The hostess smiled at her, defiantly, and turned to find Donny looking with great interest at his menu. "Off you go!"
But the hostess stayed, looking at Donny who was clearly ready to order.
"I love Mexican food," he declared. Daphne just leaned back and folded her arms. Donny studied the menu. "I'd like," he said in his poor Spanish "Shiles Pobleinos. And you, honey?"
"I need to use the powder room," she said.
"Ok," he said, cheerfully. "I'll order for you."
"Whatever," she said dryly.
What kind of game was destiny playing with her? She had been looking for Niles for what seemed like forever, with no luck. Then Donny calls him and he answers the phone! Daphne was really angry now, her mind racing, trying to figure all this out. On her way to the bathroom patron after patron got in her way, as if each wanted to stop her. She found it almost impossible to make her way through. Suddenly, the crowd opened a path directly to a table. Daphne spotted a familiar suit, Armani, blonde hair . . .
Niles!
Daphne stopped a few feet away. His face was hidden as he was seated with his back toward her. He was alone. Her heart began to pound harder. Donny was not in sight, so she had the opportunity she'd been waiting for. After all that had happened, she was going to get the answers she needed. She especially wanted to see what Mr. Crane had been talking about. She needed to know if she loved him. Daphne made her approach, smiling, trying to act casual.
"Well, look who's here," she said, placing her hand on his shoulder. In the gesture was affection and incredible relief. "Dr. Crane!"
"Well, hello, Daphne! This is a surprise!"
His face... of course, now she knew who this was, and it wasn't Niles. The similarity struck her ironically. Had she been aware of how much Rodney Banks resembled Niles? Not really, she thought, until now. The man smiled at her but she withdrew her hand, disappointed.
"Hello, Rodney," she said, politely.
"Join me, please," he offered formally. She sat, exhausted again. "So, you thought I was Niles?"
"Of course not," she said, trying to smile, unsuccesfully. "I know who you are."
"Really?" he asked, showing that he believed the opposite. "Daphne, that is why you dated me, remember?"
"That's not true!" she said.
"Of course it is." Rodney sipped his wine exactly in the same way Niles would. "Look at me . . . you mistook me for him, didn't you?" She nodded. "I am not who are looking for but I certainly look a lot like him," he giggled, amused by the irony. "That's why you liked me that day in Granville's," he stated. "Why don't you just quit behaving stupidly and be honest with yourself?"
This was getting out of control.
"Good to see you." She rose from the chair. Rodney leaned forward and grabbed her arm. "Let go of me . . . my husband is right over there!"
"And you are here looking for Niles," he teased. He hit home with that statement. Daphne tried to pull away but his grip was firm. "Daphne... Hester can't be here forever to help you. Remember that."
Daphne couldn't do anything but scream, which attracted the entire restaurant's attention. Donny ran to her side, but when he finally got there Rodney was not holding onto her anymore. Daphne was breathing fast; she was scared, but also determined not to seek comfort from Donny. So she just stood there. Rodney sipped his wine.
"What's going on here?"
Good question...oh, nothing. I just came over here because I thought he was Niles. I wanted to find out what I feel for him... nothing, hon, just go back to our table.
"I..." she didn't know what to say.
"I must apologize," Rodney rose from his chair. "The lady mistook me for another person."
Daphne shot him a warning glance... be careful, Rodney Banks....you don't want to tell him what is going on here, do you?
"Oh, well, " Donny said. "I suppose she startled you, screaming like that."
"To be honest..." Rodney began, but Daphne didn't want to continue with this, so she stepped between them.
"Let's go, Donny, it is not important..."
"Well, sure it is..." Donny stated. "You have been acting strange lately...I want to know what is going on. And who is this guy, anyway?" His voice proved he was not going to let it go easily.
Daphne was on the verge of tears.
"I am Rodney Banks," the man said, extending his right hand. Donny just looked at it for a second so Rodney withdrew it. "An old friend of your wife's."
"What you have done to her?" Donny was really angry now.
"Donny, please...." Daphne pleaded. "Please... Rodney, please leave us... "
Rodney shook his head and sat again. He seemed very amused.
"He has done nothing to her." The sound of Hester's voice made Donny look to the right. The girl ran toward them. "I - we - can explain everything."
"Who the hell are you?" Donny's harsh tone didn't ease even though he was talking to a little girl.
"And what business is this of yours?"
Daphne was about to defend Hester; she opened her mouth to speak. At that moment Niles rushed in and proceeded toward them. A soothing relief filled Daphne's heart. After all these days, after all those people blaming her, after all that had happened, finally, he was there. But... there was something different about him. He was not smiling at her like he always did. He looked quite upset.
"Hester! I told you, I changed my mind. I can't do it!" Niles cried. "Come here, we have to leave!"
"No! You have to, Niles. You need to do this!" For the first time since she'd met her, Daphne heard Hester's voice tremble. "For you and for her, and... for me!"
What on earth was she doing with Niles?
"Niles?" Donny said, surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"Never mind, we're leaving," Niles said, not looking at him. His eyes were fixed on Hester, who took shelter behind Daphne. "Come on, Hester!"
"No!"
"Dr. Crane..." Daphne started; for the first time he looked at her. When their eyes met she saw... undeniable love, hope, dreams, all mixed up in his eyes. They were a direct path to his soul. But she also saw frustration, dejection and sadness. "How do you know this child?"
Niles sighed and looked away.
"Hester, come here at once!" he commanded, avoiding Daphne's question. "I specifically asked you not to come in here. There is nothing you can do to fix this... so come on..."
"Please!" Hester cried. "I had to try... I needed to..."
"I will drag you out of here if I have to," Niles warned, taking a step toward the girl. But Daphne stood firmly in his way.
"What are you doing with her?" Daphne asked protectively.
"Daphne, please stay out of this." Niles said.
"Talk to her!" Hester cried. "Please!... you're both here now... it may be possible that..."
Donny faced Niles.
"What do you have to say to Daphne?" he wanted to know.
"Nothing," Niles lied, unconvincingly. "Hester....this is my last warning."
Niles reached for the girl but Daphne hugged Hester tight, stopping him.
"You are not taking her anywhere," she said firmly.
"Daphne, you don't understand..." Niles said, sadly. "This is not what I wanted for us, but..."
"Please," Hester cried. "You promised that you'd do everything in your power to be with her!!" Niles sighed once more.
"To be with Daphne?... Niles, I demand an explanation." Donny was shooting glances among Niles, Daphne and the little girl.
Niles remained silent for a moment, his eyes now fixed on Daphne.
"All right." He took a deep breath. "Daphne," he finally said. "There is no easy way to tell you
this..." he threw up his hands, trying to find the right words. "I... am in terrible pain. You are the person I love most in this world. I love you deeply, there is no denying it, and believe me, I have been trying to." Daphne held her breath as a chill crept down her back... he was finally telling her... "I was devestated when you got engaged and married; I could never understand how you could have been so blind as to not see how much you mean to me... " Hester was looking at Daphne, intently, hopefully. "And now... no matter what happens... "
Donny grabbed Niles by the collar, looking like he was about to hit him.
"What are you saying?!!!" The fury in his voice was overwhelming. "How can you propose to a married woman?!!"
"That's not what I'm doing!" he said, and Donny released his grip slightly. "I have given up... she is your wife, Donny. I lost. She has no feelings for me...." Donny released him. His eyes began to tear up. "Hester nursed the hope that we might get together, but that is impossible. She does not love me."
Daphne looked down, slowly, trying to get a clear picture of all this... Hester was hoping that they would be together?... why?...and who was she anyway?... how did she even know Niles?..and finally, was Niles right when he said that she didn't love him?... was he right?... when her eyes met Hester's she saw tears...
"Daphne... " Hester begged. "Tell him he is wrong!! Tell him how much you love him!! Tell him how much you wanted to see him, tell him!!" she cried, her voice breaking. "You were looking for him, why don't you want him to know?"
"You were looking for Niles?" Donny let Niles go and grabbed Daphne's arm. "Why?"
"Let her go!" Hester cried.
Donny ignored her. "Daphne, I demand an explantion!"
Daphne looked at Niles, who just stood there in defeat. There was no taking it back now; he had finally told her that he loved her. And it was finished.
Daphne had never felt so torn. Of course, she had to tell him he was right. She had a new marriage and a promising future, all she had to do was tell him. She had made her decision. She was married. But . . . was it not true that she couldn't stop thinking about Niles? Wasn't it the truth that she missed him to the point of physical pain? Wasn't it true that she wanted to find him, just as the girl said?....YES, it was all true... and now she knew why. She wanted to find him because she wanted him to tell her everything he had just said. She wanted Niles to tell her how much he loved her. OK, she got what she wanted. Now what?
Donny's voice dropped to a pleading whisper.
"Daphne... you can't be... in love with him, can you? After all we have been through...we have a wonderful marriage... I trusted you...." he said, and he meant it. He was a tender and wonderful man who loved her. But he didn't love her like Niles did. She knew that now. No matter how much Donny loved her... it would never be the same... "Tell me it is not true, honey."
"Donny... I... "
The girl was sobbing when Niles took her hand and pulled her to his side.
"Daphne, please don't say anything," Niles pleaded. "I just want you to be happy."
"Of course she is happy!" Donny yelled. "Aren't you, Daphne?"
"Yes." she said, and promptly burst into tears.
"But... " Hester tried to free herself but Niles began to walk away, dragging her. Daphne took a step in their direction but Donny was in her way.
"Daphne... why?! Why are you doing this??!!" Hester cried. "You know you love him!"
"Quiet, Hess, please, give it up..!" Niles screamed. "You're wrong. She does not love me!"
"Daphne!!!" Hester called desperately.
"Hester, she does not love me!" Niles repeated, and then stopped. "Daphne... sometimes you caress a sweet dream so much and when you finally realize you can't have it it, you try to fight back, to twist fate in your own favor... Hester tried that... but I can't... you have your own dreams now... go on with them, Daphne... we will not interfere anymore."
"Niles, wait! What...what will happen to Hester?" she asked frantically. There had to be a reason this was all so important to the girl. She was suddenly afraid she would never see Hess again. The tears in the child's eyes supported that feeling.
"She will be fine." Niles looked away as he walked to the door, with Hester fighting to get away. "No matter where she goes, now that you made your decision, she will be eventually fine."
"No...Niles!" ...he was wrong. He was wrong and Hester was right when she said they should be together... she...oh, God... they're getting away...
What the hell are you waiting for?
"Niles! Wait! I do love you!"
Daphne tried to run to the door but it was impossible. Donny was still holding her arm.
"You think I'm going to just let you go?" he asked.
"Let go of me!!"
He turned her to face him.
"I will not let go!" he said and shook her shoulders. Daphne tried to break free but she couldn't. Donny shook her again, this time more forcefully. "You're my wife now! Remember that. Even if you love someone else. It's too late!" He shook her once more.
Daphne tried to scream her voice was frozen. The room began to spin, faster and faster, and she tried to hit him. But each time she swung at him her fist passed through him as though he were a ghost. His laughter filled her ears, and she heard the girl call her from a distance. It made her fight even harder...
End Part 1