Author's Note: It seems that writing "Baby Shopping" caused another plot bunny to form in my head (I've noticed lately that that term is way too accurate!). I began to wonder what might happen when N/D have to buy things for a child of their own. And so, this fluffy little scene was born. Enjoy! Late b-day present for Leigh Ann (leighann415).
Niles couldn't believe all the choices. He and Daphne had been putting off picking out a crib for a while now. But there were only a few more months to go, and so they'd decided to just get it over with. He had hoped that going to the store and seeing the different models in person would make things easier, but it seemed to be just the opposite.
Daphne recognized the familiar look of panic on her husband's face. "What's wrong?"
A sigh escaped from him. "There are so many to choose from. How do we know which one is right? I don't want to put my precious child into a crib that's going to fall apart!"
Daphne knew better than to downplay his fears. Though most fathers would never be concerned about such a thing, she knew Niles was not most fathers. "I used to help me brothers build things, remember? I'll make sure the crib we buy is perfectly safe."
Niles breathed a sigh of relief. "Every time I look at you and see where our child is growing, I just wonder how we can ever do this. Babies require so much care and attention. One little mistake, and he or she could be doomed for life."
Slowly Daphne began to realize that people were staring. They were currently blocking an aisle where others were trying to look at the cribs. She knew Niles was completely unaware. Without a word, she simply took him by the hand, gently leading him off to a quieter area of the store. "I get scared, too," she finally whispered. "Don't you think I've wondered if I'm carrying the next Frasier Crane in here?" She laughed, placing a hand over her abdomen.
The sight of Daphne's smile calmed Niles as nothing else could. All at once his worries melted away. "Oh, my love, thank you. I've wanted to be a father for such a long time, but I don't think I'd want to do it with anyone but you." He kissed her lips before hugging her tightly.
"You see, Niles? I'd be so afraid if I had to do this all on me own. And no doubt I'd have to contend with me mum. But none of that matters, because we have each other."
Niles nodded. "It's just that I already love our child so much. And he or she is going to be so small and fragile. I don't want anything to hurt what we've created."
Once again, Daphne felt a rush of compassion for him. "I promise you, we'll do everything we can to keep the baby safe. But, Niles, I grew up with eight brothers. I know you and Frasier didn't spend much time running around, but if this child is anything like Simon or the rest of the Moon boys, we won't be able to protect him all the time."
Though Niles didn't particularly like the idea of raising a little Simon, he did understand what she was saying. Being a man of science, he knew all about the genetics involved. Half this child's DNA would come from her. He had hoped that meant a little girl with Daphne's beautiful eyes. But he might not get his wish. The thought scared him.
He noticed Daphne watching him, concern evident on her face. For the millionth time, he realized the simple truth. She loved him. They'd taken so many chances together, overcome all the odds just to get here. He knew the future was filled with yet more obstacles that he couldn't even fathom right now. But looking into Daphne's eyes, he was sure of one thing: they could handle whatever came their way. "Let's go buy a crib," he said, smiling.
The End