The smile never left Niles' face as he rang his brother's doorbell. He knew how much Frasier hated when he dropped by unannounced but he simply couldn't help it. He had to tell someone or he'd go completely insane. It was still so hard to believe but as he read the page for what seemed like the hundredth time, he knew it was in fact real. His heart reached when he heard footsteps and the unlocking of the door. And as he expected, Frasier stood before him with an annoyed look on his face.
"Hello, Niles."
Without even bothering to wait to be invited in, Niles pushed his way into the condo, aware of yet another glance of irritation. "Frasier, I know you don't like my impulse visits, but... ask me if I have news!"
"Actually I have some news of my own." Frasier interjected. "Today on my radio show.-Oh for God's sake Niles why are you glaring at me like that? What is this news that is so important?"
"First of all Frasier, congratulations on your Sea Bee nomination!"
"Well, Thank you, Niles!" Frasier replied.
Niles' grin widened. "Now congratulate me on mine!"
At this Frasier's eyes narrowed. "Niles, what are you talking about?"
Niles flipped through the stack of papers in his hand. "I know you've already seen this since, of course, your name is on the first page, but if you look on page fifteen you'll find something quite impressive!"
Annoyed, Frasier glanced at the page. "That's very nice, Niles. Now if you'll excuse me, I have things to do."
But Niles was unfazed by his brother's rudeness. For when he looked up, he saw a vision enter the room. As always, his angel was simply breathtaking, especially in her jeans and green t-shirt. The colors complimented her chocolate brown eyes making her more beautiful than ever.
"Hello, Daphne."
Her sweet smile warmed his heart.
"Hello Dr. Crane! It's nice to see you. What brings you here?"
"Niles has been nominated for a Sea Bee Award!" Frasier said a bit too enthusiastically.
"Oh, how nice, Dr. Crane! Congratulations!"
Niles blushed. "Thanks, but it's a bit premature for celebration. I haven't even won yet!"
"Nor have you told us what it's for, Niles." Frasier reminded him, albeit sarcastically.
Niles rolled his eyes and pointed at the page he'd read over and over again. "Right here. Best Performance by a Guest on an Information Show!"
Frasier's eyebrows rose. "Right... and what was that again?"
"It's for that spot I did on KJSB when I discussed the psychological effects of long-term inclement weather."
"Ah yes, thirty minutes of psychobabble reduced to one phrase; Rain, rain go away!"
Hurt by his brother's lack of interest, Niles sighed. "Well, it's a great honor to be nominated! After all it shows that I'm at least somewhat appreciated in Seattle!"
"Oh Dr. Crane don't pay any attention to your brother." Daphne said. "I think it's wonderful!"
He grinned, feeling like he could fly. "You do?"
"Of course I do, you sweet man!"
Instantly he found himself in her arms, the recipient of the most wonderful hug he could have ever imagined, and he sighed at the scent of her heavenly strands of silky brown hair.
"Thank you, Daphne."
"And on that touching note, I think I'll go and relax in my room for a while." Frasier said. "I've had enough excitement for one day, thank you very much!"
