A/N: I'm not going to lie, this is a long story and it'll take me a while to publish it all but I'm determined to get it done. I'd like to dedicate this story to those of you that gave my first fanfic a chance and for your continued support. You know who you are :) R&R please.

The Second Time Around

Daphne stood by the open window folding laundry and looking down at the busy afternoon streets of the place that reminded her so much of another metropolitan city she'd spent a few years living in. The sky -partially clear and sunny- and the pleasant balmy breeze that crept into the room, playing with her auburn hair, gave Daphne an unusually timed idea.

"Mrs. Berlington?"

"Yes, Daphne?"

"It's a beautiful day. What do you say we go out for a nice walk?" It would be their second of the day. Noon was their usual "walking time."

"Oh, why not!" Martha began enthusiastically. "Seattle doesn't see many clear skies, now does it? Might as well enjoy them while they're blue." Martha Berlington, a woman in her mid 60s, was the former pastry chef of the city's finest restaurant, Chez Henri. Her career was cut short three years ago when she injured her back in a kitchen accident and was forced to quit. The injury also required physical therapy- that's when she hired Daphne Moon.

"All set," Martha said. Daphne smiled as she wheeled her employer out of the elegant apartment they called home. Even though Martha was able to move freely, she usually used a wheelchair when walking long distances.

In the hallway, they noticed moving boxes placed outside the vacant apartment just down the hall."There's something I've never seen," Daphne said pointing at the boxes. "Not since I've been living here, at least."

"Now that I think about it, neither have I and I've been living here for almost eight years. I wonder who it is?"

"Judging by that box labeled 'spare tools' I'm assuming it's a gentleman, but who can say."

"I suppose we'll know soon enough."

"You're right." Daphne took a few steps ahead to press for the elevator then suddenly remembered the forecast. "Oh, wait. Maybe I should go back and get our umbrellas. Weatherman said it might rain this afternoon."

"What's new?" Martha joked. "Go ahead, dear. I'll wait here."

Daphne quickly took her keys out of her sweater pocket and went into the apartment. Just then, Martha heard the familiar sound of the elevator doors opening. A blonde man, probably in his late 30s, dressed in an Armani suit and suspenders, stepped out with keys in hand, walking toward the vacant apartment.

So this is our new neighbor, she thought.

The blonde man turned around, making eye contact with her. "Oh, I'm sorry ma'am. Did you need me to hold the elevator?"

"No, no. I'm waiting for someone but I appreciate your thoughtfulness." She extended her hand out to him. "I'm Martha Berlington."

"Niles Crane," he said with a charming grin, "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Likewise. So, you're our new neighbor?" She pointed at the numerous boxes.

"Oh, yes," he responded. "This is the last of my stuff but I guess the moving men must be on their break...or something."

"Must be but if you need anything we're right down the hall."

"Thank you," he said. "See you soon Mrs. Berlington." He turned back to his apartment.

"Oh, Niles!" she called out.

"Yes?"

"Would like to join us for tea on Friday?"

He pondered the question for a few seconds then answered, "I'd love to."

"Lovely," Martha said. "Oh, and welcome to the Montana."

"Thank you." He waved good-bye once more before finally entering his new apartment.

"Got them!" Daphne emerged with two umbrellas in hand and pressed for the elevator. As soon as they stepped inside and the doors closed, Martha told her about their new neighbor coming over for tea. "Do you need me to make anything special?"

"I'll take care of that," Martha winked. "But I will need your help."

"Of course." One of Daphne's favorite things to do since she'd been working for Martha was watching her brilliant pastry baking.

"I was also thinking of baking him a 'Welcome to the Montana' apple pie after our walk."

"Perfect. I know he'll love it! What's his name anyway?"

"Silly me. I forgot to tell you, didn't I?" Martha chuckled. "His name is Niles Crane."

"Niles Crane," she repeated before the doors parted. The name rang an extremely loud bell in Daphne's ear but for some odd reason, she just couldn't place it.

A/N: Not sure when I'll be publishing the next chapter but be patient, lol. Coming soon to a page near you… :)