Author's Note: One more b-day story for Leigh Ann (leighann415), since this one's actually about a birthday! *Hugs*

"I've got some news for you," Daphne said as she approached her husband.

"What is it?" Niles asked, kissing her.

"David's finally decided what he'd like to do for his birthday." Daphne bit her lip nervously. She knew Niles wasn't going to like their son's idea.

"Well, my love, tell me." Niles couldn't help smiling. He wondered which of Seattle's fine restaurants his son had chosen. He had connections at most of them, so it wouldn't take more than a phone call to set it up.

"He wants to go to the arcade with a few of his friends from school," Daphne answered, praying Niles wouldn't take the news badly.

"No," Niles said immediately. "Absolutely not."

"It's the only thing he wants. He was there last month for a party for another boy. Apparently he had a lovely time, and he wants to do it again."

"Daphne, you know I feel about places like that. The noise, the children running amok...I'm sorry, but David's going to have to pick something else."

Daphne sighed, remembering the conversation she'd just had with her son as she drove him home from school. She'd warned him that his father wasn't going to like this plan. "Darling, I know how you feel. Believe me, it's not my choice either. But it is his day."

Niles sighed. He knew she was right. He took a deep breath, forcing himself to be calm. "You're right. I promised myself I wouldn't push my interests on him the way Dad did to Frasier and me."

Daphne kissed her husband. "I know you and your father don't share the same interests, but you two are alike in other ways," she said.

"Really? Name one way," Niles said. His tone made it clear that he believed she couldn't.

"Well, you're both good husbands," Daphne answered. "I can't speak for your father, but I haven't heard any complaints from Ronee." She laughed.

"Thank you, my love. I suppose that comes naturally when you've been in love with someone for most of your adult life." He sighed, remembering the years when he'd pined for her in secret.

Daphne smiled, knowing what he was thinking of. "I don't think this party will be as bad as you imagine. After all, David and his friends will be busy playing games most of the time. It'll be just us." She grinned mischievously.

Niles kissed her deeply. He knew this was a common tactic of Daphne's, using his desire for her to get him to agree to things he otherwise wouldn't. It was slightly manipulative, but it worked every time. The reason for this was simple: his feelings for Daphne hadn't faded one bit since the very first time he saw her.