Frasier knew he had to do something that he hated. He had to apologize to Daphne. He had thought that offering his advice was the right thing to do. After all, who had more taste and culture than he? But somewhere along the way, he forgot that this was actually Daphne's wedding, and she should be the one making the decisions. He looked over at his father, who was watching him expectantly. "I know, Dad. I'll go talk to her." He walked down the hall toward her room.
"Daphne, may I come in?" He knocked gently on the door.
"I suppose. It is your house, after all."
Frasier winced at her tone, but he couldn't deny he deserved it. He opened the door and was startled to find her seated on her bed, her pillow in her arms. It was clear that she'd been crying. "I'm so sorry. I went way overboard. You're entitled to have your wedding the way you want it. You should be happy."
Daphne released a sigh. "I'm sorry, too. I shouldn't have blown up at you like that. You are me boss. Roz told me to just talk to you, but I couldn't. I guess I just couldn't take it anymore."
A smile came on Frasier's face. "That's all right, Daphne. At least it got my attention. Don't worry about it. You're forgiven." He bent to kiss the top of her head.
Daphne stood and hugged him. "Thank you. For everything."
"You're welcome. Dad and I...we love you. You're a part of this family, like it or not."
Now Daphne smiled. "You're not so bad. I love you and your father, too. And your brother, of course. By the way, how is Dr. Crane getting along with his new friend, Sabrina?"
"Oh, they aren't together anymore."
Daphne frowned. "Oh. I'm sorry to hear that."
Frasier waved his hand dismissively. "He's better off without her. I know his wallet certainly is!" He laughed at his private joke.
A look of confusion came on Daphne's face. "Well, I guess I better get started making dinner. I assume your brother will be joining us?"
"If you'd rather have the night off, you're more than welcome. Dad and I can get our own dinner. You've been under a lot of stress lately."
"That's awfully sweet of you, Dr. Crane, but I'd rather keep meself busy. Tomorrow I can start making calls to undo everything you did for me wedding."
"If you need any help, just let me know. You'll hear no more unsolicited advice from me." Frasier crossed his heart for emphasis.
Daphne took his hand and squeezed it. "You meant well."
Frasier nodded, smiling at her. Though he'd never approved of Niles' infatuation with her, Daphne did work very hard to take care of his father. "I guess I'll go and wash up for dinner. I'll help set the table."
"Thank you, Dr. Crane." As she followed her boss back out to the living room, Daphne smiled. This job was far from perfect, but Daphne wouldn't trade it for anything. This was exactly where she belonged.
The End