"I had no idea you were such a wonderful actor."
Niles slowly came to the realization that the Snow Ball was nothing more than an act for Daphne. The dancing, the kiss, the declaration of something more than friendship was nothing. Daphne was trying to help, of course, which was admirable and touching, in a painful way. But, it was just an act. Blood rushed to his ears and his stomach turned. "How could I be so damn foolish," he said to himself.
The ride home was uneventful. Meaningless conversation about the ballroom decor, the music, the gowns and the members of the Seattle elite filled the space between them. He was grateful when they reached Elliot Bay Towers. In the four years he had known Daphne, he had never felt the need to be away from her like he did at this moment. His pride was damaged and the humiliation he felt stinging in his mind would not subside. He needed to be alone with his thoughts and a glass of sherry...or maybe something stronger.
"I had such a wonderful time, Dr. Crane," Daphne gushed. "You were the best dancer at the ball, and I'm so glad you included me. I've never been invited to such a posh event."
"Oh, Daphne," said Niles. "I should be thanking you. You were an absolute vison...an angel on the dancefloor. I just appreciate you teaching me the dance moves and accompanying me to the ball. I had a wonderful time." For at least a little while, everything was perfect, he thought to himself. Why did it have to come crashing down around him?
"You know I always enjoy spending time with you, Dr. Crane. I hope I can go to another one of your swanky events one day. It's such a nice change for me. The fancy clothes, the wonderful scenery..." Daphne seemed to be deep in thought as though she were dreaming about being a member of Seattle's high society.
Niles mind began racing. Did this charade have to stop here? Maybe he could have another chance to spend time with Daphne. Could her acting become something more? He mentally reviewed his social calendar. He was trying to keep up his appearances that he was thriving without Maris despite her efforts to destroy his reputation and finances. Tonight had done more in that regard than he thought possible. He stifled a grin as he recalled the whispers he heard from Maris' friends. No one could deny that Daphne was the most beautiful woman at the ball, and the sensual way she danced with him made even the stuffiest socialites in the crowd envious. Get it together, Crane, he told himself. Play it cool, and don't blow this.
"You know, Daphne, there's another dance coming up next weekend. It's a black-tie fundraiser for the Seattle Opera House. I was going to refuse the invitation because I didn't want to go stag, but I would be honored if you would go with me, if you'd like to, of course," Niles said as he felt a wave of nervousness in his gut.
"Dr. Crane! I would love to," Daphne squealed. "It would be so much fun to dress up and go out for another evening of dancing with you. Are you sure about this, though? I'm worried I won't fit it. This evening made me so nervous! I don't want to embarrass you, especially in front of Mrs. Crane's friends. I know you want to leave a good impression, so she hears that you're fine without her."
He tried not to cringe. Daphne was not simply a way to get to Maris. Daphne was everything to him. He wanted to shout and tell her that he didn't give a damn about Maris and her snobby friends. He suddenly felt ashamed. Daphne was so much more than a pawn in a game between Maris and himself. Why could he, a renowned psychiatrist, not simply be honest with her? The risk was too great. At least he could spend time with her without making her uncomfortable. Besides, had she not said she would not get involved with a man who was separated? Of course she wouldn't. She was much too pure and too good for that. She was perfect.
"First of all, you could never embarrass me, Daphne! The fact that you're different than those people is why I want you to go with me. Those people don't matter. I think we could have a good time, and I really want to put those dance lessons to good use." Niles silently willed her to say yes. This was his chance to spend more time with her out of sight from Frasier's watchful eyes.
"Of course I'll go! I'll wear that black dress I wore to the Empire Club. I love to channel that Audrey Hepburn look...I just don't have the chance to do it that often. I'm already so excited!"
"Well, it's a date, then, Daphne."
Niles and Daphne walked toward the elevator arm in arm until they reached apartment 1901. "Thank you for a wonderful evening, Daphne"
"Goodnight, Dr. Crane. I'm already looking forward to next weekend, but I know I'll see you before that."
With a smile she closed the door and Niles sighed as a pushed the button on the elevator. This is going to be a breakthrough, he thought to himself. A smile crept to his lips, and the weight of his earlier disappointment lifted from his shoulders. Things are looking good for the first time in a long time.