His longtime friend and Boston colleague, Dr. Adrian Stennel had left for his hometown of Chicago at almost the same time that Frasier had moved to Seattle. They had so much in common that they were practically brothers.
Of course, Frasier would never mention this to Niles. His younger brother could be sensitive when it came to matters of family and friends, especially when he didn't have any close friends of his own. It was best to remember the friendship with Adrian in private.
But even so, he missed the closeness he and Adrian shared. They leaned on each other for support, congratulated one another through triumphs and encouraged each other through difficult times.
Now as he stared at his friend's name on the tiny cell phone screen, he had a revelation of sorts. This was the perfect time to renew their friendship. Even when Adrian and Frasier were thousands of miles apart, Adrian was never hesitant to offer some much needed advice. That advice had gotten Frasier through some very difficult times. But none seemed as difficult as this one.
Reluctantly, but enthusiastically Frasier removed Adrian's business card from his wallet and glanced at the address. If things went according to plan, he should be able to find it easily. And less than a half hour later, he found that he was right.
He stood on the sidewalk, staring at the beautiful ivy covered brick building adorned with cathedral like windows in awe. Adrian had certainly done well for himself. It couldn't hurt to pay a surprise visit. If nothing else, they could catch up on their lives and reminisce about the good old days in Boston.
With a certain burst of confidence he strolled into the building, pleased to find that it was just as beautiful on the inside. In the inviting lobby, he found the directory and scanned the list until he found Adrian's name. His friend was listed as the primary psychiatrist but underneath was what looked to be an ordinary piece of paper, upon which was written; Dr Pepper, Associate.
At once he laughed out loud. All these years later, Adrian still had a sense of humor.
Suddenly he couldn't wait to see his friend.
Wasting no time, he hurried to the elevator and pressed the call button, eager to reach the fourth floor. As he expected, his colleague's office floor was just as beautiful as the rest of the building, with its wine colored carpet and slate grey walls. Eagerly he darted toward the receptionist and inquired about his friend.
"I'm sorry. Dr Stennel isn't in today, but you're welcome to speak with his associate."
"Associate." Frasier replied with a chuckle. "That's very amusing. Certainly, I'd be happy to talk to Dr. Pepper."
"Who?"
"Dr. Stennel's Associate."
"Okay..." the receptionist said, looking completely clueless. "May I announce your arrival?"
"Actually, I'd rather you not. You see, I'm an old friend and I'd like to surprise him. Well, not old per say but-."
"I know what you mean." The receptionist said with an insincere smile.
"So may I go on?"
"Sure."
He felt a tinge of excitement as he reached for the doorknob and turned the handle. With a deep breath he walked inside and smiled brightly, speaking in his most authoritative voice.
"Dr. Pepper, may I have a word with you?"
"Sure, come in."
His eyebrows rose. That was certainly strange.
That voice... it was so familiar.
"Dr... Pepper? It's your old pal, Frasier Crane."
"Well, isn't this a surprise! How did I get so lucky? Of all the places in the world to run into you! I only have one wish; that my eyes were sore so that you could be a sight for them! Come here and give me a hug!"
But Frasier could only stand and stare in stunned amazement. For the face he was staring at was not that of his friend.
"BEBE GLAZER?"
