They visited several of Paris' finest art museums. While Daphne did not enjoy everything she saw, she did like hearing all of Niles' opinions on everything. When she offered her own thoughts, Niles did not make her feel stupid for her lack of knowledge. He was very patient in explaining each painting. Just hearing him talk gave her a greater appreciation for art than she'd ever had before.
When they'd had their fill of paintings and sculpture, Niles took Daphne shopping. He dutifully watched as she tried on one dress after another, giving his approval occasionally. She spent quite a bit of money, but Niles didn't care. Spoiling Daphne was exactly what this trip was about.
"Have I mentioned that I love you?" Daphne said, kissing him. She'd just bought yet another beautiful dress.
"Yes, but it so happens I never tire of hearing it." Niles laughed. Right now, Niles could tell that taking his wife to Paris had been the perfect idea. Though their relationship was more than solid, being here had made them feel even more romantic than usual. He managed to tear his attention from her to look at his watch. Of course, he'd set it to local time as soon as the plane had landed. It was now past dinner time. "Shall we get something to eat?"
Daphne nodded, feeling a thrill as she realized she and Niles would probably find Paris' most expensive restaurant. Even after several years of marriage, it still amazed her to have so much money.
In what seemed like only a matter of moments, they had a table at a very elegant restaurant. Niles was even able to impress the staff by speaking French.
"This is lovely," Daphne said, reaching across the table to take his hand.
"I'm glad. I want this trip to be everything you want and more."
She felt a bit of embarrassment at that. Niles was going a bit overboard, but she knew better than to protest. He'd spent many lonely years, wishing they could be together, and now they were. When she thought about it that way, it made a bit more sense.
Niles glanced at the menu and made his choice. He easily helped Daphne choose, knowing she was unaccustomed to this kind of food. When their dishes arrived, they quickly found that this restaurant's reputation was well-earned.
After a few minutes of comfortable silence, Daphne looked at Niles, sighing. "You know, when I first came to your brother's that day, I never would have dreamed I'd end up here. And with you!" She laughed, remembering that long-ago day when she'd answered Frasier's request for a home healthcare worker.
"I never dreamed I'd see the love of my life standing there, folding my brother's underwear, either." He winked at her, remembering their first meeting.
"When I think back to how I was back then, it's a wonder your brother didn't fire me!"
"I'll admit you weren't what any of us expected, but you were definitely what we needed."
Once again, Daphne felt herself blush. She looked around, almost hoping a waiter would come by, so that Niles would stop saying such things.
Niles sensed that he'd made her uncomfortable somehow. He returned his attention to his plate. They were quiet for a long moment, both enjoying their meals.
Daphne broke the silence by talking about the time she had helped Niles prepare for a date that didn't exist. One of the benefits of knowing each other for so long was that there was never a shortage of topics about which to reminisce. Before their relationship turned romantic, they had always enjoyed a close, comfortable friendship. Soon, they were both laughing. Daphne was glad Niles had stopped going on about her for once.
Eventually, they'd both just about cleaned their plates. A waiter suggested dessert, but neither wanted anything more. They did, however, each enjoy a cup of coffee. It was far better than anything Nervosa could ever hope to offer.
They left the restaurant, after Niles had paid the bill and left a handsome tip. When they went back outside, they realized they weren't that far from the Eiffel Tower. They walked toward it. The lights made the structure look even more impressive than usual.
When they got close to it, Niles pointed upward. "This is what I wanted you to see. It's amazing, isn't it?"
"Yes," Daphne agreed, kissing him. "This trip has been lovely."
Niles looked at her in confusion. "You're talking as if it's over. We've only been here for two days."
"I know," Daphne agreed. "And today was absolutely magical. But I don't really need to spend two weeks here."
Now Niles was truly dumbfounded. "What?! Do you have any idea how much this city has to offer?"
"Niles, please, don't get cross," she said. She could see his anger building. "I know you wanted me to see this place, and I love you for it. I've already seen more than I could have dreamed when I was a little girl. But I keep thinking about David."
"David is fine," Niles said. "In fact, he's probably having the time of his life with Dad and Ronee." David and his grandfather were best buddies. Even Ronee was fond of the toddler, though she tried to deny it.
"I know," Daphne admitted. "But I miss him. It's not the same, waking up and not hearing him running in."
Niles sighed. He knew in that moment that he was defeated. One of the things he'd always loved about Daphne was the way she cared for others. Of course that would include her little boy. "It's not going to be easy, changing our tickets and reservations."
"I'm sorry, Darling. I know you're disappointed, but I can't help it. I miss me little boy."
Niles thought of their sweet, energetic son. He never got to spend as much time with David as he liked. Maybe Daphne had a point. Paris would always be here, but a little boy would only be little for a very short time.
