He took one last glance in the mirror and smoothed the lapels of his tuxedo, trying to push away the memory of when Daphne had stood just inches in front of him, her hands on his chest. Was that night doomed to be in his every thoughts? No. He wouldn't allow it. Not tonight. Tonight was about Claire and about making her happy. He certainly didn't need any-

The doorbell rang, and he glanced at his watch, surprised at the time. It was exactly 6:30. Promptness on a date was always a good sign. He felt a bit uneasy being the one at home waiting for Claire. He was used to being the one-

The doorbell rang again and he hurried to answer it. But when he did, his breath was taken away. "Claire..."

"Niles... You look amazing."

"Thank you. And you-."

She smiled, smoothing her light green chiffon dress. "Oh, thanks. I'm not sure if this is right for dancing, but I thought I'd give it a chance. I saw it in the store and I absolutely love the color."

He nodded. "So do I. It's... beautiful. What color is that? Mint?"

"Sea foam, actually. But to tell you the truth, Mint sounds much better."

There was an awkward silence and then he smiled and offered her his arm. "Shall we go?"

They rode to the restaurant talking quietly getting to know each other and when they arrived he smiled at the sight of the sign that read Le Cigare Lovante. Perhaps it was a bit pretentious, taking a woman like Claire to a restaurant that was practically a second home to him. But it was a place where he knew that the service would be nothing less than impeccable. However, Le Cigare Volante was one of the best restaurants in Seattle and Claire didn't seem to mind. In fact, she seemed quite impressed.

When the waiter disappeared into the kitchen to put in their orders, they resumed their conversation that they'd started in the car. And when the food came (flawless of course), they talked all through dinner, laughing and getting to know each other. Soon they were at the Starlight Room, dancing in each other's arms, having the time of their lives. It was everything that Niles had hoped it would be and more.

But his mind was never far from Daphne, and no matter how much he tried to push the vision of her away, she was still there. She was always there. Would always be there. But as he'd reminded himself many times before, this was Claire's night. He was out with a beautiful woman and suddenly he couldn't wait to show her off.