It only took seconds for Daphne to become swept up into the ballet once more. The music swelled and surrounded her with its sweet sound. Some of the songs were familiar; songs that she'd heard a million times before, on the radio, on television and even in grocery and department stores. But hearing them through speakers was nothing compared to hearing them performed by an orchestra as the scenes came to life on the stage.
The production was breathtaking; even more so in the Act Two than in Act One. The costumes, the scenery… all of it. And she was certain that absolutely nothing would be able to top what she'd already seen. But as soon as the opening strands of the Pas De Deux began to play, something happened to her….
She watched the scenes… the beautiful and romantic scenes in which the Nutcracker Prince and Clara performed the most incredible ballet dance that Daphne had ever witnessed. The beautiful Clara in her flowing pink dress and the handsome Prince in his blue jacket (who had magically come to life) only had eyes for each other and he held her close, twirling her around and around, lifting her high into the air and then back into his arms again. The music that accompanied them was nothing short of spectacular. The music swelled, but the notes seemed to be falling softly, like glitter or snowflakes. And it was absolutely magical.
But soon the pair began to blur before her eyes. Completely caught up in the moment, tears began to spill onto her cheeks. And she was barely aware that she was crying until, as though by magic, a handkerchief appeared before her.
She looked down and took it, realizing immediately that it was not magic at all, but the kindness of a friend; a friend that she cared for very much. She blotted her eyes and glanced to her right only for a moment, her heart warming when she saw Niles' sympathetic smile. And it was his sweet smile that made her slip her hand into his.
Their fingers entwined, Daphne continued to watch the gorgeous dance between Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. And when it was over, she stood, bringing Niles with her. She applauded like mad, the tears streaming down her cheeks yet again. She was certain that her applause could be heard over everyone else in attendance and that the performers could hear her as well. More tears spilled onto her cheeks and she knew without a doubt that she'd never see anything more beautiful for the rest of her life. It simply wasn't possible.
As the next scene began, the music had a completely different feel to it. She tried to focus once again on the incredible dancers, the costumes and the scenery that appeared so lifelike, it made her feel as though she was part of the production. But her tears still fell. And before long, the dancers were taking their final bows.
The applause, when the house lights came up, was thunderous and Daphne's heart was beating like mad. She moved to pick up her coat, but Niles was already slipping it onto her shoulders.
"Oh Frasier, that was amazing!" Roz beamed as Frasier helped her with her coat.
"It sure was!" Martin chimed in.
Niles was next, shaking his brother's hand once more. "I have to say, Frasier that this was the finest production of The Nutcracker that I've ever seen!"
Frasier rolled his eyes. "Niles, you've seen it before! Mom and Dad used to take us every year remember?"
"Yes, but this was a hundred times better!" Niles replied enthusiastically.
Frasier's gaze went to Daphne. "Or perhaps it's the company?"
Niles' smile disappeared and his cheeks reddened. "No, I meant…"
Frasier went to him, patting him on the shoulder. "I'm sorry Niles. You're right. The Pacific Northwest Ballet production has gotten better with age, don't you think? Mom would have loved this."
"She sure would have, don't you think so, Dad?"
Martin smiled but there was a sadness in his eyes. He was missing his wife. "Absolutely, Son."
As though an understanding had passed among the Crane men, Frasier hugged Martin and then Niles. "Merry Christmas to both of you."
"Merry Christmas Frasier."
"Merry Christmas, Fras."
Daphne watched the scene with tears in her eyes. If only her own family had been as loving as her makeshift family in Seattle. It was turning out to be the best Christmas Eve she'd ever had.