Excitedly, Daphne led them to the carriage and climbed inside while Niles paid the driver. When they were safely inside Daphne settled herself into the seat, sitting mere inches away from him.
The driver turned to them and smiled. "Where to?"
"Oh, just around the park if you don't mind." Daphne replied. "It's so beautiful here."
"There are blankets back there in case you get cold."
"It is a bit chilly." Daphne observed, draping the blanket around them.
Minutes later they were on their way through the park, going at a slow, steady pace. She couldn't stop smiling as she took in every flower and tree.
With a contented sigh, she leaned her head against Niles' shoulder, snuggling as close to him as possible.
"This is so romantic."
Were it not for the doors holding them in, he would have surely fallen out; having fainted from pure bliss. He couldn't believe that this perfect angel was sitting next to him, much less talking about romance.
He took a deep breath and tried to relax.
Casually his arm draped around her shoulder, encouraging her to move closer to him until she was so close that he could smell the scent of her shampoo. The fragrance reminded him of an ocean breeze with a hint of sandalwood.
And it sent his heart soaring.
Daphne sighed, feeling a wave of disappointment when she realized that they were approaching the area where they'd begun the carriage ride. However, she was eager to continue exploring the park on foot.
As they walked hand in hand, Niles turned to her. "Where do they shoot off these fireworks?"
"By the water." Daphne replied with a dreamy sigh.
"What's wrong?"
"I was just remembering how beautiful the fireworks looked on TV last night. The reflection of the colors just took me breath away. I just hope that the area isn't too crowded. It is Canada Day you know."
The faraway look in her eyes made him smile. "I'll make sure that you have the perfect view."
The kind gesture warmed her heart. "That's so sweet, Dr. Crane."
Niles could feel his heart rate increase when she took his hand once more.
"Well then I guess we'd better get going so that we can find a good viewing spot."
She stopped suddenly and glanced around the park. "Actually..."
"What?"
"Would it be all right if we watched them here?"
He looked around nervously. "H-here? But what about the water? And the crowds of people?"
"I think we'll have a wonderful view right here and I brought the basket of food and wine for us to share."
"Oh... that sounds wonderful. But are you sure this is what you want? Because I'd be more than happy to take you into downtown. Perhaps even get a hotel room."
When he realized what he'd said, he froze in horror.
"Dear God... I-I meant i-in order to have a good view of the fireworks. Daphne I would never-."
She kissed his cheek, causing him to feel dizzy.
"You're such a gentleman, Dr. Crane. But that won't be necessary. This will be perfect; watchin' the fireworks while sitting in the middle of a beautiful garden with a sweet and handsome man. I can't think if anything I'd rather do."
"Well, I'm glad but-d-did you just call me handsome?"
In the dim moonlight, she knew he could see her blushing.
She looked away quickly, almost afraid to make eye contact. "I-I guess I did."