Darkness had fallen by the time they returned to the cabin.
"That was wonderful, Dr. Crane.. the dinner, walking along the beach, browsing the art galleries and shops. I don't remember the last time I've had such a wonderful day."
"Thank you, Daphne." Niles said. "I'm having a wonderful time as well."
He sat down next to her on the sofa and smiled. "Would you like some champagne? I made a point to make sure they had some waiting for us."
"I'd love some."
For what seemed like hours, they sat and sipped their champagne, laughing and talking about anything that came to mind.
Suddenly Niles noticed that Daphne squinted, holding her hand over her eyes.
Instantly concerned, he turned to her.
"Daphne, what's wrong?"
"Oh, I'll be fine. Just a bit tired from too much champagne, I suppose. I'll just change me clothes and get ready for be. Is it all right if I use the shower first?"
"Of course."
She rose from the sofa, a bit wobbly and he guided her across the living room rug assuring that she made it safely into the bathroom.
"Are you sure you'll be all right?"
She peered out from the bathroom door, smiling at him. "Now don't go worryin' about me. I'll be just fine."
When she closed the door, he paced the tiny cabin; his heart beating rapidly.
Dear God, what was he thinking, inviting her to such a remote place? And worse, what would she think? He had to make his intentions clear because the last thing he'd ever do is hurt her. He was merely trying to say-
Before he could think another thought or even begin to decide how to explain himself, he looked up to see her emerge from the bathroom.
"It's all yours, Dr. Crane."
He blinked, unable to believe what he was hearing.
Temporarily stunned by her beauty, he looked her up and down. In her royal blue satin nightgown and matching robe, she'd never looked more beautiful.
"I-I-what?"
"The bathroom's all yours." She repeated .
He swallowed hard, unable to take his eyes off of her.
"Is something wrong?"
"Um.. No.. .I just..."
"I know.. I'm sure you're tired. It was a very long drive and you deserve your rest."
"Well.. I'll only be a few minutes."
When he disappeared into the bathroom, she made herself comfortable on the sofa, pulling the blanket over her body.
She could feel her heart beating faster as she watched him step into the tiny bedroom, wearing a pair of maroon pajamas. He was even more handsome than when he wore his trademark suits.
"Goodnight, Dr. Crane."
He walked over to her and sighed. "Daphne, are you sure you don't want to take the bed? I don't feel right making you sleep on the sofa. I'd be perfectly content to-."
Rising from the sofa, she smiled and took his hand. "I know you would, but I wouldn't feel right. I insist that you take the bed. I'll be fine right here."
He hugged her warmly.
"You're such a good friend, Dr. Crane."
"So are you, Daphne."
And in the darkness, she lay on the sofa doing her best to fall asleep. But thoughts of her best friend who was asleep only feet away consumed her mind.