She took one last look in the mirror and brushed the tears from her cheeks. And then, pausing at the door for only a minute, she stepped into the hallway.

When she appeared in the living room, Niles stood at once. He looked so handsome that he took her breath away, even though he wore a surprisingly casual shirt and khaki

pants. His smile nearly melted her heart.

"Hello, Daphne."

"Hi, Niles."

"Well, we'll leave you two alone." Frasier said. "I'm sure you two have a lot to talk about."

"Actually Dad, Frasier, I'd like for you both to stay, that is if you don't mind."

The elder Crane men glanced at each other and returned to their seats.

"Not at all, Niles."

"What's on your mind, son?"

Niles crossed the room and reached for Daphne's hands. "Daphne, I'm so sorry. I was wrong to leave you alone at the café and I feel terrible. I'm begging you from the

bottom of my heart to forgive me."

Daphne couldn't help but smile. "Of course."

"I have no excuse except to say that your news-this… our baby… well, it was a lot to take in."

"I should have told you sooner, at your home. I –I went about it the wrong way. It was my fault! I-."

He brought her hands to his lips. "No… the way you told me was absolutely perfect. This is perfect and if you'll allow me, I want to make it up to you."

"That's not necessary, Niles. I-."

Niles glanced at Frasier. "Do we have any champagne? And perhaps something sparkling but non-alcoholic?"

"Yes, I think there's some in the refrigerator."

"I'll get the glasses." Martin said.

The men dispersed but returned seconds later, holding the champagne glasses and two bottles.

"Let's go the balcony." Niles suggested.

"That's a wonderful idea." Frasier agreed.

On the balcony Daphne couldn't help but notice the beautiful sunset. It was absolutely stunning in a rainbow of orange, pink yellow and purple. "That's breathtaking."

"You're breathtaking." Niles said. Taking her hand he turned her to face him.

"Daphne, I wasn't prepared for your arrival on my doorstep, nor did I expect our visit to turn into so much more. And I certainly didn't expect us to-."

"Oh geez, Niles, just get on with it!" Martin groaned.

"Dad, these things take time."

Fras, if he doesn't hurry this thing along, Daphne's going to be as big as a house when he proposes."

Niles gasped in horror. "Dad! You've ruined my surprise!"

But Daphne was stunned beyond measure as her hands flew to her trembling mouth. "Proposal? You mean-."

Niles squeezed her hands. "Daphne, I love you. I think I've loved you since the moment I first saw you."

She brushed away tears. "I love you too. You have no idea how much."

"I love you too." He said again. Daphne's hand dropped to her side when Niles began to softly rub her stomach. "And I love this… our baby."

"Niles…"

"I promise to be the best father I can, even though I'm new at this. Well, frankly I'm terrified."

"We'll be here for you, Niles. You can count on that."

"Of course, Niles. I have no doubt you'll be a wonderful father. Dad and I will give you all the love and support you and Daphne need."

"That means a lot to me… Dad… Daphne. But I also want to be the best husband. So on that note…" He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. Slowly he

got down on one knee and opened the box. Inside was the most beautiful diamond ring imaginable.

"Daphne Moon, will you and our son… or daughter… Will you marry me?"

Daphne could barely see Niles for the tears in her eyes and she kissed him over and over again.

"I think that's a yes!" Martin laughed.

When Niles stood, Daphne threw her arms around him even tighter and continued to kiss him. "Yes, a thousand times yes! I'll marry you!" Her heart skipped a beat when he

slipped the diamond ring onto her finger.

After a toast of champagne and sparkling cider they accepted congratulatory hugs and kisses from Martin and Frasier. And then Frasier smiled, "We'll leave you two alone to

continue your celebration."

Alone on the balcony, Daphne leaned against her fiancé and closed her eyes. "I thought you hated me."

Niles kissed her deeply. "Never. That's impossible. I'm sorry for running away. I promise to make it up to you-both of you." His hand gently covered her stomach and then he

leaned to kiss his unborn child. "I love you and I can't wait to meet you."

Daphne held Niles closer than she thought possible, thanking the stars that filtered across the summer night sky.