True to his word, Niles returned a few minutes later carrying a tray of snacks and drinks.
"Oh thank you Dr. Crane, but I would have gladly-."
"Nonsense. You should be relaxing, so don't even think about chores or doing anything strenuous."
His kindness made her smile.
They sat in comfortable silence, sharing their snacks and watching Daphne's favorite movie; one that neither Frasier nor Martin could stand, but one that Niles watched willingly.
And soon thereafter, even though it was the middle of the day, Daphne found herself becoming drowsy.
"I can hardly stay awake."
"It's probably a side effect from the medication." Niles explained. "Why don't you go lie down for a while?"
She sighed reluctantly. "All right, but I was hoping to catch up on me book."
Niles smiled. "I'd be glad to read it to you until you fall asleep."
Overcome with emotion, Daphne hugged him warmly. "That's so sweet of you. I don't know what I'd do without you, Dr. Crane."
Minutes later as she climbed into bed, he covered her with the comforter.
"Now where is this book you've wanted to read?"
She smiled and pointed to the nightstand. Curious, Niles picked it up and glanced at the cover which featured a princess riding a unicorn.
Daphne could feel her face burning with embarrassment. It was clearly a book written for children.
"Well, this is certainly an interesting choice of reading." Niles quipped.
"Oh... Perhaps I should find something else to read."
"No." Niles replied, taking the book from her before she had a chance to pull it away.
"It's silly, a woman of my age reading a children's book. I don't know what I was thinking when I bought it, but the pictures were so beautiful and I love unicorns so much. I just couldn't help meself."
Niles glanced at the book, thumbing through the pages. Daphne was right. The pictures certainly were beautiful. No wonder she was so anxious to read it.
"It looks like a fascinating story."
As she rested her head against the pillows, he opened to the first page and began to read. But no sooner had he turned to the second page when she drifted off to sleep.