He was so close to her he could hear her breathing; the scent of her shampoo causing him to feel slightly intoxicated.
It was a scent that he could conjure up at any moment, whenever he was feeling sad or lonely; one that brought him comfort in times of distress.
But there was nothing like the real thing.
And then, in a move that surprised even him, he moved even closer and began to whisper in her ear.
"Daphne? I can't believe I'm telling you this because I'm usually reserved when it comes to my true feelings. But you look so beautiful that I can't quite help myself."
He took a deep breath, willing himself to continue.
"You see...There's something... something I've wanted to tell you. Something I should have told you a long time ago, but I was too afraid.
Oh, I know that sounds ridiculous. The Crane boys aren't afraid of anything. That's what Mom used to say anyway. But I don't think she was talking about matters of
the heart. I'm sure you have no idea what I'm talking about, Do you?
Well, you see, Daphne-."
"Everything okay back there, Niles?"
At the sound of Frasier's voice, Niles stiffened.
Dear God, had he heard his little brother's near confession?
Quickly Niles returned to his coveted hiding place, praying that he hadn't been seen.
"Well..." Frasier said finally when his question was met with silence. . "I seem to be the only one awake. It's... quite peaceful, actually."
Niles almost fainted with relief.
Finally, the Gods were working with him and not against him; the Gods who were the only ones who could create a man worthy of an angel such as Daphne.
Still, the fact that Frasier had interrupted had to be a sign. It was close... much too close.
Perhaps he should just forget about pouring out his feelings.
But his heart wouldn't let him.
Again he looked at her, fighting like mad the urge to kiss her cheek which surely must be as soft as silk.
"Daphne?" he whispered again. "At the risk of hurting you, even making you cry-although it pains my heart to even think about it-there's something I need to tell you."
He swallowed hard, trying to find the right words. Even though she couldn't hear him, he had to tell her; to say what was in his heart.
"I love you, Daphne."
When she sighed softly, the urge to take her in his arms and wake her with a kiss was so great, he had to look away.
Instead he grabbed a nearby blanket; one he recognized from his childhood days, and lovingly draped it over her angelic form.
Daringly he leaned over and placed a feather light kiss onto her cheek; his senses reeling from the touch of his lips on her skin. It was even softer than he'd ever imagined.
It was a kiss so light that she didn't even stir.
"Sweet dreams." He whispered, as he reluctantly stood and crossed the carpeted floor.
As he settled into the uncomfortable swivel chair, armed with a good book, his mind was filled with the exquisite woman who slept only footsteps away...
Unaware of his love for her.