He woke early the next morning, a song in his heart. Last night had been incredible; full of romance and the promise of passion. He could have acted on his immediate feelings, but he knew it was wrong. It was much too soon and he was certain that he'd feel guilty were things to go too far. And so he politely bid her good evening, grateful that he'd taken Claire up on her offer for a few drinks at the neighborhood bar.

The bar was, oddly enough, an establishment that he'd had no idea existed. But he knew that he'd never forget it. The beer was wonderful; craft beer, Claire called it, and even he couldn't believe that a beer could actually be so enjoyable. And of course the company was pleasant, the soft lighting and the kisses... Oh, so many kisses.

It was, perhaps the first time in his life that he'd truly felt adored.

Adored.

"Daphne, I adore you." He'd said.

Suddenly his mood dampened, as he remembered how he'd said those words to her. And how she'd said them in return. But she hadn't really meant them. He knew that now. And the ache in his heart returned greater than ever.

But he only allowed himself to sulk for a moment before his thoughts returned to Claire and the events of last night. The evening had gone perfectly and ended perfectly as well. For what man wouldn't want to end up in the arms of a beautiful woman?

With a renewed sense of happiness, Niles climbed out of bed, showered and dressed. He couldn't wait to get to Frasier's. In his haste to leave for his date last night, he'd forgotten to ask his brother and father a very important question.

Now he felt his heart beating steadily as he stood at the front door. How was it possible that he was nervous about this? It certainly wasn't the first time-

The door opened unexpectedly and he found himself staring into those warm brown eyes. But there was no smile to accompany them. Only the hint of annoyance and bitterness.

"Dr. Crane." She snapped.

"Daphne." he said just as curtly. He moved right past her, eager to speak to his brother.

"Your father made a wonderful breakfast if you'd like some." She said, her tone softer now, but still hinging on unsteadiness. Niles pretended not to notice, however.

"No. I'm fine." he snapped back. "I do need to talk to Frasier, though."

"What's on your mind, Niles?" Frasier asked, appearing like magic in the living room.

Niles grinned, his excitement returning. "So... "

Frasier stared at him. "So... what?"

"So, what did you think of her?"

"Of whom?"

"Claire Barnes!" Niles said excitedly. Just the sound of her name on his lips made his heart sing. "Isn't she great?" His enthusisam was so intense he felt like he could fly.

But when he looked around he realized that Daphne had disappeared from sight.