The next week and a half were a blur for Niles. He was determined to stick with the plan to tell Daphne his feelings, but he could not rid himself of his doubts and guilt. He shuddered at the thought that Daphne may have fallen for Donny and that his own cowardice may have cost him a chance with her. But, then again, what if she never thought of him romantically and he jeopardized their friendship? What is she were happy with Donny? He could give her a good life, but he was just so dammed crude! Daphne deserved someone who was more sensitive and could be attentive to her needs, not someone who was known as "The Piranha" for his rough-around-the-edges attitude in court.
Niles had to stop his mind from racing out of control. He could not even begin to think of living a life without her. She was a close friend-his best friend. He was going to use every shred of bravery he could muster and stick to the plan. It was time to take a leap of faith. Daphne was kind and reasonable, after all. Surely she would not completely shun him if she didn't share his feelings.
Although Frasier remained against the whole situation, he was at least trying to be supportive. Niles understood that he was both concerned that Daphne might break his heart and she could feel uncomfortable, which could complicate her entire life in Seattle. On the other hand, Niles knew Frasier's track record with women, and decided it might be unwise to take advice from a person with a track record of failure.
Although Niles could analyze the situation forever, it was time for him to get dressed and ready to pick Daphne up for their date. This was going to be a life-changing evening no matter what, and he was trying desperately to remain calm. He needed to look like the confidant man that Daphne deserved...someone worth breaking things off with Donny. He was going to make this night special. He had decided to attend the pre-show party, the show, and then to take her back to his apartment for dessert and wine to close the evening. He had desert and wine prepared for their return to the Montana, a CD was queued to play a romantic aria, candles were placed strategically, and fresh flowers adorned the tables. It was now or never. Niles took a deep breath, grabbed his coat, and left the Montana eager for the evening to commence.
In Elliot Bay Towers, Daphne was excited for Niles' arrival. She had wondered if she would be invited to any more of Dr. Crane's hoity toity parties after she started dating Donny. After all, this crowd knew Donny, at least somewhat, so she wondered if she should be posing as Niles' date...What if Donny heard about their behavior this evening? Dr. Crane was a perfect gentleman, though, so surely that would not be an issue. It was one thing at the Snow Ball, but the dynamics had changed. Dr. Crane was a dear friend, and she was determined to support him.
Daphne thought back to the time they had sped together. She never understood why he didn't have more luck in his love life. He was definitely a catch...handsome, stylish, intelligent, caring, rich. "Stop it, Daphne," she said to herself. "This is ridiculous and inappropriate. Dr. Crane would be so embarrassed!"
Daphne thought about Dr. Crane often. If she were one of the society women she pretended to be, she would certainly have tried to date him. Instead, she was just an imposter lucky enough to ride Dr. Crane's coattails to meet a whole new set of people, which led to Donny. She could not believe her luck. What was a poor girl from Manchester doing living in this posh apartment, spending time with Dr. Crane, and dating Donny Douglas? Donny was a good man. He was fun, passionate about his work, and treated her very well, but she couldn't help wishing that he were more like Dr. Crane...soft, gentle, brilliant. At least she could have something in common with Donny. He wasn't as snobby and high-class and Dr. Crane. But, Dr. Crane's snobbery added to the appeal, because he was her snob. She smiled at the silly thought.
Daphne sighed and put the finishing touches on her makeup and spritzed some extra perfume. She knew how much Dr. Crane liked her perfume. Her thoughts were halted by a knock on her bedroom door.
"Come in!"
"Daphne, sorry to bother you," said Frasier.
"No bother at all," said Daphne.
"I just wanted to have a word before you leave with Niles. Are you ready to go?"
"Yes. How do I look? I'm so excited!"
"You look gorgeous, Daphne. Niles will be proud to have you on his arm this evening."
Daphne blushed. Why did that statement embarrass her? Frasier was always saying cheesy things like that.
"I just wanted to make sure you're still comfortable with this, seeing as how your relationship status has changed. You know you don't have to do this unless you want to. I support you whichever you decide, but just know that there are no consequences if you have second thoughts. The last thing I want is for you to feel guilted in to escorting Niles tonight," Frasier said with a sincere smile. He was being so caring, and it touched Daphne.
"Oh, Dr. Crane! Thank you so much for saying that, but you have nothing to worry about. Dr. Crane already made it clear that I could back out, but I want to go. I have such a good time with your brother, and he is always a perfect gentleman. I told Donny that I was going to the party with Dr. Crane, and he didn't mind."
"But did you tell him that you had been posing as Niles' date at these functions?" Frasier asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Well, no...but that's not important. It's not like it meant anything or like we were dating. We were just showing off for Dr. Crane's friends to save his reputation. I was helping a friend, and Donny would understand that," Daphne said. Why was she suddenly sad that this situation could be coming to an end? And, why was she suddenly feeling like maybe Donny wouldn't be so understanding?
"Well, I trust that you know what's best for you, Daphne, so I hope you and Niles have a wonderful time."
The doorbell rang, and Daphne knew it was time to go. She was silently grateful that the conversation with Frasier had to end.
"Shall we?" asked Frasier.
As Frasier and Daphne walked out to the living room, Niles gasped. "Daphne, you look like an absolute vision!"
"Thank you, Dr. Crane." Daphne said shyly, "You look handsome tonight."
She thought she saw Dr. Crane blush, but he quickly stuck is arm out to escort her out of the apartment.