Disclaimer: I do not own Moonlight. But I own this storyline and that works for me now.

Thank you for all the wonderful responses to this story. It is such fun to write when you know others enjoy it too.

Chapter 12

"I knew I should have had a taste before he changed you," Josef quipped to Beth. "I can't believe I missed the opportunity."

"Learn to live with disappointment buddy," Mick grinned.

"I knew you would be able to do it," Josef told him, dropping Beth's hands and moving over to Rayna. He hooked his arm around Rayna's waist. Anthony joined the others by Beth. He smiled warmly at her; Rayna touched his shoulder and nodded in encouragement.

"Happy Birthday or should I say rebirth?" Anthony said and stepped closer to give Beth a hug. Beth stiffened slightly and looked anxiously at Mick over her shoulder. He reached out and touched her in the small of her back. He gave her a light nudge.

"Relax, I trust you," Anthony said as he hugged her. "I've been bitten before. Don't worry."

Beth discovered she could relax. There was still a part of her deep inside that felt the call of his blood. But she was pleased that if she focused on her friendship with Anthony she could control that urge. She hugged him back, taking care not to misuse her strength.

"Thank you," she answered with feeling. "Thank you for helping."

Anthony blushed slightly and moved away. Mick slid his arms around Beth from behind. He pulled her against him and kissed her temple. She could feel the approval in his touch.

"Hey, this is a party," Rayna said. "I say we get to the presents. Anthony, would you mind getting the drinks? Thanks." Anthony went to the bar, where Rayna had set up some blood choices and liquor for those who wished it.

Mick directed Beth to the couch. Cynthia sat nearby with Philippe perched on the arm of the chair. Rayna had gone to a table and picked up a flat package. Josef joined her carrying her glass along with his. Rayna handed over the beautifully wrapped gift and took her glass from Josef.

"I found this in an antique shop on Royal Street. Tyson steered me to it."

A low growl escaped Josef at the mention of the New Orleans vamp. Rayna growled back and then smiled sweetly.

"Josef is jealous," she said to Beth. "I've told him I'm not interested in Tyson Leggett as more than a friend. Mick, tell Josef that Tyson is a gentleman."



Mick grinned and shook his head.

"I never get between Josef and his lady. And I have no idea how Tyson is with the ladies. He was only here three days."

"Anthony, you know Tyson behaved," Rayna pleaded.

"Ray, you know that Josef is teasing," Anthony said calmly, handing Mick a glass and setting Beth's on the side table.

Beth carefully unwrapped the box and lifted out a five by seven water color in an antique gold frame. The painting showed a New Orleans cemetery at night. There was a full moon shining down on a solitary woman among the mausoleums. The small figure was staring up at the moon, her pale hair flowing down her back. The painting had a haunting feel to it.

"It's lovely Rayna. Thank you," Beth said studying it closely.

"Check the back," Josef suggested.

Beth turned it over and her eyes widened.

"Rayna Kastle," she read and looked up at the woman before her. "1898. You?"

Rayna nodded a smile on her face.

"I couldn't believe I'd find one of my works still around. I think the frame is probably worth more than the painting."

"She's being modest," Josef said kissing Rayna's cheek. "I showed it to an expert. He said that a "Kastle work" was rare enough to be worth something. So treat that with care."

"Thank you, I'll treasure this because it's your work," Beth told Rayna.

Rayna looked touched and retreated to a chair. Josef followed her; he could see how Beth's comment had affected her. He laid one hand on her shoulder and squeezed it lightly.

Philippe brought out a small box and placed it in Beth's hands.

"Happy Birthday dear Beth."

Inside of the box was a gold locket with a delicate fleur- de- lis etched on the front. Inside was a small portrait of a young child with golden hair.

"This was my Claire," Philippe said proudly. "My wife's family gave this to me when I gave her to them to raise. I wish for you to have this now."

"Oh Philippe," Beth said coming to her feet. She hugged him tightly and kissed his cheek. "This is so special. Are you sure?"



"Yes child. It is right that it finally comes to you," he assured her.

Beth had to wipe a few happy tears away. Anthony approached with a smile and a gift bag. Beth withdrew a beautiful leather bound journal.

"You have a new beginning to record. Centuries later you may enjoy rereading what has begun here," he explained with a twinkle in his eye.

Beth nodded with a giggle. She looked at Cynthia, who handed her a plain white box with the initials B. T. embossed in deep blue. Upon opening it, Beth brought out a sleek, blue bottle.

"I'm playing with perfumes now. This is a unique blend for a unique woman," Cynthia said, a warm smile on her face.

"This is heaven Cynthia," Beth said smelling the wonderful scent from the bottle. "Thank you."

She smiled at everyone and then quickly took her glass of blood. Her emotions were threatening to overcome her and it surprised her that the blood helped reestablish calm.

"So Mick, what have you got?" Rayna teased. "Josef wouldn't let me in on it."

"Rayna, Mick gave me forever," Beth protested. "I can't expect more."

Mick took her wrist and gently tugged her back down on the couch beside him.

"Actually love…." Mick said reaching inside his jacket and bringing out an envelope. He handed it to her.

With shaking hands, Beth opened the envelope and took out two tickets to a Broadway play.

"Mick??"

He gathered her close and kissed her.

"New York. We will do it right this time," he promised softly.

"Oh…I…I..." Beth found herself speechless. She saw the date was for three months from now. With questioning eyes she gazed up at him.

"I want you comfortable in your new skin," he explained. "Josef is lending us the jet and the townhouse."

"Oh Josef, that's so romantic," Rayna said springing to her feet and hurrying around the chair to kiss him.

"Wow, and I didn't give her anything," Josef smirked. "I may have to do this more often. Beth, enjoy the trip."

"Thanks Josef. I will," Beth glowed with happiness.



End chapter.

No birthday party is complete without gifts. I hoped you liked it. Now I once again ask you to push the button and give me your opinions. Thank you.