Beth loved when her birthday was close. She would get dozens of cards in the mail from her families and friends. In addition, the money was an obvious perk. Her mother would always leave the letters in a pile on the table, so that when Beth would return home from school she could read it.

It was the normal amounts of cards and money, but there were two letters that stood out. They we each marked without a return address. Beth bit her lip and opened the first one. The handwriting as unfamiliar and there wasn't a birthday card or anything, just a letter.

"My Dearest Beth,

I'm not really sure where to start, so I guess will let you know who I am. My name is Quinn Fabray and I am your mother. I know your 13th birthday is coming up very soon and I wanted to wish you all the best. There is something I want you to know. I love you so much. I always have. The minute I found out about you – there was something inside my heart that loved you with everything I have.

When I got pregnant with you I was 16 and head of the cheerleading squad. I was the girl everyone looked up too. It all changed when your father won me over. I use to say the only reason we got together was because he got me drunk off wine coolers and I felt fat, but that was so far from the truth. Your father was the sweetest boy I had ever met. On the outside he had a tough image, but when we were together – he was perfect.

Beth, you were loved by so many people. I want to name them for you, because without these people – I would have never made it. Rachel, Finn, Kurt, Mercedes, Tina, Artie, Brittnay, Santana, Mike, Matt, and Mr. Schue. They were my friends and fellow glee club members. Did I forget to mention that I was in glee club? The day you were born, we competed against your mom's show choir team.

Anyway, they all came to see you when you were born. They loved you like your father and I did. You were always on our minds – especially when I would be dancing around with a big belly. Your dad – he worried about me all the time. Thinking you would just pop out if I kept on dancing.

I wanted to keep you and raise you, but I couldn't. We were both so young and couldn't give you a life that you deserved. My family was a mess and your dad – well he was not always reliable, even though he was sweet. I love you, baby girl. I will always love you and I think about you every day.

Please, have an amazing birthday and continue to reach for the stars and follow your dreams. I love you so much. I keep you in my prayers.

Love always and forever,

Quinn Fabray

Beth was unaware that she had been sobbing. Her chest hurt from the heavy intake of breaths. This letter – the one she held in her hands – was proof that her mother was out there. Beth read over the letter once more; savoring every small detail. She held the letter up to her nose and breathed in. Her mother wore such beautiful perfume.

While it wasn't much, at least for Beth it was proof that her parents loved her. Beth quickly opened up the next envelope, wondering if her mom had sent anything else. It wasn't a letter, but a CD – marked with just her name.

The handwriting wasn't similar to her mother's so she assumed it was from someone else. Beth hoped it was from her father…

She quickly stuck the CD in her player and listened.

There was a soft cough and then she heard his voice.

"Hey baby – it's me – Dad. I know you are told old for me to say Daddy – so whatever. I uh – I realize your birthday is coming up and I wanted to do something special. Thirteen is a big deal. I'm not really good with writing letters or anything, so I figured I'd give you the one thing I know I'm good."

She heard the strumming of a guitar in the background. "I sang this song for your mom before you were born. I – I wanted to keep you, but I knew we couldn't, so I sung this song for your mom – asking her if we could name you Beth. This song will explain to you why you are named what you are."

Beth held her breath, desperately wanting to hear what her father was going to play. "Anyway baby, I love you a lot and I miss you. I hope you are enjoying your life and making the best out of it. This from my heart to yours. Happy Birthday."

His voice was the most beautiful sound Beth had ever heard. It was soft and comforting; a voice she could listen to all day. When she heard him begin to sing the song that she was named after – the tears began to fall once more. Her father – even back then – cared about her.

"Just a few more hours and I'll be right home to you…"

Reality hit Beth. Her father would never be there for her. She would never be able to cry to him when a boy broke her heart, or dance at her wedding. Sure, that seemed forever away, but Beth wanted her dad – daddy to be there for her.

She held her mother's note to her heart and pressed repeat on the CD.

Beth played that CD all night, not even stopping when she fell asleep.