For Wes, the day was much like any other. He tended not to celebrate his birthdays. Certainly never had parties thrown in his honour. He was used to it being a quiet affair, with little to no fanfare.

It always seemed to be over-shadowed by the impending Christmas celebrations and the gift-buying fever which accompanied it.

This time, he did plan to at least see what Fred was doing, just in case she wanted to share the evening with him. But when he stopped outside her door and knocked discreetly a few times, there was no answer. She had to be out.

Pushing down a pang of disappointment, Wes let himself into his own apartment, peeling off his jacket and tossing his keys on the side table.

Then he froze, hearing the rustle of movement coming from the bedroom. On the alert for trouble, he approached cautiously, even grabbing a ceramic statue to use as a club if he had to.

But then he saw the candelight...

"What on earth?"