"So, Rachel is a Christmas baby?" House asked nonchalantly as he sat down across from Lisa Cuddy's desk. She looked up from her computer screen and sighed.
"House don't you have clinic?"
"I don't actually. Someone named Taub is filling in for me...so as I was saying, isn't her birthday around this time of year?"
"She was actually born a few days before but no exact day is known. I picked December 20th so she can share the day with my dad. I thought it would be a special connection for them to share. Why?"
House studied her face for a moment before digging into his pocket and revealing a small red box.
"For the kid." He said as he placed the box on the desk. Cuddy's mouth dropped open in shock.
"You bought my baby a gift?"
"I didn't plan on it, but I was shopping for my mom and once I saw this particular item I had the impulse to buy it...Just open it." He said slightly flustered. Cuddy shook her head wearily and took the box in her hands.
"You never give me any presents?"
"...And I still am not giving you a present. This is for Rachel." He stated matter-of-factly. She smiled softly at his deflection and opened the box.
"Oh,my! This is extraordinary!" She said as she took out a blue topaz jeweled pendant.
"It's her birthstone. I thought you could pin it to the Christmas dress you bought her... she can continue to wear it as she grows up too..." He said trailing off.
Cuddy swallowed hard and looked into his eyes.
"If Rachel could talk she would say she loves it. She would tell you that it is the most special and beautiful gift anyone has ever given her." Cuddy said through tear-filled eyes. House smiled softly and stood up.
"Well, she's very welcome."