Foreman, you are looking at a changed man

These words hung in the air as the day went on. Had House changed? and if so could he still be objective enough to save a life? As all of these doubts swam through his subconscious mind, the diagnostician barely noticed Cuddy as she blocked the way towards the elevator.

"We need to talk."

"Not now Cuddy."

That's when the dean of medicine placed both hands upon her colleague's shoulders and looked deeply into his eyes.

"Now."

Shrugging to himself, House followed Cuddy into a deserted office located only a few feet away.

"You know, if people see us disappearing into dark rooms like this…"

"Oh will you shut up! When I said we needed to talk I meant that I need to talk and you need to listen."

This sudden stream of annoyance and anger had to be hiding something, something deeper. As House looked into the beautiful blue eyes standing before him a thought struck him and it had to be said.

"In case you haven't noticed I've only been back at work for about four hours ere go, I haven't had time to do anything that would prompt you to hunt me down like a dog."

There was no sarcasm, no wit as this was said which concerned Cuddy. Usually, she would have heard a comment about her breasts or at least a smirk at this point in the conversation, this time nothing. However, considering the circumstances she decided to ignore these questions and focus on more important matters.

"I had to make it look convincing."

This being said, the dean of medicine embraced her crippled friend in a hug and sighed to herself. In truth, Lisa had missed playing battle of wits with this man and she missed who she was around him but now that House was back…

Snap out of it Lisa, your friends nothing more.

"I'm glad your back House."

Where is this coming from?

"Thanks."

As they hugged a feeling of guilt and embarrassment washed over House like a warm blanket as he tried to catch his breath.

"Cuddy. There's something I think you should know."

"If this is about you and Robin I heard and I think its great."

How did she know about that? House hadn't told anyone about his new relationship except…Wilson. Damn that Jimmy! Couldn't he go one day without spreading rumors? Except this wasn't a rumor and House couldn't deny it even if he tried.

Before he could utter a retort House was interrupted by Cuddy once again as the dean of medicine continued to speak.

"You know what this means don't you?"

"What?"

"Your hitched, swallowed up, taken! Every stripper and hooker in the area will be devastated."

There was silence as House smirked at this while running a hand over his freshly shaven chin.

"I'll give them Wilson's number."

"You look nice without stubble."

"Well, I do what I can do."

Hearing this sent chills up Cuddy's spine as she furrowed her brow and crossed her arms over chest. She didn't like the idea of House changing his appearance to impress the woman he was with but then again…

That's only because he's not with you

The dean of medicine couldn't help but blush at this thought. Admit it Lisa, if it were you House was trying to impress you'd be thrilled but since its Robin your jealous.

Stop it!

"Hey, are you okay?"

"I'll, I'll see you later."

This being said Cuddy rushed out of the room trying to ignore the look she had seen on House's face as he watched this action take place. The diagnostician was stunned, what had prompted the strong and proud Lisa Cuddy to dash out of sight like a frightened school girl he would never know but one thing was certain.

"That, was weird."