Try Again

Rating: G
Pairing: House/Cuddy
Episode: 5x06 Joy
Words: 100

The paint wouldn't peel for days, but Cuddy couldn't be bothered. She had spent so much of her time waiting. Waiting for people who were never hers to begin with.

He walked into the room as if they hadn't already laid it all bare, as if they hadn't already changed the rules that night.

"Don't give up."

Unconditional love was never unconditional.

"Try again." House insisted.

"House, I don't…"

"Let's try again, Cuddy."

All words remained caught in her throat as she looked up in surprise. Cuddy had never seen such intense sincerity grace his features.

She couldn't say no.