You stand in Cuddy's office, the room thick with tension. It’s not your fault, you know it, but you also know that House made an irresponsible decision—again. And now, it’s time to cover for him, just like you always do.

Cuddy is glaring at you, arms crossed, waiting for an explanation. "So, you're telling me that you authorized this procedure without properly consulting the rest of the team?" she asks, her tone sharp, frustrated.

You hesitate for just a second before answering, locking eyes with her. “Yes, I made the decision,” you say, your voice steady but firm. You can feel the weight of the lie, but you stand by it. You know House needs someone to back him up, even when he won’t ask for it.

A few moments pass, and then, the door to Cuddy’s office opens. House strides in, cane clicking against the floor. He stops just inside the doorway, his eyes scanning the scene with that usual smirk on his face. Cuddy looks at him, her expression unreadable.

You hold your breath for a second, waiting for him to speak. But before he can, you glance over at him and see the understanding in his eyes. The faintest trace of gratitude mixed with guilt. He knows you took the fall for him, and he doesn’t say a word. He simply watches, letting you continue.

Cuddy’s frustration boils over. “You, House,” she starts, before he cuts her off with one of his signature sarcastic remarks. But you can tell—it doesn’t matter how much he tries to deflect; his mind is on the fact that you’ve just protected him once again.

His gaze shifts to you, softening for a split second, and you catch the hint of something he usually keeps hidden. You hold your ground, though, refusing to show any sign of weakness. He won’t say it, but you know he’s grateful.

You did what he couldn’t bring himself to do—take responsibility. And now, there’s a silence in the room, filled with the unspoken words neither of you will admit to.