Cuddy stared at House, a stunned expression on her face. She didn't understand where his anger was coming from. She honestly didn't think she'd said anything negative. She'd admitted they had a long way to go but she was just being honest. They did have a lot of work to do, and he knew it. She didn't understand why he took it as an attack on him.

"I didn't say that," Cuddy insisted when he started going on about how she had so many issues with him. She couldn't say any more, though, because Megan once again stepped in. Cuddy was tempted to tell her butt out and let her talk to House directly. Fortunately, she had enough sense to realize that wasn't a good idea. She stayed silent although she was growing increasingly frustrated and upset.

"Yes, of course," she said curtly when Megan asked if she understood. "I never...and he knows...." Cuddy lifted her hand to her forehead, shading her eyes as she took a few deep breaths. She felt that pressure building, the pressure that made her want to yell or scream or tear her hair out, anything to relieve the pressure. She fought it back, though, holding it inside.

"I think we should forget about me writing a letter," she said in a low voice. She shouldn't let him upset her. She shouldn't let this hurt her. It was nothing new. It was typical House behavior and she shouldn't get her hopes up that was going to change in any significant way, not any time soon.

"I don't think it's a good idea," she continued, dropping her hand to her stomach although she kept her gaze directed toward the floor. "Not until he stops seeing me as the enemy."