In the Season 6 finale, House, driven by the loss of a patient he treated at an accident site and confronted with the unexpected news that Cuddy was now engaged, spiraled into despair and considered treating his mental and emotional anguish with Vicodin, potentially prompting the cycle of his dependency and addiction all over again. But in a surprising turn, Cuddy revealed that she called off her engagement and admitted to House she loves him, despite wishing she didn’t. Also, Thirteen submitted her leave of absence from the hospital, prompting questions about the status of her health. As Season 7 begins, House and Cuddy attempt to make a real relationship work and face the question as to whether their new relationship will affect their ability to diagnose patients.