Couple alert? Nikki Reed, Ian Somerhalder seen getting close

LONDON: " Twilight" actress Nikki Reed and actor Ian Somerhalder have sparked rumours that they are dating after he was seen holding her protectively as they went shopping.

The 26-year-old Hollywood beauty and " The Vampire Diaries" actor first raised eyebrows when they were pictured going for a run together, and yesterday they were seen getting very close at a farmer's market, reported Contactmusic.

The pair, who have been friends for a long time, used to go on double dates when they were with their previous partners.

Reed was previously married to musician Paul McDonald, but they separated in March and filed for divorce in May.