human
That's what happened in your blank spot, Abby, Dr. Gower went on.
gpt
You ran away from home when you were twenty-one, because your mother was too strict, because she acted just like you're acting with Linda. Before she could find you again, someone else had. You were pregnant.
human
You mean-- the thought completed itself, and a look of horror replaced the frown.
gpt
That's a horrible thing to say, even in a lie.
human
I wish I were lying, Dr. Gower said earnestly.
gpt
You didn't remember anything that had happened, and were still dazed for nearly a year afterward. Your subconscious used amnesia as an escape mechanism, and you forgot the incident, repressed it without realizing it. An escape is sometimes possible only in the mind, where Somaticists are often helpless. I didn't say anything before, but now I'm afraid Linda may be made to suffer if I don't.
human
It's not true, it can't be.
gpt
I'm sorry, Abby, it is. It's not Linda you're worried about, it's yourself; you're afraid to face reality.
human
Get out, Abby said slowly, hating him for that. Her voice rose the least bit.
gpt
I won't listen to these lies.
human
I thought it might help. Say goodbye to Linda for me.