Betsey is continuing on with her little experiment with exploring her trauma while under the influence of magic mushrooms. So far, things appear to be going well. The Scientist appears to check in on her again.
The Scientist: How do you feel right now?
Betsey: Better. So much better. I am starting to feel at peace.
The Scientist: Your case was a hard one. Luckily for us, you did most of the work yourself already. You just needed that little extra push to get you to the finish line. That’s why we’re here.
Betsey: You have helped me so much. I truly believe this has changed my life for the better. I was in so much pain. I was trapped in a horrific cycle. I kept reliving the same nightmare over and over and over again. I just couldn’t stop it, no matter what I tried.
The Scientist: It’s not your fault. You were drugged and brainwashed. You were a lab rat for someone else’s monetary gain. You were experimented on without your knowledge or consent. What happened to you was a serious crime. It was a violation of your basic, fundamental human rights. Your story is going to help bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice. You are doing the right thing by working with us today.
Betsey: Thank you so much. I can’t even tell you how grateful I am. You’ve set me free. Thank you.
The Scientist: You’re welcome. Is there anyone you want to see right now?
Betsey: Yes.
The Scientist: Okay, we brought in a special surprise for you.
The Scientist opens the door. In walks the ghost of Betsey’s Father.
The Ghost of Tom Horton: Hello, Betsey.
Betsey: Daddy!
They both cry and embrace.
Ghost Dad: Let me speak first. I am so sorry for what happened to you. I didn’t know how bad it was. I was brainwashed too. I’m so sorry. Please forgive me.
Betsey: I forgive you.
Ghost Dad: I want you to know I will always be here with you. I will make it up to you. I will never abandon you again. Whenever you need me, just call for me and I’ll be there to help you find your way.
Betsey: Aww… Daddy. I love you so much. Thank you.
Ghost Dad: There’s something else.
Betsey: What is it?
Ghost Dad: I got you a present.
He hands Betsey an envelope. Inside is a plane ticket to Hong Kong, as well as a couple of other stops along the way.
Ghost Dad: It’s time for you to live your dream now. Good luck out there. And always remember… if you see shark fin soup anywhere on the menu, RUN. Do not pass Go. Do not collect $200. Just get the fuck out of there as fast as possible without making a scene.
Betsey: Thanks, Dad. I love you.
Ghost Dad: I love you too. See you around.
Betsey: See you around.
Ghost Dad leaves the room so the experiment can continue on.
The Scientist: How are you feeling right now?
Betsey: Peaceful. The swelling feeling in that area of my brain is really intense.
The Scientist: Alas, I would give anything to have you hooked up to a proper machine right now so we could really study your brain activity. However, you are a good patient. You seem to really understand the scientific method. We are grateful for your contribution to science.
Betsey: I am doing the best I can.
The Scientist: It’s perfect just the way it is. Okay, time to get back to The Program.
Betsey: Beam me up, Scotty.
To be continued…