[It's not the best answer, but it isn't an unexpected or unreasonable one. It's also one that makes a dent in his original concerns about Maketh's outlook, because he does understand this even if she might not.

Lance chooses his words carefully, keeping his voice neutral and clinical while still sympathetic; it's important to maintain distance, even--and especially--when he can empathize instead of sympathize.]

Survival mechanisms can be difficult to unlearn, even when they're no longer necessary or beneficial. But it is possible, if that's something you want to do.