EDITED POSTMORTEM (attempt #1):
As with any new situation, plagued with uncertainty, the initial presentation of oneself may be fabricated (partially or entirely) to attempt to regain a level of comfort and security. Perhaps this cardboard cutout version of yourself is worlds away from any shred of truth, however no one will be the wiser unless you choose to inform them of the deceit. The Curious Subject has done exactly this, and is now interested in what occurs when the cardboard cutout is slid aside, offering honesty (that can only occur once familiarity is established) and simultaneously exposing the initial ‘misdirection.’
The few examples of swapping the “then-truth” for the “actual-truth” are not enough to support a conclusion, yet common aspects have become predictable. For the most part, the morph goes unnoticed and is accepted without comment. The Doctor knows full well when he is being handed the bullshit end of a lollipop and when he is not. On occasion however, he ceases the pretense of polite obliviousness and comments upon the recently created contradiction. The opposing truth of the past, what he was permitted to know, versus the truth of the now, what he should know and/or what the Subject wants to share.
With each admittance of selective honesty, the response becomes slightly more predictable, however it is far from certain.
Expected: Subtle exasperation will compel the eyes to close for a moment before slowly and reluctantly dragging back, the arch of the fingers falling apart slightly, and a momentary tension in the mouth that pressures the color into a paler shade.
Instead....
A smothered chortle catches itself and is choked into silence as the mouth seals once more, hiding the teeth from view. Slender fingers unnecessarily straighten the tie and the eyes are still good-natured- a muscle tension along the side of the face is peaked by small crinkles at the corner of the upper eyelids.
Speculative Conclusion:
Even admitting deception is received as a positive step and it has yet to result in verbal assault. Perhaps the Couch-Dweller is viewed as a more adaptable element, allowing for more shades, variations and flexibility. This is different from a self-view which is simpler and harsher. More like water- it behaves in rigid predictable ways (boiling, freezing, splashing etc) making one expect an unforgiving reaction. It is unlikely (although not impossible) that the Doctor would ever authenticate the fears which spur the Curious Subject’s natural inclination to leave the entire affair to the cardboard cutout.
