Amanda[looking directly at Serena]:
I never lied to you. Never. But Nikita's right. I was scared what might happen if I looked further into who you were. [looks at Nikita] I think you would rather me start at 17.
[both Nikita and Serena wait patiently to hear]
Amanda:
I was in high school. I was your all-American, small town girl. Homecoming queen, cheerleader, dated the quarterback. And like the whole stereotype goes; I got pregnant, prom night. Week before my 18th birthday. I never told anyone. Not even him. I completely disconnected myself from my family, friends. I just went to college. Even there I kept it secret. I didn't even tell anyone what school I chose. The following January I contacted an adoption agency. But I kept going back and forth. Between keeping my baby and adoption. When I went into labor I called all my professors telling them I had a family emergency and would be gone for a week. Then I called the agency. I decided that if I couldn't tell anyone, I didn't deserve to be a mother.
When you first sat down in my office Serena, I knew you weren't Rowena, but I also knew I had to protect you. I told you that day that you looked just like someone I used to know. My high school boyfriend had a twin sister. Dana was the exact female version of him.
Serena:
The same name you told me when I asked who.
Amanda:
Yeah. The further into your past we went the more the possibility went through my mind. And the more that scared me. While you were at Division, I couldn't risk Percy finding out. And I couldn't risk Ari or Oversight finding out so I just ignored it the best I could. I am so sorry.
Serena:
I forgive you. What made you almost certain.
Amanda:
When you told me your real birthday. I've never forgotten that day in March. I wish I would have known that you lost your parents when you did.
Nikita:
You were already involved with Percy and Carla at the time anyway. Not to mention Gogol.
Amanda:
Not that involved yet.
Serena:
What was his name?
Amanda:
Aaron. I read years ago that he was still in the same town. Coaching football. Teaching. Aaron von Engel.