How does Finny put up a protective shield when he talks to Gene at his home? What does Gene feel?

Gene finally just brings up the subject of the accident to his friend; he tells Finny that he did it, perhaps even on purpose, and Finny tells him not to talk of it, and that it can't be true. Gene's guilt remains, and still weighs upon him; and he is still unable to overcome his naivete about the flaws in his nature, and his denial surrounding the accident. Finny won't allow Gene to feel what he needs to.