[ Joel throws a hesitant and uncertain side glance at Ellie. At this rate, he'd rather believe Ellie had lost her mind than believe she's telling the truth. Thing is, he knows Ellie; he knows she doesn't lie, not about things like this. He knows Ellie wouldn't make this up, as much as he wants to convince himself that she has.

Oh, shit. Shit. He starts pacing a few steps away from Ellie, slow and aimless and tense. Her accusation is still ringing through his head, too, sharp and stinging. It hurts enough that he almost can't bring himself to look at her.

But he does: he turns to face her again, though can't quite meet her eyes just yet. The hand that had been rubbing over his beard is now gesturing out at Ellie, level and commanding, like he wants her to listen to him. ]

Look-- maybe it was just... just someone who looks like Tess, alright? You're probably gettin' it mixed up with someone else.