[ a beat, before they speak again. they're somewhat back to Upbeat Professional Voice again, for the record. ]

Ever heard of alternate timelines? I realize it sounds fantastical--even to me--but that's probably what's going on.

... That or he's pulling your leg? [ because. he knows she's talking about shima. ] I'm afraid I don't know your circumstances before arriving here, so I can't say whether what he says is the truth or not.