no subject

[ That flash of memory had only been momentary. Momentary, yet seemed to engulf everything and cause time to lose all meaning at the same time. His mind has snapped back to the present, but the stench and terror and horrified dismay of that flashback clings to him like a second skin. The grief. The gut-churning despair. ]

I... Uh. I-I don't—

[ His voice wavers and cracks slightly while tears brim in his eyes. Both his hands dash up and clap against his mouth, his despair, confusing yet overwhelming, spilling over. He's disoriented, distracted. Can't think clearly. Beth's question - I was you, wasn't I? - comes hazily into focus, only half registering with him. ]