[So someone did tell him that. Sadly, there are a lot of people who might say something so mean just to mess with another.]
Mr. Pierce, whoever told you that, they were lying to you. The doctors here are good, uh-- most of them, and I know they'd offer you help if you reached out.
[He was being honest with himself; he would never make it to the North to find one of the doctors even if he wanted to. He had no doubt the Winter Soldier was stomping down to the area to search for him, was probably loitering in and around building 149 being a disappointing paranoid mess of a man.]
I'd prefer to keep my ailments to myself, son. I've been harassed by a doctor enough as it is, and it doesn't seem I can allow any vulnerability to show for them to take advantage of.
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[He didn't know there was a concussion involved too, apparently he was much more hurt than initially thought.]
Have you spoken to one of the doctors?
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No. The doctors have other matters to attend to.
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I'm sure that's not true, did someone tell you that?
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[Which he knows doesn't actually answer the question either. Or maybe it does. Alphonse is a smart young man after all.]
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Mr. Pierce, whoever told you that, they were lying to you. The doctors here are good, uh-- most of them, and I know they'd offer you help if you reached out.
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I'd prefer to keep my ailments to myself, son. I've been harassed by a doctor enough as it is, and it doesn't seem I can allow any vulnerability to show for them to take advantage of.
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[Harassed by a doctor sounds like House's way of working, and Al sounds more than a little frustrated. He and House don't exactly see eye to eye.]
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[Ironically, it isn't House. He doesn't mention the fact that he technically harasses House because the man amuses him and is as social as a cactus.]
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Mr. Pierce, I'd like to help you. Please trust me?
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[At least he's honest, though his voice is firm.]
But I won't know unless you try me.
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I'd hope you'd contact me anyway just to keep in touch, what else are friends for?
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[Yes he does.]
So you'll call me in a few days anyway? Just for my peace of mind, so I know you're healing.
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I will call you, certainly.
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Okay, you caught me, but that means I value your life and our connection too. I'll talk to you soon.
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[And with that, he's gone.]