Straight to the point would distill down to: "I'm in a fuckload of pain. I need more pills. Give me." But Amory has more foolish pride than that to directly admit his vulnerability and thus demean himself-- though by doing so, he's likely evoked a contradiction.

The issue is also that when Amory discusses medical business, the conversation will always skip around the center. It's instinct. Can you see his discomfort? Hospitals mean death. Pain is one stepping stone to his own coffin.

"That's my intention," he cocks an eyebrow, leaning forward to rest his palms on his thighs. "I'm not asking you to do this from the kindness of your heart. I'll do you a favor. I'll pay you, trade you something."

How demeaning.