[ if he closes his eyes, it's almost as though they haven't lost anything. that when he opens his eyes Al will be next to him, whole and human. he leans in against the metal armor, peering at the little book. ]

Oh man, Al, we'll just have to get you another one soon won't we?

[ he grins, resting his cheek on the cool metal of Al's arm. ] I'm sure Granny would make you some of her stew, why wouldn't she? She loves cooking, and I bet she'd even enlist you to help. Just hang in there, Al.