The mask was lowered back into the doctor's lap without argument.  He had been expecting Malachi would reject it, but hoping for otherwise.

It wasn't as though Arthur hadn't given him any other reminders.

He shook his head lightly at Malachi's question.  How amusing he was when he was sober.  Arthur almost preferred him like this.

"Worse, if you can imagine it.  I managed to stave off infection thus far, but I've still a long way to go."  He did not mention that he lad lost some feeling in his fingers, and that it had not yet returned either.  He didn't think it was relevant.

In the same tone as had been used against him, Arthur shot back with his own questions.

"How is your heart?  Still broken and yearning for me, Malachi?"