At this point, Dave wouldn't precisely be surprised. Barely anyone really takes what he says into much serious consideration, not that he's ever tried very hard to be taken seriously. Albert has always come across like a no-nonsense guy, so for him to make an attempt not to write him off entirely is positive enough for now.

"Yeah, it has that kind of effect on you." Sympathy is sincere in his tone, along with a sort of amused tone. It's hard enough to believe he's lived it, some days. It would be easier if it were an elaborate fantasy and not an all-consuming existence that he will probably have to go back to at some point.

"That is exactly how that came to be a thing. I am all about alternate timelines and universes and setting up my own death for tricky time-shenanigans. It's a wonder why I do absolutely fucking awful here." He places his hands on his hips like he's about to give himself a stern talking to. "Maybe sixth times the charm, eh? Might be our lucky month."