Alfie thinks everyone who puts themselves out there for strangers without demanding something in return has a self-sacrificial streak. [There's some mild irritation in John's tone when he says that. It had been one of their earliest arguments, Alfie not really giving a damn about anyone when he'd first arrived.] God love the man, but he's kind of a dick, if you haven't noticed. Don't take him getting upset personally. It just means he's worried and doesn't have the power to control you or whatever else around to keep you safe.

You could just say you're hoping to find someone to travel with for mutual protection on the network. See who that pings and then talk to them privately about the Stein situation.