It was a diversionary tactic, and Heiji wasn't ignorant of it. Not only did he had the audacity to not answer the question, the stranger then proceeded to suggest what he himself should do. Sorry, but he wasn't going to buy what you're selling, pal.

"So you are hurt. All the more reason to stick together, huh?"

Granted Heiji had his own goals. Like finding people he knew, but he wasn't about to up and leave this guy if he needed help.