Stephen half expected to find the house in some sort of disrepair, something to reflect what was actually happening inside of it, but as it happened, reality didn't really work quite like literature, despite the weather beginning to suggest otherwise. But at least it was somewhat warmer in here, but Stephen shivered a bit all the same, adjusting to it.
Once he was inside, he said, "Thanks," and then was silent for a moment. It was very obvious how Matthew was doing (though when Stephen looked at him again, it seemed like he was less on the verge of tears), so there went that bit of small talk. So he asked instead, "How's your dad faring?"
That, of course, was before he realized what a stupid question that was and, as much as he really wanted to take it back - well, he could just change the subject. "I brought my notes," he said, holding up the Mokeskin pouch, "They're still a bit out of order, but not too much." This was the understatement of the century. He then reached inside the bag and pulled out the wine, a rather large bottle of Shiraz, and handed it to Matthew. "Housewarming. Sorry I didn't the first time."