[ It's only by the grace of a few seconds that Konstantin remembers not to lean all his tired weight on the door so that he doesn't fall forwards when it opens. Hearing Kieren's footsteps approach on the other side, the man lifts himself back, leaning on the doorframe instead.

He tugs his scarf down to expose a smile as Kieren makes his appearance, though it's strained, and he doesn't waste time taking the boy up on the offer. Stumbling in, he heads over to the fire, grateful for the immediate warmth it offers, even if it's slight to begin with. ]

Thank you. I'm all right, just— it's cold out there.

[ All right, that's an understatement. He's not just cold, he's ill, nausea from pain making the back of his throat slick. Gently, he peels off his gloves and stuffs them into his jacket, which he then unzips the front of, letting the warm glow of the fire reach his abdomen a bit more directly. His unhappy passenger coils and uncoils fitfully, like a slippery fist clenching and unclenching inside of him. He gives a soft grunt of pain, hoping the warmth soothes it soon enough, running one hand over his lower jaw as he turns his head back to look at Kieren.

He's aware of the glint of gold that truly runs right to the boy's hand, eyes following it for a moment, wondering if Kieren can see it too. He doesn't know how to directly ask, hesitating as he takes an initial few moments to gather himself. ]

Sorry for the sudden intrusion. I hope I didn't interrupt you too badly.