[Naturally, Niall assumes all the fuss is just about the whole end of the world thing. It would be reasonable for Matthew, simple as he is, to be frightened by the circumstances. Especially if he's gone without Ronan or Declan's guidance.]

There, there. It's me, alright.

[He presses a hand on top of Matthew's head, mussing up his golden curls and cradling him in a warm embrace.]

And what about you? I hardly recognized you, you've grown so much. You must be catching up to Ronan now.