The juncture was critical.

He might still be dreaming, but in another moment he must know.

He closely, even coolly, watched the two cups of coffee that were placed before them.

He put a benumbed hand around the cup in front of him and felt it burn.

It was too active a sensation for mere dreaming.
He put sugar into the cup and poured in the cream from a miniature pitcher, inhaling a very real aroma.