The Archangel's only response to Skulduggery was one of innocence personified. If it weren't for the fact Gabe's own comment had just spilled the beans, and the gleam of amusement in his eyes, it would have been entirely convincing.

That only lasted so long, though, given what was happening around him. This kind of joy was exactly the reason angels did the work they did. Gabriel watched with a small, contented grin as Valkyrie went speechless and then excited in a matter of moments.

Melissa laughed again and hugged her daughter back, pulling the girl down onto the chair beside her. "Well, it's unanimous, then," she said cheerfully. "We're going to have a baby. And no, Steph, you may not quit school."

"Congratulations," Gabe said with quiet, almost fierce sincerity. His grin slowly broadened. "Kids are amazin'."