It wasn't that Gabriel didn't notice Ghastly's amazement, exactly. It was just that the Archangel chose to ignore it. He knew that the truth about angels tended to break down what preconceptions had, and as far as he was concerned that was only a good thing. He was happy to keep doing it.

"That depends on the kind of dog!" Gabriel said cheerfully. "Puppies can be too rambunctious for newborns, but older dogs, especially bitches who have had litters in the past, can be very affectionate and protective."

Then his smile dropped and he looked solemnly at Tanith. "Tanith Low, I'm about to let you in on an angelic trade secret here. Use it wisely. Ever seen a pack of dogs romping in a park or alley?" He grinned. "Ten to one at least one of them is an angel."