Allie shivered in Ghastly's embrace. It was that kind of terrified but delighted shiver when you knew that something wonderful but strange was happening, the one that was scary because it was so strange but you didn't want it to stop.

"Okay," she whispered. She didn't ask what the angel looked like, because she knew she'd know him just by seeing him. Even if he looked like a real person, she'd know who it was. She'd know because of how kind and happy he was, just like Ghastly and Granddad. And he'd probably be beautiful too. Angels were always beautiful. Allie squeezed Ghastly tight in a hug--or as tight as she could manage, anyway. "Thank you, Mr Ghastly."

"Good thing one of 'em's just there, then, ain't it," Dad said humorously, pointing toward Ghastly. Then He smiled, gentle and understanding, with warmth in His eyes. "Anytime, Barn. Anytime."