She was almost asleep again, teeth still chattering, when her window groaned open in the breeze. She was too cold and sore to get up. There was a flutter of wings and a flash of light, and before she could roll over, he’d scooped her up, blanket and all. If she’d had any energy, she might have objected. But he carried her up the two flights of stairs, down the hall, and then— A roaring fire, warm sheets, and a soft mattress. And a heavy quilt that was tucked in with surprising gentleness.

