The life-giving liquid slides down my throat, bringing new warmth to my frozen bones. I open one eye and close it again, quickly! I saw an angel bending over me! Blast it all, Toby! Ye've killed me, and now I've died an' gone to heaven!

I open the other eye, just a wee crack and see she's still there. Gradually the rest of the room comes into focus. With a sigh of relief, I realize that it's Sweet Kate who's bendin over me. Well now! This is a happy turn of events. I may not win the contest, but at least I'll get some cuddlin'!

I smile up at my "angel" and then raise up enough to give her a big kiss on the cheek! "Thanks, Darlin'" I whisper. "I needed that!"