The windows overlooking the village.
Everything looked exactly as it had before the first house appeared.
For several seconds, Jude could only stare.
Then he heard movement behind him.
He turned.
All twelve wives were sitting at the table.
Susan.
Rose.
Serena.
Layla.
Natalie.
Zoey.
Lucy.
Stella.
Emma.
Grace.
Sophie.
Scarlet.
They looked peaceful.
Each had a cup in front of her.
Each was smiling.
At the far end of the table sat the silver-haired older Jude.
Beside him sat the four Sols.
The smallest child was sitting on the floor, playing with the eyeless wooden bird.
Jude slowly approached.
"Are you all right?"
Susan nodded.
"Of course."
Rose smiled.
"We were waiting for you."
Jude looked at the others.
"Where is the tree?"
Serena tilted her head.
"What tree?"
"The enormous tree."
Layla looked at him.
"Jude, sit down."
He looked towards the empty chair.
It was the thirteenth chair.
The one with his name.
He stepped back.
"No."
