Lola, who was Joseph's wife, worried as all women do. About the kids, about Joseph's job, about his health, and about Joseph's brother.

She'd spoken only once to Devin. He'd called and asked for Joseph and she told him that he wasn't home. He didn't sound like Joseph at all. He had the look--even over the telephone--of an evil-eyed gnome.

She'd told Joseph that and he laughed.