Page 57 of Under a Sunburnt Sky

His eyes glistened.“Thank you.”

“Play something, please, Tata,” Nacha said.

He took the violin and tuned it for a few moments, then sat it beneath his chin and began to play.The notes that emitted from the instrument were slow, long and mournful.The music filled the small space, bringing tears to every eye.Then Tata changed pace, shifting into a fast-paced song that had every foot tapping in no time.

Jan reached for Nacha’s hand and spun her away from him, then back again.They danced together, in time to the music, until they were both out of breath.Nathan danced with Jadzia, and Danuta made up her own dance, spinning around the room until she fell over on the couch laughing.Then Waltrina joined her and they danced together, with Danuta stepping on Waltrina’s feet so much, she declared she’d need to ice them in the snow outside after they were done.

After they’d finished celebrating, Jan led them all to the small room he and his family had built for them in the centre of the house.It was hidden behind walls that made it look as though it was part of the bedroom next door, with no visible doorway.Anyone who walked into the apartment wouldn’t notice it—at least, that was their hope.

Nacha surveyed the room with trepidation—this small, dark space would be their home.For how long?It was safe, dry and warm.There were mats on the floor for sleeping.She shouldn’t complain—she knew that.She glanced at the nearby window.

It was dark outside, and snow fell silently beyond the glass pane.Out there were people, and birds, animals and trees.In spring, there would be flowers.Would she get to see them?Or would she still be hidden in this dark, cramped space waiting for the world to end?