1269_UgliesFreeBook

408 Scott Westerfeld
“I like the way I look,” Shay insisted. “I’m happier in
this body. You want to talk about brain damage? Look at
you all, running around these ruins playing commando.
You’re all full of schemes and rebellions, crazy with fear
and paranoia, even jealousy.” Her eyes skipped back and
forth between Tally and Maddy. “That’s what being ugly
does.”
“And how do you feel, Shay?” Maddy asked calmly.
“I feel bubbly. It’s nice not being all raging with hormones.
Of course, it kind of sucks being out here instead of
in the city.”
“No one’s keeping you here, Shay. Why haven’t you left?”
Shay shrugged. “I don’t know. . . . I’m worried about
you guys, I guess. It’s dangerous out here, and messing with
Specials isn’t a good idea. You should know that by now,
Maddy.”
Tally took a sharp breath, but Maddy’s expression didn’t
change. “And you’re going to protect us from them?” she
asked calmly.
Shay shrugged. “I just feel bad about Tally. If I hadn’t
told her about the Smoke, she’d be pretty right now instead
of living in this dump. And I figure eventually she’ll decide
to grow up. We’ll go back together.”
“You don’t seem to want to decide for yourself.”
“Decide what?” Shay rolled her eyes, looking at Tally to
confirm what a bore this was. The two of them had plowed
through this conversation a dozen times before, until Tally