“Imagine every space in this room filled with people, constantly being jostled and pushed. In the lower levels there is no quiet place. No peace. To a scrub, this room is paradise.
"I drew a deep breath. I’d spoken more in one burst to this stranger whose room I’d invaded than anyone else in weeks. And with a single word he could alert the Pop Cops and send me to the Chomper. We stared at each other for a few heartbeats.
"Before I could retreat, he said, 'My name’s Riley Narelle Ashon. Any time you need peace, you’re welcome to use my hideaway.'
Keep Your Head Down. Don’t Get Noticed. Or Else.
"I’m Trella. I’m a scrub. A nobody. One of thousands who work the lower levels, keeping Inside clean for the Uppers. I’ve got one friend, do my job, and try to avoid the Pop Cops. So what if I occasionally use the pipes to sneak around the Upper levels? Not like it’s all that dangerous - the only neck at risk is my own. Until I accidentally start a rebellion and become the go-to girl to lead a revolution.
"I should have just said no.…"
