Page 269 - The Book Thief

to look back.

He stood, regarding the lanky boy and the malnourished-looking girl. So you
want to steal with me?

What did they have to lose? They nodded.

He stepped closer and grabbed Rudys hair. I want to hear it.

Definitely, Rudy said, before being shoved back, fringe first.

And you?

Of course. Liesel was quick enough to avoid the same treatment.

Viktor smiled. He squashed his cigarette, breathed deeply in, and scratched his
chest. My gentlemen, my whore, it looks like its time to go shopping.

As the group walked off, Liesel and Rudy were at the back, as theyd always
been in the past.

Do you like him? Rudy whispered.

Do you?

Rudy paused a moment. I think hes a complete bastard.

Me too.

The group was getting away from them.

Come on, Rudy said, weve fallen behind.

After a few miles, they reached the first farm. What greeted them was a shock.
The trees theyd imagined to be swollen with fruit were frail and injured-looking,
with only a small array of apples hanging miserly from each branch. The next
farm was the same. Maybe it was a bad season, or their timing wasnt quite right.

By the end of the afternoon, when the spoils were handed out, Liesel and Rudy