What words spelled with ai have a short e sound?

You're right! The "ai" combination usually makes the long "a" sound, but there are a few words where it makes the short "e" sound. Here are some examples:

* Said

* Again

* Against

* Plaid

* Stair

* Brain (though this can sometimes be pronounced with a long "a" sound, especially in British English)

Let me know if you want to explore other interesting sound combinations in English!