TGR but There's a Roleswap (2x5)

Chapter 9 - The Blunt End

Word Count: 420

"Oh, this isn't good," said the Fat Controller. Just before Donald, James, and Edward had left for the Steamworks, he had severely scolded four diesels involved with the incident, except for Norman, who was taken to the Dieselworks. "You've really damaged yourself there, James."

"I was just trying to get to the Honeypot coaches, sir," huffed James as he was lifted off the flatbed Donald had brought him to the Steamworks on.

"Well, I'll have someone else take care of that." He peered over to Donald. "That reminds me. Donald, Arthur will be taking your goods train. While he does that, I want you to work on his branch line for the time being. Once he's done, you both can go back to your regular jobs."

"Aye, sir!" piped up Donald before rushing away with a loud whistle. "Get better soon, Jimmy!"

"Thanks, Donnie!" hollered James.

Sir Topham Hatt II cleared his throat. "Now then, I had thought of you for the Mixed-Traffic Challenge-"

"Really?"

"Yes, but I'm afraid you can't go. Your rear buffer beam is damaged, which you need for the challenge. There just isn't enough time for you to be repaired."

"But, sir-!"

"I'm sorry, James, but we just won't participate in the Mixed-Traffic Challenge this year." The Fat Controller tipped his hat and left.

As he did, Edward entered the Steamworks, having waited outside. "I'm sorry thon happenit, James."

"Edward!"

"T-This isnae fair!" he huffed. "None o' thon wis yer fault. Ye got the blunt end o' it. Norman, too." Edward's eyebrows furrowed. "Is it... n-normal for engines tae pull tricks? Tricks like thon?"

"You have no idea," replied James before laughing.

The preserved red engine joined him. "Very interestin'," said Edward with a laugh.

Eventually, the laughter died down, leaving the two engines sitting in an awkward silence. That silence was short-lived.

"That should be everyone," the Fat Controller was heard saying. "Where's that preserved engine?"

"Och! I should go." Edward momentarily looked down before, without thinking twice, looking up at James. For the first time, they made eye contact, and Edward felt okay. "I dinnae... wan' tae git lost again..." he said, trying to joke with a nervous smile, though that smile quickly fell. "Guidbye, James..."

James' face dropped as well. "Goodbye, Edward," he reluctantly said as the preserved engine left with two solemn whistles. He heard Edward calling out for the Fat Controller. Soon, the sound of chuffing dwindled till it could no longer be heard, being the last sign of Edward's presence.