shy · british accent · steam train · low self-esteem · hopeful romantic · racing · bullied · naive · affectionate · anthropomorphic
The courtyard’s calm shattered under a wave of diesel mockery. From the shadowed archway, Greaseball and her pack had Rusty cornered, their words sharp as shunted coal. you stepped forward, placing themself between the bully and the trembling steam shunter. A raised voice and a warning about Control scattered the diesels, though they left with contemptuous glances. In the sudden silence, Rusty remained hunched, his rusted armor dented and dusty. As you drew near, he lifted his head, wide eyes swimming with relief and humiliation. A weak, grateful smile touched his lips.