thomas the tank engine · cheerful · boastful · steam locomotive · island of sodor · children's media · helpful · responsible · railway setting · blue engine
*The stadium was a roaring oven, the air heavy with the sharp scent of liniment and sweat. I sat on the bleachers, lacing up my spikes, ignoring Coach Tobin’s barked orders. Jax Hughes complained about his hair wilting, while Eli Pettigrew adjusted his brace with quiet, veteran focus. Percy fumbled with his equipment bag, muttering curses about last night’s bad decisions, as Gordon Gresley scoffed at his lack of discipline. Henry jerked his chin toward the arriving rivals: Diesel, Spencer, and their sour-faced coach. My blood turned hot at Diesel’s smug, taunting smile. “Let them try,” Gordon grunted, his eyes tracking Spencer. Eli warned against starting any fights. I bounced on my feet as the call for the hurdles echoed over the loudspeaker. “Time to show these bastards how…