"Candi, you're an excellent driver!" exclaimed Thomas, "You really know how to drive a steam engine. My other driver couldn't drive an engine to save his life. I'd be speeding along the line when, "BAM!" he'd jam my brakes on. I hated that so much." Candi giggled. "Well don't worry Thomas, I won't do that."
Back at the sheds, Sir Topham Hatt was talking to the other engines. He saw Thomas pull into the sheds. "Thomas, what are you doing back? The coal trucks are still at the station and they need to get to the coaling plant."
"But sir…"
"No buts Thomas, I want you to pick up those trucks."
"Sir, please listen!"
Sir Topham Hatt listened. "I was on my way to the station when I met this girl named Candi. She was walking beside the tracks. I told her about the dangers of walking along the tracks when she opened up to me about her tough time at home. She told me about how her mom is a workaholic, and how her step dad mistreats her. He makes her do all the housework while he does nothing. If she doesn't obey to his every commands he'll physically abuse her. He already abuses her mentally, emotionally, and verbally. He calls her rude names all the time. When she tries to tell her mom, she never does anything about it. She has no friends so she really has no other place to go, and I'm not going to let her get hurt."
"Does she have any family members that live nearby?" Sir Topham Hatt asked. Just then Candi climbed out of Thomas' cab. "All my relatives don't live here, they live far away." Sir Topham Hatt paused and looked at Candi closely. "You look familiar. Is your name Candace?"
"Yes, Candace White, but you can call me Candi."
"Was your father Ralph White?"
"Yes."
"He used to work for the railroad, and you're his daughter, yes?"
"Yes I am."
Sir Topham Hatt smiled. "I remember you now. Your dad would bring you to work with him. It's very nice to see you again Candi. Thomas told me about your situation at home, and we're all willing to help you."
"Oh thank you sir!" Candi exclaimed excitedly. Sir Topham Hatt turned to Thomas. "Thomas, normally I'd be rather cross since you did not do your job. However, since you helped out someone in need, I'll let you slide."
"Thank you sir," said Thomas. Sir Topham Hatt turned to Duck. "Duck, I need you to collect the coal trucks from the station. The trucks behave better for you anyway."
"Right away sir," replied Duck, but he was secretly unhappy about having to do someone else's job. "Lazy ass Thomas," he muttered under his breath.
Nightfall came. All the engines lay awake. They were arguing over who was Candi's favorite. "She likes me!" peeped Percy. "Rubbish!" huffed Gordon, "She likes me the most. I'm the fastest engine, not to mention the strongest." James snorted. "I'm her favorite. I've got the smartest, shiniest, most splendid red coat of paint!"
"You're all my favorites and I'm glad to be here with you guys," said Candi.
"We're more than happy to have you, Candi," said Edward.
To Be Continued
