The Fat Controller was pleased with BoCo after he had helped Derek out with his teething troubles.

"You, BoCo are the diesel I need." He announced to BoCo at Edward's Station.

"Need for what sir?" Asked BoCo in confusion.

"I need a diesel locomotive to work on the Main Land for a week and a half, as part of a work transfer project. I think you will be the perfect candidate for the job."

"Yes sir, thank you sir!" Beamed BoCo!

With that he walked away.

Little did either of them know that Bill and Ben had overheard them talking.

Neither of them was happy.

...

Even though Bill and Ben would never admit it, they had come to like BoCo, and they viewed him as a father figure. But they didn't usually say soft stuff like that because they knew about having the upper hand in any situation.

But this time, it was different.

"We have to persuade BoCo to stay." Said Bill.

"You're right!" Agreed Ben.

"But how?" They both asked.

Neither knew.

So they both pondered on it until they fell asleep.

...

Next morning the twins consulted Edward.

They hated to admit it, but they needed help- and he was a wise and kind engine.

"Ah never thought I'd hear you two ask for my help!" chuckled Edward.

"Well this is important to us!" Protested Bill.

"Sorry you two, you have my attention." Edward apologised.

They explained about BoCo possibly being sent away to the Main Land for the work transfer.

Edward thought hard.

"I know why don't you try and get the Fat Controller to send another diesel?"

"Thought that." Said Bill a bit too rudely.

"But we don't think that'll work." Added Ben doubtfully.

"Aha, but it might. Listen..." And Edward whispered something to the twins.

Soon it was settled.

...

Mavis was billowing diesel fumes and bellowing at the trucks. It was unusual for her to get so angry, but she was exceptionally tired, and the trucks were not helping in the slightest.

Suddenly she saw the Fat Controller step out of his blue car.

"Hello Mavis!" he said warmly.

"Oh hello sir! Don't mind me- these trucks have to be shunted." She replied dutifully.

"Actually Mavis, I need to talk to you."

"Really?"

"Yes, I need an engine to go to the Main Land for a work transfer. I was going to send BoCo, but the other engines at Wellsworth thought you should have a chance. And I'm glad I agreed. You've been working splendidly Mavis, so I think you should go to the Main Land instead of BoCo."

"Oh thank you sir! That does sound like a nice change." Mavis oiled happily.

...

BoCo was disappointed about not being able to go to the Main Land, but he was happy for her all the same.

"Good luck!" He said "I hope it goes well."

"Thank you BoCo! I'll tell you about it when I come back."

...

Over a week later, Mavis returned home to Sodor. She enjoyed herself largely, and was sorry that BoCo had missed it.

But BoCo told her it didn't matter.

He would never begrudge her a holiday, and besides, his friends would miss him a lot.

...

Another request for tate310. Hope you enjoyed, and please don't forget to review!