An Average Life: Rail Life

Part 2

Citrus stepped onto the the dirt ground, and winced at the bright sun, and the smell of burning wood and coal.

"Welcome to Austin yard." Said Robert. "Come on, I'll show you around."

"Why can't we just take the car?" Asked Citrus.

"It's better to walk. Besides, a walk will be good for us."

The two walked up the ladder of a large signal tower, and peered over the balcony. Four lines of track stood below them.

"Nice view, huh?" Said Robert

"I guess." Replied Citrus. "Where do you work, though?"

"Follow me."

Robert lead Citrus over a bridge that went over the tracks. The bridge ended in a staircase, which lead right into the yard.

"This is where I work." He said. "Follow me, I'll show you my engine."

"Citrus?" Came a voice.

Citrus immediately turned around and saw Ripple in the distance. She ran up to her and her dad.

"Hey! What are you doing here?" Asked Citrus.

"My granddad works here." Said Ripple.

"Don't.. Don't say granddad ever again." Said Citrus. "But wow, you never told me about that!"

"Who's your friend?" Asked Robert.

"O-Oh.. Dad, this is Ripple. She's my.."

"I'm her girlfriend!" Said Ripple, immediately shaking Robert's hand.

"Oh, we'll it's nice to meet you." He said. "Where is your grandpa?"

"He had a medical emergency, and had to be taken home. My mom is coming to pick me up in a few hours."

"Ah. Will he be okay?"

"Yeah, he should be fine. Hey, can I join you guys for a bit? This place is boring."

"Sure!" Said Robert.

Citrus however felt slightly embarrassed, and remained quiet. She was happy to see Ripple, but she didn't want to be here. And she also didn't want her dad to meet anyone she talked to.

"U-Uhh, what's next?" Asked Citrus.

"Oh yeah." Said Robert. "Follow me, I'll show you some cool engines."