By the time Martin completed his pre-departure checks, Ethan arrived, his presence as reliable as sunrise. “Morning, Martin,” he said, climbing into the cab and settling into his seat. Ethan had joined the crew two years ago, but they worked together like clockwork.
“Ready to roll?” Martin grinned, tugging at the throttle lever. “Always.” The final green light from the control tower signaled their departure, and the freight train began its steady journey into the waking world.