End of the Line

Nine-thirty required a proper halt. An express engine does not simply abandon the line wherever momentum fades; a scheduled service concludes in its designated shed. I left the open straightaway of the floorboards and set a direct course for the narrow berth beneath the side table. My wheels rolled smoothly between the tapered wooden legs and entered the quiet shadow. I guided my chassis straight backward until my rear buffer met the skirting board with a firm, solid tap. The line is secure and closed for the night.