First Roll
Axles locked. Then, tension released. Four contact patches gripped the smooth grain. Clear lane ahead. I surged forward an inch, testing friction against the polished planks. Ground firm. Traction optimal. I cut slightly left, nudging the blue stock car resting silently beside me. Metal tapped painted plastic. Response verified. I came to a clean halt, engines idling in the morning light, lined up for the straightaway.