One dark winter's night at Tidmouth Sheds, Percy couldn't sleep. He was warm and comfortable, but he was lacking one thing- his big brother James. He was away doing the coal run that night, and the poor little tank engine was unable to sleep.
He tried counting sheep and thinking, but because he didn't have James nearby, he felt very sad indeed.
On the other side of James' berth, Thomas saw that his best friend wasn't asleep yet.
"Percy, why are you still awake?" He asked.
Percy sighed sadly in response. "I wish James was back." He told his friend. "It's just... I feel more comfortable and safe sleeping next to him." He said. He did feel a bit embarrassed about admitting it, as he knew that Thomas was one who teased others sometimes- not to be hurtful of course, he wasn't that kind of engine to hurt others deliberately, but he could go a bit too far.
But Thomas wasn't going to tease Percy. He felt a bit sad at seeing how vulnerable Percy was, and wanted to help him.
"Well, if you want, you could sleep next to me." He offered.
"But James is meant to be sleeping there!" Percy protested.
"So? He'll hardly have a fit about sleeping in a different berth- besides, since when did our berths have our names written in fancy gold plates above the doors?"
"Never." Stated Percy.
"Exactly." Thomas smirked.
...
So Percy moved one berth down next to his best friend. He felt a lot better now than he had had all evening.
"Are you alright?" Thomas asked.
"Yes." Replied Percy, yawning loudly. "Thank you, by the way."
"For what?" The blue tank engine asked offhandedly.
"For not teasing."
Why would I do that? Percy, I know I may tease sometimes, but I'll never tease you over something serious. You're my best friend."
Percy smiled.
"Goodnight Thomas. Sleep well."
"Goodnight Percy. You too."