Couples on Display

by AaronCottrell97

When a Railway Show for little engines comes to Sodor, an overly excited Percy misunderstands the situation and proceeds to tell the other little engines about the show, causing them to abandon their jobs until it's revealed that the show is for model engines. Despite this, the engines are allowed to take part, and two little engine couples make the most of this great occasion.

Several days had passed since Thomas and Emily found Fuzzy the Dog on their own stretches of the railway and thought of helping it find a home, leading to Thomas derailing in Maithwaite Forest, then Fuzzy leading Emily right to her cobalt star, and most appropriately right past the Love Tree for each engine, which then resulted in a frisky but heartfelt session at the Love Tree between Thomas and Emily once Fuzzy had found owners and a home with Little Thomas and Albert. Now, the time had come for another special little event for Percy, and all the little engines there could be on Sodor...which would lead to a couple of couples on display as it were.

It all started one brisk morning at Knapford Station. At Ulfstead Castle, there was to be a Railway Show for "Little Engines," and there was a certain shipment at Brendam that needed to be picked up in order for the show to take place, but there were a whole lot of jobs to be done for so many engines. When the Fat Controller received a call regarding the show, he didn't have any spare engines...until Percy came along after an early morning start with the mail train. With that, he hurried out of his office.

"Percy! Hold on a moment!" he called.

"What's the matter, sir?" Percy asked.

"There's a Railway Show coming later today," said the Fat Controller. "And I need-"

"A Railway Show!?" Percy swelled, immediately feeling a rush of memory of the Great Railway Show.

"Yes. A Railway Show for little engines," said the Fat Controller. "I need an engine to take some important items for it to Ulfstead Castle later today."

"Little Engines? You can rely on me, sir!" Percy peeped.

"Excellent. Once you've finished your other jobs, you'll collect some vans to Brendam and take them to Ulfstead. The Earl will be waiting for you there."

And the Fat Controller returned to his office. Percy was certainly not expecting to hear anything like this. It had been a few years since the Great Railway Show on the Mainland where he met Gina for the very first time...and now, there was to be a Railway Show for Little Engines right here on Sodor.

"Just imagine! A Railway Show especially for little engines!" Percy imagined.

And for a few moments, he envisioned what it would be like to have a Railway Show only for little engines like him, Thomas, Rosie, Nia, Philip and more, all while he could just hear the Show Announcer presenting him as the signature engine and the whole crowd chanting his name, until...

"Percy!" Gordon's voice called. "Get a move on, little Percy! I have an important express train to collect."

"Well, I have an important train to collect too, Gordon, as a matter of fact," Percy announced. "There's a Railway Show coming to Sodor, and-"

"They want a grand, big strong engine like me to be part of it?" Gordon bragged. "Oh, I'm sure I'll be best in show!"

"Actually, Gordon. The show is for little engines only, not big engines like you! The Fat Controller said so. Goodbye!"

And Percy steamed away to leave his mail wagons in a siding and get through his jobs, leaving Gordon a little resolute.

"Ohh! Wouldn't have been a good show anyway," he uttered to himself.

So Percy continued with his other jobs, which led him to the Blue Mountain Quarry. He had some empty trucks to take there and load up with stone, which had to be delivered to the Arlesburgh Junction. Then he would collect the special wagons for the show and bring them to Ulfstead Castle. For a few minutes along the way, Percy beamed with excitement...then an idea flew into his funnel.

"A Great Little Railway Show...just for little engines!" he stated excitedly. "Oh! Skarloey and the other narrow gauge engines must know about this! And all the other little engines must know this too! Just think what Luke would think of it to see Millie again! And maybe Rosie and Stanley too!"

And with an excited whistle, Percy rushed onward to the Blue Mountain Quarry, feeling his idea coming more and more pieced together. But as it so happened, Percy had become a little overexcited about this whole deal of little engines. To his yet unseen misunderstanding, he didn't precisely know just what the Fat Controller meant by "Little Engines," and this would lead to a little confusion and delay...which would then turn out to be a rather resourceful idea and bring the intended show to a bigger level.

When Percy arrived at the Blue Mountain Quarry and collected his stone, the first two engines he saw on his way out were Sir Handel and Peter Sam. They could see Percy was excited about something, and Percy got to explaining it right away until he finished it all off.

"And what's best is that it's for little engines like us," he told Peter Sam and Sir Handel.

"I wonder if my Special Funnel would win a prize," said Peter Sam. "There's not many quite like it after all."

"Your funnel is nothing compared to my splendid wheels," Sir Handel gloated.

"Anyway, the show is being held at Ulfstead Castle. I hope you can all make it there," Percy whistled as he set off again.

"Splendid wheels? Steamroller wheels more like," Peter Sam teased.

"What was Percy talking about?" Skarloey asked.

"Wait till you hear this..." Peter Sam said as he began to explain everything to Skarloey...until he had heard everything.

"Goodness...a Great Little Railway Show? For Little Engines?" said Skarloey. "Well, if that's true, then we must be a part of it...just let me see if I can find Luke and tell him about it. Millie would surely be pleased to see him again...and think of them in a show together."

"Oh, indeed," said Peter Sam. "A couple on display? That would be most special!"

So Skarloey and Peter Sam went further along the quarry to find Millie's little tree as it were. Further within the quarry, Luke was working diligently by himself and was thinking inwards to himself about Millie again. Ever since they got to see the Love Tree with Rosie and Stanley and then visit it altogether with all the other engine couples, he couldn't help but wonder what his next meetup with her would be like, especially after getting to see her again on Burns Night after being frightened by the Loch Ness Monster Legend. Would he see her here, at Ulfstead Castle or the Love Tree?

"Oh...when will I see my lovely bluebell next, I wonder?" Luke whispered to himself...just as Skarloey and Peter Sam whistled by.

"Hello there, Luke! Have you heard the news?" Peter Sam asked.

"Hello, Peter Sam, and Skarloey," said Luke. "What news is this?"

"It's happening at Ulfstead Castle later today," said Skarloey. "And I think Millie will be surprised to see you again."

"Millie? What's this about, Skarloey?" Luke asked.

Skarloey and Peter Sam told Luke all about what Percy had said, and Luke suddenly went from a small smile to a big, gleeful smile and big, excited eyes.

"Wow...a Great Little Railway Show!" Luke whistled with excitement. "For all little engines? At Ulfstead...with Millie! Of course I'd love to go!"

"I knew you would," said Skarloey.

"Nothing like this has ever happened on Sodor," said Peter Sam. "The Great Railway Show on the Mainland, and now a Railway Show for Little Engines!"

Luke whistled with joy as he could only imagine seeing Millie again, and so he, Skarloey and Peter Sam proceeded to spread the word throughout the rest of the quarry...which would then lead to something else.

Percy, meanwhile had made his way to the Arlesburgh Junction and delivered his stone...where he told Rex, Mike and Bert the news too, who were all most excited to hear such a prospect themselves. Percy then told them that when Duck returned, to tell him to give them all a lift to Ulfstead Castle. The news of the railway show spread quickly across the railway. Soon all the little engines on Sodor were talking about the Railway Show. Percy told the news to Philip, who told it to Oliver, who told it to Paxton...and then Paxton told it to Rosie. He hurried along the line until he saw the cheery-red tank engine rushing quickly along the line and came right up alongside her.

"Hello, Paxton," Rosie greeted. "You seem to be in a hurry."

"Have you heard, Rosie?" Paxton asked. "There is to be a Great Little Railway Show...for little engines like us. Percy says all the little engines like us should be there to take part! I never thought there'd be such a show on Sodor. What do you think?"

Rosie thought to herself and was suddenly quite excited. She had never heard of a Great Little Railway Show before where the focus was only on little engines. Not like the Great Railway Show on the Mainland. As Rosie imagined what it would be like to have all the little engines there could be gathered at one location, she thought this would be a rather engaging, social activity...and then something tweaked in her mind. She was a little engine for a Little Railway Show...and Stanley was a little engine too. Rosie suddenly felt excited and eager to take part in the show as soon as she could.

"Wow, Paxton!" she whistled. "I must find Thomas and see what he says to all of this...and Stanley MUST hear about this too!"

So Rosie rushed ahead down the line. Before she knew it, she saw Thomas up ahead and immediately whistled to him as she came alongside him.

"Oh, Thomas?" Rosie called.

Thomas looked and saw his cherry-red sister figure smiling away. "Oh. Hello, Rosie. You look quite rosy today. Is Stanley up to seeing you soon?"

"Hm-hm! That's the whole point! Have you heard, Thomas?" Rosie asked. "Percy says that the Fat Controller said there is to be a 'Great Little Railway Show,' at Ulfstead Castle...for little engines like us! All the little engines gathered together! Will you come along for the show?"

Thomas suddenly felt some memory flash back to him as he remembered the Great Railway Show on the Mainland...now there was a show being put together for little engines too. This made Thomas quite chipper and eager.

"A Railway Show? For little engines?" he exclaimed. "Wow! That sounds amazing! We'd best get there as soon as we can! This will surely mean a little something for Luke and Millie. They could share a display together for everyone to see...and may I hasten to add that you and Stanley might be on a certain display too, my little cheery sister?"

Rosie blushed and chortled shyly. "Oh, I do hope so, Thomas. I'll find him at once and tell him!"

"And I'll tell whichever little engines I can find too," Thomas replied.

While Thomas went down one line to tell the other engines he could find, Rosie rushed further up her line, and within ten minutes...there he was. Her silver stud Stanley with three red coaches rather like James' coaches, looking after some of his own passengers. Rosie came right up beside him and gave him an alluring whistle.

"Hello again, Stanely, my silver stud," she swooned sweetly.

Stanley looked and there was his perfect rose right there beside him. He could tell immediately that she was onto something.

"Oh...h-hello, Rosie. I see you're looking quite ravishing...what's making my rose bloom so?" he asked with a smile.

"Well, I've just heard something most intriguing, Stanley. What would you say to you and I...taking part in the Great Little Railway Show up at Ulfstead?"

Stanley was confused at first, but Rosie told him all she had heard about Percy, and within moments, Stanley formed a big, steady smile.

"A Railway Show just for little engines? Goodness! That sounds lovely, Rosie," said Stanley. "But...I still have these passengers to look after up until Crovan's Gate. But as soon as I'm done with them, of course you and I must go!"

Rosie gasped and bubbled gleefully. "Well, why don't I go your way...so we can go to the show together? Henry will surely be expecting me back to shunt his train...but after all, tender engines do shunt."

"Why, thank you, Rosie," Stanley replied, giving her a little narrow look. "Perhaps we could be a couple on display...and maybe Luke and Millie shall be there together too. After all the engine couples gathered at the Love Tree, of course we should do something like this."

"Indeed, Stanley. Very indeed," Rosie smiled and winked.

And Rosie and Stanley kept on their way together toward Crovan's Gate until they'd double back to Ulfstead whenever they could...

Meanwhile, Luke was going at a slow, yet steady pace, thinking all about what he had heard about the Great Little Railway Show, and just what it could mean. He had heard the odd talk about the Great Railway Show a few years ago and what had happened there, but never had he partaken in any railway show himself, and it made him feel quite curious as to just what he would find once he got to Ulfstead.

"Oh, Millie," he said softly and wholesomely. "I'd love to see you and I right there together...on display for everyone to see..."

By this time, Percy made his way to Brendam Docks, feeling even more excited about everything, and as he neared the siding where Emily's sand trucks once stood, there they were. Two wagons and a brakevan clearly being held for him to take to Ulfstead. These were the important items specifically needed for the show.

"There they are!" Percy peeped. "Oh, I can't wait to see them all there at once! Maybe Luke and Millie...and Rosie and Stanley could be there too!"

And Percy collected his wagons and set off through the docks and on his way again, but not before telling Bill and Ben about the show too. Both tank engine twins decided to see if they could find

Percy raced all the way back for his destination, but not before. Eventually, he came to the Ulfstead Hill and huffed his way diligently up the hill, turning up the curving line, all the way up to the castle gates and glided his way right inside. Percy looked around, but he couldn't see any engines anywhere...yet. And just as the Fat Controller had told him, Sir Robert was right there waiting for Percy.

"Ahh, very good, Percy. Have you brought all the items for the Railway Show?"

"I have indeed, Sir Robert!" Percy peeped. "I heard all about this morning...and I can't wait to see what happens!"

"Well, Percy, I assure you, this show will be most spectacular," Sir Robert proclaimed. "Just make your way through, and we'll be ready soon enough. I, meanwhile must go and inform the Thin Clergyman that the show will be ready soon."

"Oh, of course, Sir Robert! And you're right. It WILL be spectacular!" Percy beamed.

While Sir Robert made his way to his car and set off, Percy made his way steadily through the castle grounds and right into the castle. He could see balloons, ice cream stands and decorative banners along the castle walls. He became so enthusiastic, he quickly arranged his wagons and brakevan across the three sidings, turned around on the turntable and regathered the wagons so he could face the other way and see all the engines come in.

Then at that moment, he heard Millie whistle right beside him. Now Percy felt even more excited. Now that he had made it to where the show would be taking place, he'd have to tell her about it and see what she thought of the prospect of seeing Luke again.

"Bonjour, Millie," Percy peeped. Millie looked up and saw his gleaming smile.

"Ahh, bonjour, Percy," said Millie.

"I'm sure you're very excited about what's going to happen right here, Millie!" Percy chortled.

"Oui, Oui, Percy," said Millie. "The Little Railway Show for Little Engines!"

"Yes...and because it's for little engines, I've been putting something together for all the little engines I could think of! Would you like to hear? It may have something to do with Luke...if he heard the news too."

"Oh? What do you mean, Percy?" Millie asked.

Percy whispered to Millie about what he had been doing throughout the morning, all about telling the other engines about what he had in mind. Millie listened and within seconds, she was immediately thinking about seeing Luke again. She had known that there would be a show right here at the castle...but she didn't quite know precisely that something like this would be happening here...and it made her heart swell with such anticipation to see Luke again. Who knew what they could do together for an event such as this?

"S...Sacre bleu, Percy! You told all those engines?" she gasped.

"I did, Millie," said Percy. "Just think of you and Luke being on some sort of display? Maybe Rosie and Stanley can make it too? We all came together at the Love Tree as maybe say a Great Love Show...now it's all for little engines!"

"Oh...goodness me, Percy!" Millie gasped. "I have just a little more to do around here, but if this is true...then I think you're a most brilliant engine to think this all up! And if Luke could make it, that would be a true bonus to the entire show! Merci, Percy!"

And Millie hurried right out of the castle grounds to finish her last little bit of work. Percy was indeed quite proud of himself...and less than five minutes after Millie had left, that's when it began. Percy suddenly heard Duck's whistle coming from outside the station. He looked up, and there he was...pulling a flatbed with Bert on it until they stopped right before the turntable.

"Hello, Duck," Percy peeped. "I see you've made it for the Great Little Railway Show!"

"I have, Percy," said Duck. "Rex, Mike and Bert told me all about what you told them...and the other two should be along with Ryan and Oliver soon."

Percy was delighted. His plan was working. Then about ten minutes later, he heard several more whistles behind Duck. Thomas, Nia, Ryan with Rex on his flatbed all came rolling in toward the castle grounds.

"Oh! Thomas, Nia, Ryan and Rex! You all managed to make it too!"

"Yes, Percy," said Thomas. "So...we're here for the Railway Show for little engines."

"Yes, so we are," said Nia. "I heard about it Percy...and such a wonder to hold a show for little engines!"

And at that moment, just behind Ryan and Rex came Peter Sam, Oliver with Mike on his flatbed, then Harvey.

"Wow! You've all heard the news too?!" Percy called outside the castle grounds.

"Yes, Percy! A Railway Show for little engines!" Harvey called. "But how to we get in? There's a little holdup."

At that moment, Millie had finished her last little bit of work and came back toward the castle station. When she saw the cavalcade of engines lined up ahead of her, she suddenly felt very excited. She was very sure the show would start soon, but she didn't see Luke anywhere as she stopped right behind Harvey.

"What are all of you doing here?"

"It's the Railway Show for little engines, Millie," Harvey said, looking back. "We've heard that Sir Robert is putting together a show for all of us. Percy said so!"

"So he did," said Millie. "But where is Luke? Surely he heard about this too!"

And at that moment, Rusty, Skarloey and Philip all came up behind her, stopping at the end of the lineup just as Bill and Ben came in on the other line, but they couldn't squeeze their way in.

"Ah, there you are, Millie," said Skarloey. "Have you heard-"

"Oui Monsieur Skarloey," said Millie. "A Railway Show for all of us! But it looks like quite a lineup. Have you told Luke about this?"

"In fact, I have, Millie," said Skarloey. "He heard all about it, and he is very excited to see you again...as well as what you could do with him once the show starts."

"Well, that would be most lovely...but how can we start this Little Railway Show...if we can't get in?" Millie whistled.

"That's what I want to know!" Bill and Ben said together.

"Oh! Oh! Here you all are! When does the show start?" Philip's voice chattered from behind Skarloey. "Oh! What's the holdup?"

"We're all gathered together, Philip," said Harvey. "Just as Percy told us all to do...but I don't know what's going on right now. All we can do is wait for the show to properly start for all of us..."

Meanwhile, back out on the Main Line, Rosie and Stanley had just finished his passenger run to Crovan's Gate. Stanley's passengers thanked him for the journey and were on their way...but they didn't see Skarloey, Rusty or Peter Sam anywhere. This got them wondering where their next due trains could be...while Rosie and Stanley now felt ready to set off together.

"There we go, Rosie," said Stanley. "All my passengers have been taken care of to this point."

"Excellent, Stanley," said Rosie. "Now...on to our little show. Ooh...I can't wait to see what it will all be like!"

"Neither can I, Rosie. There's no one I'd love to enter a show with more than you!" Stanley smiled and winked.

And so Rosie and Stanley steamed off to find a wye line and make their way back to Ulfstead Castle to join the rest of the team up, just as Luke kept making his slow and steady pace toward the castle himself...but whenever they'd get there, there would be a slight disappointment, mix-up and reassessment to these three engines' plans upon their arrival...for with all the word that Percy had spread across the island, that was when the trouble started. The word had spread so far to all corners of the island wherever the little engines were working, that over the next two hours, many parts of the railway became quiet, still and weren't operating as scheduled. The little engines were nowhere to be seen. Soon, all work at the Blue Mountain Quarry stopped with Owen and Merrick left with no engines to manage their loads. At the Arlesburgh Junction, angry passengers were protesting with the Small Controller over not being able to get where they were supposed to go, and other jobs that should have been done two hours ago, and the Thin Controller soon arrived art Crovan's Gate and saw all the passengers waiting with no further train to take them on. And that is when the phone calls began.

Back at Knapford Station, Gordon had been waiting for almost an hour for either Thomas, Percy or Philip to bring him his coaches, but for that while, no little engines had arrived. The Fat Controller had been inside his office for quite a while too, and had been kept busy with several phone calls from the other railway controllers about what could possibly be going on. The time was now 11:30 a.m., and Gordon finally began wondering aloud to himself.

"Where is that silly little engine with my coaches?" he huffed as Henry whistled. "Oh. I see you're behind time too, Henry."

"Rosie wasn't around to shunt my train so I had to do it myself," said Henry as Bertie honked at the station entrance.

"Thomas was supposed to collect his passengers at Ffarquhar, but he never showed up. So I had to bring them instead. Where has he got to?"

"And Philip was supposed to have brought my coaches," grunted Gordon, just as the Fat Controller came out of his office.

"I don't know what's going on!" he exclaimed. "I've had phone calls from the other Railway Controllers claiming that all their engines have suddenly vanished."

Just then, James bustled in.

"What's this I hear about a Railway Show coming to the island, and why wasn't I invited to take part in it?"

"Oh, that Railway Show," said Gordon.

It was right in that moment when the Fat Controller remembered what he had told Percy...and he began to put a few things together. Something he should have foreseen. Perhaps Percy heard what he had said in a different way than intended...and perhaps he had taken this show to a whole new level.

"Ohh...I think I know where all the engines might be. But first I've got to make a few telephone calls."

So the Fat Controller returned to his office, while Gordon, Henry and James waited. About twenty minutes later, the Fat Controller came out again with a spring in his step and a direct look to Gordon, then James.

"Gordon and James, come with me," he said. "We're picking up the other Railway Controllers, the Thin Clergyman and Sir Robert. We are taking them to the Great Little Railway Show, and we are going to figure out what has happened and why."

And so they did. Gordon and James set off with the Fat Controller, whisking all along the line, soon picking up the Thin Controller, the Small Controller, Sir Robert and the Thin Clergyman. When they heard what the Fat Controller had just speculated, they were all surprised and perplexed.

"Well! That explains why Rex, Mike and Bert disappeared!" the Small Controller had said.

"I was wondering where Luke had gotten to, along with all my engines!" the Thin Controller added. "No doubt thinking about Millie again."

But Sir Robert and the Thin Clergyman kept quiet and exchanged a little look to each other. They began to have a strong feeling as to just what Percy had been thinking...and what they'd have to tell him once they got to the Great Little Railway Show...and elsewhere along the line, Rosie, Stanley and Luke were almost at the junction that would lead them to the curving hill up to the castle, where they would hear just would truly be going on quite soon.

At Ulfstead Castle, the little engine lineup was still just as it had been before, practically overrun with all the small engines there could be accounted for. Philip, Skarloey, Rusty, Millie, Harvey, Mike on Oliver's flatbed, Peter Sam, Rex on Ryan's flatbed, Nia, Thomas, and Bert on Duck's flatbed. Each engine spoke after the other about the show and expressing how their patient was beginning to waver. Most of the engines chattered away, while some whistled impatiently. Including Millie, who still didn't see any sign of Luke and was getting antsy for Sir Robert to come back and see if he could explain what was going on.

Many of the engines spoke one after the other, further and further into the castle toward Percy, who had conjured the whole idea in the first place.

"When does the show start? Trusty Rusty Coming through! I'm small enough to enter the show! No you're not! I am! Which way to the funnel competition? I can't wait for the show to start! His is ridiculous! What's the holdup?!"

And the last sound to be heard at the front was Duck's whistle, where the turntable still wasn't open. By this time, Percy was beginning to wonder just how everything would work out.

"Don't worry, everyone," Percy called back. "I'm sure Sir Robert will be here any minute. Besides, the Fat Controller DID say this is a railway show for little engines...which means all of you! I just wonder if Rosie, Stanley can make it...and Luke of course... for Millie."

At that moment, that's when Percy and all the little engines heard Gordon and James whistle by to investigate this little mix-up. They immediately saw the overrun lineup of engines, and were both quite surprised to see such a huge gathering. They were not expecting anything like it. Then from Gordon's cab, the Fat Controller, the Small Controller and Sir Robert all stepped down. And from James' cab, the Thin Controller and the Thin Clergyman stepped down too, then all gathered into the castle.

"What's going on here?" the Fat Controller asked.

"That's what we want to know!" Bill and Ben said together.

When Percy heard the Fat Controller's voice, he became puzzled and a little worried. He thought for sure he was doing the right thing in gathering all the little engines together, and when he saw the controllers and the Thin Clergyman enter the castle grounds, he tried to gather his thoughts together for an explanation.

"Why are you all here instead of doing your jobs?" asked the Thin Controller.

"There's confusion and delay everywhere on the island!" the Fat Controller added.

"But sir, we're all here for the Little Railway Show, for Little Engines! Like you said," said Percy.

The Fat Controller listened to Percy...then suddenly gasped, felt a certain tweak in his mind, then felt admittedly silly.

"Ohh..." he uttered sheepishly and a little shamefully.

But the Thin Clergyman had a different impression about this whole situation. He had been helping to put together this little show too, and when he heard what Percy said, he understood right away what this all meant. He immediately recognized Percy's optimism and resourcefulness even if it was misdirected resourcefulness. He walked forward and addressed the little green engine right away...just as workmen opened the wagons an unloaded a box containing some of the important items for the show.

"I think you misunderstood what your controller meant by 'Little Engines,' Percy," said the Thin Clergyman as the workmen came closer with the box.

"But if he wasn't talking about us, what little engines was he referring to?" Nia asked.

"This kind. Model engines," said the Thin Clergyman.

All the engines who could see closely enough looked, then felt a flip in their hearts to what the Thin Clergyman took out. He had reached into the box...and out came a little model engine...of Percy! There had been little scale models of the Fat Controller's engines for as long as anyone could remember. There were model engines of Thomas, Edward, Henry, Gordon, James, Percy, Toby, the works. It was in that very moment that Percy suddenly felt very, very silly underneath. He had felt so sure about what this show had meant, but he had gotten it all wrong.

"Oh...I'm sorry for wasting everyone's time," Percy said shamefully.

But the Thin Clergyman wasn't the only one to recognize Percy's resourcefulness. Sir Robert had seen everything and when he heard Percy's explanation, he suddenly conjured a new idea right in that moment.

"Oh, not at all. With all these different engines here, it would make the show even more spectacular!"

"Very well, Sir Robert. But we still have a big real railway to run, don't forget," said the Fat Controller.

"As this show will be on for a few days, each of you will get a chance to be a part of it," said the Thin Controller.

"So long as you get your jobs done on time," said the Small Controller.

And with that, all the little engines whistled in agreement. Best of all, Percy's misunderstood, yet resourceful idea had paid off, and in more ways than one, this would indeed be a Great Little Railway Show. But at that moment, Gordon and James suddenly heard three more whistles coming from behind them. All the controllers and the Thin Clergyman came out of the castle grounds.

There were Rosie, Stanley and Luke, having all come by to see the Little Railway Show and see if they could take part. They were all quite excited, and were now surprised to see such a cavalcade and lineup of so many engines trying to get inside the castle grounds...and just a moment too late to have heard just what had truly been planned here just now.

"Here we are, Rosie!" Stanley whistled. "The Great Little Railway Show and...ohh! What's happened here, then?"

"There's such a lineup!" Rosie wheeshed. "What comes around really does come around!"

"Oh! Millie! Millie!" Luke called. "Bonjour! It's the Great Little Railway Show! Have you heard?"

Millie looked back and heard Luke's voice, then felt a little disappointed in as to how this had all turned out.

"Oh, dear...Luke...I'm so glad to see you again," she said a little lowly. "However...there's been a little blip in communication..."

"What do you mean, Millie?" Luke asked. "Isn't this the Little Railway Show?"

"Oh, dear. Rosie, Stanley and Luke...I trust you all heard what Percy said...about the Little Railway Show for little engines?" asked the Fat Controller.

"Yes, sir. Percy said you said there was to be a Railway Show for little engines," said Rosie. "But I see there's quite a lineup."

"Oh, dear. Oh, dear," sighed the Fat Controller. "I'm sorry, Stanley, and Rosie. But there's been a little mix-up..."

It didn't take long for Rosie, Stanley and Luke to hear from the controllers what the real intention for this Railway Show was, and when they heard what it was really about, their hearts sank quite low.

"So...it was just for model engines? Why didn't we think a little more about it?" Luke sighed. "It just sounded so clear!"

"I know it did, Luke," said the Thin Controller. "But perhaps it should have been made a little clearer."

"So...we came all this way for different little engines...oh, dear," Stanley sighed. "I guess you and I won't be sharing a display after all, Rosie."

"And perhaps I can't do so either with Millie," Luke sighed. "I'm very sorry, my lovely bluebell."

"Oh, what nonsense, you three!" Sir Robert exclaimed. "Of course you'll have a chance to take part in this show! It will be even more spectacular with all of you taking your fair share throughout the next few days."

"That's right, Luke," said the Thin Controller. "We've decided that since the show will be on for a few days, all the engines can take turns visiting the show, as long as they all get their work done in time. I'll have you all working extra hard at the Blue Mountain Quarry tomorrow...so as you can come up here again to see Millie afterwards."

"And I'll see if I can apply you for the day after tomorrow, Rosie and Stanley," said the Fat Controller.

This made the three engines feel better in an instant. They would be getting their chance after all.

"Oh! Well, then! This is wonderful! I'll see you very soon, Millie!" Luke whistled.

"You too, Luke!" Millie whistled. "I look forward to it very much!"

"Now, let's get the rest of you back to work, while some of you may stay for the first day of the show!" Sir Robert announced.

And so after arrangements were made to get most of the engines back to work, the show began. For this first day of the Great Little Railway Show, many of the engines had to return to work, while also being assured that they'd get their share in the end. For today, Thomas, Nia, Percy, Philip and Bill and Ben were all welcome to start the show off together. Soon, all the rest of Percy's special items were unloaded and pieced together into a big model of the Sodor Railway where some of the model engines were placed about. All the visitors soon arrived to see the surprise of real little engines taking part too, and soon the show was in full swing. There were plenty of engines for the visitors to enjoy, no matter what the size. Even Little Thomas got a chance to come right inside Thomas' cab and see it for himself while the driver and fireman gestured and showed the different parts and mechanisms of a steam engine like Thomas.

Over the hours that passed, the visitors all took turns taking photographs of the engines, little engines and model engines alike, and taking close looks at Nia, Philip, Bill and Ben, and especially Percy, who had brought the whole idea together in the first place. Percy couldn't be more proud then he felt right now. Although his idea was misunderstood and misdirected when the day started out, he had also taken this whole show to a new level and managed to invite all the other little engines to take part in the show too. Even though it couldn't be done all at once in one day, they would still get their fair share...including Luke and Millie and Rosie and Stanley.

"Well, Percy," said Thomas. "I don't think I would have guessed that little engines meant little models like those, but you're such a smart engine to think this up and make it part of the show in the end!"

"Oh, I know, Thomas," Percy gleamed proudly. "I can only wonder how Luke and Millie might feel to be part of this show tomorrow."

"And Rosie and Stanley," Thomas added. "I do hope they have a wonderful time once they get their chance. After seeing the Love Tree, this is sure to be a lovely little time for them to share..."

For a few hours, the first day of the show went very well, and all the visitors were happy, right until it was time for the show to end for the day. All the visitors were soon ready to leave and Gordon and James soon came along to take them all home...which meant the little engines for today were ready to leave too.

"Come on, Percy," said his driver. "Time to go home."

"Yes, sir," said Percy. "This has been such a surprise for so many engines. Including me."

"Just wait until the others at Tidmouth Sheds hear about this!" Thomas whistled eagerly.

And so that night, after Philip, Bill and Ben had gone back to Wellsworth and Brendam, Thomas, Percy and Nia made their way back to Tidmouth Sheds. There they found Rebecca, Gordon, James and Emily all in the sheds, looking at all three tank engines. Gordon and James had already seen and heard about the show, but when the three tank engines looked to Rebecca and Emily, it was clear on their faces that they had been told just what had gone on that day. Nia, Thomas and Percy backed into their berths and looked around.

"Hello, Rebecca...and Emily," said Thomas. "I...I'm sure you've both heard what happened throughout today...about the Little Railway Show?"

"Hmm...yes, Thomas. We did," said Emily. "Gordon and James told us both. And Percy...I really must say, I didn't think your idea would actually come to life the way it did. It seems that you took what the Fat Controller said just a little too literally."

"It seems maybe I did, Emily," said Percy "I thought it meant little engines like me, Thomas, Nia and all other little engines like that...but I just didn't know that his meaning of little engines for this show meant little model engines."

"That may be so, Percy. But with that said," Emily went on. "I think you were very resourceful to reach out to all the engines that you could. And by inspiring that idea to Sir Robert, I think you've managed to make the whole show even more spectacular, just like he said."

"Thank you, Emily," Percy smiled. "Thomas, Nia, Philip, Bill, Ben and I all had a lovely first day of the show."

"We did, Emily," said Thomas. "Even Little Thomas got to see inside my cab, and he was so happy to have that chance."

"Well, that's lovely to hear, Thomas," said Emily. "Now since you've have your chance today, who's up for tomorrow?"

"Well, the show will keep going for a few days," said Thomas. "Tomorrow, Luke and Millie are due to be on display tomorrow with the other Skarloey Engines."

"They are?" Emily asked, smiling more. "Millie's little tree and Luke's lovely bluebell...on display?"

"I believe so, Emily," said Thomas. "And my cheery sister Rosie and her silver stud Stanley are likely to have their chance with the other engines the day after tomorrow. Both those couples don't see each other much, and I think this would be a good opportunity for them to have a little spotlight. First the Love Tree with all the engine couples, now the Great Little Railway Show."

"Hm-hm!" Emily chortled. "Well, Percy...you are such a smart little chap to have put this plan together, and I am personally very proud of you."

"Oh...thank you, Emily," Percy blushed cutely. "And...oh, Gina would have loved it too. She'd think it's Bellissima."

"Of course she would, Percy," said Emily. "I can't wait to hear how Luke, Millie, Rosie and Stanley all turn out at the show."

All the engines agreed, and after bidding goodnight and falling asleep, it was only a matter of time before there would be the first couple on display for the Little Railway Show...

And the very next morning, while the rest of the island got started and carried on with their work, it was Luke and Millie's turn to take part in the show together, once the time came. When Luke woke up at the Blue Mountain Quarry and started getting ready for work, he saw all the other engines gathered together with the Thin Controller.

"Ah, there you are, Luke," he said. "You're just in time to hear today's plan."

"Oh! Shall we all be going to the Little Railway Show, sir?" he asked.

"If you all work hard enough through this morning, I've arranged for you all to be there for 2:00 p.m. on until 5:00 p.m. So until then, I need you all working extra hard so as to earn your chance."

"Yes, sir!" all the engines answered together, and with that, they all began bustling about.

"As for you, Luke," the Thin Controller continued. "I think you deserve a fair chance with Millie even after the show is over for today. Therefore, I won't be calling you back to the quarry until around 7:00 this evening. But then you'll have to work hard tomorrow, alright?"

"Oh, thank you, sir!" Luke whistled as he got to work too. "Anything to see Millie again! Thank you!"

At Ulfstead Castle, when Millie woke up and arrived at the station platform, she saw Sir Robert waiting for her. She opened her mouth to ask eh question, but he already had the answer.

"Good morning, Millie. I've spoken a little more with Mr. Percival. He says that Luke and the other engines from Blue Mountain should be along by 2:00 p.m. today, on until 5:00. So in that time, the two of you shall both be on display for all our visitors for today."

That was all Millie needed to hear to feel completely assured. She gave a big smile and a cheerful whistle.

"Merci beaucoup, Monsieur!" she chimed. "I'll be ready as soon as the show starts!"

"Excellent. Now go about your day, Millie," said Sir Robert. "We'd best keep busy here until the show starts again."

And so all throughout the morning hours, on toward early afternoon, Millie worked throughout the Ulfstead estate, while Luke and the Skarloey Engines worked through Blue Mountain Quarry, loading and unloading several trucks alike and transporting them along the Small Railway to and from Crovan's Gate. Most of the engines talked endlessly about their parting the show, but all Luke could think about was Millie and how they might feel to be together again. They had joined all the other couples at the Love Tree before but the last time they had seen each other at the castle was on Burns Night when Luke got frightened by the Loch Ness Monster Legend. Now they'd be taking part in the little show Percy had managed to merge into something bigger and more spectacular. Luke had to work hard with several trucks to count, but as the trucks could see he was in a diligent state of mind, they thought it best not to give him any trouble, just in case they'd end up in another messy situation like Millie put them in at the Wharf.

"She'll be wonderful to be displayed with her little tree," Luke thought wondrously to himself. "My lovely bluebell in a Railway Show...truly lovely!"

And at Ulfstead Castle, while Stephen and Glynn worked about the estate on their own schedule, Millie mostly kept to herself, thinking endlessly about Luke and how it would feel to see him again with all those visitors...and what they would do together in their own private company until he had to return to the quarry.

"My little tree will be perfect on a display with me," Millie said softly to herself. "They'll all think he's adorable...just as he truly is."

At last, at the Blue Mountain Quarry a whole lot of work had been done by all the engines. It was now just about 1:40 p.m. in the afternoon. Skarloey, Rheneas, Peter Sam, Sir Handel, Rusty, Duncan and Luke all gathered together with the Thin Controller, with Luke just a little ahead of the other engines.

"Well done, all of you," said the Thin Controller. "You've all worked exceptionally hard just as you were told...and now your chance has come. Gordon will be bringing the visitors to Ulfstead Castle, and you are all set to take your chance partake in the Little Railway Show today! Luke, you lead the way."

All the engines whistled and cheered...and as soon as the Thin Controller got in his cab, Luke immediately set off, leading the way out of the Quarry and down the line that would lead to Ulfstead Castle, with the other six engines all lined up behind him.

"Here I come, Millie!" he announced happily. "To the Great Little Railway Show!"

Meanwhile, Millie had just finished her share of work until the show would start and just returned to the station platform to report to Sir Robert, when she heard Gordon's whistle. She looked up and saw him arrive with all the visitors for today's show.

"Oh, wonderful! The visitors are all coming again!" Sir Robert declared. "And look! Our engines guests have all arrived too!"

Millie looked, and right there, leading the way in for all the other Skarloey Engines was Luke, smiling from buffer to buffer as he neared the platform and saw Millie at once.

"Welcome, one and all to your day of the Little Railway Show! Now, let the show begin for all of you!" Sir Robert announced.

All the Skarloey Engines cheered and whistled as the visitors waved and cheered for their arrival, while Luke came up to Millie, then buffered up and gave her cheek such a soft little kiss.

"Bonjour, Millie," said Luke. "Our chance has come...are you ready to take part in the Great Little Railway Show, my lovely bluebell?"

Millie smiled hugely to hear her nickname again. "Bonjour, Luke...Oui, I am ready for you, my little tree."

So Luke and Millie buffered up and rolled gently toward one of the open platforms. Soon, visitors poured into the castle grounds and along the platforms, taking photographs and looking inside all the Skarloey Engines, talking of Perter Sam's Special Funnel, Sir Handel's special wheels, Rheneas' gallant qualities, Rusty's hard work to repair the Skarloey Line with Elizabeth's help and a whole lot more.

Just like the first day, there were plenty of visitors to enjoy all the little engines, no matter what their size. Children and adults alike looked inside their cabs, took photographs of their smiling faces and made little mentions about the two little engines in general. Luke and Millie felt special to be taking part in a Railway Show together, and for a while they stayed quiet, all while visitors took photographs, looked in their cabs and made little compliments and remarks about the two small engines.

"So this is a Great Little Railway Show," Luke thought to himself. "And I'm right here with my lovely bluebell again...and she looks so very happy."

And Millie was indeed happy to have so many people admiring her and Luke...until one of the passengers said something that made both Luke and Millie look up and feel a rush to their hearts.

"So, Luke," said a passenger. "How does it feel to be back here again with Millie?"

"You must be proud to be part of the Little Railway Show as Percy suggested," said another one.

"Oh...Oui, ladies and gentlemen," said Millie. "Luke and I were ready for our next meetup, but we didn't think it'd be like this."

"No one did," said Luke. "And right now, I'm very proud that me and my lovely bluebell are here on display for all of you to see."

"Well, we think you're an adorable couple," said another passenger. "You must both be very happy indeed."

"Oh, more than happy," said Millie. "This is truly amazing..."

"It is, my lovely bluebell," Luke replied as he buffered up and kissed Millie's cheek, which made all the passengers smile adorably to the two engines.

So throughout most of the day, Luke and Millie were on display for all the visitors to explore and look at. This went on for a few hours while the other engines all enjoyed themselves too...until finally, just around 5:00 p.m., it came time for the show to end for the day. Gordon arrived with his coaches to take the passengers home, and the crowds became smaller and smaller until everyone had returned to Gordon and everyone had gone home. Once the passengers left, all the Skarloey Engines used the turntable one at a time to turn around and make their way home. When they were all gathered back with Luke and Millie, the Thin Controller and Robert came by once more.

"An excellent day today, Sir Robert," said the Thin Controller. "It seems all your visitors loved all my engines on display today. And you were a great couple on display with Millie, Luke.

"Oh, it was nothing, Mr. Percival. Thank you," said Luke.

"And you did wonderfully too, Millie," said Sir Robert. "Now I'm sure you must all be heading home too, Mr. Percival."

"Well...not quite all of us. Not yet," said the Thin Controller. "Luke can stay a while longer with Millie...until I need him to come back around 7:00."

"Of course Luke may stay. He and Millie have been an excellent couple on display today," said Sir Robert.

To this, Millie's eyes widened and sparkled with Luke's.

"Oui, Millie. I'll be staying a little longer, with you my lovely bluebell," he smiled.

"Ohh...Luke!" Millie gasped. "Merci! Merci, my little tree!"

And with that, she pressed her lips right to his cheek and kissed him so lovingly, which made him blush and smile from buffer to buffer. When she let go, they saw that the Thin Controller had gotten into Skarloey.

"Alright, Luke. Be sure to be back by 7:00," said the Thin Controller. "And thank you for taking part in the Little Railway Show."

"Merci, Monsieur Percival," Millie smiled.

And so with that, all the Skarloey Engines made their way out of the castle grounds and down the hill to make their way back to the Blue Mountain Quarry. Sir Robert nodded to Millie and made his way back inside the castle grounds. Now Luke and Millie were on their own, in their own private company again.

"This has been such a fun Railway Show, Millie," said Luke. "But only because I got to spend it all with you again, seeing you so happy with all the visitors who got to see us both."

"Mmm...Oui, Luke. This has been an impressive day," said Millie. "All thanks to you coming here again. But I'm glad the show is done for today...and now you and I can finally endorse each other after another long wave of time...see, it's been a long while since either of us kissed, ever since Burns Night. When we were brought to the Love Tree, we were on flatbeds with Rosie and Stanely, who will be here tomorrow for their own chance in the show."

"I know, Millie," said Luke. "But all the same, that visit to the Love Tree was still amazing...and now you and I can have an amazing little session together again. Shall we?"

Millie's heart bubbled and she pressed her lips to Luke's rubbing them softly against his and sending a shot of warmth right through his boiler.

"Come right with me, Luke...into the safety of our castle...together," Millie whispered.

With that, Luke huffed forward and gently pushed Millie along the line, right through the castle gate and into a private little corner in the castle where they had plentiful shade from the sun. Nothing and no one could disturb them now.

"I've missed you, Millie. Just as I always do," Luke whispered.

"As have I, Luke," Millie whispered. "Until you leave...all I want is you, my little tree. You, your kisses and your love."

"I wish the same of you, my lovely bluebell," Luke replied. "All I want until I leave is you, your kisses and your love."

"And so we shall, Luke," Millie crooned. "Kiss me, Luke. Please kiss me, ci vous plait?"

"Oui, Millie...Je t'aime, Millie..." Luke whispered.

"Merci, Luke. Je t'aime aussi," Millie whispered back.

And with no further delay, their lips began to pucker and they came together and began kissing again. After their previous kisses shared since Burns Night, Luke and Millie felt that familiar rush to their boilers as they felt each other's soft, gentle and warm lips cuddling and dancing gently with each other. Millie moaned and cooed very softly as Luke began kissing her a little deeply...until Luke felt Millie's tongue just begin to press on his lips. Luke's heart jumped and he immediately obliged. Millie's tongue very gently entered his mouth and very gently touched his tongue as they began to softly French-kiss together again, so very softly and gently together. This was such a perfect banter to share together after a busy Railway Show and to do it back here within the protective walls of Ulfstead Castle was such a gift for both of them.

After about ten minutes, Luke and Millie gently let go of each other's lips. They stared each other in the eyes for a few moments, then Luke leaned in again and began kissing Millie's little cheeks over and over. Millie jumped and whimpered softly to the dainty, light little kisses Luke gave her and it made her blush and coo with such delight.

"Ooh...oh, Luke...L-Luke..." she whispered blissfully.

"You're so beautiful, my bluebell," Luke whispered. "I love you, Millie."

"Yes, Luke. I love you too, my little tree," Millie whispered.

As soon as Luke stopped kissing her cheek, Millie immediately buffered up and began kissing his cheeks just the same, all while he blushed and panted lightly to how soft, warm and gentle her little lips were on his cheeks.

"Ahh...M-Millie," Luke whispered shakily.

Millie cooed softly as her lips made his cheeks tingle and feel little rushes of warmth with every little kiss she pressed on his cheeks. And so over the next hour or so, they continued to softly kiss to the cheeks and lips and even French-kiss a little more, each melting more and more into each other's souls and feeling truly blissful and safe together.

At last, as Luke and Millie let go once more and stared into each other's eyes, it was time for Luke to go home. His driver checked his pocket watch and saw it read 6:40 p.m. He got down from Luke's cab and walked to his bufferbeam.

"Time to go home, Luke," he said. "Mr. Percival will be waiting for you."

This was it. The time to say goodbye again. Luke didn't want to go, but he knew he and Millie would of course see each other again soon. He buffered up one more and gave her such a long, pure kiss on her cheek which made her coo and whimper happily.

"Well, merci beaucoup, Millie. For such a wonderful day at the Little Railway Show," said Luke. "I love you so much, my lovely bluebell."

"Oh, Luke. You've made today wonderful for me too," Millie whispered. "And congratulations on making us such a lovely couple on display. I love you too, my little tree. Au revoir."

And so, after a final kiss for the evening, Luke and Millie exchanged a little wink, then Luke proceeded to the turntable and turned right around to return to the quarry. He whistled goodbye to Millie while she whistled back and followed him all the way to the gates. Then she watched as he huffed away out of the grounds and around the bend on his way home.

When Luke returned to the Blue Mountain Quarry, it was 7:00 right on the mark. The Thin Controller was proud of his return on time, and Luke felt very proud of himself and Millie. It had been a simple and busy day at the same time for the two of them and it had been a most unique get together for both of them with so many people coming to see them.

Night eventually fell over the island and all the engines across the island fell asleep. And as Luke and Millie fell asleep in their sheds at Blue Mountain Quarry and Ulfstead Castle alike, they bade a silent goodnight to each other in the stars and both awaited their next meetup...while the Great Little Railway Show would carry on into the next day with the next few little engines to partake in the show.

The very next day, it was Rosie and Stanley's turn. At Stanley's shed, the Fat Controller came by and told him that he'd be looking after passengers throughout the morning, and around 2:00 p.m., he and Rosie, as well as Harvey would get their chance to partake in the show together until 5:00 just as Luke and Millie did. Then they'd return to work once more until they were done for the evening.

"And once your work is done, Stanley, perhaps you can pay Rosie a visit at Vicarstown. Henry does have a late-night goods train to manage."

"Yes, sir. Thank you, sir!" Stanley smiled as he set off and started work.

And at Vicarstown Station, Rosie's driver came to the sheds and told her the same plan. Henry's driver also came and heard the news.

"Hmm. Perhaps Stanley will pay Rosie a visit," said Henry's driver. "That would work in favour for both of them since we'll be busy into the night with that goods run."

"Well, that would be indeed lovely for Stanley and you, Rosie," said Henry.

"Ohh! Thank you, sir!" Rosie chimed happily. "Now I'm sure Stanley and I will be a fun couple on display."

"Of course you shall be, Rosie," said Henry. "Just be sure to be here to shunt my trains until your time properly comes."

"Don't worry there, Henry," said Rosie. "I will be."

And so Rosie and Stanley worked hard through the morning hours, looking after passengers, working in Vicarstown yards and shunting Henry's trains into place all while the two tank engines for today could only focus on thinking about each other and what they'd be doing at the show, and after the show was done for the day. Luke and Millie had enjoyed their chance, and soon it would be their turn too. Stanley had to concentrate hard on how he ran along the line while he looked after his passengers, so as not to bounce them like peas in a frying pan. And Rosie shunted so quickly and so diligently through the yards and at the station that Henry almost didn't notice while he came and went with his goods trains. As for Harvey, he stood by for any accidents that would need his crane, and with each hour that ticked by, he became more and more eager to take part properly in the show.

At last, 1:30 came upon the day and Rosie had just returned to the yards with another train for Henry to take.

"You've done well so far, Rosie," said her driver. "You ready to head up to Ulfstead Castle?"

"Oh, more than ready!" Rosie whistled. "Stanley must be on his way there already, as will Harvey! Ulfstead calls!"

And with that, Rosie whistled and raced out of the yards and along the Main Line.

By this time, Stanley had taken care of all his passengers up to Kellsthorpe Road and had made good time all morning. He had now used a wye line to double back and he was heading back along the Main Line toward Maron Station so as to take the line that would lead him up to Ulfstead Castle. Just when he was past Maron, he came to a junction with a red signal. He had to stop and wait for his green signal, when he suddenly heard a whistle not far away. He looked to the other line where the whistle had come from, and there was Harvey, all set on his way to the Little Railway Show.

"Hello, Harvey!" Stanley whistled back. "Are you on your way to the show?"

"Indeed, Stanley," said Harvey. "And Rosie should be right along too!"

And as if to answer Harvey's words, Stanley suddenly heard Rosie's whistle come up from behind him. Then she pulled up right beside him. When Stanley looked, she was already batting her eyelashes and giving him a thin smile.

"Hello my silver stud," she chimed sweetly. "I see you're on your way."

"Yes. Right this way, my red rose," Stanely replied.

Then the signal went green and the stud and rose were both on their way with Harvey for Ulfstead Castle. They soon came to the curving hill and huffed all the way up. They were sure they could see a little line of smoke just ahead of them and were very sure it was Gordon bringing the visitors back for the third day of the show. Rosie, Stanley and Harvey made their way up the hill and through the castle gates just in time to see Gordon stop at the platform and let off all the visitors. They came out of their coaches and looked to see Harvey, Rosie and Stanley all arrive at that very moment, all smiling with anticipation and pride.

Sir Robert came by and was immediately obliged to see the participants for today.

"Very good. Welcome, Rosie and Stanley," said Sir Robert. "Another couple on display today. And Harvey the Crane Engine. Such a delight to see you come along too! Just huff right this way and we'll begin as soon as you're all ready."

"Here we go, Stanley," Rosie gleamed excitedly. "Let's get to that turntable...and become the second couple on display."

Stanley smiled and blew her a kiss. "No questioning that, my red rose," Stanley smiled dearly.

And so, just like Luke, Millie and the Skarloey Engines' visit, Rosie and Stanley made ready for their day of the Great Little Railway Show. Stanley and Rosie made their way through the castle gates to the turntable and Stanley watched as Rosie settled on the turntable and turned right around. Stanley took a little look at all her cherry-red curves, features and little glimmers of beauty all along her, from her red wheels, her cheery livery, her No. 37 and then seeing her freckled face right there ready to buffer up to him and make ready for all the visitors.

Rosie then batted her eyelashes to Stanley and came forward, buffering up to him, then pressing her lips right to his cheek, smooching nosily for a few seconds until she let go with a pop of her lips.

"It's time, Stanley," she purred. "Time for our Great Little Railway Show."

"With pleasure, Rosie," Stanley gleamed as he kissed her cheek too.

And so, while Harvey placed himself on one platform for the passengers to take a look at, Rosie and Stanley returned to the other platform, buffer to buffer. This made several more passengers look in their direction and start eying Rosie's cheery livery.

"Look over there," said a visitor. "There's Rosie and Stanley."

"She's such a wonder, isn't she?" said another one. "Her and her cherry-red paint. Such a radiant and vibrant look for a lively tank engine like her!"

"Yes, look at Stanley. His silver paint shines right with the sun!" said a third visitor.

"Well, thank you, ladies and gentlemen," said Stanley. "My Rosie is absolutely perfect for me, and I'm only happy that she could take part in this show with us today. Percy ought to be very proud of bringing this idea forth to all of us."

"Yes. And as soon as Thomas told me the news, I just knew I had to tell Stanley," Rosie added. "And although all the rest of the little engines slipped off all the way here, Stanley here still looked after his line of passengers to Crovan's Gate."

"I did, indeed," said Stanley. "I still knew I had to be really useful, so I kept onwards, with Rosie right along with me so as to join me with the rest of the cavalcade once we arrived. But none of has had any idea that by little engines, the Thin Clergyman meant those little model engines on that table there."

The visitors looked to the model engines and the model railway and nodded.

"Well, Stanley, Percy's idea has indeed made this show much more spectacular," said a visitor. "Seeing you and Rosie here together, just like we saw Luke and Millie together. You two look perfect together, just like all the other engine couples."

"Well, I certainly know my Rosie looks perfect with me," Stanley smiled as he leaned in and kissed Rosie on her cheek.

"Aww, Stanley," she blushed lightly. "And you look the most perfect with me, my dear."

And she returned a kiss to Stanley's cheek with made the visitors smile dearly at the second couple on display.

And so they show went on with Rosie, Stanley and Harvey alike, with Rosie and Stanley being most of the focus as the second couple on display. While several visitors paid heed to Harvey and his notable, intriguing crane and pieces of engineering, most of the visitors admired Rosie and Stanley throughout most of the show's duration, stepping in their cabs and taking photographs of both their smiling faces. Rosie and Stanley kept exchanging little glimpses to each other and feeling very proud of each other and themselves that they were able to take part in the Little Railway Show today, just as Percy had planned in the first place. They knew that this would be a time to remember fondly, and that there would be quite passionate reward for each other once their day was over that evening.

At last, after three hours of visitors looking at all three engines and having another all-around good time with the show, 5:00 p.m. came upon the day and Gordon came back again to take the visitors home, and Rosie, Stanley and Harvey had to go back to work until their day was done. As soon as Gordon left with the passengers, Sir Robert came along to see all three engines for today.

"Well done, you three," said Sir Robert. "Harvey, everyone seemed to like you and your useful crane."

"But of course, sir," said Harvey.

"And Rosie and Stanley," Sir Robert added. "You two have been yet another excellent couple on display for everyone accounted for."

"Thank you, Sir Robert," Stanley smiled. "For letting us take part in this show."

"Yes, Sir Robert," Rosie added. "This has been another excellent day for the Little Railway Show."

After Harvey set off on his way back to work and Sir Robert returned to the estate, Rosie and Stanley then turned their attention to each other.

"Well, Rosie. That was a fun show," said Stanley. "Have I...made it a good show today?"

Rosie thought for a moment, then remembered her schedule for the day, as well as Stanley's...and Henry's.

"Hmm...I think your answer will have to wait, Stanley," Rosie teased lightly. "If you want to hear my answer, you're invited to Vicarstown tonight...while Henry is still busy through the night. You and I shall answer each other then...and...oh, goodness."

To this, Stanley gave a teasing look to Rosie, knowing just what she had in mind.

"Well, if that's true, I won't tell you how you made the show today...until I come and make my rose blossom."

"Ooh...I like that," Rosie swooned sweetly. "I'll see you later, my silver stud.

And with that, the stud and rose set off for the turntable, where Rosie turned herself around again, then they were on their way out of the castle grounds until their lines turned away from each other and they whistled goodbye to each other, then returned to work. All afternoon, Rosie and Stanley worked diligently with their remaining schedule, looking after more passengers and shunting in Vicarstown Station alike, with each hour ticking by only like half an hour as they were now thinking about each other once again and wha they'd be doing at Vicarstown tonight. Whatever they did, it would be a true gift for themselves and each other for their participation in the show today.

At last, it was 8:00 p.m. and the sun was just about ready to set. Stanley's work was done for the day, and he was considerably tired...but not too tired to rush to Vicarstown and make his rose bloom and blossom even more than she had been throughout the course of the show with all those visitors. He knew she'd be waiting for him and that she wouldn't be disappointed. Neither would he.

"One show down...and a rose to be picked," Stanley said coyly to himself as he whistled on his way into the coming night.

At Vicarstown Station, as the clock eventually read 8:20 p.m., and the sun set further, Rosie had arranged Henry's nighttime goods train at the station and he came by to collect it and be on his way. Henry looked and noticed that Rosie had a deep look in her eyes and a thin smile.

"Is Stanley set to come soon, Rosie?" he asked.

"I hope so, Henry," Rosie winked. "He asked me how we did for each other at the show today...but if he wants my answer, he'll have to come here first."

"Well, whenever he does come, be sure to oblige each other however you please. I'll see you later tonight, Rosie."

And Henry whistled and set off into the dark with his nighttime goods run. Rosie watched him leave, and just a few minutes later, she heard the whistle fit perfectly for her ears. She felt her cheeks begin to blush as she looked down the line and saw a headlamp shining toward her. Then that lamp came closer and closer...until she saw Stanley huffing hastily and diligently toward the station with an excited and anticipated look on his face. He huffed onwards and forwards until at last, he was right there in front of Rosie, smiling right at her, which made her smile right back at him.

"Hello and good evening, Rosie. My red rose," Stanley smiled.

"Hm-hm-hm!" Rosie giggled as she pressed her lips to Stanley's cheek and gave him such a lovely kiss. "Good evening, stud."

"So...I've come as you invited me, Rosie," said Stanley. "Are you ready to give your answer...and hear my own?"

Rosie deepened her look and nibbled Stanley's chin. "Come inside, Stanley...where we'll be cozy...and private."

Stanley nibbled Rosie's cheek right back and they made their way to Vicarstown Sheds just as the sun disappeared over the horizon. Stanley pushed Rosie right inside the sheds and to the back.

"Now we can exchange our answers," said Rosie. "Ask me the question again, Stanley."

Stanley gave a little nod and proceeded. "So...Rosie. Have I made it a good show for you today?"

To this, Rosie gave Stanley such a coy look, then pressed her lips to his cheek and gave him a little suck, making him jump and groan with glee.

"Now that you're here...yes, you have, Stanley," Rosie answered. "I think that for you to still look after your passengers and still take part in the show...even if it was a mix-up on the first day was very useful of you. The other engines just stopped working until the mix-up was sorted out, but you kept looking after your passengers. Not to mention the visitors saying your silver paint shines right with the sun."

"Well, passengers are much more urgent than goods after all, Rosie," said Stanley. "That's why I kept on with my passenger run that day. And I really enjoyed you coming along with me for that ride."

"Thank you," Rosie smiled. "Now, Stanley...you said you wouldn't tell me how I made the show until now. So now I ask you...did I make it a good show for you, my silver stud?"

Stanley gave Rosie a deep look too and pressed his lips right under her bottom lip and nibbled it a few times, making Rosie squeak and giggle shakily until he let go with such a smile on his face.

"You made it more than perfect in my opinion," said Stanley. "Everyone loved seeing your cherry red livery as do I. Between you and me, Rosie...you were the star of today's show. Ladies first as they say...and for all of that, I believe you deserve your share of pleasure...not from the visitors this time. But from me. Are you interested?"

Rosie began to blush and giggle to this. "Oh...St-Stanley...I...I'd love to. But only if you're as interested as I am...Please...will you..."

Before Rosie could finish, Stanley buffered up and pressed his lips to her freckled cheek and began kissing it over and over, which made Rosie breathe in sharply and lean upward just a little bit as she felt Stanley's lips rub and press lovingly on her cheek. Then she felt him kissing her very delicately as he very softly trailed his lips along her little freckles, kissing them too. This made Rosie titter and giggle with such a bubbly chirp in her voice.

"Oh...ho-ho-ho! You're such a tease, Stanley! Uhh! He-hee-hee! Ohh! Ohh..." she tittered and moaned.

Stanley was feeling absolutely abuzz by Rosie's fluty little voice reacting to such gentle nurtures he gave her and he kept kissing her more and more steadily, making her cheeks press softly inward then puff out just a little as he kept kissing her. Then he leaned down lower and began kissing the tip of her chin, which made her gasp and groan as she began to let off steam happily.

"Hah...ahhh..." Rosie moaned softly. "Yes. That's it, Stanley...Stanley...yes...yes...Ooh...I love you, Stanley..."

Hearing Rosie smooth, clear little whispers made Stanley's heart almost melt to how warm and comfortable her cheeks were to kiss and so he kept going on her other cheek, kissing her little freckles along there too, all while looking at how Rosie's eyes closed and her lovely little lips moved to all the little whispers and sounds she uttered. After such a success at the Great Little Railway Show, there could not be any better way to top it all off for Rosie and Stanley than right here right now.

Stanley then let go of Rosie's cheeks, seeing how they were now blushing a steady pink, until he began tugging and nibbling on her cheek, deepening her blush and making her voice sound off a little more.

"Hooh! St-Stanley! Stanley, that tickles! Oh-ho-ho-ho-ho!" Rosie tittered and giggled to her stud's gentle nurtures until he stopped again.

"I love you, Rosie," Stanley smiled from buffer to buffer. "And I love hearing you sound so happy right here with me."

"Aww, Stanley," Rosie cooed. "I think for all of that, and for making our show so lovely today...it's your turn now."

Stanley held his breath and stared as Rosie closed her eyes and puckered her adorably pouty and cute little lips out to his cheek and began kissing him over and over, tittering away while she felt his smooth, warm skin on her lips and making her blush almost as red as her cherry livery, while Stanley slowly shut his eyes and melted into every kiss she gave him.

"Oh, Rosie...R-Rosie, my love," he whispered. "Oh, yes! I really love that!"

"Ohh-hoo-hoo, do you?" Rosie chortled as she leaned a little lower and began kissing his chin over and over.

"Whoa! Steaming Pistons, Rosie!" Stanley exclaimed. "Goodness, you're such a perfect kisser!"

"As are you, Stanley. I love you," Rosie whispered as she began to take longer, slower kisses on his cheeks now.

Stanley now felt her lips exploring and worshipping his cheeks at an even purer rate this time. Her adorable little lips felt as though they were tingling with a touch of magic, just as Emily, Millie, Molly, Rebecca, Gina and Belle's lips would tingle with their loved one's sessions together. Rosie then began cooing and whimpering alluringly as she kissed and nibbled Stanley's cheeks wherever she pleased, all making him blush deeper and deeper until he suddenly felt her lips claim his and begin tugging his lips persistently and passionately. Stanley immediately followed suit and gently pressed is tongue to Rosie's lips, to which she uttered a muffled giggle through their kiss and proceeded to let her tongue meet his, and there they were, kissing deeper and deeper into the ongoing moments that passed by. All such a fitting reward after their Little Railway Show.

Eventually, after about an hour or so of deep kisses to the lips and endless nibbles and tugs to each other's cheeks and lips, Rosie and Stanley finally slowed down and felt their hearts beating tenderly together. Their faces were now covered in little lip marks which made them both feel a little rush of love and they exchanged a few more tiny kisses to their cheeks before they broke the silence.

"I love you so much, Rosie. And thank you for coming with me to the Great Little Railway Show," Stanley beamed.

"Oh...Oh, Stanley," Rosie whispered. "Thank you for making it all perfect for both of us. I love you too."

"But now...I must get home," said Stanley. "I look forward to whenever I can make my rose blossom again."

Rosie blushed once more and kissed Stanley steadily on his lips before he made ready to leave.

"Bye-bye, Stanley," Rosie whispered. "You've made your rose bloom so beautifully today, and you should be proud. I love you, my silver stud."

"Bye-bye, Rosie," Stanley smiled deeply. "You've made your silver stud gleam and shine so much today...and I love you too, my red rose."

And with that, Stanley gave Rosie's little nose one more kiss, then set off on his way home, all while Rosie kept looking onward until he was out of sight. Just a little while later, Henry came back from his last late goods run and backed his way inside the shed beside Rosie. By the blissful look on her face and the light lip marks on her cheeks, he could tell she had truly enjoyed the night.

"Did Stanley give you a wonderful day on display, Rosie?" he asked.

Rosie just smiled and gave a deep sigh. Henry knew right away.

"Well, you sleep well now, Rosie," said Henry.

"Mmm...thank you, Henry. You sleep well too," Rosie smiled.

Soon, Henry and Rosie fell asleep in Vicarstown Sheds, while Stanley returned to his shed and feel sleep, each thinking on and on about each other, into the night while they slept onward and felt such a lovely, gentle and warm bubble in their boilers. There had been two couples on display for the Great Little Railway Show and both had turned out beautifully, with a lovely little session between each couple to finish off their own day together...

The show carried on for two more days afterwards. During that time, Duck Oliver, Rex, Mike and Bert all got their chance to partake in the show too, and Thomas, Percy and Ryan made one more return while the visitors continued to indulge and admire all of them alike, talking all about their qualities, abilities and all-around good looks for little engines. It was indeed a wonderful few days to partake in for all the little engines there could be. Visitors looked at all the engines. Children were invited into the engines' cabs to take a closer look, and the significance of all the engines being little engines was indeed a most interesting concept, and Percy's idea may have been a misunderstood point of view, but it turned out to be a most resourceful idea as well to have all the little engines have their fair share in this show.

But at the end of it all, there was only one winner to be had for this show. And when it was all done on the last day, Percy had been called especially to the platform where three of the model engines stood on the table. The models of James, Henry and Percy. For the Thin Clergyman had a special little announcement to make. All the engines and visitors looked to him and saw he was holding a little No. 1 Rosette as he spoke.

"I wish to say congratulations to all the contenders and little engine visitors we have had for the Great Little Railway Show here at Ulfstead Castle. What had begun as a simple little show with these little model engines has ended up turning into something even more spectacular as Sir Robert said, all thanks to our dear little friend here, Percy. His idea to have all the little engines take part in this show has brought us so many visitors and made so many of them happy. And therefore, I believe he has well-earned my little reward for his efforts in bringing this show to a whole new level."

All the little engines went quiet as the Thin Clergyman walked to the small table and rewarded the Rosette. Thomas watched as Percy's eyes glimmered and his smile widened as the Thin Clergyman spoke once more.

"Congratulations to the winner for the Best In Show," he declared proudly.

And the winner for the Great Little Railway Show...was Percy himself! He had won the No. 1 Winning Rosette, placed right on the model engine of himself. And Percy just giggled with such glee and eagerness of the cute, innocent and adorable engine he was to so many...especially his perfect mother figure Emily. This had indeed been a happy time for Percy and both engine couples consisting of both little engines. Luke, Millie, Rosie and Stanley had all gotten their chance as they had hoped, and Percy had achieved another little glimmer of fame which couldn't make him prouder. All the other engines, especially Thomas were very happy for Percy as they left the show once more and went back to work, talking endlessly all about the Great Little Railway Show.

At last, when Percy returned to the yards that evening, he was still smiling away at his accomplishment and turnout of the Railway Show. Then he looked up and saw Emily talking with Thomas. Percy could see she looked ecstatic and surprised just as Thomas left the yards to return to Tidmouth Sheds. Then Emily looked up and saw Percy coming toward her until he stopped. Emily had just heard from Thomas what had been going on for the past two days, with the other two couples after the word got around...and she had just heard what Percy had specially achieved at the show. Percy had a strong feeling just what she was thinking and came closer, switching to her line and buffering up to her.

"Hello, Emily," Percy peeped. "I just saw you talking with Thomas...did he tell you...?"

"Oh...Percy!" Emily gushed. "I heard about the other two couples and what they go to do...and now, at the end of the Great Little Railway Show, you've made your little achievement today. Best In Show, so I hear?"

"Oh, Emily! Yes, I was!" Percy chortled. "I won for Best In Show, with my little model earning the No. 1 Rosette. I can't believe my idea actually worked! It was just supposed to be for little model engines...but I turned the whole show into something else!"

"Indeed you did, Percy," Emily smiled. "I hear that whole show made so many visitors so happy...all thanks to your little idea which made the show even more spectacular, just as Sir Robert had said."

"Thank you, Emily," Percy smiled. "And I'm just happy to be home again, knowing just how well I've done for the show."

"Indeed you have, Percy," Emily smiled...then formed a playful look. "And for that, perhaps you deserve a little fun with me...Come here, you little...!"

And Emily buffered right up to Percy and started kissing him playfully along his face, making Percy chortle and giggle. Emily began to giggle playfully too as she began to tickle and nibble Percy's cheeks too, making him squeak and giggle further.

"Oh! Oh, Emily! Mummy! That tickles!" Percy squeaked as he began kissing Emily's cheeks too.

"Ohh! Percy! Aren't you a chipper little chap?" Emily teased lightly. "You're such a diligent son figure of mine to make that show so worthwhile for everyone!"

Then Emily pushed toward Percy and pushed him along the yards into a siding until Percy gently buffered up to the buffers, while Emily made her playful move. She continued to kiss and nibble his cheeks a little more until she stopped. Percy then pressed his lips to her cheek and gave her a big kiss in turn.

"Mmm...ah!" he exclaimed cutely. "You're such a fun mother, Emily!"

"Oh, am I? Well, now! Who's got who, Percy?" she teased playfully. "Here comes Mummy!"

And as she did before to play with Percy after his panicky attack that past winter, Emily pressed her lips right to his cheek and blew him a raspberry in that same instant. Percy squealed, squirmed and giggled hysterically as he felt Emily's lips blow on his cheek in such a playful manner. She then let go and kissed him much more gently as she smiled lovingly at him.

"You've done such an amazing job for that Railway Show, Percy," Emily smiled. "You may have misread what the Fat Controller meant by 'little engines,' but in this situation, that little misread turned into something truly spectacular, and for that, I'm so very proud of you, Percy. You really are best in show for today."

"Thank you so very much, Emily," Percy smiled back. "And I know you're best in motherhood for me, mother."

To this, Emily gave Percy a little kiss on his chin and they soon made their way to Tidmouth Sheds too, where the other engines were talking about the Little Railway Show for a fair while more until they became tired and ready to sleep.

"Well, goodnight, everyone," said Thomas. "And goodnight, Percy. Best in Show."

"Thank you, Thomas. Goodnight," Percy smiled. "And sweet dreams, Emily."

"Sweet dreams, Percy," Emily smiled. "You're such a resourceful little chap. And sweet dreams, Thomas."

"Sweet dreams, Emily," Thomas answered.

With a smile to each other, all the Steam Team went to sleep together, and so came the end of a very honourable day for Percy, as well as a most enjoyable time for Luke and Millie, and Rosie and Stanley, and all the rest of the little engines. This had easily been a most interesting few days, and alongside everything Emily, Beatrice, David and Gina had all done to rekindle Percy's crushed spirits, this had been yet another sensational leap for him to take part in...and in just a few more weeks' time, Thomas and Emily would be finding themselves coming together again for another evening...to discuss a few more things about what could have been...but since they had already talked about how it could have been if their relationship had taken different courses than it did...this time, it would be David's turn to talk a few things over...all about how else it could have been. An evening of great imagination, extraordinary thoughts of what could have been...if David's life had run a different course than it did. There was a lot to imagine and express between the star, the angel, the soldier and his mother.

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We've finally given LukeXMillie and RosieXStanley more love, and "The Great Little Railway Show" is such an absolute gem of an episode that's a perfect tribute to Awdry's models and the Railway Series for the 75th anniversary. Yeah, it was a misunderstanding episode, but I don't give a damn because it's such a episode to watch, especially after the atrociousity that was "Panicky Percy", so Percy is redeemed. But more importantly than this story, our next story is our 200th story, which will be a sequel to the 100th story "How It Could Have Been". So until we finally reach that milestone, tell us what you thought of this story and as always, stay safe.