A/N: By popular demand, it's time to introduce everyone's favorite pink-then-red sweetheart, Rosie!

Chapter 169: Rosie and Emily

Winter had come to the Island of Sodor, and Thomas and his friends on his branchline were struggling to keep up. As soon as they brought in one train, they had to leave with another. Sir Topham Hatt realized the problem and arrived at the house one evening.

"I understand that you are all feeling overworked. I am proud of your work, but it is clear that you are also in need of help. Don't worry, I have hired a new driver and she'll be arriving in a week. I hope you all will make her feel right at home."

"Yes, sir."

"Excellent. You all have a good night."

With that Sir Topham Hatt left, leaving his employees to chat excitedly about their new coworker.

A week later, they all waited at Ffarquhar station, waiting for the new arrival. They didn't have long to wait, as a SR USA Class 0-6-0T steamed into the station, the new arrival jumping out and pouncing on Thomas.

"Thomas!"

Thomas was taken aback, but happily returned the hug.

"Rosie! I haven't seen you in ages! How have you been!"

"Just great! I had just gotten promoted to driver when Sir Topham Hatt came looking for a new engine driver! I won him over with my enthusiasm."

Thomas's friends stared in confusion, none more than Emily.

"Uh Thomas, who's this?"

Thomas and the newcomer parted before turning to their companions.

"This is Rosie. She was my next door neighbor back when I lived in Brighton, and my best friend since childhood. I haven't seen her in years."

"Hi, everybody! Sir Topham Hatt said you all needed some help. I can't wait to get to know all of you!"

Everyone's reaction to Rosie was different. Toby and Percy were excited to get to know her better, Daisy thought she was a little loud but otherwise welcomed her with a smile, but Emily couldn't help but feel jealous about how close she was to Thomas.

A month went by, and Rosie proved to be a hit with both Passengers and engine crews. Even Gordon couldn't find a bad thing to say about her! But Emily still couldn't get past her history with Thomas.

"I know they say they're just friends, and I really want to be friends with her. But every time I see her with Thomas, I just help but get this sinking feeling. I really should-whoa!"

By the time she had seen the landslide ahead of her, it was too late to stop. Her engine ran right into it, leaving her stuck.

"Oh, bother! Help! Help!"

Luckily, Rosie was coming up the line behind her, and was ready to help.

"Don't worry, Emily! We'll soon have you out!"

Rosie coupled the two engines together. It was hard going, but before long Rosie had freed Emily and her engine from the mess.

As Rosie took Emily and her engine back to the yard, Emily spoke to her.

"Rosie, I owe you an apology. I've got you all wrong."

"How so, Emily?"

"I've been so worried about you stealing Thomas from me that I haven't given you a chance. I know its silly but seeing you two reminds me that you have a history that him and I will never have."

Rosie laughed at this revelation.

"Oh Emily, you don't have to worry about that. Thomas and I had our time."

"Really?"

"Oh, we dated for a little bit as teenagers, and we did talk about a future together. But as time went on, we found out that we were better off as friends. Besides, its clear to me that he's head over heels for you. You should see how he describes you in his letters home."

Emily blushed brightly.

"What do you say, friends?"

"Friends."

And with that, the two friends set off for home.