Chapter 246: Escape From Misty Island Part 5

Word quickly spread across the island of Thomas's unfortunate passing. The whole island mourned in their own way. Even the diesel drivers couldn't help but bow their heads in respect. Arry and Bert couldn't help but feel guilty.

"Arry, if we hadn't stolen the train, he...he'd still..."

"I know, Bert. I know."

That Sunday, a funeral was held at Knapford church. People came from all over the Island to pay their respects to a great friend. Some of them even gave small speeches about how he had changed their lives. When it was Emily's turn, she could barely move, Edward and Percy gently helping her to the podium.

"Thomas...Thomas was my first love. He showed me the kindness and patience I needed to get me through training. It was that charming personality that made me fall in love with him. And now he...he..."

Emily couldn't hold it in any longer, and ran off crying. No one moved to stop her. They knew she needed time to grieve on her own. As the funeral dispersed, Sir Topham Hatt approached the drivers on the Ffarquhar branchline.

"Keep an eye on Emily. She's been through a lot, and with a baby on the way..."

"Don't worry, sir. We'll be there for her."

"Thank you."

It took some time, but soon life on Sodor went back to normal, or at least a new normal. After a week of mourning her husband in their room, Emily came back to work, heartbroken but ready to accept what had happened.

"I still miss him," she told Rosie one morning, "But I know he would want me to be happy."

"I know its hard Emily, but things will get better. We're all here to help you. We miss him just as much, especially Annie and Clarabel."

"Thanks, Rosie. "

Rosie smiled and gave Emily a big hug, letting her cry on her shoulder as long as she needed.

After a few weeks, Emily had to be taken off the active roster due to her advancing pregnancy. Everyone did their part in helping her get ready for the baby, from food runs to putting together a crib. Needless to say, everyone was excited to meet the new member of the family.

Early one morning, the group was awoken by a loud scream coming from Emily's room. Concerned, they all rushed to her room to find her doubled over in pain, clutching her stomach.

"Emily. what's wrong? Are you hurt, is the baby..."

"My water just broke! The baby is coming!"

At once, the house was alive with activity. Everyone was rushing about, getting coats, the car keys, helping Emily to the car, etc. The minute they stepped into the maternity ward of Knapford General, Emily was whisked away by doctors and nurses.

Over the next few hours, the group stayed up in anticipation, waiting for any news at all. Over time, Edward, James, and Molly gradually joined their group.

By 7 AM, everyone was exhausted, some of them already passed out in the chairs. Suddenly, the door swung open, and a doctor stepped out.

"Emily and the baby is fine. I can take some of you back there, but only three at a time."

Percy, Toby, and Rosie were the first to meet the baby. When they entered the room, they found Emily sitting up in bed, cradling her newborn son. She was covered in sweat, but she couldn't be happier.

"Shh, he's sleeping."

"He's adorable, Emily!"

"He looks just like Thomas."

"Can...can I hold him?"

Emily smiled and carefully handed him over. As soon as he had left Emily's arms, the baby opened his eyes. At first, they were afraid he was about to start crying, but instead he smiled and starting cooing. Rosie smiled and kissed his forehead.

"Aw, he likes you!"

"What's his name?"

Emily smiled, the perfect name in mind.

"I've thought long and hard, and I've decided on Thomas. I thought its the best way to honor him."

Little Thomas giggled happily, making everyone smile. Although their friend was gone, his legacy would still live on.

"Welcome to Sodor, Thomas."