Arjun could not sleep.

His eyes were tired. His body was tired. But his mind kept running.

“Amma,” he whispered. “I don’t want to be alone in the dark.”

His mother kissed his forehead. “You are never alone at night, little one. Close your eyes. The Bedtime Train is coming.”

Arjun closed his eyes.

And then he heard it. Chugga-chugga. Chugga-chugga.

A small blue train pulled up next to his bed. The driver was a kind old woman with stars in her hair.

“All aboard for Dreamland,” she said.

Arjun climbed on. The train chugged away.

First station: A little girl with curly hair was waiting. She climbed on and immediately fell asleep against Arjun’s shoulder.

Second station: A boy holding a stuffed tiger. He sat next to Arjun and closed his eyes.

Third station: Two twins holding hands. They curled up together in one seat.

Arjun looked around. The train was full of sleeping children.

“See?” said the driver. “You are not alone. Every child travels this train. Every single night.”

Arjun felt warm. He felt safe. He leaned his head against the window.

Outside, he saw his own house. His mother was still sitting by his bed.

“I’m ready to sleep now,” Arjun said.

The driver smiled. “Then close your eyes. The train will take you there.”

Arjun closed his eyes.

And the Bedtime Train carried him — gently, softly, together with everyone — all the way to Dreamland.