Later that evening, Maria had just finished putting the last two children in bed, and was surprised to find Georg right outside the door.

She couldn't say a word before he pulled her in for a tender kiss.

"Take a walk with me?" he smirked as she nodded.

The two walked along the side of the river hand in hand, before stopping at a spot that overlooked the lake.

"You know," Georg spoke softly, stroking her hair while she laid against his chest. "I never thought I'd love again after Agathe. But once again, you've proven me wrong."

She looked up at him, watching his eyes carefully.

"I love you, Maria."

Her heart filled with joy and felt like it was about to burst. She smiled, reaching up to touch his face. "I love you too, Georg." He sat the both of them up and kissed her.

"I don't want you to forget about her, you know," Maria's tone grew serious. "She holds such a special place in your heart, and I don't ever want you to think that I want you to let that go. She holds a place in my heart, as well." He hugged her tightly. "I won't forget about her. It's like reading a good book...you can re-read part of it as long as you want, but eventually, you have to move to the next chapter." Maria felt him fumbling around in his coat pocket, and adjusted herself to allow him to do so.

"And I'm starting that chapter right now." Georg said, his voice steady and calm. She looked down at his hands, and saw that he held a small, black box. He opened it, exposing a sparkling, but simple, diamond ring.

"Georg..." she breathed. "Maria, you've brought so much happiness into all our lives. My children finally have a mother again, and I've found the love I never thought I'd have. I let you go once. Don't make me have to do it again. Will you marry me, Maria?"

Her mouth hung open, and unable to find the words to express her feelings, nodded, and kissed him fully. He slipped the ring onto her finger, not breaking eye contact with her. They stayed silent for a few minutes, holding tightly to each other and relishing in this beautiful moment.

"Shouldn't we ask the children if this is okay with them?" She pulled back, concerned.

"I suppose so...its a good thing I already did." they smiled at each other, and embraced again.

"So, when do I get to have the honor of becoming Mrs. Georg Von Trapp?"

"Can't wait, can you?" he giggled at her anxiousness.

"Not at all."

"Well, I called Nonnberg Abbey after we got back from the mountains. I had to call to ask the Reverend Mother for her permission to marry you. She was thrilled, and knew you'd want to get married there. We've already scheduled it for two weeks from today."

Maria looked horrified. Two weeks to plan an entire wedding! Georg, knowing her all too well, continued the explanation.

"I've also hired a wedding coordinator. You don't have to do a thing."

She flung her arms around him again. "Thank you, sweetheart. I don't think I could be any happier."

"I know how you feel." he laughed.