Just a side note the idea for crazy world was given to me by Victoria Preston. I owe her my many thanks for all her help. Without her I could not have finished this story.

Watching the woman he loves cradle his youngest daughter causes Georg to beam with happiness. Not being able to contain their joy the other children sprint into the ballroom and onto the veranda. Georg stands back and watches as each child gives Maria a hug and kiss.

Frau Schmidt stands in the doorway, her eyes misty from the scene she has been witnessing. How she has hoped for someone young and vibrant to make this a happy household.

Franz looks over at her and shakes his head. "Sentimental old woman" he says under his breath as he walks away.

'"Oh go play with your cars" she says in his direction.

" I think it might be a good idea if we all go inside. It is rather cold out here" he says as he takes Marias hand in his. The children follow behind them as they walk into the ballroom. Georg takes off his coat and gloves off and then helps Maria off with hers.

The children start asking when and how she remembered. She tells them some of the happenings of the last couple of hours but leaves out some things that she felt the children should not here. While the children were keeping Maria busy Georg pulls Frau Schmidt aside. He whispers to her something and then writes down some instructions. She leaves the ballroom and goes to his study to make the necessary phone calls.

Georg goes back to the children and laughs as he sees Maria trying to answer all of their questions.

"I think that is enough questioning for now. Gretl you have a big day tomorrow. I would like all of you to get a good nights sleep" Georg says as he picks Gretl up into his arms.

" Come on Gretl I will put you to bed" Maria says as she takes her from Georg. The other children follow her up the stairs. Frau Schmidt watches as Marias turn the corner heading in the direction of the nursery. The Captain meets her as she comes of his study.

"Everything is taken care of sir. Franz is bringing the car around now. Maria will be so surprised when she realizes what you are doing" she says hardly containing her own excitement. He smiles at her and then goes to his study. Going to his safe he opens it and pulls out a small red velvet box. Smiling to himself he puts the box in his pocket and heads for the foyer.

Frau Schmidt is waiting there with Maria and his coat.

" Did you get what I asked you to get from her room" he says to Frau Schmidt as he keeps one eye on the balcony upstairs.

" Yes sir, she was so busy with the children I was able to sneak in there without her knowing" she says with a wink.

He smiles at her and is about to speak when he hears Maria coming. Frau Schmidt takes her leave but not before patting his arm and whispering congratulations to him.

" My goodness it took me forever to get them to settle down. They are so excited" she says as she walks down the stairs. She reaches the bottom of the stairs and is surprised to see him putting his coat on.

" What on earth? Where are you going? she asks. Before he answers he holds her coat out to her.

" I thought we would take a drive" he says sounding rather mysterious.

" A drive? Don't you think it is rather late" she says as he helps her on with her coat.

"I'm too wound up to sleep so I thought we could go for a drive" he says taking her arm and heading for the front door.

Once outside he helps her in the car and starts driving.

" Georg, where are we going? She asks looking around. " Georg"? she asks again and all she gets is a smile. " Am I suppose to guess?" she asks as she looks out at the darkness. She realizes they are heading into town and is getting more intrigued by the moment. She slides closer to him and figures she might as well stop asking him as he is not going to answer. She watches as Georg enters the familiar streets of downtown Salzburg. She puts her head next to his chest and can feel his heart pounding. She is about to say something when the car stops. Looking around she knits her eyebrows.

" Georg, why are we at the abbey" she asks as he turns the car off. Still silent he gets out gets something from the back seat and opens the car door for her.

" Georg if you don't tell me what is going on I …" she stops talking as she sees what he has in his hand. A suitcase. He rings the abbey bell. Speechless Maria sees Sister Margaretta come to the gate.

" Captain , Maria please come in" she says opening the gate. Too much in shock Maria says nothing, she follows behind Georg. They go to Reverend Mothers door. Sister Margaretta knocks and Maria hears a familiar voice bid them to enter. Georg enters with Maria directly behind.

" I will go make sure everything is ready" Sister Margaretta says as she smiles and clasps her hands together.

Maria is now getting mad. She looks first at Georg , then at Reverend Mother.

" Would someone tell me what is going on!" she says rather loudly.

Georg turns to the Reverend Mother saying " I leave her in your capable hands, your reverence"

" Georg?" Maria says sounding very hurt.

He puts the suitcase down and looks at her saying " I love you." and then proceeds to walk out the door. Maria is stunned. Am I dreaming she thinks to herself. Taking pity on her Reverend Mother takes her hands. She leads Maria to the suitcase. Opening the case Maria sees the dress she wore when the Captain had sung Edelweiss.
"Reverend Mother please tell me what is going on" Maria pleads as she sees the dress.

" I promised the Captain I wouldn't say. I promise Maria this will be an evening you never forget" she says putting a hand in Marias arm.

" The Captain would like you to put the dress on. You can change in here. I will give you a couple of minutes" she says as she leaves. Alone in the room Maria can't imagine what Georg has in store for her. She dresses and hears a knock on the door.

" Maria are you ready? She hears Reverend Mother ask.

" Yes I'm ready but I'm not sure for what" she says laughing to herself. She watches as Reverend Mother enters the room. In her hand is the most beautiful bouquet of white roses Maria has ever seen. Reverend Mother walks over to her and hands her the bouquet. Maria closes her eyes as she inhales their fragrant aroma.

Still confused Maria opens her eyes and sees Reverend Mother, Sister Margaretta, Sister Berthe and the rest of the sisters. Reverend Mother takes Marias hand and slowly leads her out of the room. Silently they walk and Maria says nothing. They walk across the courtyard and into the entrance of the abbey church. Once inside the church she hears the organ.

She looks at her dress, and the bouquet of roses. She listens to the organ. Looking up at the alter she sees him. Georg. He is dressed in his uniform. The truth finally reveals itself to her. She looks at the reverend Mother who hugs her and she kneels before her for her blessing. Reverend Mother puts her hand under Marias chin as she rises.

" God bless you my child" Reverend Mother says as she turns Maria towards the alter and her new life.

Maria slowly walks up the aisle. Her eyes fall on Georg. Their eyes lock as she walks to him. She has to fight the urge to run into his waiting arms. After what seems like a lifetime she reaches for his outstretched hand. He takes her hand and gently brushes it with his lips. She looks at him as he brushes a lone tear that has begun to fall.

" I love you" he says as they turn and face the priest. The sisters watch from the back of the church as they say the sacred vows. The priest asks for the ring and at first Maria thinks there is no ring but as she watches, Georg pulls something out of his pocket. Looking down at his hand she sees it. It is the most beautiful thing she has ever seen.

" Maria this ring was given to my mother by my father. I give it now to you. A diamond is a rare and precious thing, just as the love we have for each other is rare and precious. The circle of gold represents a perfect circle never ending as our love will never end. With this ring I give you my heart and my undying love" he softly says as he places the ring on her finger.

Their hands intertwine as the priest speaks, "In as much as you both have given your vow before God I now pronounce your husband and wife."

Georg puts his hands on Marias cheeks. He slowly leans down and touches her lips with his in a sweet kiss. Her eyes close as she feels his lips touch hers. They part and their eyes show the love they both feel. Taking her hand in his they turn and head back down the aisle. They reach the back of the church and they are immediately congratulated by the sisters. After many hugs and good wishes Maria and Georg retrieve their coats and head for the car.

Once inside the car Maria turns to George " I can't believe you were able to get this done. Do the children know? She asks never letting go of his hand.

" No, I thought this would be a great surprise tomorrow or should I say today as it is after midnight, besides I want you all to myself tonight" he says, his eyes not hiding his blatant desire for her.

Noting the look in his eyes Maria lowers her head as she feels the heat rise to her face The ride home is spent with Maria next to him, her head nestled on his shoulder. They pull up to the house and Georg turns the car off and gets out. He goes around to Marias door. He opens the door and says "Welcome home Baroness. Maria smiles and puts her hand in his. They walk to the door arm in arm. Georg unlocks the door and opens it. Maria starts to walk in but is surprised when she feels his arms pick her up in one swift movement.

"Georg! Maria gasps. He carries her into the foyer and puts her down. With only the pale hint of moonlight in the room they stand at the bottom of the stairs, embracing. Pulling her to him he looks into her eyes.

" Are you ready to go upstairs?" He asks her putting his hand softly on her cheek. She nods yes, closes her eyes and leans into him. He looks at her and realizes he no longer has to hold back his desire for her. She looks again into his eyes and they mirror her own. The love they have is never ending. This is the beginning of their life together. They slowly walk up the stairs neither one speaking. Maria begins to feel her nerves get the better of her. Georg senses her nervousness and squeezes her hand the closer they get to his room, no their room. They reach the bedroom door and Georg opens it. He turns on the light and Maria can't believe her eyes. The room is filled with roses, the same roses from her bouquet.

" Do you like it?" he asks holding her hands.

" Oh yes, its beautiful" she says looking around.

" No your beautiful" he whispers taking her in his arms. He kisses her softly at first and then his desire for her causes him to deepen their kiss. He feels her stiffen in his embrace. Releasing her he lovingly lifts her chin so that her eyes are looking up at him.

" Maria, what is it? He asks her.

" I..I..I am so unsure of how I should act, what I should do? I want to be everything for you but I am afraid I won't be. Oh Georg is it normal to have these feelings? Is it proper to feel this much pleasure when you hold and kiss me. You are the first man to kiss me, hold me. You on the other hand have so much experience" she says as she attempts to look down.

" Maria you could never disappoint me. Yes I am experienced but I am a little nervous too. I want tonight to be special for you. I want you to be able to give yourself to me without fear or reservation. I love you" he says gently pulling her to him. She relaxes in his arms as he kisses the top of her head.

She feels his hands run slowly down her arms. He takes her wrists and places her arms so that they are around his neck. As their bodies touch Georgs lips reach for hers once more. His lips touch hers and he moans. Her body is feeling the effect of his kiss. She feels the lightness in her stomach as his tongue parts her lips. Georg moves his lips from hers and slowly begins to kiss her chin, moving down to her neck Marias breath quickens with each touch of his lips to her skin. His lips reach her ear and she gasps as she hears him softly whisper her name. His hands slide up her back slowly as they reach her shoulders. He drags his mouth from her to ear towards the hollow of her throat. She bends her head back to allow him better access. His tongue slides downward as his fingers slide under the line of her dress. His fingers push the soft material down so that his mouth can gain better access to her body. Her mind is spinning as Georg reaches behind her and she feels the buttons of her dress being undone. As his hands slowly slide her dress off her shoulders his lips explore her soft virginal skin. He reaches up and as he slides the strap of her slip off, his lips kiss each shoulder. She kicks off her shoes as he slowly backs her up in the direction of his bed. His lips descend farther down her body as she runs her fingers slowly through his hair. Wanting more of her his hands slide down her sides pushing her slip to her hips.

He closes his eyes as he feels her hands touch his jacket. She quickly takes the jacket off him and her hands work quickly to get his shirt off. Nervously she starts to undo his buckle. Noting the shaking of her hands he places his hands on hers and together they undo it. His hands still on hers he guides them to his hips where he helps her slide his pants down. He reaches for her slip and pushes it down past her hips where it falls at her feet. He picks her up and lays her on the bed. He stands and takes off his boxers. Her body is on fire as he lays down next to her. She watches as he his eyes slowly scan down her body. His fingers trace her lips and then slowly they move down to explore her throat. She closes her eyes and moans as his fingers lightly touch the space between her breasts. Just when she thinks her body can take no more she feels his hand slide between her legs She feels him exploring her body and gasps as he touches her.

Closing her eyes she says his name" Georg". She feels him shift his body and as she opens her eyes she sees him looking at her. His eyes look into her soul .

" Georg" she says as she pulls him to her. His lips descend on hers as she feels him slowly shift his body so that he is covering her. He feels her hips reach for him as her arms go around his back and her hands clutch his shoulders.
She moans his name "Georg" as he joins his body with hers. He lies motionless as he allows her to take in the new sensation of their bodies as they join. Her eyes open and he sees the want and desire that flash within them. He begins to move slowly allowing her passion slowly to build. She reaches her hips up to meet his. Out of rhythm at first she quickly finds her body meeting his. Her eyes never leave his as their bodies move a little faster. She feels a tingle slowly rising inside her. With each movement she feels the tingle getting stronger. Georg watches her eyes and sees her pleasure building. He increases , letting his own pleasure build. Her pleasure increases rapidly as they move faster. She feels a wave of warmth come over her as his lips go to her ear. The combination of his warm breathe as he whispers her name and his body moving faster causes her body to reach its peak. Georg can feel her body stiffen then relax in waves as she cries out his name. The effect this has on him causes his own body to start to reach its peak. He feels her hold him tighter as his own body peaks. He moans as his body slows its pace.

They hold each other neither one wanting to let go. They allow their bodies to relax and their breathing to return to normal.

He smiles and whispers " I love you." as he buries his head in the crook of her neck. Wrapping her arms around him she takes a deep breath and sighs.

He starts to slowly move to the side but she stops him.

" Not yet, please. I don't want this feeling to end" she says lowly.

Pulling his head up he gently kisses her nose. The intense look in her eyes causes him to kiss her deeply. He releases her lips and looks into her eyes once more.

"Georg" she whispers.

" Yes" he answers kissing her forehead.

" Thank you. Tonight was so… so…. Wonderful. You made me feel so safe so secure. Will it always be like this? She asks.

Georg smiles. He forgets how young and innocent she really is.

" The first time is always special. Yes I know I have seven children but this was also my first time with you. You are all I have been dreaming about these past weeks. I have laid awake not being able to sleep. Every time I would close my eyes I would see your face. The thought of me touching, kissing you drove me wild with desire. I wanted you so bad it hurt. That is why I decided to plan the wedding. Knowing that you were just down the hall was going to be too tempting" he admits. Georg gently kisses her mouth as he gently roll to the side. He turns sideways as he rests his head on his hand.

Maria looks up at him as he scans her body. Her heart skips as she watches his eyes move from her face downward. She feels the back of his hand touch her cheek. She momentarily closes her eyes but reopens them as she feels his fingers lightly touch her.

She watches his fingers slowly encircle her breasts. His light touch started a chain reaction inside her already aroused body.

" You are so beautiful. I want to thank you." he says kissing her neck.

" Thank me" she questions him.

" Yes, I want to thank you for allowing me to be the first man to touch you" he says as he touches her breast. " To kiss you" as he kisses her mouth.

" And most important to be the first man to make love to you" he whispers in her ear.

" Make love to me" she whispers to him. She surprises him by pulling his body on hers. He smiles at her raw passion.

" I love you" is all he says before granting her physical desire. This time their raw passion overtakes them The nervousness and his being tentative is gone. They both know what they want and they do not holds back. They hold each other as they both peak simultaneously. Still joined they breathe slower as their bodies relax. Exhaustion overtakes them as they fall asleep still in each others arms.