The Edelweiss Mountaineers were a big success. Elsa and Max clapped enthusiastically for the bow, Max whistling in appreciation. Elsa was enchanted. Maria's voice soared into the rafters as if her soul had wings. A sweet melancholic folk song, a rousing sea shanty and that rather odd goatherd song with the puppets, genius. She couldn't wait to hear their carol concert at Christmas. Well, she could, for now it was spring, her most favourite time of year. She wasn't in a hurry to get to the next lonely Christmas.
'You should make a record' she enthused as they gathered for refreshments in the rectory.
'I would buy it' declared Max, who was in a merry mood. He would find someone to produce it if needs be. They really were a good little choir. He mentioned the idea and the room exploded with ideas and wishes.
'Would you buy our record?' Asked Maria softly, as if it was a conversation just between the two of them. Elsa thought that was very bold of her. Almost flirtatious. She had half a mind to draw herself up and answer frostily. But for some reason, she couldn't say no to Maria.
'I certainly would. An entire album.'
'You must have an extensive repertoire' butted in Max who had been noting the interaction with interest.
'It would be foolish to play the same things on repeat. We need to be versatile in genre.'
'Your business sense is excellent, young lady.'
'Well I wouldn't say that…' said Maria almost shyly.
'No, no, don't sell yourself short. You and the indomitable Frau Schmidt have set up a business supplying the most necessary sweet treats to the city, welcoming absolutely everyone to your doors which is a very good strategy and doing deliveries on the side. I have no doubt that the deliveries and the orphanage day trips were your idea. And to help manage a choir's bookings and set list to appeal to a wide audience and for various occasions is quite the skill. Have you ever thought of going into event planning?'
Maria shook her head in amazement.
'Don't you agree, this young lady is quite accomplished with a good head for business?' He appealed the Baroness. She did agree. But not only because, phrasing it that way, he was correct. It was partly because Maria was gazing at her in wonder. Was it wonder? It was something. Whatever it was, Elsa had to admit it appealed to her ego. It had been a long time since that had happened. She took a deep breath and smiled warmly at the other woman.
'You certainly have skills that will serve you in good stead. Is there anything you can't do?'
Wear a fur cape and walk into the room like she owned the place was Maria's thought on the matter.
