A/N: Hi, gang! WOW! I know it has been quite a long time since I posted the first chapter of this story, but honestly was not sure if I would continue it. The reason for that is simple: The Sound of Music is my favourite film of all time. No other film compares to it in my eyes. I am sure many of you reading this feel the same. However, it took me a very long time to even want to write a fanfic for this film. The last thing I ever want to do is ruin the masterpiece Bob Wise created fifty – five years ago. Therefore, I decided that this story would not be a complete creation of my own imaginings, or a re-write of scenes or elements of the narrative. Instead, I intend to remain faithful to the narrative we all love and the characters brought to life by an inimitable group of people in 1964/5. My idea for this story is to imagine scenes that may have occurred in the film – deleted scenes essentially. In particular, I wanted to explore the relationship between Maria and the Captain in a bit more detail. In this chapter, I have tried to do that in a build up to their Landler dance at the party, which will take place in the subsequent chapter. In addition, I thought about infusing Georg's love of Austria (I can appreciate that) and to get him thinking of leaving for the greater good. I hope that you will enjoy reading this.
: )
The day before the party Maria decided to fulfil the children's request and take them on a picnic up on the mountain once again. Although spending time alone with them was important to her, there was another reason that Maria was so keen to separate herself from the Von Trapp villa today. For the past few days, she and the Captain had deliberately steered clear of one another. It was deliberate to them, but not to anyone else, or so they hoped. Upon reflection, Georg considered how uncomfortable he had made Maria while they were alone on the terrace. The last thing he wanted was for her to leave because the children needed her. His needs were far less important in comparison. Therefore, with this in mind, Captain Von Trapp vowed to keep his feelings in check for his children's sake and in time, he believed that they would disappear as quickly as they came. It was nothing - merely a crush. "It was nothing," he kept telling himself. The less time they spent together, the quicker it would vanish. Therefore, he invested all his time in Elsa - taking her to see different parts of Salzburg every day and proving that she was the woman he dearly loved. Irrespective of how much time he spent alone with Elsa and how often he told himself this, the moment he returned and caught sight of Maria with his children, he knew it was a lie.
Maria and the children were outside in the back when Elsa and Max came and sat at the table on the terrace to partake in some light refreshments.
"Are you all set for your picnic, Maria?" Elsa asked pouring some iced tea into a glass.
"Yes, the children and I have done this before Baroness and we have had such a marvellous time, didn't we?" The children loudly voiced their delight. As they did, their father emerged from the house with a warm smile upon hearing his children's outburst. Immediately Marta and Gretel ran to him and Gretel asked:
"Are you coming with us, father?" Glancing quickly at Maria who stood at the top of the steps, Georg returned his attention to his youngest daughter.
"I can't today Gretel."
"Why not?" Marta asked with an air of despondency.
"I have a friend calling." Captain explained to which his daughters replied "Oh." Georg bent down before them as he continued addressing them.
"I promise that someday soon we will all go together as a family but for now...go to Liesel." As he stood up, they hugged their father goodbye and quickly ran down the steps to their eldest sister who caught them by a hand each. Glancing once again at Maria, Georg smiled and said:
"Enjoy your day, Fraulein."
"You too Captain. We will be back in time for dinner." He nodded once in comprehension as Maria descened the steps and addressed the children. Waving and shouting "goodbye" to their father, they marched after their governess singing 'Doe Rae Mi'.
"She really is marvellous with the children. I don't know how they would ever get along without her". Elsa mused as Georg sat beside her at the head of the table. Max observed him watching the space where Maria stood moments ago as he said:
"Yes, she definitely brings life into the house, doesn't she Georg?"
"Hmm?" Georg asked, responding to the sound of his name. "Oh, yes, yes. Maria is wonderful with the children. Anyone for some iced tea?" He asked, lifting the jug to pour some and desperately trying to get off the current topic of conversation.
"No, thank you darling. I think I will go freshen up before our guest arrives. Excuse me." Georg smiled politely at Elsa as she rose and stroked the back of his hand. Checking that she was out of earshot, Max leaned across the table saying:
"You do realise Georg that Elsa is expecting to become the next Mrs. Von Trapp, don`t you?"
"What is your point, Max?" Georg replied defensively as he drank some iced tea.
"My point is that if your heart isn't in it – don`t do it."
"You know Max I don't believe this is any of your concern." Georg replied, smiling sardonically.
"You are both my friends and I want to see you happy. I see the way that you look at Maria and it is far different to the way you look at Elsa. I know that you do not desire my opinion, but ask yourself this: who will benefit from your marriage if it happens for the wrong reasons?" As Max left to make a phone call, Georg sighed heavily and looked out at the Salzburg scenery. He had mixed feelings on the uncertain future lying ahead. Not only did he worry about his beloved Austria being taken over, but also there were two women in his life that he relied on. He hoped to arrive at the right decision before long. One thing was certain: his attraction to Maria was evident to others beyond themselves and something had to be done.
After their picnic on the mountain, the children and Maria began rehearsing their routine for the party. Two nights ago, Maria lay awake in bed thinking about this. She believed it was important for guests of Captain Von Trapp to see his children perform together. Liesel gave her the idea after over hearing a conversation between her and Friedrich about the parties their parents used to host. Not only did the Captain and his wife perform, but the children did too, albeit not as a group. Music was the essence of this family and Maria felt privileged to reignite it. Therefore, she felt that the children should display their talents and provide entertainment for guests as the house of Von Trapp used to once upon a time.
"Okay, are we all ready to begin?" Maria asked excitedly as the children rallied around her.
"I think so, but do you think father will be impressed, Fraulein Maria?" Louisa asked with an air of uncertainty.
"Oh, absolutely, Louisa! I am sure he will be thrilled to see you all performing together like this. It is bound to remind him of occasions in the past when you entertained at parties."
"Yes, but, you know that he does not like us performing in front of strangers." Brigitta conveyed despondently, with her head held low. Liesel shared a warm smile with Maria before saying:
"Brigitta, this is different. Perhaps you are too young to remember, but Friedrich and I were discussing this recently and we believe father will be overjoyed to see us together. If he isn't then both of us will take the blame."
"Liesel is right, Brigitta. This is our way of showing father that we are a musical family that can entertain guests in our home and continue with traditions we learned from him and mother initially, but have been reinstated by Fraulein Maria."
"I think it is going to be great fun!" Kurt exclaimed jovially.
"So do we!" Gretel and Marta interjected, generating laughter amongst their siblings and governess.
"Okay, so let us begin with the opening verse. Everyone ready to take their positions?"
"YES!" The children chimed in unison.
Upon hearing the bell, Franz opened the door and permitted entry to Josef Wagner. He asked Herr Wagener to wait while he fetched Captain Von Trapp. After a moment, Georg emerged from his study and welcomed his friend with a warm smile and handshake.
"Max Detweiler and Baroness Schrader are waiting for us on the terrace."
"Thank you Georg, but at the risk of sounding rude, you are the one I need to speak to as a matter of importance."
"Of course, but surely you have time for a refreshment." Georg replied with an air of perplexity.
"Indeed. I will happily oblige you, Georg so long as we can talk alone in a while."
"Of course. After you, Josef." Georg gestured his hand toward the open door leading to the terrace.
Upon hearing their footsteps, Max and Elsa stood up to greet Georg and his guest.
"Josef Wagner, I would like you to meet Baroness Schrader and Max Detweiler." Josef shook hands with Max and Elsa and the four sat at the table. Georg poured ice tea into four glasses and offered some Austrian delicacies that were placed on the table by Frau Schmidt. They each had a slice of apple strudel, but Georg could sense something off with his friend. Ordinarily, he was a lively chatter who loved nothing more than tucking into Austrian delights and crowing about how no other country in the world could compete with them. On this occasion, he struggled to hold a conversation and barely touched his strudel. The turning point in the conversation was Josef conveying to Elsa that he and his wife would not be attending the party due to illness. Georg had known Josef long enough to recognise when he was lying. Therefore, he asked Josef if now a good time to discuss the reason for his visit. Without hesitation, Josef acquiesced.
"Excuse us Herr Detweiler, Baroness, but Georg, do you mind if we speak down by the lake? I have always loved the view from this house."
"Certainly, Josef." Georg eyed his friend suspiciously. He exchanged apologetic glances with Max and Elsa before following his friend down the steps.
Georg stood by as his friend gazed out at the Austrian scenery. He wondered what was so important that they needed to speak privately. Captain Von Trapp was about to find out as Josef turned to face him with an expression of great anxiety.
"Georg, this is not easy to say. We have been friends a long time and I respect you a great deal. We share similar values and beliefs, which makes this so very difficult to express."
"Josef, whatever it is, tell me and I will help however I can." Georg replied apprehensively. Taking in a deep breath, Josef looked at Georg and said:
"Georg, it is with a heavy heart that my family and I are leaving Austria."
"What?" Georg bellowed incredulously.
"I knew that would shock you. It shocks me to even say it." Josef replied meekly.
"Well, for Heaven's sake, why?" Georg asked, perplexed by his friend's decision.
There was silence for a moment as Josef considered the best way to relay his feelings.
"Georg, Austria is in trouble." Georg glared at his friend sternly as he walked behind him and looked out over the lake. Josef turned and continued speaking to his friend's back. "I know that you do not want to accept the reality of that fact, but it is true nonetheless. The Anschluss is coming and I do not want to be here then."
Georg swiftly turned on his heels and looked at his friend despondently.
"I cannot believe that you are giving up so easily."
"Giving up?" Josef marched down to his friend and stood beside him as he tried to get through to him. "Georg, this is so much bigger than that. If I thought we could take on that monster and win, then I would happily stay. I am not giving up or in for that matter. Instead, I am doing what is best for my family. It is only a matter of time before he tries to recruit men like us. Is that what you want? Do you want to fight for Austria under his law? I certainly do not."
"Where will you go?" Georg enquired, turning back to the lake.
"Boston. My wife's sister lives over there and we will stay with her until we are settled." Georg nodded his head pensively.
"Georg, Austria is my home and it always will be. However, sometimes in life, we are faced with adversity and sacrifices need to be made. I am choosing the welfare of my family over the love of my country. That is a choice I fear you will also have to make."
Georg sighed, lowering his head momentarily and resting his hands on the gates he said:
"I always imagined dying here, Josef. After Agathe died, I never imagined living anywhere else. I certainly never considered having to leave Austria."
"It may not be for long. Perhaps, one day we can all come back and rejoice." Georg turned to look at his friend sharply before refocusing on the lake.
"You know as well as I do that men like us do not move our families from post to pillar. If we moved, then I would never see Austria again."
"I understand your sentiments, Georg, because I battled them too before finally listening to my wife. However, ask yourself this: would it be more painful to lose your country or your family? Austria will always be here one way or another, but your family may not if they were in jeopardy. I made my choice and now it is time for you to do the same." Josef walked back towards the steps, but stopped as Georg turned around saying:
"I suppose investing our wealth into Austrian banks is foolhardy in your eyes too."
"Do not paint me as the villain, Georg. I was where you are now not so long ago. My savings, just like yours, are in London and that is where they will stay." Striding back to his friend, Josef passionately conveyed: "There is not enough money in the world that can save her, Georg. Do not be a fool and think you can. You must accept what is happening and do the right thing for your family. It is my belief that leaving Austria is. Do you have family anywhere?"
"No, Agathe and I had no siblings and our parents are deceased."
"Well, I am not leaving for another few days so if you wish to talk more about this we can. Right now, I must go."
"Thanks for calling, Josef. I do appreciate your sentiments and advice." Georg reciprocated Josef's sad smile as they shook hands.
He escorted his friend back inside the house. Max and Elsa had retreated to the sitting room to offer them more privacy outside. Upon hearing them return, they met Georg and Josef in the hall.
"It was nice meeting you both." Josef exchanged smiles and handshakes with Max and Elsa before turning to Georg one last time.
"Be safe and well, Georg. I only wish the best for you and your family."
"As do I for you." Georg replied sadly.
As Franz escorted Herr Wagner out,Georg turned to go back outside.
"What do you think that was all about, Max?" Elsa queried, watching Georg stride past them.
"I have no idea." Max replied with an air of perplexity. He knew it was out of character for Georg to act this way. However, he had known him for many years and was aware that on rare occasions such as this, solitude was essential for him.
"Georg looks awfully depressed. I need to check on him." Elsa marched passed Max as he offered her a warning.
"I would advise against that Elsa. He looks like he needs time alone."
"Oh, do not be so ridiculous, darling." Max shrugged his shoulders and sighed as Elsa stepped outside. Georg was on the left hand side of the terrace, his two hands resting on the balcony, starring into the abyss. Elsa pushed a stray strand of hair behind her ear and tugged at lavender dress before approaching him.
"Georg, is everything all right?" Elsa asked, standing beside him at the balcony.
"I am just thinking about my conversation with Josef." Georg replied, continuing to look straight ahead.
"Did he upset you in some way?" She asked concernedly, stroking his shoulder.
"In a way, but he also got me thinking about the future and what this means."
"How do you mean, Georg?" Elsa asked concernedly. Georg stood upright and turned to face her saying:
"Let me ask you something: have you ever thought about living somewhere other than Austria?"
"No, but I wouldn't rule out a villa in the south of France." Georg smiled politely. He kissed her on the cheek and said:
"Thank you Elsa. You have given me a lot to consider. Right now, I need to be alone. I will see you inside shortly." Elsa looked at him perplexed as he walked down the steps. She reluctantly turned back towards the house. Max was standing by the doorway looking smug.
"I tried to tell you Elsa: sometimes Georg needs time alone."
"Perhaps Max, but it also feels as though he is drifting away and I will do all in my power to prevent that. Excuse me."
Dinner was a sombre affair that evening. The children chatted excitedly about their day on the mountain, but the only people that appeared interested were Maria and Max. Their father's mind was on other matters. Elsa, who sat beside him, tried in vain to coax him out of his depression, but failed miserably. He was polite and civil to everyone and tried his best to engage with his children. The younger ones did not notice, but the older ones certainly did. Maria, who sat opposite the Captain, was conscious something was amiss. Therefore, after dinner she insisted the children go to bed before any unpleasantness occurred. The Captain clearly needed time alone. This was even more obvious when he did not object to Maria's decision.
Maria sat on her bed thinking about this evening. She was glad to avoid any interaction with the Captain, but that still did not stop her worrying about him. It was the first time she had seen him so withdrawn. Initially, he was coarse, headstrong and authorative towards everyone, especially the children. His behaviour tonight was different. Maria believed he was sad, that something or someone had fractured his heart. This was far worse than barking at everyone. Maria's reverie was disturbed by a knock at her door.
"Come in." She called and was stunned to see Brigitta enter.
"Fraulein Maria, there is something that I need to ask you."
"What is it Brigitta?" Maria enquired curiously.
"I know that Liesel and Friedrich do not agree, but do you think father is in trouble?"
"I do not understand what you mean." Maria replied anxiously.
"I saw you looking at him tonight during dinner. He was not himself at all and you noticed that. The Baroness was unable to engage him either. I am concerned that he might be in some sort of trouble and is afraid to tell us."
"Oh, Brigitta, I am sure it is not like that at all. I agree he did appear to have something on his mind, but I am sure it is nothing serious."
"Could you talk to him?" Maria looked at her perplexed.
"I hoped you could ask him what was wrong because I know that he would open up to you."
"Brigitta..."
"Fraulein Maria, you are the only governess any of us could ever want. If you had not intervened then our father would still be treating us like soldiers. After tonight, we are worried he may slip back into old habits."
The last thing Maria wanted was that to happen, but she was certain the Captain had progressed far beyond his regimental ways. However, she could see that Brigitta was genuinely worried and perhaps others were too. Therefore, she consented to her request.
"I'll see what I can do. Now, go back to bed." Briggita smiled brightly at Maria.
"Goodnight, Fraulein Maria and thanks." Maria smiled as Brigitta left her room.
She loved Brigitta and her siblings very much. Maria wanted to help, but the idea of having a heart to heart with their father frightened her. Nonetheless, she would face that fear for the greater good. In order to do this, Maria decided to inhale some Austrian air on the terrace as she pieced her thoughts together.
"Oh, Fraulein, I did not realise that you were out here." Georg conveyed, stepping out on to the terrace. Even though he spent most of his day outside, it was the only place he felt able to gather his thoughts properly. Maria turned to face him.
"I apologise Captain, but after putting the children to bed I felt like some air. It has been difficult to sleep these last few nights. I suppose it is becoming a habit really." Georg sat down at the table and replied:
"Please, do not apologise. The last thing I want is for you to feel uncomfortable or that you need my permission to seek solace anywhere in this house." He stood his elbow upright on the table and twisted his bottom lip absentmindedly with his thumb and index finger. It was clear that he was troubled about something. It would be so easy to slip inside without him noticing, but Maria promised Brigitta she would talk to him. In all honesty, she was worried about their father too. Even though it was against her better judgement, she wanted to help.
"Thank you, Captain. I suppose as we are both here, we could enjoy this solace together." He relaxed his arm and looked at her directly. It was as though her voice snapped him back to reality. For the first time today, a sense of relief penetrated through his body. He wondered why he could not feel that way toward Elsa.
"If that is your wish, then certainly, Fraulein." Maria lowered her head before speaking.
"I did not get the opportunity to ask if you enjoyed your day. You mentioned there was a friend calling. Louisa and Brigitta were certainly curious about that, but I think I managed to put a stop to it." Georg smiled at the image in his head of Maria and his two daughters.
"They are relentless at times, but you seem to have conquered them which no other governess could."
"Well, they have good hearts underneath. All your children do, Captain. You should be very proud." Maria replied, smiling warmly at him.
"I am, but I nearly lost them only for you. For that, I always be grateful, Fraulein."
"It was my pleasure." Maria replied sincerely. Georg and Maria locked eyes for a moment before he walked towards her.
"As you say, a friend called today and reminded me of something similar: that I need to put my family first."
"Well you are doing that, Captain. The children love you very much." Maria conveyed, smiling warmly at him. Georg looked at her before saying:
"I know, but it is not just that. He and his family are moving to America soon because they fear Austria is essentially a lost cause. He conveyed that if I remain bull headed and blindsided about the reality of that, then I would lose my family one way or another. Funny, that in the last month, I have received two lectures on my views and behaviour and they both affect my family's welfare." Maria paced between the balcony and the table as she responded.
"Oh, Captain, I am sorry to hear that. I know how much you love Austria. Obviously, I do not know what is going to happen, but I pray the outcome will offer peace to the world, including you." Turning sideways to face her, Georg conveyed:
"Thank you, Maria. It feels like the world, as I know it is disappearing. For the first time in my life, I am lost. After Agathe died, I felt something similar. However, I combated this by socialising with friends and moving my family here for a fresh start. We all know how that turned out until recently." Maria smiled sadly. "This is different. It feels like the walls are closing in somehow." He turned back facing the garden.
"Have you considered leaving Austria and moving to America like your friend?"
"Not until today. I am not even sure that America is the right option. The truth is that I really do not know what the solution is."
"What does the Baroness say?"
"She made a joke about living in a villa in the south of France. I do not believe that she would leave a life of wealth and trek into the unknown."
"Perhaps if she knew how worried you were about this..." Georg turned to Maria saying:
"No, if I leave Austria it will be without her. At least I will have my children." Maria lowered her head and replied:
"I will miss them terribly, but we are all destined for a different path."
"Or the same path by a different route." Maria stared at him starkly.
"I am sorry, Fraulein. It has been a long day and my head is all over the place."
"I understand, Captain. Perhaps we should call it a night and go to bed." Georg looked at Maria smilingly. Maria, realising her error, laughed nervously and checked herself.
"I meant that..."
"I know what you meant, Fraulein. Goodnight. I will see you in the morning."
"Goodnight Captain."
Closing the door to her room, Maria clasped her hand over her mouth, reflecting on what she said to him. "This needs to stop, now. I must make it stop for all our sakes."
Georg reflected on his interaction with Maria and considered how easy things would be with her. He could never speak about things so heartfelt with Elsa. She does not understand him the way Maria does.
"Oh, Agathe, give me a sign of what to do please. I need your help now more than ever."
A/N: I hope you enjoyed this and want to read more. Let me know, gang! : )