"Knowledge of what is does not open the door directly to what should be."

-Albert Einstein

This took a little longer than expected. There's a lot of banter in this one, and a good deal of back-and-forth. The post-breech baby fallout continues! Hope you are all having a lovely summer so far!


.

"Fraulein!" Georg bellowed as Maria made her way through the foyer, crossing in front of Georg's open study door.

"Yes, Captain?" she called back.

Georg looked up at her with his eyes only, repeatedly curling his index finger in Maria's direction, willing her to come inside. Maria shrugged and turned on her heels, marching into the Captain's study.

"Captain. You wished to see me? I was just on my way to the library to pick up…"

Georg shuffled some papers, sat back in his chair, and laced his fingers together before interrupting her.

"Fraulein. Is it possible...or could I have just imagined it…is it mere coincidence that Leo has requested a day off on your scheduled day off tomorrow?"

He pursed his lips and arched his brow, waiting impatiently for an answer.

Maria, oblivious to the foul mood he seemed to be harbouring, nodded emphatically.

"Why yes, Captain. I mean no. It's not a coincidence if that's what you're getting at. We're going to town tomorrow. Leo's sister is having her first baby in a few days, and he wanted my opinion on a christening gown that he wished to buy for his sister and the new baby. His mother, who lives in Salzburgerland, is quite set on him purchasing one since she is out in the countryside. Since he knew I had decent sewing skills, he thought I would be a great resource in his search," she said as she smiled widely.

"Hmmm." Georg replied, but he didn't continue.

"Well, obviously I don't have time to make one for him..." Maria quipped.

Maria looked down at him and she noticed that he was not making eye contact with her, which was out of character for the Captain. Instead, he seemed to be especially interested in the sextant he had sitting on the corner of his desk. Maria didn't remember seeing it there last night when she was in his study.

The Captain had been especially attentive since yesterday. He was involved in the children's outdoor activities in the afternoon, frequently talking to Maria about various things. Even the Baroness made a comment about all of his attention after dinner. It seemed that Wolfgang's arrival had changed the Captain's perception of Maria even further. He appeared to be regarding her with a good degree of awe...or curiosity. Maria wasn't sure which.

On more than one occasion, he had mentioned how impressed he was with her cool head and ability to take charge during an emergency. When she was playing with the children during the afternoon and evening, she would look up and lock eyes with him. Sometimes he would flash a dazzling smile at her, and others, he would pretend to be busying himself with some imaginary fluff on his jacket. A few times she noted that he suddenly became very interested in the way the sun was reflecting off the lake. Maria assumed he was on the lookout for some fault or another, but somehow she felt like it was something more than scrutiny.

Why was it that the Captain seemed to be unable to look her in the eye at this moment, especially considering all the attention she had received from him yesterday? Hoping to break the awkward silence, Maria forged on.

"Is there a problem with my day off tomorrow, Captain?" Maria asked.

"Well…" Georg replied. "Yes and no..."

"Is Leo not able to have the day off tomorrow? If that's the problem we can certainly find another day that works for both of us. Or, if you need me to stay on, I can certainly reschedule." Maria added.

"No, no. That's not it. I have told him he could have the day off already, actually, and you, too, for that matter. I'm just curious to know why are you going with him on your day off!? You need to respect your rest days Fraulein instead of being so kind to everyone all the time. I don't want you exhausted! Why not just go to the dress shop when you're in town already, you know, when you are on an outing with the children?" he questioned.

"Well, Captain," Maria huffed while she rolled her eyes, "I would not have guessed that you would ever consider christening gown shopping a sanctioned children's learning activity." she said with smirk. "Besides, it will be much easier and faster for the two of us to go than dragging the children through the shops. There are seven of them you know!"

Georg dropped his pencil on his desk, sighing rather exasperatedly.

"Yes, Fraulein. I'm well aware of how many children I have. Tell me, how are you getting into town?" Georg enquired.

"Leo is going to drive us in his truck. He said we should be done by mid-morning. I asked him to leave me in town as I want to drop in on Sister Margaretta since her birthday was yesterday."

"You're going in that rickety old truck of his?" Georg gasped.

"Why of course Captain, what would you rather us do? There's really no need to walk or take the bus, is there?"

Georg shook his head. "No, no… it's not that".

"Well, then Captain," Maria replied with some confusion. "I don't see what the issue is?"

He laced his fingers together and his eyes locked with hers. Her heart fluttered and she cursed herself for commenting on how unfortunate it was that he would not make eye contact earlier. Now she wished he was looking anywhere but at her - he had this way of making her feel things she could not quite understand.

"Fraulein. This isn't really about a christening dress!"

"Of course it is, Captain, I told you earlier…."

Georg cut her off before she could continue.

"Fraulein. I hate to break it to you, but Leo's using this dress as an excuse to spend time with you."

"Are you quite well, Captain? Surely, you're joking! Leo asked for my help, and as a friend I'm happy to provide it. Dresses are something I know well, it's my day off, and it shall be a lovely morning in town." She stammered.

"Fraulein!" Georg moaned. "The man has a crush on you! It's as plain to see as the nose on your face! I can't believe you can't see it for yourself". Georg grimaced as he thought back to all the times he had witnessed Leo's eyes shining whenever he spoke about the little Fraulein.

Maria instinctively placed her hand over her nose. She didn't know if she should laugh out loud or censure the man! Perhaps kissing that irritating smirk off his face would do the trick. Catching her thoughts heading into unwanted territory, she pinched the bridge of her nose and winced, rolling her eyes so hard they practically made a sound.

"Captain. Leo is quite aware of my chosen vocation, and he does not have a crush on me!" Maria replied emphatically.

"Fraulein Maria…there is nothing to say that the two things must be mutually exclusive. Yes, you want to be a nun - frankly, I don't think it suits you, and Leo probably doesn't either, but that's another story for another time".

Maria opened her mouth to argue but he waved her away.

"But, I do understand that you are very devoted, and I appreciate that...and you have the fortitude and wisdom to do and be whatever you want. You're a smart, modern woman..." he said with a slight scowl. Regrouping, he continued.

"What I'm trying to say is, a man can have a crush on you despite your unconventional vocation. It just happens! We can't control who we find attractive and when, can we?" he said with that self-satisfied smirk he typically gave her when he knew he was right. Maria felt her knees begin to turn to jelly.

"Anyway," he blustered. "Go and buy your dress! Just do me a favour and please keep your wits about you. I promised your Reverend Mother I'd keep you safe this summer." And with that, he returned his attention to the papers on his desk and non-verbally dismissed her.

Maria stood there rather dumbfounded. She placed her hands on her hips, quite struck by the Captain's odd line of questioning.

Could it be that the Captain was jealous of Leo? Surely not...

She was certain that Leo understood they were friends and nothing more. The idea that Leo had fancied her at all was ridiculous, really! Maria had not lived such a sheltered life that she didn't know when a boy or a man was interested in her, but this? The Captain's line of thinking was highly improbable, if not impossible.

"Captain, I'm quite certain I'll be safe with Leo. I realize I haven't known him as long as you have, but he has become a good friend. Particularly since you were away for so long and there was no one to talk horses with," she added with a bit of emphasis. "We are simply going to town to do some shopping. But if it makes you feel better, I will promise to keep my wits about me."

"Couldn't you take Liesl and Friedrich with you? You know, for company?" Georg countered.

Maria crossed her arms, ready for battle and began tapping her foot repeatedly against the plush carpet in his study. She gave the Captain her best unimpressed look.

"Okay, okay Fraulein! I'll stop. I surrender," Georg declared as he waved an imaginary white flag off the end of his long index finger. "But, you will at least let me pick you up in town tomorrow after you're done at the Abbey. You will need a ride back home after all if Leo is going elsewhere. I have an appointment with the lawyer, so I'll be there anyway."

Georg stacked the papers on his desk and put them into his drawers, his body language suggesting this discussion was fait accompli.

"Captain. I know how stubborn you can be when you set your mind to something," Maria retorted.

Georg gave her a warning glare as he stood from his chair.

"Oh, and I know that look well-enough, Sir! But I assure you, I don't need protecting and I don't need a ride home when I am done. I am not even sure what time I will be finished, and I don't want to keep you waiting. Surely you have better things to do..."

"Fraulein. Case closed. Tout finit." Georg stated emphatically. "I'll be done by the end of forenoon watch and I will park somewhere near Festungsgasse and Hoher Weg. If you're done before me, the car will be open. Climb in and make yourself at home."

"Forenoon watch, Captain?" Maria inquired.

Georg shook his head exasperatedly. "Forenoon watch starts at 8am, ends at 12pm, Fraulein. Afternoon watch starts at noon. Didn't you read the manual?".

"Hmmm..." was all Maria had to say in response. This turn of events was most peculiar.

Maria was feeling terribly confused. The Captain was back to regarding her in such a way that she would occasionally forget to breathe. It seemed that the stubborn Captain had made up his mind...and yet, the way he looked at her with such an endearing smile, one that reminded her of Kurt when he tried to win her over, what could she say other than "yes"?

However, as ludicrous as it was, Maria could not shake the strange feeling that the Captain was doing his best to compete with Leo, tit-for-tat as it were, but she quickly dismissed it.

The Captain had been home for four days now and he had Maria had butted heads on some issues, but she had made such good progress with him on many others. Pondering her next move, she didn't think it was wise to push her luck, especially when he was fussing so terribly about what she saw as a non-issue. With the Captain, she was learning quickly about the importance of picking her battles.

"Thank you, Captain. It's entirely not necessary, but I accept if you're going to be so stub...I mean, if you insist," Maria replied with a grin of her own.

"I do insist. And no, I am not stubborn, I'm just principled!" Georg replied with a grin, dusting his hands off as he did so. "Oh, and before you go, I do have one other thing to take up with you, if you don't mind".

Maria couldn't help but roll her eyes again, part of the now silent language she was developing with the Captain. In response, he put his hands on his hips and looked down his nose at her.

"Captain, if your intention is to lecture me on the intentions of others, you're not going to get very far with me, I assure you!" Maria snorted.

"Fraulein, you can lay down your arms, this hasn't got anything to do with Leo and his dresses. It's about Marta." Georg noticed the little Fraulein's posture relaxed almost immediately; she was no longer prepared for battle.

"Marta, Captain?"

"Yes, we had a little chat yesterday. As you know, I was a damn fool and missed her birthday, and then when I realized I had messed up, I didn't have the nerve to make amends from Vienna, so I decided to just let it go." Georg replied.

Maria's face must have given her thoughts away.

"I know what you're thinking, Fraulein." and with that, Maria's eyes widened. It was getting infinitely harder to keep secrets from this man.

"I was a coward, I know! I had looked for an opportunity to call her all day, but Elsa's social calendar kept pulling me in directions I didn't want to go, and by the time I had settled for the day it was too late. I knew the children would all be in bed, even with you in charge. I wish I could go back and do things differently, but you know as well as I do, I can't do that. In fact, a wise governess once told me that the past was in the past and I should just learn from it and move forward," he said with a wink.

"Anyway," he continued, suddenly solemn once more. "Where was I? Yes, Marta's birthday...I spoke to her yesterday, she may have told you?"

Maria shook her head 'no'.

"Well, Fraulein, we are going to start some new traditions. I hope you think this is a good idea, but please tell me if you don't think so. I apologized to her again and tried to explain that grown-up stuff got in the way of me calling her, but that was no excuse. Family should come first," Georg stated. His head was tilted downwards, but his eyes came up to meet Maria's.

"I thought you'd like that I said that," he said with a small smile. "Anyway, I told her that she I and would talk later and figure out what we are going to do together to try to atone for my mistakes. Just her and I."

Georg looked Maria in the eye, trying to read any hesitation that might be lurking there, but he found none. In fact, all he saw was her beaming smile. She looked so proud of him in that moment.

"Oh, Captain! That is a wonderful idea!" Maria exclaimed, clasping her hands together. "But, do consider that the others will expect this on their own birthdays. That would mean one other birthday when I'm here this summer – Brigitta's – and I am happy to help negotiate that. Just please don't do it for one if you can't do it for the others. That's my only advice."

Georg appreciated the little Fraulein's frankness and honesty. He grimaced a bit when he heard her talk about her time at the villa coming to an end. Spending large portions of the day in her company since he returned, even if she was engaged with the children, he found her proximity to be a comfort.

"That is sage advice, Fraulein, and it is my intention to start new. Clean sweep and all that. I have neglected my children long enough, and your care and concern has shown me that a little attention can go a long way to change a child. I just wish I had learned sooner. You see, my wife did so much of the mothering of these children before...sometimes I just don't know..." he said sadly.

"Captain? What happened to your ability to follow the advice of that wise governess?" she joked, raising her eyebrows at him.

Georg smiled in return.

"Yes, Fraulein. You are right. Again. Although it pains me to say it," he replied with a chuckle. "My plan is to talk to Marta this afternoon about what she would like to do – and then hopefully we can proceed with the mission later this week. If the other children ask, you can reassure them that they will all get their turn. Perhaps I should take them all somewhere, birthday or not, just to get to know them as individuals again."

Georg noted that Maria gave him an endearing smile, undoubtedly appreciative of how hard this was for him to admit. Her eyes, however, told him much more. They sparkled and he knew she approved of his plans and was not judging his past faults at all.

Pulling back his jacket sleeve and looking at his watch, he frowned at the time.

"Ohhhffff!...if you'll excuse me, Fraulein, I am afraid I have to go and fetch the Baroness for a ride around the lake, and I think that you were on your way to the library, weren't you? Don't you think you've left the children alone for a good long while? I certainly hope they are behaving!" he said with a wink and a smile that dimpled his cheeks.

Maria almost melted into a puddle at that moment.

"Please see yourself out!" he called as he made his way around his desk and towards the door. Georg brushed by Maria on his way out of the study, a bit too close – but by design - and he gently dug an elbow into her shoulder, giving her a nudge as he passed by.

Maria turned on her heels and watched the Captain disappear around the door frame, the sound of his shoes disappearing as he made his way across the parquet floor. Maria could do little but exhale loudly and run her hands through her hair. She felt all warm and fuzzy inside and she grabbed the back of the chair for support. As she did, her eyes caught the print of Ulysses and the Sirens, studying it once more before composing herself and making her way to the library.

At that moment, she was overwhelmed with a sense that she was the one on the boat resisting her desires, and it was the Captain on the rock who was attempting to lure her to her demise.

Shaking her head, Maria laughed to herself. Just when she was feeling as though she had finally figured this man out, he would go and pull something like this! It was incredible, really, how she had gone from despising this man only a few short weeks ago...now there appeared to be a rather unique friendship forming between them.

ooOoo

Georg was in his walk-in closet a short time later, pulling his riding pants and linen shirt down from the top shelf. He picked up his riding boots and tossed them willy-nilly onto the floor beside his bed.

He removed his jacket and tie and hung them neatly. His dress shirt and pants followed, and then he quickly pulled on his riding gear. As he sat on the bed to get his boots on, the memory of yesterday's events in the stables came barreling back. He could still smell the little Fraulein's shampoo, could feel the form of her body as he encircled her. She was lean and strong, but soft in all the right places...

The little Fraulein had truly saved the day! Had she not been there, he could have lost the new baby and Agathe's mare, but instead, this morning he saw both mom and baby in the stable enjoying each other's company. It was a bit ironic, he thought, how a want-to-be-nun like Fraulein Maria had this surprising way of saving families: pulling out all the stops to keep parents and children together...as if she understood completely how important they were. Four days ago she had saved him, and yesterday it was Aurelie.

"Leo!" Georg sighed as he pinched the bridge of his nose and winced. Funny, Leo didn't irritate him at all before Fraulein Maria arrived at the villa...

Had Leo been solo in the stables yesterday as he usually was, Georg was certain that he would not have known what to do with Aurelie. Fraulein Maria, however, seemed to turn up in the right place at the right time. Even if she technically should not have been there in the first place. Come to think of it, the little Fraulein was quite skilled at that...

Leo was reliable and had a calm demeanor that the horses all appreciated. He was a hard worker and he had told Georg a few years ago that he was literally born in a barn, so he had horses in his blood. It was hardly surprising the young man was so smitten with the little Fraulein, Nun-to-be or not. They had a good deal in common.

A horsewoman-turned-teacher-turned-nun-in-training? She had invaded his thoughts from the moment she arrived and had not given him a moment's peace since. Each day he learned more about her, and in his eyes, she became more-and-more complex. The day he left for Vienna, he was gob-smacked by how quickly she had bonded with Adelaide and Empress. He could tell she had an innate horsewoman sense, or she had learned from someone very skilled at an early age. She was so confident that day, and yesterday even more so. Meanwhile, Elsa seemed to crumple at the mere thought of interacting with horses.

"Ah...Fraulein Maria!" Georg sighed. "What a waste...I don't understand why someone with your smarts and joie-de-vivre would ever want to be a Nun!"

Georg had heard stories about handfuls of women who had sought to join Nonnberg Abbey, but emerged sometime later and rejoined the outside world. Maybe the little Fraulein could reconsider her vocation; maybe he could convince her? It might be easier if he understood her reason for wanting to join the Sisters in the first place. She rarely spoke about God in the house unless it was at the dining table, and it didn't appear that she had a calling. Instead, she seemed to have a spirit for nature, the outside world, a love of looking after children...to have her own children? ...to make some man out there crazy for her...?

He shook his head. No, the little Fraulein had too much light to not share it with the world. He needed to help her see what she had to offer; although to be honest, the thought of her with a man made him cringe.

It was amazing what Maria had accomplished in the villa in so little time. His wayward children had started to become the young men and women of the Empire that he and his wife had dreamed of. One look from the little Fraulein and they were in ship-shape. She knew how to parent them, and yet she didn't even have any of her own.

Last night after dinner, Georg had finally managed to sit down in his study with Fraulein Maria for one of their scheduled meetings to discuss the children's education. Admittedly, not all their conversations were about scholarly pursuits. Georg was still too fascinated with the events that had transpired earlier that day in the stables, so he questioned her about where and how she had acquired her knowledge – delivering breech foals was certainly not something taught in school! She seemed a bit hesitant at first, but eventually she explained that she had lived on the Untersberg in the years preceding her time at teacher's college, her uncle had inherited her grandparent's farm. She didn't mention much about her parents. Perhaps they didn't get along and that's why she lived with her uncle?

Fraulein Maria had witnessed a breech birth near her home, providing support to her friend's father since her friend, Charlotte, had a weak stomach in general. She then applied all she had learned that day when her own horse faced a similar problem several months later. It was amazing, really, how brilliantly she had shone in the face of adversity. Calm, orderly, take charge... No wonder his children had flourished in her care.

The two had covered a lot of ground in what seemed a short period of time, however, well over 2 hours had passed before Elsa came along to see what the lengthy discussions were all about. Elsa was not very subtle with her well-planned interruption. Georg had not failed to notice her jaded comment about how he had been wrapped up with the Governess all day. Elsa suggested that perhaps if she also delivered a breech colt, even though she could not stand the thought of it, maybe he would afford her the same attention? She went on to scoff at Maria's heroics, noting that although she barely tolerated horse riding to begin with, it would be a cold day in hell (yes, Maria grimaced) before she would be caught assisting in the delivery of a pony.

Even this morning, he thought, Elsa had agreed at breakfast to go for a ride, although her eyes told him she wasn't remotely interested. She was trying hard to show him how much she loved the country, but he could tell her heart wasn't in it. In some ways, he wondered if Elsa's sudden interest in riding was her way of competing with Fraulein Maria for his attention.

Noting the time, Georg finally pushed his feet into his boots, buttoned up his shirt, and grabbed his crop off the dresser. He took a deep breath as he prepared himself mentally to take Elsa on a ride. No doubt the two of them would be on the same horse. He wondered to himself if one morning he could convince the little Fraulein to go for a real ride now that he knew she could deliver babies and ride bareback. He had not had a suitable riding partner for a very long time. It had only been three days since he had returned home, and the little Fraulein kept finding ways to surprise him. Elsa, he had known for two years, and she had always been somewhat one-dimensional.

He just had to get through this afternoon. He hated riding with two, but it was what it was.

ooOoo

"So, what ever made you decide that you wanted to become a nun, Fraulein?" Leo asked as they bumped along the dirt road on their way into town.

The sun was beautiful again this morning, what little morning fog there had been burned off quickly. Maria redirected her attention from the beauty of the mountains playing in the morning sun back into the truck as she answered Leo's question.

"Well, to serve God, naturally. But also, the sisters are my family. They have always been so kind. We share our space and our lives with each other and provide care and support..." she replied. This morning, these words rang slightly hollow for Maria. Usually, they flowed so naturally from her lips whenever someone asked about her life at the Abbey. This morning though, she hesitated somewhat in her response.

"That does sound like a family, for sure, but have you ever considered having a family the way most Austrians do? It seems so much easier," Leo laughed. "Besides, if you don't mind my saying so, I don't think you would have any trouble finding a husband," he said with a wink.

"I suppose. I think the Reverend Mother wanted me to see that for myself." Brushing off his comment about a husband, Maria continued. "I'm sure she gets requests for governesses from time-to-time, and I am quite certain that she sent me to the Von Trapps for a good reason. Beyond getting me out of her hair for a while, of course. I am a good deal of trouble at the Abbey!" Maria laughed.

"I mean, after all, Leo. The poor Captain and his dear children! They have all been through so much. I have come to love those children so quickly, but it's really just one final test. If I keep my faith, I can get through this...then the Reverend Mother will finally take me seriously and let me take my vows." Maria replied.

"If you don't mind me saying so, Fraulein Maria, I think you would be doing a disservice to the outside world by locking yourself up in that convent of yours. You have a lot to offer. Like, just the other day – you brought a breech colt into the world all on your own and the veterinarian was left behind to crow about your skills. It's obvious you could be a veterinarian – you know, a trailblazing, modern woman. You could show other young girls that women can do things just as well as men, if not better. You know as much about shoeing as Andre the Farrier! You could even teach school! You can do pretty much anything you want, I would hazard to guess."

Maria sat quietly and thoughtfully on the bench seat of the truck, deep in thought. This was getting harder all the time, trying to deny herself the smorgasbord that was the outside world. Why was it that everyone was questioning her vocation? Did they think they were telling her she had not thought about herself? The Captain had said something about it several times now...both he and Leo could not believe that she was suited to life in a cloister.

Sister Berthe had always questioned her ability to stay faithful, but she was used to that. It was different to hear this from people she had just got to know.

And then, the Reverend Mother sent her here. To the home of a grieving, retired sea captain. Within days she had grown so attached to the Von Trapp children she wasn't sure what she would do when September came. Over the past two weeks she had considered children of her own for the first time since she was a little girl...but then she would not be following God's will. It was His will that she come here, but it was also His will that she return to Him.

Leo's comment about her managing to attract a husband was also silly...

"I suppose, Leo, but my mind is made up. I have lots to offer the sisters as well, you know," Maria replied with an air of annoyance.

Leo knew he wasn't going to get too far on this one, so he changed the topic to horses and began to talk to her about how Wolfgang was doing.

"I hear that the Captain let you name the new baby. I like what you chose! It goes with his lineage for sure. However, I'm surprised the Captain allowed such a thing. He is very particular about his horses; well, he's particular about a lot of things, actually. Aurelie is doing well, and the new little man is so steady on his feet considering his rough start..."

As Leo talked about the horses, Maria's mind wandered back to the stables and how she and the Captain had delivered the foal. She could still feel the imprint of his body on hers, she could recall the scent that was uniquely his, and it made her dizzy just thinking about it. Leo's comment about how unheard of it was that the Captain would allow anyone to make decisions about his horses surprised her...surely, he had just shown his appreciation for what she had done?

Waiting for her moment, she tactfully interrupted.

"Say, Leo. You've worked for the Captain a long while now, but you didn't know the Baroness, is that right?"

"That is right. The Captain hired me about 6 months after she passed away as he was expecting to be spending more time away from home. He had a really hard time right after she died, well, that is what I heard from the guys who were already here. When I met him, I found him to be cold and aloof. He doesn't tolerate fools well at all."

Leo looked away from the road ahead and met Maria's eyes with a smile. Maria smiled at the memory of her first day in the villa and how she had encountered that Captain Von Trapp, the martinet.

"You know, Fraulein, he has changed so much since you arrived. Frau Schmidt and I talk all the time about it. It's a miracle really. I guess that's appropriate considering God sent a messenger from the Abbey. What did you say to him during your argument to get him to change, anyway?" Leo asked.

"Ha! Leo, Frau Schmidt tells me that all the time: that it was me who changed the Captain. I say that is nonsense. He just needed a little push in the right direction. If it wasn't me, it would have been someone else. I just told him that the children needed their Father..."

"Oh ho! Fraulein," Leo interrupted. "you don't give yourself enough credit. No one, not even the men who work for him would have the nerve to tell him off the way you did. They are all too scared. I bet there are dozens of men who served under him in the Navy who would say the same thing. Seriously, Maria, you are an amazing woman!" Leo gave her a big smile that spoke of something other than simple admiration.

Maria laughed uncomfortably as the rooftops of Salzburg came into view. The more this conversation went on, the more Maria began to see what the Captain was saying yesterday. Could he have been right? Did she have the power to attract men even when she wasn't looking for one? It didn't matter that she was a postulant?

Leo became less chatty as he focused on his driving, navigating the narrow streets of town, finally parking the truck along the edge of the Alstadt. Maria grasped the metal door handle and wiggled it this way and that, freeing it from the latch. She opened the door and rose to her feet, stretching her body a little before moving in the direction of Frau Heineman's shop. Maria and Leo walked shoulder-to-shoulder from the truck into the shopping area, their conversation now focused on his sister and the new arrival that was due any day now.

They soon arrived at Frau Heineman's shop and opened the door, the bell overhead making a musical tinkle in the process. Frau Heineman lifted her head from her needlework in the corner, setting it aside and smiling as she recognized who had arrived.

"Guten Morgen, Fraulein Maria. It's so nice to see you again!" She clasped Maria's hands and kissed both of her cheeks.

"Likewise, Frau Heineman. I trust you've met Leo...he works for Captain Von Trapp in the stables?" at that point Maria realized she didn't even know what Leo's last name was.

"Mayer...Leo Mayer, no we haven't met before. I am pleased to meet your acquaintance. Fraulein Maria is helping me to select a christening gown for my sister's new baby. Well, soon-to-be-new-baby! Since she knows a lot about sewing, she was a natural choice to help me in my search!"

"Oh, Maria!" she crowed. "I thought maybe you had finally ditched the convent life and found yourself a man!" She turned away laughing as she led them to the corner of the store where the gowns were stored.

Maria stopped and rolled her eyes, sighing loudly. First it was Sister Berthe, then the Captain, then Leo, and now Frau Heineman. They all thought she was suited for things other than the Novitiate. The more often it happened, the more Maria was beginning to wonder if they were right.

ooOoo

It was not entirely a coincidence that Georg had spotted Fraulein Maria and Leo leaving Leo's old dusty truck which was parked on the edge of the Alstadt. You could hardly miss that thing in town. It stuck out like a sore thumb and the engine rumbled rather loudly. He knew where they were going and at about what time they'd arrive, so, wouldn't it be the gentlemanly thing to do and check to see if they made it into town? After all, it was widely known that Leo's truck was prone to break-downs. And given the way the young man practically drooled over the little Fraulein, he would not put it past him to stage a breakdown, just to be stuck on the side of the road with her.

Georg had been making his way towards his morning appointment with his lawyer, just a few blocks away from the official rendez-vous point with the little Fraulein in the literal shadow of the Fortress, when he looked left from his place at the stop sign and spotted Leo's truck creeping along the perimeter of the Alstadt. Of course, he could not help himself. Georg maneuvered his car into the angled lot down just down the street so that he could observe the pair before continuing to his destination. He wasn't sure what had come over him – why he, Captain Von Trapp, would feel the need to sit stealthily in his car, studying Leo and Maria so intently. He was not jealous, of course not! He suspected it had more to do with confirming they had arrived safely and to see if his own suspicions about Leo's feelings for Fraulein Maria were correct. He did love to be right, after all!

After watching them leave the truck behind, he noticed nothing out of the ordinary. The fiend didn't even have the courtesy to open the door for the little Fraulein. Indeed, they were carrying on like old mountain friends, nothing more. He watched them until they disappeared into Frau Heineman's shop. Part of him wanted to go in and talk to the shopkeeper about bringing his kids in for a play clothes fitting, but the little Fraulein would have totally been on to him after the conversation they had yesterday morning.

He backed his Horch out of the parking area and headed towards Arnold Haberlander's office, his trusted lawyer for years. He was working on selling some surplus property he owned and transferring the money to banks in London for safekeeping. Just in case.

ooOoo

Leo and Maria had a successful trip to Frau Heineman's shop; Leo was happy with the gown he had purchased for his sister. Frau Heineman wrapped it up in a box with brown paper and string and passed it to him. Leo put the box under his arm and thanked her for her help and acknowledged Maria's help as well. Maria let Frau Heineman know that she and the children would likely be in sometime before the end of the week to be fitted for play clothes, but that the Captain would be contacting her soon to discuss the details. Both Frau Heineman and Leo turned their heads quickly to look at Maria to confirm she was actually saying what she was saying! Both were shocked that the Captain had agreed to officially get rid of those uniforms that the children routinely marched around the grounds in. It was incredible to observe the pull that Maria seemed to have over the man.

Frau Heineman told Maria that she would look forward to seeing her and the children later in the week, and that she would have a few extra staff on hand that day for the measurements. The last time she had fitted the Von Trapp children, it was for a 7-piece matching uniform set.

Outside the shop, Leo offered to take Maria for a coffee as a token of his thanks for her help. Waving the offer away, Maria indicated she had to get to the Abbey to see Sister Margaretta before lunch time. Leo thanked Maria again for her help and wished her well on her visit to the Abbey, noting that they would likely see each other soon. Leo made his way back to his truck and Maria toddled off in the direction of the Festungsberg.

As she made her way up the Nonnbergstiege, Maria could not help but reflect on the relaxed pace at which she was making her way to the Abbey. Normally, she was always running because she was late for something. Life outside of the Abbey was definitely more her speed, she had some freedom to explore and be late, well, so long as the Captain wasn't around. She also had to acknowledge how comfortable it was to be at the villa.

Maria's life growing up had hardly been privileged. So much time was spent trying to find money for provisions they could not grow and harvest for themselves; besides, her uncle tended to drink the proceeds of any extra they sold at local markets.

Being at the villa was safe. She didn't need to worry about what she would be eating or where her money would come from. She was never lonely here. Maria had come to love the children as though they were her own, and the household staff, including Leo, had become fast friends. The Captain was right about Leo, too, she realized. He was respectful of her chosen vocation, but he would no doubt quickly offer to court her had she shown an interest in him.

She shook herself from her thoughts: the Reverend Mother must have had this in mind when she sent her out into the world as a final test. Maria wondered if a few extra decades of the rosary would help. Perhaps she should even stop for confession before returning home today, she had so many wayward thoughts lately.

As she reached the gate and pulled the bell, Maria wondered if she should just skip the formalities and scamper over the back wall like she always had. She smiled as Sister Catherine approached and opened the gate. They embraced briefly and then the two chatted as they headed in the direction of Sister Margaretta's office.

ooOoo

Georg was a man who liked results, and his trip to the lawyer had been useful and productive. Arnold had a plan for him, and as he walked back to his car, the plan was already in action. He checked his watch. It was just after lunch. According to his intelligence, Fraulein Maria and Leo had entered the dressmaker's store just after 9:30. How long would dress shopping take? An hour at most. That means the little Fraulein could be almost done at the Abbey. He knew she would meet him here, that is just how she was. How late she would be, however, was another story.

He scanned the streets and gazed in the direction of Nonnberg, spotting her spritely form as she made her way down the Weg, undoubtedly lost in her own little world. She was looking out over the treetops and rooftops, a skip in her step as she went. He surmised that she was probably singing to herself at the same time. Favourite things? Some do-re-mi nonsense?

Georg got out of the car and shut the door behind him. He crossed the Festungsgasse and walked over to the sidewalk to intercept her. She practically collided with him before she looked up, a look of shock on her face.

"Ah, Fraulein! What was it I said yesterday about keeping your wits about you?" he said with a wicked half-grin.

"Oh Captain, I am sorry, I was lost in my own little world, there," Maria replied.

"Day dreaming about your date earlier?" he enquired.

"I beg your pardon, Captain?" she said incredulously.

Georg just laughed off her haughty pout and put his hand low on her back, steering her in the direction of downtown. Maria felt that hand through her whole body, it was though she had been struck by lightning. Just to be certain it wasn't lightning, she looked up at the sky, but found only an expanse of blue and a few puffy white fair weather clouds.

"I don't know about you, Fraulein, but I'm famished. Can I interest you in some lunch before we return home?"

Home. It sounded so warm, so comforting...As a child, the word "home" dredged up so many negative emotions. She could hardly remember better times with her own parents, and her alcoholic uncle's cottage was hardly home. The damp chill in the cottage, hours spent doing chores in the barn 365 days a year. Now, the word "home" made her think of seven smiling faces, a lovely household staff, horses in the paddock, and even Uncle Max. And the Captain, of course. They all had quickly become her adopted family and she felt that she fit in here much faster than she had at the Abbey. At the villa she was appreciated and not simply tolerated.

Had the Reverend Mother planned for this to happen as well?

"Lunch, Captain?" she squeaked, still trying to process the fact that she had not been hit by lightning. Now, the Captain was standing before her, looking all handsome in his Trachten jacket, smiling at her like that, and inviting her for lunch? Surely...

"Fraulein, are you well? I think you need some nourishment," he continued as he guided her along the sidewalk. "I hear that Café Mozart has a great lunch special on Wednesdays".

"Oh Captain, I simply could not impose!" she replied, stopping on the sidewalk. "Surely you need to get back to the villa and the Baroness and Herr Detweiller?"

Georg had his mind set on a quiet lunch where he could talk about some important matters with Maria and would not take "no" for an answer. He insisted that was hungry, and was aware that Maria hadn't had much to eat for breakfast since she was hurrying to get the children organized. Normally, Maria got fired up when his stubborn side rose up to challenge her, but in this instant, she decided to go with the flow, realizing that arguing with the Captain was futile, especially when he was hungry. Plus, what harm would there be...?

The two wandered along the Festunsgasse engaged in light-hearted conversation as they made their way towards Café Mozart. Maria had only been inside the café a handful of times, usually to pick up a pastry to go. It was delicious, but also way out of her budget.

Café Mozart had existed in some form since 1824, a Salzburg staple. It's rich wood and red accented upholstery were so warm and inviting, and many European gastronomists had declared that the world's finest Salzburger Nockerl could be found there.

As they walked down the street, Georg decided to interrogate Maria about Leo a bit more, but soon dropped that topic once it became clear that they had only shopped for a gown and that Maria had made her way to the Abbey shortly thereafter. They chatted about the goings-on in the Abbey and the Captain talked briefly about his trip to the lawyer, never once feeling that he was telling the governess too much. He told her things that he never had shared with Elsa, for she seemed to bleed red and white as much as he did.

"Captain, do you really think you will have to leave Austria one day? I don't know if I could do that – I love her so. I am sure it is the same for you, Sir." Maria asked as they made their way along.

"Fraulein, I don't want to say much out here in public where someone could overhear, but I am afraid it's quite probable. I refuse to stay in a country ruled by that madman next door, although I would be willing to fight to the death to defend her. Regardless of the outcome I choose, I do have to make sure my family will be provided for".

Soon they came upon the café door, and as they entered, the bell over the door made a gentle tinkling sound as they made their way inside. They found a table with a chair and a bench seat in the corner, away from the prying eyes that would immediately spot them upon entry.

The Captain pulled the chair out for Maria and helped her to sit down before taking his place along the red striped bench seat. Maria smiled gratefully, not at all used to this sort of treatment. A waitress immediately came over, noting that the Captain Von Trapp had arrived on her watch and he was not here with that snotty Baroness woman. She practically curtsied as she approached, her eyelashes fluttering at him as she welcomed him and his guest to the café. Maria was amazed at how obvious this woman was in her intentions to flirt with the Captain. She could not believe that this same Captain, who just yesterday, was lecturing her on keeping her wits about her while shopping for a christening gown, could be so daft and not realize this woman was practically throwing herself at him.

"Sheesh!", she thought to herself, "and he was so bold to suggest that I was oblivious to other's intentions!"

After a few minutes of perusing the menu, Maria and the Captain agreed on a lunch offering – soup and a light salad, and both opted for a pot of tea to share. Maria soon found herself enjoying the Captain's company, although she was very self-conscious of the fact that people around them were noticing the Captain and were most likely wondering who he was dining with when he was courting the Baroness.

"Captain?" Maria asked. "Is it always like this? Do people everywhere know who you are?".

Georg laughed as he checked the tea and then poured each of them a cup.

"I am afraid so, Fraulein. One of the perks of being a big military hero. Two sugars, right? Oh them," he said as he pointed his nose in their direction. "It's fleeting, don't worry. They will look and point for a bit, then get on with their day. Some will come over and shake my hand. I have a wee bit of star power, but I am hardly a celebrity." Georg replied.

The Captain was right, and soon everyone returned to their lunches. Georg and Maria's easy conversation over lunch expanded into universal topics like the weather in Salzburg, developments in the news, things that the children were up to and interested in, planning that hike with the children, getting fitted for playclothes...

Once the topic of discussion was firmly focused on the children, Georg decided now was as good a time as any to seek the little Fraulein's help.

"Fraulein. I need to ask you to help me with something."

"Yes, of course, Captain," Maria replied.

"You recall how Marta and I agreed to do something just for us since I was a blockhead and missed her birthday?"

Maria nodded.

"Well, we had a chat yesterday and Marta has asked that we come into town for two things...I guess we will plan on this for a day after we bring the children in for their fitting?" He said as he drifted off, his eyes wandering over towards an empty table in the corner.

"She tells me that she wants a dress that will match her pink parasol." Georg said with a small smile that quickly changed to an emotion that Maria could not quite identify. His eyes were so blue, so sharp in their focus, but so sad at the same time.

"Thank you, again, for covering me while I was away being a fool." Georg continued. "You could have thrown me to the wolves, and in the eyes of my children, they would have totally agreed with you – I deserved your scorn. But instead, you defended me. I am not sure what I did to deserve your respect, given that I was not very pleasant when we first met." He gave her a watery smile and he turned his face down towards his salad, chasing a crouton around his plate with his fork.

The fork stilled its movement, and he stabbed the crouton with precision and popped it in his mouth. He looked at her again with that same expression that Maria was having trouble deciphering.

"Captain, you need my help to go dress shopping, too? There seems to be a trend here!" Maria enquired, doing what she could to break the uncomfortable silence with a little bit of humour.

"Yes and no, Fraulein." he mused. "There was more than the dress. It was a two-part request. My rational brain says I should refuse her, but at the same time, I told Marta she could pick how we would celebrate her birthday, given that it was to be a new tradition. I need to keep my end of the bargain, no matter how hard it is for me."

"What is it, Captain, surely if it's not feasible she will understand." Maria replied.

"Oh, it's feasible, but it's not, if that makes any sense". He sighed and Maria was certain she could see the Captain's eyes glazing over with unshed tears. She popped a forkful of salad into her mouth while he collected himself.

Georg bit his lip and took a deep breath. He looked deep into the little Fraulein's blue eyes, hoping to find some strength there.

"She wants me to take her to visit her Mama." There. He said it, but he was struck by the fact that the pain that normally accompanied any talk about her was not quite as acute as it once was.

Maria set her fork down and although her impulse was to reach over and grab his hand to offer comfort, she knew she could not do that in such a public place. Instead, she set both hands on the table and gripped the edge with her thumbs. She, too, took a deep breath and looked up at him. Praying for strength, she hoped she was going to say the right thing.

"Captain. This must be difficult for you to talk about."

Georg relaxed a little in his chair, amazed that this woman never judged him and always offered her unconditional support.

"If you like, I can talk to Marta about this," Maria continued. "If you would rather...I mean, I can take her to see her Mother, I can help her understand that it is hard for you. You don't need to put yourself through something you are not ready for."

No one had ever been this understanding. Never in four years was someone so acutely aware of his feelings without him having to describe them first. Not even Elsa...she was never empathetic and could not understand how after all this time he still could not face the ghost of his dear wife. Usually when her name came up in conversation, Elsa would remind him that he was still alive and his dearly departed wife would want him to move on.

He shook his head. The waitress arrived with a beaming smile and quickly cleared their plates, inquiring on their desire for dessert. Georg noncommittally asked her to bring a plate of Salzburger Nockerl to share, cocking his head at Maria to see if she was in agreement. Maria was too focused on Marta's request to argue with him, and she nodded her thanks.

"Captain, I had no idea Marta would ask you to do this," Maria whispered as she leaned in towards him across the table. "While you were away, the children told me about her. She sounds like she was a beautiful human, inside and out. We talked at length about grief, how it is different for everyone. While they spoke of her often, none of your children ever mentioned this to me, a desire to visit the late Baroness. But..."

"Fraulein," he interrupted. "I have to do this. I must do it, not only for Marta, but for me. I think it's time I learned to live with this part of my past. It's really the only way for me to start a new life, isn't it?" he asked with pleading eyes.

"Yes Captain, I'm afraid it is." she replied and then became quiet.

"Fraulein. I have a sense that you know what I am talking about. Moving on after loss?" Georg inquired.

Maria felt a twinge of discomfort as she realized the Captain was so close to the truth. It was hard to talk about what happened to her, but if he was brave enough to speak freely today after everything he had been through, she should be able to face her fears as well.

She nodded, her eyes glazing over. She looked into his eyes and gave him a half smile.

"I lost my parents when I was Marta's age, Captain. I understand how your children feel. Even more so, I understand how you feel. My mother passed first, and, in reality, I lost my father the same day. Perhaps, now you can understand the source of my anger the day you returned from Vienna. I didn't want those little dears to face the same fate, not when there was still hope..." her words trailed off as she looked into her lap. At that moment, the server returned with the Nockerl and some more hot water for the tea.

Georg was in shock. How could he have been so stupid to not figure this out before? To not consider that there was even a possibility? Here he was being a coward, worried about taking Marta to the cemetery, and the little Fraulein had been through so much more.

"I'm so sorry, Fraulein. For the loss of your parents. And more importantly, for my behaviour. I am sure I ripped the bandage off your own wounds with my cold treatment of my children for so long"

"Captain, remember: we said the past is in the past, and all we can do is learn from it and move forward. The way forward is unconditional love, Sir, and no hard feelings. I hold no anger towards you," Maria replied

"You have an incredible power, you know," Georg paused as he searched for the right words. "Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens...positive outlooks, forgiveness...".

Both smiled widely at each other.

"Captain, I have learned throughout my life that it is always the best way, to see the good in any situation. To learn from your mistakes, to help others, to love those you care for unconditionally. You know as well as I do, you never know when they will be stolen away from us." Maria sighed.

Georg took a deep breath before continuing.

"Will you come with me that day, Fraulein? With us? When Marta and I go shopping and to visit mmmm...myyyy wife?". It seems that I need your support for much more than helping me to reconnect with my children. You are someone whose bravery I admire. Your support means more to me than I can express. Imagine, me, a decorated naval captain being such a coward..."

"Anyway," Georg said with a small smile. "You have already pushed me into places I could not have imagined going even weeks ago. There's just something about you...even if you do sing songs about schnitzel with noodles and crisp apple streudel."

Georg laughed out loud as he halved the Nockerl and served Maria her portion. While he did so, Maria found the courage to ask the question that was burning inside of her.

"When were you there last?" she asked.

Pausing for a moment to be sure of what she was asking, Georg replied.

"It's been a long time. After she died, I went to the cemetery every day for weeks. I believed that my presence there could somehow bring her back. If you ask Max, he will tell you the number of days he came to collect me at dusk to bring me home again,"

Georg paused before continuing.

"After a few weeks of this same daily routine, I was struck with the harsh realization that nothing I did could ever bring her back. I became angry. Angry at the world...angry at myself...angry at her for leaving me with seven young children. I had given up so much time that could have been spent with her and the children to serve my country. All the times I had almost died … could have been killed in action, but I was spared. Despite her fears for my safety...you know, she supported me every step of the way. She mothered those children for both of us while I was away on duty."

Georg paused as though he had run headlong into a bad memory. He cut a piece of the dessert and stuck into his mouth, chewing gently while he savoured the texture and the contrast with his feelings in that moment.

"I thought it was terrible when we lost our Navy...our coastline...can you imagine how it felt when I lost her, too? I felt as though I had nothing to live for. You know, like God hated me for everything I had done in the war. How could I have given so much to my country, only to have my dearest possession stolen away from me?"

Maria tried to speak, to offer comfort, but she was at a loss for words – something that rarely happened to her.

"Fraulein, no one around me seemed to understand. They told me to get over it. I got the sense that they would look at me and think, 'hey, he sent hundreds of enemy soldiers to a watery grave, death should be easy for him to handle'. The truth is Fraulein, that was the worst part of the War. I never lost one of my own men, and for that I am terribly proud. But to win, to win, Fraulein...someone else always has to lose. Eventually, the tables were turned and it was my turn to lose."

Maria felt overwhelmed sharing in the Captain's grief, and yet she found the strength to continue.

"You had to recreate yourself, didn't you?" she inquired.

"I suppose you are right, Fraulein. The children reminded me of her. The house reminded me of her. Even flowers in vases around the house reminded me of her. In the war, you learn to survive all the sadness and death around you by mentally turning your back on it. It was all I knew, and that approach had got me through some terrible times in the past. I stupidly believed that if I turned my back on the suffering at home and steered my vessel towards sunrise, things would improve. And so, I ran. Ran from the house, the children...the memories."

Georg looked Maria in the eye before continuing.

"I am sorry, Fraulein. I am sorry I neglected the children for so long," Georg sighed heavily. "They didn't deserve any of that. That day on the landing, you reminded me of how stupid I had been. I need to take Marta, even if it means I must take all the children eventually, if that is their wish. I am tired of living this other version of myself. The last few days I have started to rediscover the man I was before she was taken from me."

Georg popped another forkful of the Nockerl into his mouth and looked up at the little Fraulein regarding him with an emotion he could not quite identify. She smiled a sad smile and nodded at him.

Maria, for her part, was silent yet again. She pushed her dessert around her plate haphazardly. The Captain's admission had shown her something that she had not expected. She was just as guilty as he was: running away from her pain. Certainly, she did not have the means to provide for herself, and the Abbey gave her a home as well as emotional support at a time when she needed both terribly. But, now she realized her own anger at her situation in life had led her to turn away from the outside world, trying to find solace in God, instead.

"So, Fraulein," Georg said as he saw her drifting away. "Your parents. Tell me about them. If you feel you can, that is. I can say for myself that talking about this does relieve some of the weight that presses down on you day in and day out. At least if you are in the right company."

Maria smiled at him and began to tell him her story...starting on a mountainside just outside of Innsbruck almost 23 years ago.

ooOoo

Elsa was making her way to the foyer when she passed by a corridor window overlooking the circular drive in front of the house. She paused in front of it, first focusing her eyes so she could see the outline of her form, and then eventually out towards the wrought iron gates at the edge of the property. Georg had left earlier this morning and had yet to return. It was now well after 3pm.

"Where is he?" she asked herself.

Elsa was sure he said this morning that he had an appointment in town. What seemed odd was how long it was taking. At least the damn governess had gone off this morning with the stable boy in his old truck. Georg had seemed especially interested in her since everything went down with the horses yesterday morning. She was not sure why he was so impressed with that? Surely it wasn't as big a deal as everyone let on.

Lunch with Max was a quiet affair on the terrace. The children were thankfully nowhere to be seen, having been served lunch earlier in the dining room. She could not bear all the racket they made. It seemed things were quieter when the housekeeper was in charge. Perhaps she should talk to Georg about this. Why have a governess when the housekeeper can handle them and do it better? Besides, the oldest...Liesl, surely, she could help keep an eye out on the smaller ones? Well, once she and Georg were married...well, if she convinced him to marry...then they would not be around to be her concern. She would only have to suffer through their noise at Christmas and holidays.

As she came down the stairs, she heard the rumble of the car in the lane and shortly after, she heard the car door slam shut, followed by a second door closing. She pressed her curls into the back of her head and straightened her skirts. If only she had a mirror to check her lipstick.

She was about to walk up to the door to welcome Georg home when the door flew open, but instead of Georg, she came face-to-face with the little Governess. She squinted as the light from the door encircled her, giving her an ethereal glow. The light shifted and Georg followed her into the house, closing the front door behind them. Elsa immediately straightened. They had been out together? How was this even possible? She had seen them go out in separate vehicles...

"Oh, good afternoon, Baroness Schraeder." Maria called cheerily as she came into the house before heading upstairs in the direction of her room.

"Elsa, how was your morning"? Georg inquired.

"Morning, Georg? It's practically dinner time," she laughed sarcastically as she linked her arm with his and led him in the direction of the sitting room. "Why don't we have drink and you can tell me about your day!"

Oh, there was a story here, Elsa thought...and she would certainly be getting to the bottom of it.