Chapter 3: A Change of Plans

The Captain's gentle hands on her elbow sent a wave of relief through Fraulein Maria as she sat down on the bench, grateful for the support. The children, sensing that something was amiss, gathered around her, concern etched on their faces. "I'm so sorry, Kinder," Fraulein Maria said, her voice muffled by her handkerchief. "I think I may have underestimated my condition." Captain Von Trapp smiled kindly and handed her a cup of water from his flask. "Don't apologize, Fraulein Maria," he said. "You're doing a wonderful job with the children. But perhaps a bit of fresh air and rest is just what you need." Fraulein Maria took a sip of the water, feeling a bit more revived. She looked up at the Captain, her eyes meeting his warm gaze. "Thank you, Captain," she said, her voice a bit stronger now. "I think you're right." The Captain nodded and turned to the children. "Why don't we change plans, Kinder? Instead of a picnic, we'll head back to the villa and have a lovely lunch there. Fraulein Maria can rest and recover, and we can have a nice afternoon together." The children cheered, and Liesl spoke up, "But Father, what about our walk by the lake?" "Ah, we can do that another day, mein Schatz," the Captain replied, ruffling Liesl's hair. "Today, we'll focus on taking care of Fraulein Maria." As they made their way back to the villa, Fraulein Maria couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards the Captain. He was always so kind and understanding, and she appreciated his willingness to adapt to the changing circumstances. When they arrived at the villa, Fraulein Maria was relieved to see that Frau Schmidt, the housekeeper, had prepared a delicious lunch. The Captain helped Fraulein Maria to her room, where he insisted she take to her bed with a cup of hot tea. "You rest now, Fraulein Maria," he said, his voice firm but gentle. "I'll take care of the children. You just focus on getting better." Fraulein Maria smiled, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the Captain's kindness. She took a sip of the tea, feeling the warmth spread through her body. As she drifted off to sleep, she couldn't help but wonder if she was getting in over her head with the Von Trapp family. But for now, she was grateful for their care and support. Meanwhile, downstairs, the Captain gathered the children in the dining room, where Frau Schmidt had laid out a feast of sandwiches, fruit, and cake. The children chattered excitedly as they ate, but the Captain's eyes kept wandering back to Fraulein Maria's room, hoping that she was resting and recovering. As they finished lunch, the Captain stood up, his eyes scanning the room. "Who would like to go for a walk by the lake now?" he asked, a twinkle in his eye. The children cheered, and Kurt spoke up, "I do, Father! And can we sing, too?" The Captain smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Of course, mein Schatz. Let's go for a walk and sing our hearts out." As they set off, Fraulein Maria, from her bed, heard the sound of their laughter and singing, and a small smile played on her lips. She knew that she was in good hands with the Captain and the children, and that she would be back to her old self in no time.