Lev the Start of Everything in Between

THE MOTHER LONG OVERDUE

It was a beautiful, sunny afternoon in Canada when Lev and Dr. Luke decided to host a special lunch with their dear friends, Zara and Eros—the parents of their lovely daughter-in-law, Aira. Wanting to share one of their favorite places, they arranged for their driver to take them to one of the country's most sought-after restaurants, known for its discreet luxury, exceptional service, and breathtaking garden views.

As the sleek car pulled up to the restaurant's entrance, the group stepped out, taking in the atmosphere. The moment Zara and Eros looked around, their eyes lit up in wonder.
"Amaze..." Zara whispered, completely taken by the elegant, tranquil surroundings.
"It's like a hidden paradise," Eros added, admiring the blend of natural beauty and refined design.

Lev smiled, clearly pleased with their reaction. "Zara," Lev said warmly, "the food here is incredible. This place is one of my all-time favorites. Even some very popular celebrities come here just to eat and experience the service."

As they approached the front, a hostess dressed in a sleek black uniform greeted them. Her eyes widened slightly when she saw who was arriving.
"Welcome again, Ms. Lev, Dr. Luke," she said with a kind smile.
Lev nodded politely. "Thank you. We're here today with our family."

With a gracious gesture, the hostess led them through the stylish interior, past serene water features and artful floral arrangements, until they reached their reserved table. It was perfectly placed—offering a stunning view of the still garden and just enough privacy to make them feel as though they had the whole place to themselves.

As the soft hum of conversation filled the elegant Montana restaurant, Lev, Dr. Luke, Zara, and Eros sat comfortably around their table, the gentle garden breeze slipping through the open windows. They had just placed their orders—each excited to taste the dishes Lev had raved about. Laughter bubbled up between them, warm and natural, as stories flowed easily among friends who had grown to feel like family.

Just then, Lev's phone buzzed on the table. She glanced down, and her smile faded slightly.

"It's my mom," she said, a bit hesitant, before answering. "Hi, Mom? Are you okay?"

Dr. Luke, Zara, and Eros quieted, exchanging concerned glances. It wasn't like Lev to get a call mid-lunch, and certainly not to look so tense.

On the other end of the line, Lenny—Lev's strong-willed mother—replied cheerfully, "I'm good, Lev. I'm with Sonia today."

Lev let out a small breath and looked over at Dr. Luke. "She's okay. She's with your mom," she told him quietly.

Luke smiled gently. "Are they done shopping?"

Lev put the phone back to her ear. "Are you two done shopping?" she asked.

"Yeah, we are," Lenny replied. "Where are you right now?"

"We're at the Montana Restaurant," Lev answered. "Treating Zara and Eros—Aira's parents."

Oh! Then Sonia and I will join you. We're hungry," Lenny said with her usual directness.

Lev's eyes narrowed slightly. The moment she heard that her mother wanted to join them, her shoulders stiffened. She hesitated, trying to keep her voice calm, but inside, she felt a tight knot of discomfort. Without saying a word to the others, Lev stood from her seat and quietly stepped away from the table, walking toward the far end of the garden patio where she could speak more freely.

Dr. Luke watched her, his eyes filled with quiet concern. Zara and Eros noticed the shift too. Lev was still in sight, but they couldn't hear her anymore—only the occasional hand gesture or the flicker of emotion across her face.