Ilya Rozanov who is somewhat dreading the mother-son dance at his and Shane’s wedding because he doesn’t have a mother.
Ilya Rozanov who sadly says over his breakfast one morning, ‘it’s okay, Mama will be there in spirit.’ And ‘She would’ve loved you, loved us.’
Ilya Rozanov who watches his now husband sway with his now mother-in-law, taking up the dance floor with so much love it makes his insides paralysed with grief.
Ilya Rozanov who wipes his tears away when they are done, clapping louder than anyone in the room.
Ilya Rozanov who doesn’t except the song to begin again, and for Yuna Hollander to stand in front of him with her open palm.
Ilya Rozanov who holds Yuna with such strength because he has already had one mother taken away from him, he cannot have another, and Yuna Hollander who holds him back just as tight because she knows.
Ilya Rozanov who lets Yuna kiss his cheek, and says, ‘ya lyublyu tebya, mama.’ Into her hair. (I love you, mama)
David Hollander, who tries to record the whole thing but ends up just recording their feet because he’s too busy looking, watching Ilya and Yuna share this tender moment.
Ilya Rozanov who has a family.
Ilya Rozanov who has a mother.
