the lover

love cannot be created or destroyed.

like energy 

it shape shifts

following those filled with passion

and hope

but appearing to leave 

at the slightest touch of pain

guilt

and heartbreak 

this love

first occupies the body of a young girl

when she feels the warmth of the summer sun on her skin

at the beach on the first day of vacation

her eyes light up at the sparkling turquoise water 

of home

it strengthens as she begins to trust 

and care 

for family and friends 

and begins to take new forms

as a glimmer of romance appears in her heart

showing her that love can feel like euphoria 

it fades in and out

flickering like candlelight 

as a boy turns 

from crush

to boyfriend

to someone she used to know

when she's alone, it dims

but never dies

like a silent secret

a beacon of chance

for a dream

that feels like heaven to touch 

tastes like candy on her tongue 

and looks like pure magic 

and some days

it feels as if love has left her completely 

to rot with pity and regret

but love knows when to stay

love doesn't leave someone 

who was born

to love.