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Beneath the Smile: Cheryl Ann

Sun-kissed leather, worn and warm, 
Reflects the dance in eyes that storm. 
Her smile, a practiced ray of light, 
Hides depths unseen, where shadows fight.

Contradictions paint her soul, 
A swan on rapids, taking toll. 
The world sees stars, achievements bright, 
Resilience praised, a dazzling light.

But cracks I see, beneath the mask, 
Silent tears, a lonely task. 
Battles fought in mind's dark cell, 
A hidden war, where demons dwell.

My heart, a drum in muffled beat, 
Yearns to scream, shatter her retreat. 
But love's a whisper, not a shout, 
A watchful eye, not pulling out.

Words like threads, encouragement spun, 
A listening ear, where burdens shun. 
Victories cheered, with genuine glee, 
Building bridges silently.

Ink-stained pages, someday read, 
Reflection's truth, doubts dispelled. 
Strength not seen in self-made night, 
But in love's gaze, unwavering light.

I'll write of laughter, sunlit bright, 
Even when shadows hold her tight. 
Of stumbles danced, not falls unkind, 
A flickering ember, hope to find.

For her, a lighthouse in the storm, 
Silent belief, her guiding form. 
Within her lies a strength untold, 
Waiting to see, waiting to unfold.

And maybe then, with gentle grace, 
She'll find her light, and fill her space.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

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