She wears her smile like morning’s gold,
But shadows hide in stories untold.
Behind each curve of lips, so bright,
Lingers the darkness of sleepless nights.
Hurt dances in the corners of her mind,
Pain, like old scars, etched and unkind.
Yet all you see is the mask she holds tight,
A painted sun in the depths of night.
If you look closer, past the disguise,
You’ll find her heart, behind silent cries.
For a smile can hide a world of ache,
A gentle wave on a troubled lake.