Being kind of scrupulous/OCD here, but is it okay to include the word lover in my manuscript?

Sorry, probably just being OCD/need a second-opinion. Thanks for your advice & help/opinions.

Well, it's not necessarily a bad thing. The word is used many times in Song of Solomon. Therefore, what really matters is the context in which it is used. How is it being used?

@ Lora

at the end of my story, one of my characters begins to crumple another character's college application, as this symbolizes her insecurity/need for Havard's approval to be content with herself. I want to say that he does it "Almost reverently, and with a lover's tenderness" to show that the action isn't being performed vengefully or out of anger, but rather out of amazement that Ruth (the character applying) was able to overcome her need for external affirmation of her accomplishments to be self-assured, and also underscore the subtle (romantic) chemistry present between these two characters.

Thanks!
Alison

It doesn't bother me as a Christian reader within that context, however, if it's niggling at you, it could be the Holy Spirit tapping you on the shoulder leading you to simply change it. It wouldn't be too difficult to do.