I very much agree with GfS on this, Eliza. What most people term "love" (meaning romantic/sexual love) is just a strong emotional attachment to one other person, and it may not last. In fact, it very commonly doesn't last, and when faced with loss it can turn to hatred in the blink of an eye.

But Love, with a capital "L" is something that encompasses all of life and reaches out to all other people, as well as all of the rest of life.

And that is very rare. Most people have given it little, if any thought. Most people don't even know about it. Most people do not experience it (consciously, that is). Even most of the people who sincerely yearn for it (and they are few) do not manage to accomplish it within the frame of this lifetime. It's the biggest and most challenging task in life to accomplish real Love.

Cynics regard it as a fairy tale. (if they happen to hear about it)

I've heard of it. I've seen evidence of it. I've seen glimpses of it. I've felt it. I haven't yet managed to accomplish it. Why? Well, because I'm still afraid, that's why. And that's the same reason that other people fail to accomplish it, they are prevented from doing so by their fear.