With long term t I told him I loved him and he said the same to me many times. Nothing romantic just a strong connection.

With ca t sparky, I told him he was important to me and I in the end admitted having a crush on him. He said early on that he cared about me. Love the word itself never came up.

I told newish t Kashi today that although I have only known him a few months that I am already fond of him. Too early for the l word but there is a warmth and mutual understanding between us.