Slotnick says, “It is okay for the girl to say it first, but it is much better if the guy does. If you say ‘I love you’ and he says it back, then it is hard to know if he is just doing so out of guilt or a fear of hurting you. If he takes it upon himself to say it, then you know you're in.”

If you still want to make your feelings known, Slotnick says to forget the three little words, and try four or even six. She suggests starting with “I’m falling for you” or “I think I’m falling for you.” She explains, “This way you can see his reaction without as much risk.”

While the romance jury’s still out on the statute of limitations on an “I love you,” most people agree that there’s one time that’s totally taboo—the wedding day. Sure, it worked out for Ross and Rachel on Friends but that’s TV. (They also live in apartments they could never afford.) So if he’s walking down the aisle, you should just sit there and smile (or not go at all). If he’s not married, however, it’s totally up to you: You can speak now or forever hold your peace. But definitely nix the fireworks.