When it comes to those three little words, we girls have some pretty high expectations: We want passion, a romantic setting and the perfect lighting. And while fireworks aren’t mandatory, they are strongly encouraged.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work out that way. Maybe you broke it off before he professed his love. Maybe he found someone else. Maybe you’ve never dated in the first place. So, if the stars aren’t aligned quite right, is it still okay to tell someone you love them?

Can you go from best buds to bed buds?
Sometimes your true love is standing right in front of you (or sprawled out on your couch, raiding your fridge or asking you for girl advice). Yep, he’s your best guy pal and you’re starting to wonder if this could be more passionate than platonic.

“I had been friends with Todd for about six years before I started having feelings for him,” says Susan Webb, 31. She struggled with whether or not to tell him for a few months. “I knew it was a huge risk because if he didn’t love me back, there was no way our friendship could stay the same.”