I Just Can't Wrap My Head Around....

     As we were saying our goodbyes, and preparing to drive home from Springfield last summer, Becca was giving me a hug and a peck. There was nothing unusual about that. What threw me for a loop was her telling me that she loved me. It wasn't a "Luv Ya! come back soon" or the typical expression of affection that I would've expected from a friend. It was an "I love you", and it was the first time she's ever said that to me.  I automatically replied with an "I love you too" (because I do). I know those three little words mean different things in different contexts. I didn't think anything profound was intended, but it was a level of intimacy that I wasn't expecting. She wasn't whispering in my ear, but she didn't speak loud enough for anyone else to hear either.  I've always felt closer to her as a friend than I did with Ben, we've known each other for about twenty years, she's one of Leanne's best friends and very dear to me as well. Part of me wants to take care of/ pamper/ dote on Becca whenever I am around her, I end up cooking when visiting, I think she considers cooking a chore.  I had always assumed that my affections were somewhat one sided/ or lopsided (I held her in higher esteem than she held me) but now I just don't know.