Aqua Love

So my aqua said the 3 words ILU, last time he said that was over a year ago. What do I say in return, as to not scare him away. (I do love him)

Whatever feels comfortable and whatever feels right. Seriously you can't go wrong.

Or you can wait approximately 3 days, 10 hours and 45 seconds and say it at the precise moment.

Lol normally that's what I would say, but the first time I said that (over a year ago, well he said it first) he went aloof on me. I thought I did or said something wrong. This time I don't want to make the same mistake

It was over the phone, I talked to him today he's fine. I just hate playing these games. I would have said that for sure but didn't want to scare him.

Just say what you feel and mean what you say.