to think that saying "I love you" under these circumstances is a bit odd?

[MrsExpo]

I am a woman in my early 60's, in pretty good shape, socially active and generally friendly. I am a keen photographer and on the committee of a local camera club, where it's my job to organise all the competitions. We had such an event last night. After the event, a few of the club members retired to the local pub, just along the road from the hall where we meet, and I walked in that direction with them because my car was parked near there.

As we walked, we were chatting about the competition, and a future club event - nothing personal, just club stuff. When we got to the car, one member - a guy I know well and a fellow committee member, stopped to help me get my stuff into the boot (heavy boxes of mounted photographic prints, a large folio, my lap-top etc) while the others walked on promising to get him a pint in. We continued to chat about general club stuff as I got into my car and I wound the window down to keep talking after I'd started the car and was preparing to drive off. I then bid my club associate good-night and he replied "I love you ... Goodnight" and went off towards the pub.

I was a bit taken aback to be honest. What an odd thing to say!!

I should add that I am married (the guy knows that and has met DH), and have no plans to stop being married, IYKWIM!!

Odd or not?? Is that how casual acquaintances bid each other good evening these days?

[Maverickismywingman]

Maybe it was force of habit, hence his sharp exit?

I once had a young Gas board man say "bye, love you" before promptly hanging up.
Reckon it was prob just a mistake

[Redglitter]

He's probably said it accidentally. I bet he walked off cringing and is wondering how he's ever going to face you again.

[LackOfAdhesiveDucks]

It is strange but I'd assume that it was just a reflex. Like how if someone says 'enjoy your meal' and you say 'you too!'

[Bountybarsyuk]

I think it was an accident, he said what he normally said to other people to you!

It's like texting a work colleague and putting a x.

I wouldn't worry too much, if he was fishing for anything more, I think he'd have carried on a longer chat and gone about it in a different way.

He's probably quite embarrassed now.

[Maverickismywingman]

But I DID misread the OP. I thought you said this man was married.

Still reckon it was a mistake though.

[Stormwhale]

Is he married? Or has kids? It sounds like it slipped out by accident out of habit.

[formerbabe]

Ha ha! My guess is he said it on auto pilot...maybe he is married and used to adding 'i love you' to all goodbyes?!

[ScarletForYa]

Relax OP. Just force of habit I'd guess.

[The80sweregreat]

I woukd ignore this, sounds llike a slip up to me.
Nice of him to help you!
I hope its not awkward next time you meet up!