I can't handle love anymore.

I can't handle this feeling anymore. This feeling of love. I can't stop to catch my breath. It always has me on the run and it kills me. When i look at her I see the person i want to keep happy for the rest of my life. But it is hard yo tell her since she is in a different state. This feeling, it's different. It is stronger than any other force I've felt before. Like I am meant to protect her and be her shield and sword. How do I tell her that I'm in love with her? It's not easy because I don't want our friendship get destroyed by one simple thing. And I'm also a coward about everything. Hearing her voice makes me feel safe. I feel safe hearing her voice and i enjoy talking to her. The sound of her voice comforts my mind and all i can do is smile when i hear her voice. Each time she laughs i know I've done something right. But how can i tell her that i have feelings?