You asked for a guys perspective. ....

I am old school, even at 42, which when I was a kid WAS old ...lol

After a year and a half it is quite possible he is still unsure of what "love" is. Maybe that is why he displays it in other ways....and tried to show it.

But if he knows you need to hear those words and is holding back...
POSITIVES-
1. At least he is being honest
2. Maybe he has been hurt before or thought he was in love but later found it wasn't, hesitation may mean he's just at a different point emotionally I your relationship.
3. Hes not going to say it just to get what he wants....ie bed.

NEGATIVES-
1. Maybe you want more out relationship he does. Maybe he is already getting everything he wants.
2. He hasn't explained why he won't say...why not? I eould be concerned that he thinks your need can be 'joked' around with.
3. What else do you need that he isn't going to be able to do\ provide? What happens when you get sicker/ older?
4. 18 months is a fair length of time. If he isn't in love, what is more time going to change? Personally. ... How long are you prepared to wait?

Hugs. There are good guys out there who have no problems cherishing those we love, and if he is to be your life partner, then he should be caring about your needs more yhan even his own for a long term relationship to last.

Just my opinion......married furst time 9 years, coming up 11 years second marriage. ..

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