My H and I have actually discussed this. He says ILY freely- even after the separation. I couldn't say it. I still can't I have said it once and got a not so nice comment back.
I think I'm afraid to say it. I'm afraid of being hurt again.
After our talk and C sessions, I think H sees it now and he has backed off saying ILY. Which is nice- no pressure.
I think I'll finally be piecing when I can say it to H again (and when he spends the night at the house again.)