I'm a really affectionate guy and so I'm struggling a little with the idea of not using the word love. I really want to use this, even if I think back to past girls, I wouldn't mind using more affectionate words, obviously not if it would result in betaisation and loss of attraction... this is something I'm working with
I hear you.
I have been using the same pet name (in free translation it means "little one") for all the girls I see. MLTR, FB or whatever.
Once you use it several times, it becomes her "name" (=pet name).
You text and talk to her using that "name".
It shows affection. She also sees it as something special to her (even though it is not).
As per love - adhere to CH commandment #1 "
Never say ‘I Love You’ first "
If you love her (that's your emotion and you should really sort it out with yourself) - wait for her to say it first.
I strongly advise against it, but it is your life.