I thought I loved lots of men but only for them to tell me they don't love me "like that".
Then there are people who swear that they love me but my interpretation of their actions do not represent love.
Then there is sex. How so many people can have sex-less love for so long is shocking. I cannot have sex with someone I do not love at this stage of life. Much easier in my late 20's and early 30s. But casual loveless sex is just like eating cheap 7-11 pizza. I'd rather go hungry.
So romantic love is a crap shoot and I am not sure it even exists. I am hopeful though.
Friendship, family and chid-love is easy, reciprocal and straight forward. No ego or fear in saying I love you, expressing love and exchanging love.