I've been in three relationships were there were "I love you's". One guy said it way too early on. I can't remember what I felt, but I knew I didn't love him. I told him I loved him too, so I wouldn't hurt his feelings, but I didn't truly feel love. The other two men I was in love with, so it wasn't a problem. To answer your first question, I think a relationship can survive an "I love you" unreturned, although not for long. One thing for sure though, I never, ever have been or will be the first to say it. Never.