How long is too long for him to say "I love you"?

Me and my boyfriend (we are both in our early 40's) have been dating for about 7 months. He has not told me he loves me yet. I told him a while back and the response I got (I know you do) devastated me. Many people say not to say it first, let the man do it. I just say what I feel in my heart. However with all that said I will not tell him again because 1, he already knows, and 2, it's hard not to hear it back. So now I guess I'll just wait to see if he ever feels that way about me. The word love doesn't mean as much to me as being able to feel his love. Give it more time. Only you can decide what you're willing to settle for. Good luck