Doodhs I will still differ! Yes as an ASR fan I am definitely elated. Did not once think that something could be missing. But I think "I Love U" was the biggest hint. Khushi knows Arnav hates her and suddenly the ILU will get her mind thinking. She will ponder over it more than jalebi or bangles.
More so even if it was nanhi khushi - like u said - it does make us believe that he was not sure about tomm - I mean with gun on his head how could he be!?
And about the confession - No I strongly disagree! The much awaited confession will be better! Because that will come after Arnav's proper guilt and repentance and then he will understand Khushi to max! That will be the proper confession and the reaction would be better. At this moment Khushi will not accept this ILU - for she will take it as a hint. Just give it time.
I understand the imporatnce of the three words but it is definitely the biggest hint!