I don't think he cared about her in the first timeline, as everything they're doing in the second timeline seem to be first times, I don't think he hated her but maybe he kinda just let get do her own thing, like a step away from neglect kind of relationship.
I believe they've only gotten c k oder in the second timeline because Hortensia put the effort to get close to him, and right now he threw her into a cell because she just got herself in an extremely dangerous position, getting close to the cult who tried to sacrifice her when he was a child, so he freaked out and threw her in a cell because the dungeons are well guarded and as he won't be able to get out and get herself in danger again.
.... what happened in the recent chapter? Is this a dream perhaps? From her sick state? Hoping. Though, if ML truly love FL, why did he let her get executed in the first place? Is it loving in the second life only? And... agh I dont know. I'm curious what'll happen though.