Just because he has feelings for her does not mean she has feelings for him.

She listens to him and builds him up so she can get a better tip. This is life in the service industry. Unless they have met outside of the salon, i would chalk this up as a fantasy on his part.

He hasn't acted on this because, right now , she is perfect. There is no rejection and in his mind, he is the only guy that this woman "builds up". She doesn't want anything from him...she doesn't fart in bed, etc.

consider your options outside of letting him "explore this".