Without the promise ring, I'd say meh. However, the ring is symbolic of an active expression. Sooooo, maybe it's a matter of semantics. Has he been hurt in the past? Maybe certain terms conjure up disappointment or hesitation that aren't a reflection of you?? Maybe he's just obtuse? Which there's nothing wrong with that, provided his actions and behaviors say otherwise. So long as he's respectful towards you and acts with kindness and compassion, if he sees roses as pink and you as red, it's still a rose, is it not?