Hmm. Honestly? I think you're reading into things. Men are pretty basic and straight forward. Women tend to read in between the lines and interpret what men say. It seems to me he has said he likes you, you get along, he's interested but he'll understand if you're not. He's also said that if you're not interested, he figures you won't message him. That's pretty straight forward. Men can be very matter of fact.

However, there were red flags before..... so, perhaps this IS a good one to let go, based on that alone. Otherwise, I think you're reading into things a bit too much.