Forgot to add the reason behind the care package. He said that being as though he knows that I have a full time job and a business and I never take time out for myself because I work so much, the care package was given to me in hopes that I would take some "ME" time to enjoy a nice glass of wine, a great movie, a great dessert along with a great perfume. Now it makes sense.

So, it wasn't as if he bought me a pair of diamond earrings and a Corvette. LOL

He said his intentions were only to be friends ... and you believe this?

I won't try to convince you otherwise but I'll give you a quote to ponder ...

"For me, it is far better to grasp the Universe as it really is than to persist in delusion, however satisfying and reassuring." - Carl Sagan

Agreed. I think he fell in the friend zone and he's saving grace. I've been there too. He seems like a nice guy who would probably date you if you gave the go-ahead.

I'm glad you've both discussed how you feel and you're happy with the outcome.

Exactly!

I'm very glad that it all seemed to work out for you! I do agree with the others that he would probably date you if given the chance, but he handled it very graciously.
I just have to comment that I can't believe the first "date" (or meeting, whatever you want to call it) was a function where his entire family was there!!! What a terrible idea (on his part)!

Very well said. Thank you for your input. I do appreciate that.

I think he sounds like a nice guy, but do believe he had more in mind than wanting a new friend. He is now trying to act like "only a friend", what else could he do after you leveled with him.
I can't give a man's viewpoint but if I were him I would have just said "Thanks for telling me " and let it go at that and not give all that Southern gentleman talk about "I had nothing else in mind ."

I'm glad you discussed it with him- although I do think he told you what you wanted to hear and not how he really felt- but I do think you should do a little soul searching on what you're really looking for and what things might be deal breakers for you (such as age) and then proceed on dating from that reference point. That way you don't waste your time or anyone else's, and you don't inadvertently hurt someone.

That is the dumbest thing I've ever heard. He sounds awfully offended. Not to mention hypocritical, considering he just bashed anyone who knows what they want, and isn't a doormat.
(ETA: Also, only a desperate person gives anyone who is interested a chance, without having or using standards. So, his use of that really doesn't make sense.)

He is entitled to his own opinion and how he feels and what he thinks. He can feel how ever he wants. We will never know how he really feels about what happens and I would hate to ASSume.

Since the situation has resolved, I will close this thread now.