Welcome to the forums!
Since you feel you have made this connection, has he become more attentive to you? I sense that he really likes you and admires you. However, use caution with moving too quickly with expecting a permanent relationship. He is dealing with some past disappointments. So just take a casual attitude and don’t make him feel that he needs to make any long term commitments. If he is feeling no pressure, he is likely to want to spend more time with you.
Best wishes,