[ he doesn't want to think about it. The difference between Nero--Nox, and Dante. Nox was like him; born into this world and here to stay. Dante was a traveller from another world--the man could slip through his fingers, and he doesn't want to think about it.

He just wants to assure himself the man is here to stay, because what other choice was there?

No. He's betting on the man staying at his side into the future.
Not that he's ready to say such a thing aloud, yet. ]

I am sure I could give you plenty of reasons to. [ contrarian. ] ...and of all things, I would not gaslight you about this one thing in particular.
I will give you that much grace.

And not an inch more. [ because you'll take it. greedy brat.]