I don't think he's in love with her. I don't think he even likes her in a romantic way, I genuinely see platonic affection, and mutual respect between them. If the author/artist was trying to convey love well,,,,,,, idk what to tell you. It's like he explains it in this chapter, she sees him, she hears him out, and he's appreciative of that because no one has ever done that with him. That's why I think what they have is a very special bond, but it's not romantic.
Well, that's my opinion at least.
