For guys

Why the hell would someone lie about that?

Tell him that you were surprised about his question.

Then give him your answer. "Yes, I'd like to see you" or "I'm not able to date you."

Only he knows what he means and how he truly feels towards you. We bunch of strangers literally can not read the mind of another stranger countless tens or hundreds or thousands of miles away from our present position.


Who (other than a literary character from a 19th century romance novel) has ever used that verb to ask anyone anything relationship wise?

I have. It is a perfectly good word.

I think this friend has feelings for you, and he is sweet (if a bit shy). If you want a relationship with him, go for it. I can't imagine anyone would say this without being sincere. If you don't see a romantic relationship with him, be honest and kind.

Yeah, he was sincere: since it caught you off guard, it was most likely unexpected and quite different from his usual behavior. He put his feelings out there. He is probably convinced right now you rejected him. Make up your mind if you want to be with him in that way or not, and then tell him. Because this guy is probably hurting inside right now, and I don't think he really deserves that.