flattery, flattery, flattery
He thinks by flattering you, you will soften up to him.
"Your roast beef was soooooooo good. Nobody else on the planet can cook roast beef like you, honey." Blah. Blah. Blah. Added in with a little "I'm so helpless, I can't feed myself without your help".
He must think your self-esteem is so low, that you'll fall for it.