I too think this reeks terribly of manipulation and narcissism. I would tread water very carefully if you are not willing to step away just yet. (Which I think would actually be the safer route.) Just like anvil says “if it’s already this way.. WOW, I can’t imagine what it will look like after a year or two”.. (paraphrase)
One of my favorite sayings is from the movie beetlejuice “If I knew then, what I know now.. I never would have had my little accident!” Please don’t let this man be YOUR little accident. Make sure your thinking of yourself and not just what he needs or wants.
(was writting this post as your new one about his friendship boundary came up)