I met a man over a year ago and I believe he has Asperger's. we spend a lot of time together usually talking about one of his interests that he is very passionate about. but its always at my job and have only gotten him to meet me out twice. I love every min of the time i spend with him and have told him how I feel which is that I love him and want to be with him in everyway. he usually responds with "just friends remember". he has gotten use to my hugs although from him they are usually side hugs. he will say I love you back and even texted me "i hope you know I care deeply about you'. we talk much deeper than just friends but when it gets intimate he'll make a odd joke or just change the subject. Ive asked him why cant we become a couple as he refers to a relationship. he ans is that he has been hurt before and would rather be alone. my question is is there a way I can get him to realize that I truly believe in him and who he is and that he can trust his heart with me. he has never talked about what I think he has and I have never brought it up. im not even sure he knows.. Ive told him I think about him almost all the time and I know he does the same by the things he will say . he has me totally heart and soul, I cherish him and his friendship but I would like it to go further, is this possible? and if not how do I keep him safe even for me because I never want to say or do anything to hurt, upset or lose him.