he said he only thought of her as a precious friend before so he was a bit confused as to how he should feel now. but since he's been living in this village (and she's older now) he has been in love with her.
also keep in mind he didn't remember exactly who the person was from before, so he wasn't really in love with that person.
He mentioned that he thought Flora was just a friend 9 years ago and realized he loved her when he came back and met her again.
yea now that she's older and not a kid, lol
did he just admit that he fell for a child half his age before? damn thats a no
well she's 18 now so i guess it ok??? idk honestly i feel uncomfortable learning that fact