"Stop being a drama queen. I went to see if there was any mail for me."
He probably thought he was being considerate by putting the mail on the bench.
Christ....I am seeing him for dinner in just over three hours...How do I put a PMA on now that doesn't look false? I don't want to go now!! His present is wrapped up on the table.
Absolutely unacceptable answer on his part. This is not about being a drama queen this is about respect. If he brings it up, don't laugh it off. Look him in the eye, tell him: "You chose this path, you and I have our own separate places, I will respect your place, you will respect mine. You can go into any post office and have your mail forwarded so enough of your excuses."
Be firm, be concise, do not allow him to take control of the conversation. Just tell him this is what it is, deal with it.