I know exactly what you mean. H has shown a number of times now that he wants to please, offering to do the dancing classes with me is one, as I know it is not his thing, but he knew I wanted to do it. They do need help to please, unlike women they can't read minds.
H is definitely different, he was always a person who thrived on the stresses of work and long hours, it was what fuelled his determination. Today for the very first time ever, he has had a "sick day". H has never believed in doing this, but he suddenly said last night, "I had a s#@t day at work today, so tomorrow I am having a sickie". I nearly fell over. Mega different H now.