HC, I agree with the advice you have received. A few of points.
First, if you have made your position clear to him (working on the M), leave it alone. He knows what you want.
Second,
Quote:
I can't tell you something that is going to make you feel better. and I know that's what you want to hear.
"H, you don't know what I am thinking. So, please don't tell me what I'm thinking. If you want to know, just ask. But don't try to read my mind"
Third,
Quote:
My dilemma is, I don't know what to say to him.
If you have made your desire to work on the M clear, I don't know that there is anything for you to say at this point. Just validate his feelings. "I understand." "I see how you would feel that way."
You can't make him want to work on the M. He has to choose to do that. And the less pressure from you, the better. He knows what the right answer is. He just wants to rationalize that his wrong decision is alright. Let him own that internal conflict.
