Try to catch him doing something right. Don't force it
The nice thing about words of affirmation is that it can be done via text, email, or phone.
So send him a note "I thought you handled _____ well" or "I appreciate how you handled ______" tonight" or "Great idea" or "Good plan"
Say it in person too.
As it regards touch. again without pursuing. there are ways of touching that aren't aggressive. I'm a naturally "touchy" person. so things like grabbing a forearm across the table and saying "Great Idea" Or tapping a shoulder or upper arm and saying "you got that right" would be natural and not creepy (I hope) for me.
Maybe those baby steps could help you?
Stay away from hugs, hands, thighs, chests, face, lower backs, rubbing, or stroking those are too much for right now.
