Wow, busting, this is interesting that he had this conversation with your Mom. She probably made him comfortable enough to say all these things. And he was probably testing the waters too.
I’ve read in 6 stages of MLC that when they start coming out of the tunnel and reconnect with people in their lives, they are very fragile. You have to be very careful to no scare him away. What he said about the outside pressure… He doesn’t feel it from you, or somewhere else? OW? Friends?
I would continue doing the same things, to show him that your changes are permanent. I’m not sure if you need to “up” it just yet. Observe, observe, observe for now.
I’m sure the vets will be here to give you a more solid advice and answer your questions.
M:50 H:52 S28 (my S from previous marriage) M:17 + 3 BD: 06/12 S: 06/12 - H works in another state