I agree with Bowtech, I think he wanted things to take a sexual turn--he pretty much stated that it's a strong need for him. I'm not saying that you jump into this, just saying that it's the root. He's not always raising the ante, the goal is always the same....nightly affection leads to sex.
Why not gently, VERY lovingly (while still cuddling), tell him how you are very attracted to him, and that you know it's something that means a lot to him, you're trying with small steps to work toward that--like cuddling, etc. Sometimes he's so focused on his end goal, that he could be missing your steps as progress (I get that way at times), esp since he's so focused on making this right NOW. He needs to be reminded that you CARE about him, LOVE him, and this is your way of working on it. It will get there. Maybe, if it's right, explain to him what holds you back, and what you may need from him to make you feel better. It's such a strong need for him that he might actually be willing to meet your needs to get it (manipulation, who knows, but it's a real link, right?).
I know you're independent. But face it (and I'm saying this directly, as a FRIEND!)...you're married. You need to give your H a reason to think he's necessary, just like he needs to give that to you. A basic human yearning....try to think of something SMALL, even. Just one think this week. C'mon, I know you can do it. So, what is it? Think of anything he's said in past discussions/arguments that indicated it's something that meant a lot to him tha tyou did w/o him, or w/o needing him. Ex: little clues from my H. He likes it a lot when I wear jewelry that he gives me, tell him how pretty it looks and compliments I get. I'd never thing to do that on my own, or make an extra effort to wear certain things..but it means a LOT to him...he'll joke about it. So I make a point to wear his stuff often & it makes him feel proud.
