I (female, 29) have worked with this boss (male, 45) for 1.5 years. He was very supportive, all the time. Recently he got transferred to a different section of my department. I needed some advice on a project that I am working on with a team, so I set up a meeting with him. After the meeting when we were having tea at the office canteen, he just blurted out that he misses me daily. I felt awkward but just brushed it aside.
I have no idea what this means or how to respond. If it's about work, then this is real appreciation. He is really good at his job, and an appreciation from a boss who is himself a perfectionist means a lot. But if it's something else, it would be difficult for me.
Recently, we exchanged Diwali wishes on a chat. He sent me an image of sweets. I thanked him and texted "love sweets". His response "Yeh sweet love". I clarified "nope I love sweets". Then he appologised.
Is he hitting on me? How do I stay away but I need his advice frequently?