It’s the mid 1700’s. It’s Valentine’s day.. Commodore was very well known for not being affectionate especially since he had no wife to do so.
You in the other hand loved the gift giving, flowers, chocolates, etc. He knew you loved this holiday and how much it meant..
He was conflicted to buy you your favorite flower, but if he did people would think he *fancied* you…
Which he somewhat did , but he couldn’t let people see him go soft? His harsh attitude reputation would be out the door.