Strong bond, but faith and family are holding us back, assalamu alaykum

Assalamu alaykum - I’ve been spending time with a man and honestly the connection is one of the strongest I’ve had in years. Things between us feel easy, warm, and emotionally safe. He comes from a very traditional Muslim family (I’m American/white) and has been clear that because of his faith, cultural expectations, and family pressures, he doesn’t feel able to pursue a formal relationship with me. I respect his honesty and believe him when he says this isn’t about lack of attraction or feelings - it’s about staying true to his religion and his family. I care about him a lot, which is what makes this so difficult. I don’t want to force or change him. If his answer is no, I will honor that. At the same time, I’ve been drawn to Islam for personal reasons even before I met him; I’m learning and considering it seriously, though I wouldn’t convert solely to be with someone. What I’m really wrestling with is what’s realistic here. For those who’ve faced similar cross-cultural or cross-faith situations - is this the kind of thing that rarely works out no matter how strong the chemistry? Or are there examples where people slowly find a way forward while respecting faith and family? I’m not after false hope, just honest perspectives so I can either let go fully or understand what I might be walking away from. Jazak Allah khair for any thoughts.