@Dridespoon I'm with you on this. If he's straight up and honest about his intentions, then it's just a mature approach to a new connection. Regardless of how she reacts, he's going about this the right way.
I know the story presents her as mature and experienced, but it's totally natural for her to be nervous about a new relationship regardless of the circumstances. Part of the story is showing that she has real feelings underneath the cool exterior.