The main reasoning in most comments for chapter 12 was "he loves her, because she rejected him" and that he's scheming, manipulative person.
As I understand it, Phillip fell in love, because Blondina carries herself with dignity, sincere with her feelings and brave. When he said, that this rejection was a first for him, he didn't meant, that it was the reason he fell in love.
Another thing is, I don't think Phillip is manipulative. His words, that nobody would want Blondina as wife, was meant as an explanation, why he leaving for a long time and isn't afraid, that Blondina would be taken away. Since it would be considered as a hole in the plot if he would just leave and think nothing about it.
And also, I don't think Phillip looking down on her, when he wants to give her power and money. It is common thing, when you want provide for your loved one.