What does this way of saying 'I love you' mean?

The guy that I am in love with tried to say no to starting a relationship with me because he doesn't want to hurt me but he said that he loves me as a sister. Shortly after, he said he didn't mean it but that he meant what 'I think he meant' or 'whatever way I interpret it,' so does this mean that he really meant I love you but just was too nervous or embared to admit it? Plus, he changed his mind about not wanting a relationship with me and says he really wants to be my boyfriend but its just not the right time in his life, but he plans to be my boyfriend sometime in the future. He's been making me wait for his decision for 4 months now, and although I don't mind waiting, is this his way of just sparing my feelings and 'not hurting' me since hes technically not saying no? Despite his refusal for a relationship right now, he has kissed me on several occasions and even gone as far as to stick his hand in my pants. Please help me figure out what this means. Thanks for your help!