The invitation is unexpected, surprising in a way that settles warm and tingly and pleasant. It's that warmth, realizing that he's feeling a positive reaction to the offer, that stops him short of automatically begging off for that same fear of imposition.
"I would appreciate company, I think, if that it truly fine. It has been quiet, lately. Subdued. A little background noise or conversation might do me some good."
Should anything go sideways, if that's possible, he is easily-departed company, if nothing else.
His version of bad idea involves public announcements. We're not going to trip over him, he's just going to get everyone he works with in trouble for no gain.
Page 90 of 147