Mixed signals

So he's been very clear he likes me and continues to tell me so. Up to and after our first date his replies were very quick, but they've got slower the last few days. I'm being left on delivered for 17+ hours. I know he doesn't spend much time on his phone and I know he isn't seeing other people. I do completely trust him on that.

So I'm just left a bit confused. I think that answers my question really and I should just leave it. I gave him really short/blunt reply to his last message, so I think he'll ignore me anyway. But just wondering if anyone would give him the benefit of the doubt or I'm being stupid?

Do you think he maybe at work