My heart flutters as male colleague 15 years my junior expresses romantic interest in me

I am petite and considered attractive, holding a respectable job and leading a content family life. The male colleague I mentioned initially guessed my age to be around 29-30, given my youthful appearance, despite knowing I am married with children. My feelings toward him are benign at first, with nothing extraordinary.

Lately, he began actions like sending me messages and buying me meals. I sense that his romantic interest in me is deepening, so I avoid responding to his texts and, when we encounter each other, I excuse myself by saying: "Oh, I get so many messages that I missed yours."

When he offers me food, I immediately return it, explaining that I don’t eat that type of food. Perhaps because it’s been a while since a younger man has flirted with me, I find my heart unexpectedly fluttering but have not revealed this to him, maintaining a detached demeanor instead. Nevertheless, I find myself thinking about him, fully aware that there can be no real outcome between us, and it feels akin to a fleeting crush.

He suggested meeting privately, to which I replied: "If there’s anything you need to discuss, just call or text me; there’s no need to meet in person."

My reluctance stems from the fear that such a meeting could leave me unsettled. I aim to prevent any unwarranted thoughts and hope to diminish his expectations. However, he responded: "I just want to speak with you face-to-face to unburden myself. You don’t need to worry."

Now, I’m uncertain about how to manage this situation gracefully, especially how to decline without him having openly declared his feelings. I’m concerned that a personal meeting could expose me to more profound emotions. I’m thus looking for guidance on how to navigate this situation.

What should I do?