Why is he doing this to me? what does he want?

He is happy that you and him have put aside what made you guys angry at each other, by taking a long break one sometimes ,if they really cared, realizes what he/she has lost. In your case he realized how much he liked you and wanted to be around you and wouldn't want to lose you again. Also by saying he feels closer to you than ever, he is trying to say that he feels things will go better this time and that he is very happy to be with you again. this is just my opinion sorry if didn't help.