Is he looking for or expecting more than just an intelligent friend?

More than 6 months ago I sent an e-mail to the wrong person, and he asked me to stay in touch with him via e-mail and later IMs. About 2 months after we started e-mailing, he started to joke about being intereted in me but then quickly added he only wanted an intelligent online friend. But he started to ask how I look, but I didn't tell him. He dropped the topic but picked it up again some time later, and he also asked for my photos. I asked him if he wanted to meet me when he asked for my photos, to that he answered he was afraid of rejection AND of disillusion. Although I suspected that he wants more than just an online friend, he keeps telling me that it's all he wants and that he doesn't want to take advantage of me. What do you think of this? I'd like to hear what people think of this situation, and your advice is also greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot in advance.