What does he mean keep it at bay and what should I expect?

[bbhhgirl]

He said he loves me and doesn’t plan on dating or seeing anyone else but he thinks for now we should keep our relationship at bay.

[Truthatanycost]

It means he's emotionally unavailable, does not really want a relationship but either is not self aware enough to recognize that, or just doesn't want to miss out on what he currently has with you. Our actions tell us what we truly desire.

[USLegionary]

It means he doesn't see you as good enough to get serious with or has his eyes on a more attractive woman he wants to get serious with but he wants to keep you dangling in case he needs a hook up.

[Screenwriter]

Keep it on the back burner or on the DL? You better ask him. Doesn't sound like he wants to move forward. ASK.

[bbhhgirl]

So keeping it at bay means on the back burner or down low?

[Screenwriter]

Keeping something at bay means keeping it at arm's length. I haven't head that expression used to describe a relationship, so that's why I encourage you to ask him what HE means. It's a very odd turn of phrase. Usually it's used in THIS manner: keep at bay

prevent (someone or something) from approaching or having an effect.
"drugs were keeping severe pain at bay"

I am clueless as to his use of a phrase not suited for his comment.

[spartan55]

Fuck that wishy washy nonsense.