With the way his hunger was since the attack (or since his healing kicked in, that's the more likely culprit) Tony will probably eat no matter what. He might have to, for all he knows.

It helps, it really does. It means the world to Tony to know someone he loves and respects as much as Richard is proud of him. He's still not exactly sure of what or why, but maybe he can figure that out. If he does, he can keep making him proud, right? Maybe.

"I believe you. You wouldn't waste your time lyin' to me." Richard wasn't the type, besides what would he have to gain if he did? It felt nice to be wanted, and helped to soothe those flight instincts back down into something more tolerable. It's hard not running away from problems when that's what you've done your whole life. He's doing well though, right? He's only run away that one time.