I feel like the other kids were mentioned eith references to him trying to get them to rule, but none of them could do it? I may be wrong but it feels lile thats where it was brought up 🤔
Hes denying is feelings for her because he knows it was forced upon him 😭 this is so tragic.
I hope that in the end he gives in to his feelings and it doesnt work to the witches advantage as she had planned. He deserves that!