[And they've gone and garnered a smile out of him with that answer.]

That's a kinda respect. Keepin' how they feel in mind, that there is respect.
There are other kinds, too. Who they are, how they feel, they culture, age, sexuality, whatever -
Keepin' those in mind while interactin' with folks is respect. It's basic human decency.
It's how you treat folks like people.

And like I said, trust 'n admiration are a kinda respect, too - but you don't gotta know someone worth shit to be able to give'em the respect they deserve.
Everyone deserves respect.

[He leans in a little, looking them in the face, as he puts particular emphasis in his voice -]

That includes you.