You never thought that you would meet him again, not after many years ago you had a serious argument and began to consider each other enemies. You bow to him, despising yourself for it, but still this tact shows your respect for etiquette, which is more important than the fact that you are bowing to him. He looks at you with a slight squint, trying to study you

I didn't think you were bowing to anyone. But I'm glad to see that you came, although you might not have done so.

There was formality and seriousness in his voice, and a certain slight dislike for you.