Was my boyfriend's response to me leaving him appropriate?

I (23F) have been dating my boyfriend (27M) for over a year now.

We've had issues in the past regarding romantic gestures. I've repeatedly asked for any sort of effort to make me feel valued in our relationship (dates, flowers, surprises,etc.) and have received nothing.

I decided to break it off with him earlier today. The entire time I explained my reasons, he was sat in a chair and attempting to defend himself. He told me that after school he would be a better boyfriend, but had said this in the past without making any changes.

Before I stepped out the door, he stopped me to say "I can't promise to be a better boyfriend." (that's all he said). From my perspective, this feels like a very cruel thing to say. I don't understand how someone could say that after their partner just wants to feel loved and cared for.

Am I overthinking? Is it possible that he could have meant something else? Or was this a normal response to our breakup?

I just feel so lost right now. He couldn't even stand up to talk to me during our breakup. I love him so much and would move mountains for him. Why would he say that to me? of all people, me?