Technically, Inoda has many ways to save Asuna if he's around. His invisibility powers have already reached the ultimate level. He would just hide Asuna and escape. Or, it turns out that he can not only turn himself into an NPC, but also any person whose body has access (and we remember that Inoda has full access to Asuna's body, thanks to Kirito.)
It's not clear yet about the love between Asuna and Inoda. Now it's all about maternal instinct (which is already 3 levels!!)and pity. To be honest, I still don't see how Fujino can transform "maternal love" into "romantic love" in the remaining time. How fast and ridiculous it will be...
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But for now, Asuna doesn't even think about it. I think in all the phrases and actions of caring for Inode, at the moment, it is maternal love that is meant.