What is the part of a plot in which the conflicts builds gradually in intensity?

Rising action is the part of the plot in which the conflict and the tension increases. During this moment of the plot, interesting events and unexpected revelations occur, increasing a story's stakes. These intense moments eventually erupt during the climax.

The other elements of a plot are: exposition (which happens before the rising action), climax (after the rising action), falling action and resolution.

he is suggesting that this widow is a strong woman, who is giving constructive criticism and she has enough to worry about, and she takes care of him, so he does not take it to heart.