I think this is the *best* choice. If you have room to store multiple bikes, this could be a great option. I have a Trek Verve (the 2015 model, which had a suspension fork back then) and it's like riding in a Cadillac. Comfort for miles (literally) and super upright for sight-seeing or touring, etc. I also have a Trek 750 (a 1997 model) that is more or less like what an FX is today. It's a rigid frame 700c hybrid, with a more "rider forward" fit. My handlebar is about equal with my saddle on that bike and it's a much faster bike than my Verve.

Sometimes I feel like the Verve. Sometimes I feel like the 750. On any given day, I might take one or the other.

And I just bought a Roam 2 (today). So that'll be a third option.

It sounds like your Trek store folks are super nice, and it's too bad that the Giant guy is pretty cavalier about you actually buying a bike. Dealers are, of course, independent and on their own. You'll find some real good ones with every brand and some real lousy ones with every brand. I guess you just need to go with your gut on this one. Easy advice to give on an internet forum, right?