You always want to associate GOOD things with the kitty. Maybe a treat after he's allowed you to hold him for 2 seconds! LOL. Mine can be picked up but fights to be let down within a millisecond! It's just the bengal's nature. You may get him to stay on your lap for a little while. Don't force the issue, however, because them the cat will associate bad things that he doesn't like with the picking up. Bengals are quite independent creatures -- they aren't like your regular domestic cat that loves to be held and lugged around or sleeps peacefully on your lap! You have a bengal! They are different!
That being said, socialization is actually getting the cat to enjoy being around you, being petted, and not so much being held. It takes time to come out of a shell -- and patience. You need to engage him in play, sit close to him and talk with him. Pet him when he allows. It's a bonding process that can take some time.
Hopefully, you have a tall cat tree that will allow your bengal to be up off the ground as they do love high places. This will allow you to access him while he's more eye level. Please do not forcefully pick him up. If he doesn't like it, he doesn't like it. If you force the issue, you will NEVER be able to pick him up. Be thankful that he is friendlier to you and he's only 18 weeks old! You have many, many years left with this baby .... you will continue to see a difference in him over time. Be patient.
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