The conversation was finally had. That is good b/c now you know.
You do have a choice to make, it seems. Kalni is spot on b/c if you want him, you're in for a long, long ride. He has told you clearly where he is and now it is up to you to wait him out.
How to proceed from here? Be his friend. Contact him once a week or so if you don't hear from him and let him remember you are, and always will be, his friend. You told him that in conversation, so now I'd say you back it up and just keep moving forward.
Glaciers may melt faster than he'll come around again, but then again, his return may be swift. However, keep yourself open to the fact that his return may never come at all. Not the way we want to think, but since it is a possibility, you've got to keep it on the table.
Glad you've been able to take this step. Now comes the hard part, I'm afraid.
