Keep posting to your thread.... it is easier than if you start a new one, and people have to find your old one to figure out what is going on! You did it right!
Sounds like you had quite the weekend! I think it is good that H says he want to try. He may still be unsure, but at least he said it. At the same time, I think you are right to be cautious about beleiving it 100%. I don't think there's usually an instant turn-around. He probably IS going to waffle... try to stay detached, and you can get through it. Remember to keep breathing. (And eating... please, watch your health!)
I can see being worried about the coworker's place in this. What he said to you, and what he wrote in the email don't seem to line up all that well. I think you should certainly keep your eyes open. At the same time, the fact that he talked about her as much as he did is hopeful, I think. It could be that that is how they communicate. And not knowing what they talked about, or how, it could even be that some of what he said might have been referring to you. (I am an eternal optimist...)
I think you should take the next few days to make sure you are feeling good about you. When he gets back, have an open mind. Let's see if his behavior matches his words!
Stay calm. Do a lot of watching and listening. Don't try to get him to talk about the R, backing him into a corner is not a good idea. You can do it, Marsh!
