Just revisiting the stages that your EXH is in as far as MLC, the more you write the more I am getting the idea he is somewhere in depression/withdrawal. Definitely not acceptance, You seem to be handling everything very well. These are still rebuilding stages. The fact that he comes to you and then disappears he is still learning how to rebuild. The Withdrawal is necessary for him to move forward. You know two steps forward one step back kind of thing. You are doing a great job staying detached with no expectations.
Keep journaling and writing if you don't mind. It is great to hear and is a beacon of light for everyone on this board.
