He really doesn't know what he wants. Trying to understand this with a rationale mind will drive you bat chit.
The only other thing I can say is that there is nothing wrong with trying to "PAVE THE WAY" for him to come home(or back to you). Mirroring his actions is usually fine. However boundaries should take precedence over "paving the way"
There is a resource in MLC on Pursuit and distance her is the link maybe this will help.
