I think this is a positive on your sitch. You validated and he thought about it and came back softer.
This is what you want to see. By your actions, you were able to influence his.
I wouldn't worry so much about the friend zone thing. You aren't being buddy buddy with him. But you are showing a side of yourself that inspired him to apologize.
Think about it. IF H had absolutely zero interest in you for whatever reason, he would remain indifferent. The opposite of love isn't hate, it's indifference. If he was indifferent, he couldn't have cared less to send you that text.
