It appears you have your H on a hook. The thing is to let himself reel himself in.

You're thinking that by not calling him back, that he'll think, "Fine. If she won't call me...", DON'T ASSUME TO KNOW WHAT YOUR WAS THINKS OR WILL THINK.

AND what you think he thinks should NOT dictate your actions. Base all your actions on actual events and results or lack of results. Not on assumptions of what other people may or may not be thinking, may or may not be doing, may or may not come to think, and may or may not come to do.

So, you return the call in your own sweet time, if the call even needs to be returned. Unless it's a request for information, then really there's no reply needed.

Quote:

When we do finally talk, what should I say about where I was, what I did

Something like this:

H: So I tried calling you the other night but you weren't around. What's doing?
JVJKB: Oh, just catching up with some friends the other night.
H: Oh? Anyone I know?
JVJKB: No... I don't think so. Anyhow, what have you been up to?
H: Back up a sec! I know who your friends are... what do you mean these are people I don't know?
JVJKB: Well, I've been keeping busy with some new interests and I've met some people that way. Anyhow, tell me more about Seattle. Is it always raining there?
H: Well, it was when I was there. What new interests?
JVJKB: [laughing] Oh, you're incorrigible! Well, gotta run! Speak later! Bye!"