hi JC =- welcome!
I don't know of many people who, if put back in their home situation ...
wouldn't be looking for ANY means to get out of it.
You didn't mention how old these people are that we're reading about.
If he can't bring himself to say he wants to see you,
he probably doesn't want to see you.
And even if he does, I'd make him come out with it.
Otherwise, it's just another manipulation.
Being old and experienced in such things,
men...
when they want to be around a woman....
the ARE... around that woman.
He needs to talk to his sponsor, his counsellor ... whoever.
Maybe he's venting to you, and there's not as much desperation as he's making out?
has this ploy worked in the past?