Search Results: what you would change about your partner

I've been talking to this shy-overthinking guy for a few months. It's pretty clear we liked each other. Due to some differences and his doubts about me, I initiated to stop pursuing to be together. But he said he would always be there if I needed him until one of us finds a partner. After that, our interaction remained the same, as if nothing happened. That lasted for 2 weeks. We even planned for a staycation a month or 2 from now.

Then, his responses started getting bland and he ignored me being affectionate and just responded my text but rarely asked questions. That lasted for a few days, then he seemed to be interested again though he still didn't ask as many questions as he used to. But because he is so confusing, I decided to give him bland responses as well, but still joke around sometimes, but no rimantic emotions involved. Though I am actually still interested in him but my pride is keeping me from making more efforts because I feel doubted and rejected. What is wrong with him? Is he still interested? Or just doesn't wanna lose my attention? Did he change his mind and wants to be pure friend? What should I do?

Are there things you know your partner does that you don't like, but have decided not to challenge them on or try to help them with because it's nearly impossible to change? Do you know they do these things (in front of you), or are you aware that they do these things when you're not around?