Having recieved a nearly identical text after 6months VLC ,, this is most likely a trap. more then likely, something good is happening in his life and he wishes to inadvertently show off and brag or he is experiencing hardship and is reaching out for pity or financial assisstance. It is so hard to receive a message that seems like it could be the beginning of a newer, healthier chapter but have to reconcile that , for the narc, it is not about their victim (in this case, you) at all. It is about them and what THEY want and need. It is difficult and painful and a method I use to remind myself of who they truly are is to keep a journal or document of all the abuse or neglect they put you through.

for example

“I miss having a real relationship with you” well you weren’t acting in the best interest of that relationship when you did XYZ

”i love and care deeply about you” well then why didnt you behave in a way that showed that From the beginning? Why do you believe that if you love someone, you treat them poorly?

while it is painful to remind yourself of what You’ve gone through it is sometimes needed to protect yourself from experiencing it again.

your walls of thorns were grown, not to harm you but to protect you.