Best way to handle FA/DA partner's deactivation?

I've been involved with someone who seems to be fearful avoidant leaning dismissive. Everything was going well - there was consistent communication via texting, consistent dates and we got along very well. We've been seeing each other for about 8 months and for the past 3 months though, the texting and dates went to almost non-existent.

Right before this happened, it seemed that we were getting closer. He was showing me affection in words and actions so I thought he was finally bringing down his wall. He has told me that he has a fear that if he takes the chance and go all in, he's going to end up being hurt. His last relationship lasted for 6 years and ended when she cheated on him. His fear is that if he allows himself to cross the line and be fully in the relationship with me, that he will end up getting hurt again.

When he started being affectionate and getting closer to me, I thought that I had finally earned his trust but then he pulled away fast and hard. I thought that he wanted to just break up and when I asked him, he said that he still wants to be with me.

I know people will say that it's best to leave him but right now, I don't want to break up with him (that's how I feel right now). So if I stay, what's the best thing to do when he deactivates this way? Do I only talk to him when he talks to me?

I'm not sure what to do when it comes to him so I'm hoping anyone who is avoidant can provide some advice/feedback.

If I step back because he's stepping back, I don't want him to think I'm another person that's abandoning him because I do want to be with him. If I initiate contact more than he does, then I don't want him to feel like I'm suffocating him and making him feel like he's losing his independence/autonomy (that's another fear he has). Knowing his trauma and fears, how do I balance this?