Ok, another day went by with NC from my side. My SO could not stop his verbal abusive rage (over the phone) so I told him I could not handle him talking to me in that way and I needed to take a time out. He did continue sending me abusive text messages last night and early this morning. Tonight he sent me a text that he couldn't stop crying. I know he is in a bad way at the moment but I also know from past experience that if I reach out to him now, it will turn into another blame game from his side.
And now, while I'm writing this, suddenly

: It is up to me, I am the one who needed the time out and choose NC, so I decide when I am ready to talk to him again.
Staying in this relationship is tough at times, but I am learning to deal with MY feelings and MY emotions.
Gosh, this side is a real eye opener, thanks everyone for giving me the opportunity to learn and to vent my feelings.
I will extend my time out a bit longer because I need it.