Is my ex-boyfriend manipulating me back?

My ex and I broke up a couple months ago. He was verbally and emotionally abusive to me for pretty much the whole time we were together (5 months). We have tried the friend thing and it only made things worse. He was still accusing me of things that I was completely innocent for. It had been a week since we spoke when I received a text message stating that his grandfather (who he looks up to a great deal) had heart surgery and wasn't doing so well. I responded with my condolences and now feel as though he might just be wanting my attention. I don't doubt that his grandfather is sick, but I question whether he is using his illness as an excuse to get me back. What do you guys thing? Only serious answers, please.