I'm sorry to hear that your conversation had such a negative impact. It's important to remember that words can have a powerful effect on people, and sometimes things said in the heat of the moment can cause unintended harm.
Here are some steps you can take to try and address the situation:
Apologize sincerely: Reach out to your boyfriend and apologize for your comment. Let him know that you didn't intend to hurt him and that you regret the way your words came across.
Acknowledge his feelings: Validate his feelings and let him know that you understand why he might have been hurt or upset by your comment. Show empathy and listen to his perspective without being defensive.
Give him space and time: He may need some time to process his emotions and thoughts. Respect his need for space and allow him the time he needs to heal.
Reflect on your words: Take some time to reflect on why you said what you did. Try to understand if there were underlying frustrations or issues that led to your comment. Reflecting on your actions can help you avoid similar situations in the future.
Communicate openly: When he's ready to talk, have an open and honest conversation about what happened. Be willing to listen and understand his concerns without interrupting or becoming defensive.
Learn from the experience: Use this situation as an opportunity for personal growth. Work on improving your communication skills and finding constructive ways to address issues in the future.
Show your love and support: Let him know that you love and care for him deeply. Demonstrate your support and commitment to making things right.
Consider couples counseling: If the situation remains unresolved or if there are deeper issues at play, couples counseling can be beneficial. A professional counselor can help facilitate communication and provide guidance on how to rebuild trust and move forward.
Remember that healing from emotional wounds takes time, and it's essential to be patient and understanding. While you can express your love and remorse, ultimately, the decision to continue the relationship lies with your boyfriend. Be prepared for the possibility that he may need more time to process his feelings or that he may choose to end the relationship. Whatever the outcome, use this experience as an opportunity to learn and grow as an individual.