I filed, now he wants me to stop the process? Why now?

All along he has treated me badly. He was verbally abusive, and made it my fault that he couldn't communicate effectively. Last year we split, and I moved on with my life. I tried again for a short spell in January, and he was more abusive than ever (verbal). I have given him many chances. I finally had enough, and filed for divorce. This morning he sent me a letter pleading to reconsider. I think it is because it was me who filed first, and he detests losing at anything. I think it is another game. He wants us to go to counseling, but has always said they were idiots. He is manipulating my friends, and using my son. I loved him more than life itself for ten years - but I know that he is toxic to me. How should I respond or should I at all?