I don't know if he read the email I sent. Should I ask?

You should talk about this openly with him. If he did read your email but found he likes being free, this is something you should know so you don't keep your hopes up. If he didn't read your email, he needs to know how you feel. Just tell him whatever you said in the email and take it from there. But, if he wants to stay friends only, don't be hurt. This whole thing was your idea at the start. Also, long distant loves are hard to handle. It might be wise to stay the way you are until you can be together again. Good luck!