After you file

He doesn't even need to know you filed a return.  It won't affect his return at all.  As long as you check the box on your return that says someone else can claim you.  He won't even find out unless you both claim yourself.  In fact if you have over $6,300 of W2 income you have to file a return.  And if you have any 1099Misc you have to file it no matter how small it is.