wolverine,

Sorry brother but it looks tough for you without getting H1b. You finished your masters and for your stamping purpose if you get an I-20 it has to be for your Doctorate program not CC. If you go to Nepal in OPT, OPT is not your stamp for re-entry. Your OPT expires if you leave the country. so its better you apply for H1b. If in case you get approved for H1b and the company which I am guessing will be a consultant company gives you the paper it is possible you can go back home as you will still be under the change of status and can go back home until October. but the safest bet is to work for atleast 2-3 months under H1b so that you can show that you can survive in the U.S.

Hope this helps you out