The situation isn’t about you rejecting him or not liking him. it’s about how he’s handling vulnerability. The fact that he suddenly went cold after admitting his feelings shows he’s struggling with his own emotions, not necessarily yours. Shyness or social anxiety can make that kind of confession feel terrifying, and some people literally freeze or retreat afterward.
From what you describe, he’s not giving you the chance to even interact normally, which is a red flag for how he handles intimacy and emotional risk. It’s one thing to feel shy or embarrassed; it’s another to avoid you completely. That avoidance may indicate that he’s not ready for a romantic relationship or even a mature friendship at this point.
Your best move is to step back and give him space, without pressuring him or chasing him. Maintain the “soft landing pad” April Masini mentioned be approachable, warm, and consistent in your friendliness, but don’t try to force a conversation or push him into defining anything. If he’s capable of navigating his feelings, he’ll eventually come back to you.
At the same time, mentally prepare yourself that this might be as far as it goes for now. His retreat might mean the friendship has been affected, and it may take time or it might not recover. Focus on your own feelings and needs, and don’t stall your life waiting for him.
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