My long time male friend called me ‘gorgeous’

Rant:

Just like the title says my long time male friend called me gorgeous.

For context, we met at work back in 2018 or 2019. We both stopped working there for different reasons and at different years however we both had somewhat traumatic experiences at that job. I think in a way we are trauma bonded.

Fast forward to the last two years, we’ve only seen each other a handful of times. I send him lots of memes and tiktoks (we mainly communicate through Instagram)

He recently broke things off with his partner so he’s been struggling. Last Friday night he said he was drunk. I sent him a few funny videos and then I received THE message.

“Call me a piece of shit but you’re gorgeous”

I instantly felt anxiety and somewhat disgust. I didn’t want to be an asshole so I kinda laughed the whole thing off. He apologized… (which in theory he knows it wasn’t a good idea to tell me that) I didn’t respond back.

It’s like the rose colored glasses came off.

Not once have I ever made flirtatious advances towards him. His best friend is also a friend of mine so in that friend group I considered myself ‘one of the boys’. Id try to give him advice on life, relationships and parenting (he has a kid). The conversations and memes are always platonic.

Am I overreacting? Was he flirting with me? I feel uncomfortable now…we are supposed to go to a sporting event later this month but I know I will end up cancelling.

What sucks the most is that I can’t even be myself anymore. I can’t explain it but just thinking of the word “gorgeous”, getting ready for the day or taking photos makes me feel ugly. (I think its because taking photos and posting then on my IG story was the main way he would see me).

Im DREADING for the day he reaches out again. I want to delete my instagram but he can always reach out via cell number. I guess I have to take it one day at a time. Why did this have to happen on my birthday week!!