What’s happening here?

Has he had a change of mind? Is he a player? Or is this just him being nice/friend zone? I would screenshot the insta messages, but I heard it notifies the other party so I’m not doing that lol. Anyways, I posted a throwback picture of me stating how young I was there. It was a nice and pretty picture of myself. Guy who we tried to make things work early summer said it was too hard due to our 4 hour distance and decided he didn’t want to give it a go and see where things went as he had a lot on his plate and admitted he probably shouldn’t be seeing anyone until he figures things out. I was hurt but respected his preferences. We’re friends BUT he is flirty with me here and there and when we hung out a little over a month ago (he invited me on a group weekend trip) we ended up hooking up (NOT my proudest moment 🫠) kissed me, was cuddly, etc. and I went along and acted chill since we’re not an item and went back home. Last week he invited me to come out skiing, and how I’d be fun with me and if he visited also. Anyways fast forward and he liked and compliments the pic after asking how old I was there. After responding back to his question, he replies “still looking good” followed by “looking hot 🥵” I didn’t know how to respond except thank him, as I’m thinking “okay…that’s not what “friends” say to each other.” At least I don’t talk to my male friends like that. But like is that a friend zone compliment? Cuz why say long distance is “too hard” but then after a few months pass suddenly he acts interested by doing little things like such. Im trying not to overthink. Do I still like him, yes. Will I tell him that? probs not because of pride. Are we possibly liking each other in silence, idk? No I’m not waiting on him, I’m doing my own thing and moving on with my life and am happy, but like bruh, I know he likes me and it’s annoying he cant just fess up instead of beating around the bush with subtle hints. Do I bluntly ask and embarrass myself asking him what’s up, cuz I don’t have time for confusion to linger around at my grown age, haha. Truth is, I’m a lover girl, I can’t do nonchalant chill fwb pretend crap. I’m not built for that.