Why does my guy friend avoid hugging me except the holiday?

[Anonymous]

So, I'm in a relationship and his friend (and my friend) we've all been friends for years. At the end of every hangout, he hugs everyone but me. However, on Christmas this was the first time he bought me gift in all the years I've known him. We have been getting closer and having deeper talks and he complimented my jacket. I was actually shocked that he gave me anything at all. I felt really appreciative. I finally just said, "I want to hug you." He said, "Ok" giving me permission to do so. We gave each other the tightest hug and I have to say this felt like a different hug. He's taller than me so my arms were under his and his arms were around my waist. I wondered if something more is going on. I felt his chest and everything. My head was laying on his shoulder. I don't know why but it felt good to finally hug him and I could tell he enjoyed it too. He always seemed so nervous before. He's just changed his relationship with me. Is this normal guy friend behavior?

[SueShe]

There are different scenarios possible with his behavior.

Either he was too shy to hug you before because he had feelings for you and did not want to show them openly or he did not want to give you the wrong impression. You seemed to have had a crush on him for a while and you were afraid it would not be reciprocated.

Your reaction tells me that you did like him for a while but you would not acknowledge it or let him know about it.

The fact that he did not pull away when you hugged him is a sign that he finally has let his feelings free.

Perhaps the start of something new?

[strateguy632]

Yes! It is normal.

I had a similar issue.

I wouldn't hug a lady who was in a relationship... until i realized people did casual hugs, so i started. That is what he just discovered.

[In_Trance]

He doesn't like you that much

[Anonymous]

I guess because you’re taken already