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As for his feelings for or about you... it's very likely that he still has feelings for you... and not just hurt feelings; but loving feelings as well. You see, Love doesn't die easily... emotional ties prevail for a long time after break-ups... sometimes people never get over lost love... even in the face of painful past reminders.
With that said, it's my guess that he's afraid of getting hurt again so he's maintaining what, in his mind and heart, is a healthy or safe distance. That distance is what is called, "self-preservation." And, that sense of "self-preservation" usually takes on the form of an "emotional wall," kind of like that barrier that you described. So, when people don't want to relive heartache and disappointment they harden themselves.
Now, the big question is, how does one break through that barrier?
Time... effort and trust. But, you'll probably have to start from square 1... which means that you'll have to re-establish a friendship starting with constructive dialogue. Try and find that commonality that brought you both together in the first place.
From that, hopefully, a renewed and healthier friendship will flourish. Maybe, you can re-connect and recaptured what you once had... maybe, you can't. Just realize that rejection is a real possibility. And, you may have to settle for a friendship and nothing more. But, if you don't try, you'll never know.
Good luck!