I think that's perfectly "normal". My XABF used to drive me crazy with what I felt was distancing himself by not texting, calling, etc., as much as I liked. And then when I expressed my feelings about that, he would increase the frequency for a few days, but then not really talk. It was like he was punishing me for "demanding" that he pay attention to me. He would just say something like, "Well I called, what else do you expect?". Ridiculous. How about acting like someone who cares...hello? Luckily, I have exes to think back on, who were interested in me and cared about my needs enough to call, etc., regularly...so I know it's not just a "guy thing" [to not call, etc]. And, who is this "friend" of his? Note...he is not your friend, is he? JMHO.