Always remember that alcoholism is progressive.
The alcoholic, should they continue to drink, is not going to be the same person a year from now or five years from now. The longer they drink the more alcohol they need to chase that original high (which is generally a huge amount after several years). I'm sure you have seen this in the time you have been with him.
Aside from the other physical effects, alcohol affects the brain and the way it reacts and functions.
So the guy you knew two years ago, behaviours he may have exhibited, feelings he may have been able to FEEL may well be completely taken over by this drug and what it does.
Again, alcoholism is progressive. There is no such thing as a "high functioning" alcoholic. This is just a phase of alcoholism, not a type. They are functioning ok, until they are not.
Don't take it personally, he wants to drink, he needs to drink and yes, he is happy sitting in his motel room with his drinks.
It is addiction.