It's challenging to pinpoint the exact reason why he might be staring at you without more information about the specific context and his behavior. However, there are a few possible explanations for his actions:
Curiosity: He might be curious about your reaction to the end of the friendship and how you are doing after the rejection. When someone ends a close friendship, it can leave the other person wondering about their emotions and state of mind.
Regret or guilt: It's possible that he regrets the way things ended between you two or feels guilty about the impact of his rejection on your friendship. His staring might be a way of expressing his feelings of remorse.
Unresolved feelings: Even though he stated that he didn't like you back, there's a chance that he may have some unresolved feelings or confusion about the situation. Staring could be a way of processing those emotions.
Trying to rekindle the friendship: His staring might be an attempt to reestablish a connection or show interest in rebuilding the friendship. He might miss the bond you once had and want to see if there's a possibility of reconnecting.
Feeling uncomfortable: His staring might not necessarily be positive. He might feel uncomfortable around you due to the tension that arose from the rejection and the subsequent end of the friendship.
Communication barrier: Perhaps he wants to talk about the situation but doesn't know how to initiate a conversation. Staring might be his way of seeking an opportunity to communicate.
Habitual behavior: Sometimes people stare or maintain eye contact without intending to convey a specific message. It could be a habitual behavior that doesn't carry any significant meaning.
To gain a better understanding of his intentions, it might be helpful to have an open and honest conversation with him, if you feel comfortable doing so. This conversation can provide clarity on his feelings and motivations behind the staring. However, if you are not interested in rekindling the friendship or find his behavior uncomfortable, it's important to assert your boundaries and make it clear that you need your space.
Remember, communication is key in resolving misunderstandings and maintaining healthy relationships. However, prioritize your emotional well-being and do what feels right for you in this situation.