Does he like me, or am I just getting my hopes up?

Girl, are you anxious or what? He's just a curteous guy. It's nothing there but a friend. He thinks it's OK to talk the way he does. He's commfortable with you, so don't blow it. You've known him since 8th grade. You are just hanging on his every movement and yzing them and making something out of them. Typical woman looking for something! Just relax and just keep it mutual. If a move is to made, it will be him. just be the lady friend he still respects for now.