You reappear randomly in an ex's life- why?

He was falling hard and fast for me last year, but things ended because he had a serious drinking problem. He says I'm the reason he finally got help and went to AA, because I showed concern more so than anyone else close to him.

He started a relationship after a few months and cut off all contact because he thought his new gf would be bothered by me. I've never had an issue staying platonic friends with exes, but respected his decision.

So, what the hell is his motivation for contacting me late last night and asking me "What's going on?" ..?

Tell us more about "him" sign and age... I probably won't be much help since I'm the queen of toxic relationships but maybe I can help you figure out why.

He's 32 year-old Aries. He said he couldn't *just* be friends, and didn't want to rock the boat with his new relationship. I said fine.

But every other month he'll email me asking how I am and telling me he's there if I want someone to talk to. Except that when I text him every so often to see how he is (he's got a serious illness he deals with), he never answers. So, why continue to contact me randomly reaching out? Very confused.

Is it an ego thing?