Why is he so hot and cold?

Ok, so I've been really good friends with this guy for almost two years now and several months ago things started to change in our relationship. He was really flirty, and attentive, and asked me to come and hang out with his friends a lot. (Something he rarely does with other people because he doesn't live in that great of an area.) He called me a lot and always tried to make a point to text me or do something as a group on our days off. So in return, I was flirty and tried to let him know that I was interested too. Jump to present day, we don't see each other everyday since we don't work together in the winter. He doesn't text me very often or call either. When he does come over we usually drink and hang out with one of his friends. This is usually when he says "I love you Jenn. I swear to god you are one of my best friends. I really do love you." Of course I reply the same. (It is true, he is one of my best friends.) Also a few times when he's been drunk he has grabbed my and was all touchy feely. And once again I try to reciprocate and flirt and all that junk. But like I said before, he doesn't call or text like he used to. I call or text every week but I don't want to seem clingy or be "that girl." What the hell is up??? Does he like me or not??? I know I should just say something but I don't want our friendship to suffer if he doesn't like me in return. I would like to take things to the next level, but what do I do? Sorry for rambling, just needed to get it off my chest.