It could mean he's not ready to have a direct conversation but is still interested in what's going on in your life. Maybe he's a bit shy or doesn't know how to respond to your text yet.
Perhaps he doesn't want to engage in a text conversation because it feels more pressured. Watching your stories is a more passive way of staying updated on you. He might be busy or preoccupied when your text comes in, but has time to quickly look at your stories during a break.
It might be that he's trying to keep his distance a bit while still showing some level of interest. Texting can often lead to deeper conversations that he may not be prepared for, whereas stories are just a quick glimpse into your world. He could be playing it cool or be unsure of his feelings towards you.
There's a possibility that he has some mixed feelings. Ignoring you could be due to a recent argument or some misunderstanding, but his curiosity about your life makes him watch your stories. It could also be that he's trying to send a signal that he's not completely done with you, but he needs some space for now.
You could try not to overthink it. Maybe send another light - hearted story or post and see if he reacts to that. Don't push him with more texts right away.
Perhaps he is just casually browsing and your stories happen to catch his attention. It doesn't necessarily imply a deep connection, but he might find your content engaging in some way. For example, if your stories are about your travels or hobbies, he could be interested in those topics.
It could be a sign that he has some level of curiosity or concern for you. However, it's hard to say for sure without knowing more about the context and your relationship with him.
Perhaps he doesn't want to be too forward by texting. Watching your stories is a more passive way of staying in touch. It could also be that he's just curious about your life in general but doesn't have the intention of starting a full - on conversation via text.
It could mean he's not ready to engage in a direct conversation. Maybe he's shy or doesn't know how to respond to your messages. But watching your stories is an easier way for him to keep up with what's going on in your life without the pressure of replying.
It could mean he is interested in you. Simple as that.
It could mean he's still interested in you on some level. Maybe he doesn't want to directly contact you yet but is curious about your life through your stories.
Perhaps he has some unresolved feelings. He might be in a situation where he can't or doesn't want to engage fully, but he still has an interest in your life. It could also be that he's just being nosy without any deeper intention.
It could mean he's still interested in you or what you have to share.