well i wouldn't say he considers me a "friend."

it's very strange. i mean, it's just the two of us, but he seems to be very happy in his own company. he'll ocassionally hop up to me, and he does give me nose nudges on my foot if i'm on the ground, but apart from this he will run if i'm even in the vicinity! maybe he doesn't like the ear creams as much as i thought, but i'm getting rid of it all or it might come back badly again... better safe than sorry.

i don't really mind him not liking me, and i'll take him to a rescue home once he's been snipped so he can choose himself a lady friend that is, unless he prefers his own company!

it might just take some time though, fingers crossed!

Ah, that is very sweet of you to accept him for his shyness.  It doesn't sound like "he doesn't like you".  These subtle behaviors though are actually positive signs as aloof as they may seem.  They are really his way of learning to trust you.  The nose nudges are how bunnies greet each other, so he's getting there.   Have you tried to confine yourself in a smaller area with him everyday?

I think taking him to a rescue group to find a friend is a wonderful idea!  Don't get discouraged if he isn't happy with the first few. Some bunnies are really picky, and like you said some bunnies do prefer to be solo, but that is unusual.