Have you ever used another number to try and get in touch with a friend?

[ThatGreyReader]

Bit of a strange one, I know. But say a friend suddenly stops replying - no argument, no falling out, just silence. You’re left wondering if something happened or if you’ve done something wrong… and eventually, curiosity (or worry) gets the better of you.

Have you ever used a different number - even just once - to try and get a reply? Not to harass, not to chase endlessly… just to know.

AIBU to think that sometimes, especially when things are left unexplained, it’s human to want closure - even if it means stepping slightly outside the “etiquette” box?

No, but I tried different routes. It was the early days of mass mobile use when it wasn't so easy to keep your number. She didn't use email, and didn't use her phone much - could have changed it. Some months after she cut contact with everyone I sent a Christmas card via her parents and put a card for them too as they had been lovely to me all through our teens and I usually sent a card. I just said I hoped they were all well. In the card to my friend I said that it would be good to hear from her and gave her my current contact details. Never heard back from any of them. A few years later I came across her younger brother who we used to take out with us when he was 12ish and we were late teens. We exchanged a few emails catching up, then I mentioned his sister and he went silent. I still don't know what went on, but it bothered me that something had happened to her. However, I didn't try again. I would never try to force contact by using a different number to trick her into answering.

A few years ago a mutual friend came across her bio on her work page (they are in connected industries). I was so tempted to get in touch but it didn't feel right.

If concerned for their welfare, and they didn't have family nearby who would notice an issue, I would.
If I just wanted closure on potential ghosting I'd work on letting it go.