Based on the information you provided, it's possible that your male friend became angry because he might have interpreted your response as offensive or hurtful. Let's break down the situation:
Context: Your male friend told you the price of the coffee, which might imply that he was offering to pay for your coffee or at least sharing the information with you.
Your response: "I don't need your money." While you may have intended this as a light-hearted or friendly remark, it's essential to consider how it could be perceived.
Potential reasons for his anger:
Misinterpretation: Your friend might have misinterpreted your response, thinking that you were rejecting his offer to pay for the coffee. He could feel that his gesture was misunderstood or unappreciated.
Feeling embarrassed or humiliated: Publicly declining someone's offer or dismissing their kindness may make them feel embarrassed or humiliated, which could lead to anger as a defense mechanism.
Communication style: Sometimes, different communication styles or sensitivities can lead to misunderstandings. What may seem harmless to one person might come across differently to another.
Past experiences or emotions: His anger could be triggered by past experiences or emotions, making him more sensitive to certain responses.
To address the situation:
Apologize and clarify: If you believe your response caused him distress, it's essential to apologize and clarify your intention. You can explain that you didn't mean to offend him and that you appreciate his gesture.
Listen to his perspective: Allow him to express how your response made him feel and listen without interrupting or becoming defensive. Understanding his point of view can help resolve the issue.
Choose words carefully: Be mindful of your words in the future, especially when responding to gestures or offers of kindness. Sometimes, it's better to be gracious in accepting a gesture and then reciprocate in some way later.
Offer a solution: If you feel comfortable, suggest a way to make amends, such as treating him to coffee next time or doing something else enjoyable together.
Remember that communication can be complex, and misunderstandings happen to everyone. The key is to address the issue with empathy, open-mindedness, and a willingness to find a resolution.