WTF why can’t me and friend SMS

So my friend and I cannot sms each other - he doesn’t receive and I don’t receive sms…

T-Mobile vs Verizon (but here is the crazy part I’ve had multiple carriers over the years - and lit today we still can’t sms…

And I’ve worked in the cell industry - but wtf?

Why can’t our phones text — AND IT BEEN FROM MULTIPLE PHONE NUMBERS

(No, neither of us has blocked one-another!)

Anyone have some hints?