Yes, I've seen my T out and about in relaxed mode. It made me feel good to see him happy and well and being himself. There have been a few times when he was with his family when I saw him, but he didn't see me. I tried to stay back and give him his privacy and space. I have this fear that I may unintentionally do something to embarrass him. I really really want to respect him and want to show him that.

The friendship thing is always kind of weird for me. I know the boundaries would state that he can't be my friend, but he sure feels like one. Maybe ally would be a better term. He's an ally, but he can't be my friend outside of the room. Not because I'm not friendship-worthy or that he wouldn't have been if we'd met elsewhere but because it is what it has to be. Still feels like a friend in my heart, though. If that makes any kind of sense...