Addendum to the above: I think that is what frightens me a bit. That our good working friendship would change and become bad. I don't want to be misunderstood when I say this, but I need him. Not in a weird unhealthy codependent way, but he's been a source of support at work and as I've worked toward this degree. He's supportive and I trust him--there are only a couple of people in his role for whom I can say that, and I don't have quite the same type of rapport with them as I do with him. So yeah...I chose to pursue advancing where I am because of the handful of people, like him, from whom I've felt support and who I trust to have my back. It scares me to think that could crumble...you know?

Jeez...I guess I didn't realize that until just now.