So I think if you have been friends with him for this long then you could be looking at having a fantastic relationship with him if you choose that. Sometimes when we don’t think of people in that way we get used to it, but then when we actually get involved with them it can be really meaningful. I am in a similar boat to you. I have had a girl best friend (I am male 17) for 6 months but I learnt that she really likes me from her friends and when I starter seeing things from this new perspective I realised very quickly with a fully awake mind that I felt the same way, and it has been a very rewarding experience entering into a relationship with her and I love her very much. It sounds like he really likes you and you could have something special, so follow your heart, but also consider how quickly you could start feeling the same way from this new perspective. Good luck and let us know what happens!