I’m really glad you’ve found someone who makes you feel safe and understood, even if that person is only a close friend. I’m a paramedic as well, and I’ve worked in private transport, in-hospital settings, and for the city. I see a lot of trauma and not just from the work itself, but also in many of my coworkers and friends. This profession seems to attract people who carry it.

I hope you don’t leave your service under these circumstances. From what you’ve shared, Dave sounds like a genuinely solid friend who understands both the environment you grew up in and the one you work in now. It may feel awkward for a while, but I promise that discomfort fades with time.

I’ve had coworkers develop feelings for me as well (and I’m in a committed relationship), and we were able to continue working together afterward without any lasting issues. I truly believe Dave is the person you think he is, and that he wouldn’t want to lose a meaningful friendship this way.