<human>: Can you condense the text into three sentences or less?

Title should say "Hooking"

To elaborate, do you think adults that are close are destined to not work out if they hook up or date? A close friend of mine admitted that although he has thought about us hooking up on multiple occasions (but circumstances prevented it), he would be too afraid to now because we are so close and his dating track record would indicate that this may end with the loss of a friendship. 

I've heard some friends say his fear makes sense &  others say it's a cop out. My gut tells me that if he wasn't actually interested he wouldn't have admitted to having those desires before. But I'm conflicted. Any input would be great.
<bot>: friend admitted he has considered us hooking up but is scared to ruin the friendship. I can't tell if that is legitimate or a bunk excuse.