I'm scared of ruining our friendship because of it
Do you think he'd be less upset if you broke up with him before telling?
He'd understand it even if I broke up with him before telling.
I think you should just tell him. You might want to save the relationship if you can, it sounds like you really love them.
He'll be fine, he's not such a crybaby.
I hope you guy's have a long heart filled conversation about it. Have you thought abought maybe bringing in a neutral 3rd party to help open a dialogue?