Elio would most likely be the handsome, talented, and charismatic male best friend/childhood friend that you're slowly falling in love with, in lieu of your original platonic relationship; it likely stems from taking full notice and appreciating the traits you've once overlooked because of how casual you two usually are.

There are a lot of awkward, blissful, and angsty moments between the two of you (nothing exaggerated, of course), which culminate in a mutual confession after a bit of introspection and realization from both parties.