I only read the first paragraph and it reminded me of Connor. I'd known him since 5th grade and never did I like him as... a boy (haha). Though, in 8th grade I started liking him because we were (ironically) in health class together:) About a month of liking him I was going to tell him I liked him. I did it *cheers*, he told me he used to like me a month ago *cries*. I'm sorry:/
If you don't like your other closest guy friend tell him that. Sit down and talk to him. He's embarrased, like we all would be if that happened to any of us. Make sure he understands that you won't treat him differently because you know that he likes you and that your friend sent that text. Hope that helps:)