I have wrestled with this question for over 20yrs now and will ask you.
Best friend vs dearest friend. Sounds simple,,,
So,,of course your wife is you best friend and alia, this is a given.
You are allowed another best friend as well. Usually male or same sex as you.
Next runner up is your dearest friend who just doesn't have the title as best friend.
Which is better? To be considered a best friend, when there are 2.
Or to be a dearest friend and be number 1.