Dante differs from Ari in that he knows he is gay and although he questions whether he prefers kissing boys or kissing girls, he in his heart already knows the answer. Dante is in love with Ari but unlike his friend does not try to deny this. He tries to tell Ari a couple of times, but it is awkward and he ends up feeling rejected.
Dante is also different from Ari in general demeanor and character. He is confident and talented. He is a very good swimmer, an academic and interested in the classics of art and literature. He is very popular. He lives with his parents, they all demonstrate their love and affection, and they have an open and easy relationship. He is concerned that he will be letting them down when he comes out to them and has no idea they have already figured out that he is in love with Ari.