It's hard to say who is Tom's best friend because he gets so stubborn about making them. Goopy is up there because she has hung around, put up with him, provided banter and company as well as pleasant dreams. Just like others, he denied it at first, as with most relationships he seems to form. But it blossomed into something else...However, admitting it is hard for him, and he much rather stand around and tease her when she teases him. Or call her rude names back after a round of UGLY launched at him.Also buddy wise, Clarice bumped into friendship status and one of the few that he won't shoot for picking him up. However, he hates being made to punch or wrassle. He would much rather do trick shots. Though he just sees her as a good friend and not one likely to turn on him. Those are VERY hard to find in the Mojave...
ALL OF TOMS RESPECT goes towards Dhalia, his teacher of course. He also has a slight respect for what James does because he is still helping people and practicing medicine when some people just want to "shoot the mutie".