I have close Friend's who have never played Poker, and I have Friend's I have made through playing Poker, but once you hear "Shuffle up and Deal" and the cards are in the air, all bets are off, and we want to destroy each other on the felt.
When we reach the break, we can become Friend's again, laughing and joking with each other, but once we return to the table, We become Fierce enemies wanting nothing more than to take each other's chips.
That is the nature of the game, and we have to accept there will be casualties, but to lose Friend's over a stupid game is not what you are looking for, remember Poker is a game, and should be played as such.
When the fun Stops, STOP!