When the two of you are in a light and jovial mood, try to get the conversation on the subject of dating and tell her, "I'd like to have a girlfriend but I can't find one I like as much as you." Don't ask her if she feels the same. If she does she'll tell you. If she doesn't tell you, say nothing further and accept that. Otherwise you may lose a friend and the chance of it becoming something more.
Relationships aren't like stairsteps where you're always obligated to take the next step. When a friendship becomes something more, BOTH people feel it and the process advances on it's own whether you hang a lable on it or not.
Answered Aug 22, 2010
Edited Aug 22, 2010