I’m not sure…I’m really not an expert. I just know that I am 38 now and I know that taking a back seat in life will not get you closer to your dreams. I would not want to put her on the spot to where she feels she has to make a decision to want you romantically OR be your freind.
When I did it, I brought up a moment in the past that I wish had turned out different and listened for her response.