Well, you have one life to live. If she is really special, if you knwo she is meant for you, then go for broke, lay all the cards on the table, swing for the bleachers. The friend with whom she is currently affiliated is not your best bud… maybe an acquaintance. Tell him that you are going for her or not. But is she is really special, then go for it. You already realized the error of your ways by not asking her out initially. DOn’t compound the error!