I guess, that if he gives you a plaster through his friend, it means he is shy to approach you himself. It wouldn’t be the case, if you were friends only. You’ll find great pieces of April’s advice here on RelationshipAdviceForum.com. If you don’t want to risk your friendship, try to be creative. You are a woman, you may find ways to hint him that you are interested in something more than just friendship. For example, next time you’ll be laughing at something together, kiss him gently on cheek. If he won’t accept it warmly, then just smile and tell him it was just in the hit. Good luck!