Well, I (34M) finally got the chance to meet up with my friend (35F) for coffee (see the link for context). We had a good conversation for about an hour until she had to leave. The conversation was warm and natural, and it has fairly well confirmed my interest. When she left she said, “we should do this again sometime.”

I would say it went well, but it is probably well within the category of friendship at this point. I’m still trying to figure out next steps because I want to be discerning and honor her in the process.

Some friends are telling me to try to meet up a couple more times over the next several weeks and see if things progress before taking the plunge and sharing my intentions. However, others are saying I should just ask her out since we are both in our 30s and more mature.  Either way I’m not sure what the best timing is and I don’t think it's wise to rush things until I find a little more clarity. I almost feel stuck in the middle.

I just want to take the wisest path is since I have known her for about 13 years and I just recently found myself interested. I certainly don’t want things to linger and become ambiguous. I just want some input so I can do this in the most God honoring way.

What would you suggest? Has anyone been in a similar situation? Ladies, if a longtime friend started being more intentional, what would make you feel most comfortable and respected?

UPDATE: Advice On Asking Out Longtime Friend