Okay.. there is this girl with whom I have been friends for years now. I've always wondered and wanted it to be more, but somehow I was thrust into a platonic relationship and have become "like a brother" to her. Now anyways, I was away for a few years, and when I came back she had acquired a new boyfriend, but when she was telling me about him, her first words were, "oh, but it's not serious". So I suppose what I'm saying is... what do women feel about platonic relationships... is it wise to try and pursue a romantic relationship with her. And... well... basically .... what should I do.

It seems important to her that the first thing -you- need to know is that it's "not serious". I wonder why?

Be honest SA, to yourself and to her about your feelings I say. It would be sad to think that all this time, she has thought more of you than you realized. And if in the end, if your honesty results in a broken friendship, I think no matter how hard it may be, you may find yourself released in time from your deeper affection for her and be able to move on. The one for you is out there and it may be her, but you'll never know unless you overcome your fear, be honest and ask her. I think Ben may have some thought's on this...

The pain of regret will last much longer than the pain of honesty.

My :2cents:, for what it's worth.

~Cowbell

SA...I have just such a relationship with a best friend of mine...I was usually with someone else and he was always there for me...so much so that he became 'like a brother'....and though I couldnt ask for a better man or friend...there ya go..I dont know how to get pass it...I wish I did.

Mate in my exsperiance on this plannet and so much crap that you go through i recon that you should ask her all you need to do is say in a casual way, (insertnam) listen i was wondering if you wanted to go for a meal with me ? and look at her face for signs and then take it from there pal, if she says no wih i very much doubt you can always say it changes nothing, I am still there for you as a mate or something.