Q - Dear Annabelle, I've known this girl for seven months, and I've gotten to know her pretty well during that time as we have become good friends. Lately, though, I have begun to like her as more than a friend. I've been told that she likes me as well, but I'm not 100% sure. I did tell her the way I feel, but she said that she sees me only as a great friend, but I have a feeling that she was covering up her actual feelings. Should I ask her to "go out" with me without knowing how she truly feels about me? A - Dear Walter, ......yes. On the one hand you canāt read her mind, on the other hand, because she felt one particular way at the time you confessed your feelings to her doesnāt mean sheāll continue to feel that way for eternity. The worst that will happen if you go out with her is that youāll get to know each other....(not in the Biblical sense), and your fantasies about her will be modified by reality. Is that good or bad? Youāre 17, at this age feelings are, 1. __Intense 2. __Changeable. 3. __Confusing 4 __All of the above Go to the local pizza or ice cream parlor, or even to the library or a film........the Īoldā stuff still works. You know, Walter, one of the reasons why the 50ās keep making a comeback is that, back then, things were Īrealā...so, when a guy likes a girl, whether itās Īrealā or not, the feelings are real...no fabulous special effects, just real, warm, nice stuff. Taking a girl out for a date, even if sheāll be no more than just a good friend, is usually a good idea. It doesnāt have to be fancy or cost a lot........the most important ingredient in any relationship is the two people in that relationship. And, if theyāre Īfriendsā, well the very BEST of friends get married........thatās what makes a good marriage..........but it starts with the simple stuff........friendship. Good luck to you, and, remember to have fun! - Annabelle