FO checking the numbers... hmm. interest of your friend, versus interest of girl and interest of you: 2vs1.
hm.. checking value of interests: current interest of you and current interest of girl against pretty outdated dream of friend.
For as much as you allow random anonymous people to influence your decision: Please don't let your friend stand in the way! FO think you only make things more difficult when starting to involve him in decision.
Anyway... are u ready for a relationship? I think you are. More importantly, do you like her too? probably yes.
I think answer is a big...
DUH!
frigid onanoko say goodbye now!