I did this for eons, got way too scared of asking anyone else and was miserable when all my friends were in happy long-term relationships.

Got worse when someone I liked was also a work colleague. But I took the plunge and turns out when you talk to someone enough to be considered very close friends, and basically act like you're dating but without dating, it could be a strong possibility that they like you! Only been dating 10 months but they've been filled with so much joy.

Sometimes it's worth taking that plunge - if you keep it casual and suggest maybe trying dating instead of making it a big deal, it can be easier to backpedal if they say no.