I think my friend likes me. What is the ethical thing to do here?

[JoeShmoe17]

I've been friends / hanging out with this girl for about two months now. At first we went on a "date" but nothing really happened and the consecutive times we hung out have mostly been in groups and seem platonic. We have fun hanging out though and we live close by and I've actually been looking for more friends in the area. It seemed like we were totally just buds. So, last night we were both at the same party and a bit drunk - I noticed she started being flirty with me (playing with my hair, trying to hold my hand at one point, etc.) It was very subtle but a light bulb went off "oh, she likes me." She's normally shy and not very forward so I think the alcohol played a big part. I just didn't really respond much and continued to act as I normally would, and we parted ways at the end of the night.

 

My question: what is the ethical/best thing to do at this point if I want to remain friends with this person and think she may like me? Can I just pretend I didn't notice and/or not mention it since she probably won't be that forward when she's not drunk? Or, should I have some sort of talk with her about it? Is there a way I can make it clear that I'm not interested without having to have an awkward "talk"? My plans were to just not say anything, but I'm not sure if that's the best route, and I wouldn't want to drag something out and hurt her feelings if she does like me.

 

What would you do, and what would you want the other person to do if you were on the other end of the situation?

[boogieboy]

Do the proper unselfish thing and have "the talk" with her. Doesnt have to be a major ordeal, just tell her youre not interested. But be prepared for her to blow you off altogether. She might not be able to hang with you after you let her down. Dont be a bastard tease either, dont keep her on the hook just because you dont want things to be awkward or because you need a friend, you'll get plenty other friends.