I hate to say this, but do what she asked and give her a little bit of time. Don't rush it, just enjoy being friends with her, even if it is a little bit at a time. That's exactly what I meant, and exactly why I didn't recommend you doing so.

But there can be other girls too, that you can look at, and perhaps be friends (and maybe better later on). Don't knock yourself, just breathe and take some time...life may be a race, but you don't have to hurry to the finish line either.