Instead of beating around the bush (no pun intended), perhaps it would be best to simply let her know how you feel but that you don't want to jeopardize your friendship with her if she doesn't feel the same way ... Of course, it could totally freak her out and you lose the friendship anyway ... Nevertheless, an honest conversation will let you know exactly where you stand and will get you out of all the discomfort you're feeling about what the heck to do with all this.