It could be the case, as you have said by saying "she's hinted for a long time it's a front", that she is putting up a barrier right now in front of her true personality because she is afraid people will not accept or like her otherwise. Sometimes people act like they are "mean" or that they're "better than everyone else" when they feel insecure about themselves. If you were able to have "real talks" with her in the past where she expressed her true self there is a good chance you will be able to in the future again. Hopefully the more deep conversations you two have the more she will realize how much you understand and appreciate her, as you mentioned. Asking her "neutral questions" at the moment is a good approach in my opinion. Let her get to know you more deeply, and likewise you to get to know her more deeply, before you proceed with asking her out (or her to ask you out) if the right opportunity arises.