I have been spending time with a close friend for quite a while now and I’ve been wanting to ask

I have been spending time with a close friend for quite a while now and I’ve been wanting to ask her out on an official date. Over the past six months though it’s become harder to see her regularly. She recently stopped attending university and since she has ADHD classes were a struggle for her. I’ve known her for about 5–6 years and back in early 2024 I first asked her to hang out one-on-one. We continued meeting up after that and around New Year’s I hinted at my feelings by inviting her to celebrate with me alone. She picked up on it and told me she didn’t want me to get the wrong idea she wasn’t in the right mental state to pursue anything at the time. I respected that and we stayed friends.
Fast forward to tonight: I finally gathered the courage to ask her out but she dropped a bombshell she just got back together with her ex. I was floored. I got flustered my face turned red I was sweating and I think she noticed. I tried to carry on as if I hadn’t just heard the worst news.
Now I’m debating whether to send her a text. I want to apologize for being so flustered when she told me and admit that I had been planning to ask her out. I’d also like to tell her I regret being so introverted and lacking courage over the past year but that I’m happy she found someone. Most importantly I want her to know I’d still like to remain friends.
Do you think sending that message would be in bad taste or come across as cringe? Or should I just stay quiet? I feel like if I don’t say anything I’ll regret it for the rest of my life.

Last updated on:2025-12-12T23:01:02+05:30