I (20M) have a best friend who I've known for almost 3 years now, and she's seen me in the highs and lows of my relationships. I initially friendzoned myself just because we were in similar groups of friends within university and I didn't want the complications of a relationship within my primary friend circle. But things are different now and our friendship is pretty much a one on one thing rather than part of a big group. I'm not madly in love with her, but objectively I think she's someone that I would want to try dating because she's someone I trust, have known for a long time, find emotionally stable, and am on the same wavelength with on most things. I tend to otherwise date hot crazy girls that I've known for less than 2 weeks (and that ultimately ends up in flames and tears).

I know there's a bit of sexual tension there but I feel like we both think the other person is not interested as more than friends. I tease her that she's too picky with guys, and she rebuts that the guys who ask her out are weirdos. Then her example of a not weird guy is, well, me. She loses track of time when we're together, etc.

My current approach is slowly escalate for the next 2 - 3 weeks and then there's an event that we're both going to and will both be getting lots of alcohol. And that's when I'll bring up that 'why don't you and I give dating a shot, even though we've been friends for so long'. Then go in for the kiss if the response is positive?

I'm not very experienced with seduction, I tend to trip and stumble my way into girls beds by relying on good looks and an open book personality. Any pro tips would be much appreciated. I do have an inherent fear of losing her as a friend if things get awkward, so advice on that is also worth it.