These days, I tell stories mostly. The one about Lt. Dixon's Gold Coin seems to be a good one. What's more if the person doesn't want to take it as a flirt, it's still a good story.

Nope, probably not.

Those who are bad at something shouldn't venture to give tips.

Sometimes, sometimes not. I am notoriously bad for picking up these kinds of signals.

Love tends to be less strong initially I find, although in both cases one can lead to the other and they can co-exist.

Sometimes yes, sometimes no.

If you're already friends just talk frankly about it. I had a four year relationship with one of my best friends and even when it ended we stayed friends. Heck we're STILL friends although we don't have the time to spend with each other like we once did due to our other life committments.

On this one I have no idea as I can't imagine having same sex interests that way.

Sometimes, but frequently it's very very hard.

We've missed you!

There's only one way to find out. Don't waste the opportunity. Imagine if you did nothing and then found out years later that she did feel the same way?