Girl Friend versus Girlfriend

What's the difference between a girl friend and a girlfriend?

How does one move from a long-time, platonic friendship with a girl into a relationship?

Thanks!
- SecretGuy

you should take her out and actually show more affection towards her. hint at her that you are interested in being more than friends. raverboy

How do I show affection without scaring her away? We have a good friendship now. We go to movies. We go on nature walks. We go to hockey games. Still, we've never kissed or held hands or touched each other in any way. I'm not sure HOW to show affection to a friend, yet I want our friendship to turn into something more What, specifically, might I try?

Thank you.
- SecretGuy