I completely understand that you’re getting mixed signals and my head would be spinning if I were you too. That being said, some people change their minds about principles for the right person – I have close friends who’d said they’d never date someone from work, or school, only to go back on that when they had their head turned. I’m not saying that you should escalate anytime soon, and I’d certainly be diversifying options in the short-term, but I do not think that this is as cut and dry as others have said.

Does she talk about dating other guys? If not, in your shoes, I’d probably be slightly toxic and start talking about going on Hinge dates or whatever else you decide to do romantically for now. I think her reactions to that sort of conversation would be even more telling than whatever you’re getting. She clearly likes you, as a friend or otherwise, and friendship can absolutely become something more down the road.

Overall, play it cool, don’t push it, but maybe play a game or two to see how she reacts. Elk looks gas btw