I forgot about this thread, and I thought I'd share what I think was a somewhat humorous outcome, in hindshight :shrug: [hint: bold shit]

:hs: Shortly after I made the thread, I asked her out, "sure" was the response, w/ a smile. Got her # a couple days later. Called a few diff. times, she never answered or returned call. Apparently she ended up getting back w/ her ex right around that time (timing being everything and all).

So... even though the awkwardness was horrific for a while (all me I'm sure), I'm glad I did it b/c through the process I learned a bit more about her and got a better sense of her as a person. Still think she's hot, but not interested at all in a relationship now.

In the end, my biggest initial fear (that it would be awkward and we'd never talk, etc. anymore) came true, but I feel it's best and I'm choosing to keep my distance (although I'm still nice and professional), so that I don't accidentally lead her on (I think she may be single again) and so I can be sure I don't start having any stupid feelings like that again.

Thanks again for the encouragement, I'm better off for having asked, and I realize just how right you guys were about me putting her on a pedestal.