[silver_pilate]

I agree....

IF they break up, and I mean really break up, you might try asking your buddy how he would feel if you were to ask her out. I wouldn't do it otherwise.

Another thing to watch for...a year is a long time. Given, it doesn't sound like they've got the best of relationships, but hey, a connection develops between two people after that length of time.

What you don't want to have happen is you ask her out...things go great for a while...then she throws the breaks on giving you some crap about needing time to sort some things out...or time to learn to enjoy being single again. Before you know it, she's dumped you and picked back up with your buddy where they left off. Believe me...I know...I've been there, and few things suck like that does.

I guess, like I've said, if they've really broken it off, and she's 100%...make that 754% over your buddy, and it's all good with you friend, go for it. What have you to lose other than several weeks...maybe months of your preciously short life, your pride, your self esteem, your happiness, your heart handed to you in a blood soaked ash covered black box, and possibly your VERY SOUL!!!

Hope my cynicism didn't come through too much in that last bit .

Whatever happens with it...just enjoy it for what it is, and don't try to make it more than that. Take what you've got and cherish it while it's there. Have fun, and don't let 'em break your heart.

--nathan