Could you kiss someone that you do not love?

[Buff]

This question has been really weighing heavy on my mind this week because it directly relates to the guy I really want to date.

I'm not talking about kissing a random guy/girl that you have no previous or future connection to. If its mutually understood that there is no connection beyond that moment, and you're both comfortable with that arrangement, go for it. I know most people have had situations like this, myself included. That didn't bother me, I knew there were no feelings attached from either of us.

Now the real situation that's bothering me: I've had feelings for a very good friend of mine for a long time (like 3 years). I've recently brought this to his attention--very directly, no hinting. When I kissed him, he kissed me back. This has been going on for a week, but we haven't discussed dating yet (although that's where I want this to go); I'm not sure what direction he sees this going. I try to be the optimist, but I've had some really hurtful past relationship experiences. I'm worried that he may not be sincere when he kisses me, although I don't think he could ever knowingly hurt me.

So my original question: Could you kiss someone that you do not love? (knowing they have feelings for you)

I know I have refused kissing/advances from guys in the past because I knew they had feelings for me and that those feelings were not reciprocated. I would rather be very upfront with them, instead of leading them on and hurting them later.