I want to become closer friends, but I don't want them to ask me for some a$$

[Animate]

Originally Posted by Dionysus

How do you communicate that you would like to be good friends, but you don't "love them like that" (and not hurt their feelings)?

I think you just did. You just have to determine an appropriate level of good friends.

[TonyB06]

you're reading too much into stuff. stop acting (hot/cold) and just do you. If they get mad at your decision, then maybe they weren't friend material.