Q. Longtime reader, first-time writer. I’m a 33-year-old single woman and I’m in love with my 30-year-old single work husband. (Just in case that term isn’t a familiar one for readers, “work husband’’ is a platonic BFF of sorts that you work with, who is as close as a spouse.)

My work husband is also a friend outside of work and one of the most supportive people in my life. We have chemistry. We have inside jokes. Our mutual friends think we should be dating but, alas, he has never made a move. I hate to risk losing what we have because I adore him, but I would much prefer he be my real-life boyfriend and future husband instead of my work husband. Can I transition us out of the space we’re in?

Work Spouse to Real Girlfriend,

Burlington

A. Everyone in this situation is single. Whew.

It sounds like you guys are close enough outside of work to have a quick talk about the state of your union. It’ll take some courage, but you can ask whether he’s ever thought about more. You can tell him that you’ve developed some feelings and can’t figure out what to do with them.

Yes, the disclosure might make things awkward, especially if he doesn’t feel the same way, but it’s already uncomfortable. You’re pining. You might as well get some answers.

The fact that he’s a real-life friend makes this easier to navigate. He’s not just a co-worker who disappears at the end of the day. He’s in your life. You’re allowed to ask what that means.

(Just don’t use the phrase “future husband.’’ That would be bad.)Meredith

READERS RESPOND:

There are PLENTY of other single dudes in their 30s, OUTSIDE of your workplace.

GDCATCH

Yeah, but . . . the drama! The secrecy! The intrigue! HARRISBLACKWOODSTONE

She’ll never find another Mulder. I say give her a break. Go for it Scully! YIPPYSKIPPY

Nowhere in here do you mention that he wants to date you, has ever brought up wanting to date you, has ever seemed like he wanted to date you??? I could be wrong, but in my experience, most times if someone wants it to happen, they’ll at least put it out there at one point. I’d guess you’ve been friend-zoned.

JACKIEFORREAL

Except she wants to date him and has never said anything. Not saying it doesn’t mean it’s not on his mind. He may have the same concern she does. KITKAT

It’s worth taking a risk if it’s something you can’t move past, but consider the consequences of your actions and what would happen to the work environment if things go sour with your attempt at a relationship. Is it worth all the awkward moments for you and everyone else in the office if this doesn’t work?

-RICH1273

Find another job and THEN approach work-husband. The prospect of your leaving might also impel him to action. VCWRITER

How does one consummate a work marriage? SUNALSORISES

“Our mutual friends think we should be dating.’’ People say this ALL the time, as if it matters what your friends think. And i love the way you gloss over dating and just want him to be your husband. You haven’t even kissed him yet! Slow your role. Find out if he even likes you before picking out the china.

BOSTONSWEETS21

He can’t read your mind. You can’t read his mind. Tell him what’s on your mind. Ask what’s on his mind. If you don’t ask his answer will always be no. If you do ask his answer might be yes. Hopefully his answer will be yes. ADAM61

“We have chemistry. We have inside jokes. . .’’ This is why a lot of workplaces have policies against dating people at work — potential fallouts create too much drama and affect the entire workplace. You should consult your HR handbook to see what your company says about this. SASSIESADIE

Column and comments are edited and reprinted from boston.com/loveletters. Send letters to meredith.goldstein@globe.com.