Dude, you can still be friends with this chick, just don't do it with your heart on your shoulder. There's no need to cut off ties with her, especially if you two have been friends a while.

I've had plenty of girls that are good friends slip away over the years for various reasons, and it's something I kind of regret doing now that I look back at it. Don't do things the same way I have. Live how you want, and with no regrets.

Best of luck, hombre ~