If the friend has a "secret crush" on her, WHY THE HECK WOULD HE ATTEMPT TO DISCOURAGE THE FOCUS OF HIS ATTENTION?????
I obviously wasn't clear, or you have a comprehension issue. (Either one will work.... ). Not discourage his attention, discourage the attention of the one she is interested in.
Oh, now it's all so much more clear....like knowing she is female, without knowing what's "between her legs."
Okay. You're not reading her posts......... I understand now........
(Well sorta.....).