Cas: Good point. Girls generally dont want to be seen with someone whom their friends view as low value. Or, as they perceive it to be. Even if she might like you (a lot), if she THINKS her friends won't - she won't either. A lot of them have a herd-like mentality, and they DO talk, gossip, and seek the approval of their friends behind your back. All of those comments they receive DOES determine how they will act towards you. Nevermind that their friends dont have their best interests at heart, sabotage and compete all the same, but *****es are dumb like that. Some of their friends are guys, as well.
Especially if you come off as not high status - showing too much interest and affection, acting needy, insecure, weak, etc - they won't want to be seen with you around their friends.
Another thing, which was touched upon earlier, is her not wanting to be seen as taken in public, so that she can keep her options open. Her friends probably know her ex, and she doesn't want them telling him about your public affection. Or him seeing you with her. Or other guys in general. Her friends probably asked what was up with you and her, and she probably told them you were just friends - to save her own ass, and keep her options open / maintain her social status. Then she immediately told you she needs space and blah blah - while she weeds through her other options (ie, her ex).
10-1, if you kept it private, she would've been all for it, and never said anything. She would've probably slept with you, and the whole nine - only to deny it, and continue repeating that you're just friends.
Don't doubt any of this. *****es do this kind of crap all the time. Very sneaky, conniving, and under-handed - while wanting to be perceived as wholesome and genuine. Many of them are players and status *****s. Feelings my ass. It's not all just a coincidence, either. *****es are smart.
For whatever reason - most likely her ex - she doesn't want to be seen with you in public. That's basically saying she doesn't respect you. **** that. :nono: