oh god, I read the whole thread today, can't belive It's been going on for so long.

about the latest girl, I'd be flirting and friendly at the same time, if you can manage that.
for example being very huggy and complimenting her, but NOT in a way that let's her think your interested.
she'll probably fall easier for you if you treat her like she's someone you'd want to have sex with rather than have as a girlfriend.
and when your sure she likes you, you heel her in and live happily ever after.

but then you shouldn't listen to me, I'm a strange girl, so I don't know how the usual kind works.