<human>: I'll try keep it short. 

Seven or eight years ago, my best friend and I were a "couple" for two weeks. I was still in school, got bullied often and because of that, was very shy and too scared too even hold her hand. She split up with me. No specific reason. I get it wasn't a relationship more of consent that I could say she was my girlfriend.  She has not had a boyfriend since and I don't believe she's ever slept with anyone. 

We've been best friends for nearly ten years, maybe a bit more. We are at the centre of a very strong friendship group. However, for the last God knows how many years, I've been in love with her. I got out of a 3 and a half year relationship around 9 months ago with someone else. I loved and cared for her deeply, but it just wasn't working. I would like to state that this isn't a rebound. 

Now my best friend and I are very close. She doesn't flirt but neither do I. She's not interested in anyone else as far as I'm aware. I would almost certainly know if she was. 

Things that are different now compared to last time: I'm much more confident than I was. I feel we are closer now than we ever have been. She now has to permanently use a crutch or a wheelchair. I do not care about that. If it matters, I feel I am somewhat better looking than I was. 

I've read a lot on here about what it's like to be in a relationship with your best friend. Everyone says it's incredible. I want that. Should I go after it and how do I go about it? If I got declined, it would be awkward and possibly damage our friendship but we've known each other so long, I know we'll get over it.

Can you summarize the given text in a few sentences?
<bot>: should I ask my best friend of ~10 years out, if no, why? And if yes, how?