Put that way it's preposterous, but like that article said, that's what people tend to do subconsciously. I've been on the receiving end of that so many times -- you know that feeling when you know you're getting on great with people, but you realise they're not willing to take it any further/do more with you just because they already have enough friends to do stuff with? You're not part of that group, so you're put in the wider circle of friends, no matter what.

For myself... If I like someone, I have to be friends with them. It doesn't matter how many friends I have -- the only thing that matters is what they feel about it. If they're willing, then they're in. I act by my heart -- too impulsive, but that's how it is.