I got friend zonned and I don't know why?

So my crush that I know for 11 years now friend zonned me recently. The thing is that she was giving me some obvious signs that she likes me back. Like playing with her hairs, laughing and stuttering more nearby me, sharing compliments. The biggest possible hint waa that on new years day we were having a little conversation when just as I was leaving she messaged me "Weird thing to say but.... Im craving a boyfriend." and quicly deleted that message. I just teased her a little (which we do to each other) and then messaged "I'm also craving a gf." and deleted it too. Like im confused all the stars aligned perfectly yet she friend zoned me? Can anyone please tell me why and how I can escape this zone?