speak directly

Human relationships are dynamic. They change and evolve and often get strained for one reason or another. Make it a habit and practice to be direct. It may be more uncomfortable initially, but it is the best way to address the source of the tension. Passivity and indirect conversation only add more layers of awkwardness to the relationship. Be direct; figure out where you stand so that the relationship is as clear as possible to everyone involved. This will not relieve the discomfort of the "unknown", but it will also allow for either a quicker restoration of the relationship or a quicker severing of the relationship. In either case, you have saved yourself wasted energy and spared unnecessary headache.