It could be a few things, really. You could be genuinely displaying your serious intentions by reaching out not only to me but also to those I consider important in my life. You could also be cautious and trying to discern if I have friends you object to, or you could be trying to figure out more about me by finding out the sort of people I associate with. Any of those motives, though, would hint at a desire to pursue something on a deeper level.

[He leans back, crossing his arms as he considers. That last question is a bit loaded, obviously.]

Some of my friends aren't generally well-liked, but they're not likely to back out of my life on account of someone else, even if I tell them to. It would be... necessary.