Kicking Puppies 

To turn away a nice person that wants to date you; friendzone; just friends; platonic;

Called kicking puppies because the person who exposed their feelings is going to have their hopes crushed by your denial.

Commonly associated with the phrase, "You're a nice guy, but..."

"There are so many guys attracted to her that she'll have to get used to kicking puppies."

Kicking Puppies by timeMuse February 4, 2013