Guess we'll just have to agree to disagree then...

Normal interaction at a social function with young girls will not make you a suspected pedophile. Especially when you're having dinner with them at a restaurant or at their home. You're not exactly a stranger, it's more like you're a new acquaintance who will be treated with all the niceties they have. Also, when you do come out to a friend, I think it proves the point that you're a stand up person even further if they've seen you interact with kids in the past in an exemplary way.

That said, we all have to make our own way through life, and you should do what works for you. I just felt like it was worth pointing out to you that I think that a lot of this stuff is in your head. Yes, there is a fair amount of pedophile hysteria sweeping this country right now, but that doesn't mean that we're going to be suspected every time we have an innocent interaction with a kid. Much of this hysteria is still focused on stranger danger, and if you're an invited guest of a mutual friend, you really don't fit that bill. Just some food for thought, my friend. I hope you are well, good luck with your friend and with interacting with girls :).