Emotional blackmail

You're in a very difficult situation but since you are not directly involve in their relationship just prepare yourself for your friend. We are not really sure what will be her boyfriend's reaction once he found out that she was lying. He might find it sweet or the situation might irritate him and led him to break your friend's heart. On the later scenario is where you should be. You have to be there for your friend. Being in love can really make us do crazy things - and that was your friend is currently doing :)

Being emotional is feasible in a relationship. Sometimes problems crawl up in between. But, that's where we have to learn to built up understanding. The whole basis of a successful relationship depends more on understanding rather than the love between each other. It seems like there is a lack of understanding between the two. And as per the details given, it seems there is some problem related to family also. In that case, if I were him, I try my best to maintain a balance, and if she co-operate with me, then I'm sure there will be no more problem. But, if at last things doesn't turn up as we want,then I will choose my family. It's obvious, my responsibility towards my family is greater than anything else before I get married. As for her pretending so, it's justifiable upto certain extend. She love's him very much and so she wants him back. She thought of a way to attract his attention. If she didn't do anything childish, I hope he will understand her emotions. But, at the same time, she is matured enough to understand the consequences if she gets far from the limit. Hope everything turns up the way they have wished .

I think your friend should start being emotionally independent from her boyfriend. And well, if you won't mind as a friend, maybe you can help her out. Tell her those things she can't see by herself. Make her realize and feel the reality that has blinded her. It would be a very horrible case if she won't become better and suffer later on.