Q&A for How to Ask Someone if They Like You As a Friend

First, I'd validate their feelings and tell them that you know how much bravery that took. Then, I would just explain that your friendship is really important to you and that you don't want to compromise that. It's okay to be a little frank and straightforward too, but only if you think it's appropriate based on your relationship.

If they're consistently inconsistent, there are a few things that could be going on here. They might be the type who likes playing games, in which case it might be advisable to just be straight up with them and ask what's going on. Alternatively, they could be a naturally flirtatious person. In either case, pay attention to how they interact with you when a lot of other people are around. If they pay special attention to you and they seem to gravitate towards you, they're probably interested in you.

Pay attention: does this person choose to be around you when they can be around other people? Do they try to spend time alone with you? Do they seem happy when you come over to talk to them? Does their body language send signals (like, they sit with their knees pointed towards you when you're sitting at a table)? If yes, chances are they have feelings for you. But if you want to be sure, ask them to hang out together some day and see where it goes.

There are differences between romantic attraction and normal "friend" attraction. If the boy frequently tries to flirt with you or tries to spend one-on-one time with you, that could be him having a crush on you. If he blushes when he sees you or frequently compliments you, that could also be a sign. He might "accidentally" touch your hand or bump into you, which is also a sign of a crush. If he just wants to be friends, he probably just wants to talk to you normally. He won't compliment you excessively or act all nervous or flirtatious around you. You could even try to ask him about this.