If you’re reading this article, it’s one of two things: you like someone, but you’re not quite sure if they like you back, or you’re starting to think this person really likes you, and you want to be sure before dipping your feet into the water.

It’s fine, we’ve all been there. Wondering if they’re being nice “just because they’re nice,” or if there’s a tiny sprinkle of something more. And if you’re a hopeless romantic like I think you are (why else would you go through the effort to read this article?), you’ve probably already started imagining what life would look like with this person in it. And honestly? You’re loving the thought, you just want to be sure.

Well, you can never know for sure, but here are a few signs that definitely point in that direction:

1. They Give You the Look-But-Don’t-Look Glance

They steal tiny glances at you whenever they think you aren’t paying attention. The moment you catch them, they look away with that shy, half-guilty smile. It’s the universal language of quiet affection.

2. They Text You With Warmth and Intention

Their messages feel thoughtful. They send emojis, memes, little jokes, tiny ways of saying “I enjoy talking to you.” They reply quickly, check up on you, and respond to your stories with almost suspicious consistency. They’ve comfortably become one of your top chats, and you know it didn’t happen by accident.

3. They Watch Your Stories Like It’s Part of Their Daily Routine

They are always first to view your stories, react to your posts almost instantly, and even show love to older photos like they suddenly did a deep dive into your page. If you go quiet for a day, they notice. And they care.

4. They Laugh at Your Jokes and Try to Make You Laugh Too

Even your average jokes suddenly become hilarious to them. They laugh wholeheartedly when you speak and playfully try to make you laugh in return. At some point, it becomes obvious that your happiness matters to them.

5. Their Friends Tease Them When You’re Around

Their friends behave like they know a secret. They tease them when you show up, exchange knowing looks, or jokingly say things like, “You two would make a cute pair.” Meanwhile, your maybe-crush blushes, stammers, or becomes extra shy. That says a lot.

6. They Remember the Little Things You Say

They remember details you casually mentioned weeks ago, your favorite drink, the color you love, the show you’re currently obsessed with. They show up with these small reminders, not to impress you, but because they genuinely care and actually listen.

7. They Create Gentle, “Accidental” Moments of Touch

They brush your arm during a conversation, place a gentle hand on your shoulder, or help you with something in a way that brings you closer for just a second. Everything feels natural, comfortable, and quietly warm. Sometimes, their hand lingers longer than expected, and it feels sweet, not strange.

They make time for you even when life is busy. They listen when you need to talk, show up when you feel low, and make an effort to be present in your life. People don’t make that kind of effort unless they feel something real.

They don’t just tell you that you look good, they compliment the tiny things: the way your smile softens, the way your voice changes when you’re excited, the way a certain color looks beautiful on you. They notice the things you didn’t even realize were noticeable.

If you recognize several of these signs, there’s a very good chance that someone is quietly, sweetly, undeniably crushing on you. And maybe just maybe, they’re hoping you notice.

Crushes are tender, messy, exciting, and sometimes a little confusing. But the beauty of them lies in these tiny signals people send when they aren’t ready to say the big words yet. So pay attention, smile at the sweetness of it all, and allow yourself to enjoy the warmth of being liked.

This might just be the beginning of something lovely.

A simple, sweet, and slightly-too-relatable guide to spotting the hints before they fly right over your head.

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