CRUSHES

HIS ANSWER: “Don't act too lively, act normal,” says Brent, 15. Oh, and one more thing: “Since he's shy, a double date isn't the best idea.”

DECODED: The bottom line is to be yourself. If you’re not naturally shy or terribly outgoing, forcing yourself to be someone you’re not won’t make for a fairytale ending. Don’t change for him, but don’t try to force him to be a social butterfly when he’s clearly not, just to make you happy.

YOUR MOVE: Be a good friend, first. Offering up your friendship will take the pressure off him and let him get comfortable seeing you as someone more than that girl in his math class. A little bit of flirtation is fine—letting him catch you looking at him, sweet smiles and kind gestures you don’t make to your other friends (like baking him a sweet or bringing him a cute, inexpensive gag gift just ‘cause)—but keep it slow. Don’t be afraid to make the first move, but take your cue from his comfort level, first.

by Caitlin Farley and Brittany Taylor | 2/1/2016