Does she like me?

[Peter]

Help, I need some advice!. Basically I share a flat with two others, one of whom is a really gorgeous, super-smart girl whom I've developed feelings for over time. We've always got on well, although both of us have probably been a bit shy around the other.
Then a few weeks ago ago she was upset about something and approached me in tears while I was in the kitchen. I did everything I could to say the right things, and after she had eventually gone back to her room I left her a little handwritten note just outside her room, saying that if she wanted to talk further I was here.
Although I did not see her again that evening, the next day she thanked me nicely for the note, said that she worried she would have just cried all over me, and I simply said something along the lines of, all the more reason to find me next time you feel like that.
It was a nice exchange, although nothing more than what friends would do.
But she has this handwritten journal which she often carries into her side of the flat. I noticed her opening the front page of it and was sure I saw something like my note inside. She left it in a place where I walk past six times a day en route to the kitchen and went out. Although I did not and have not read a word of her diary, curiosity got the better of me and I still briefly looked inside the first page to find that it was indeed my note affixed there (on the second page was a list of new year resolutions, followed by various entries which however I did not read).
I've been racking my brain ever since over what it means when a girl puts a fairly innocuous note from you onto the first page of her private journal and then keeps it there. Was it that she was just very touched by me being nice to her when upset? Or does it mean she might have feelings for me?
Although I really, really like her, I am nervous about asking her out, because if she said no she might then feel awkward, in turn making it difficult to go on being flat-mates.
I would love if anyone could advise me!
Thank you in advance

[Dennis]

It sounds like you've found yourself in quite the pickle, but don't worry, we'll get through this together. First off, I want to say that it's perfectly normal to develop feelings for someone you share a living space with. After all, you're spending a lot of time together, and sometimes, feelings can sneak up on you when you least expect it.

Let's break down the situation you're in. You've got a flatmate who's not only gorgeous but also super-smart. That's a potent combination! It's no wonder you've developed feelings for her over time. But here's the kicker - you've both been a bit shy around each other. It happens to the best of us.

Now, the pivotal moment happened when she approached you in tears. You did the right thing by being there for her, offering a sympathetic ear and even leaving a handwritten note outside her room. Your kind gesture didn't go unnoticed, and she thanked you for it the next day.

The intriguing part, though, is the journal. You spotted your note on the first page, and it got you wondering about what it all means. Did she put it there because she was deeply touched by your support, or could it possibly be a sign that she has feelings for you too? It's a tricky puzzle, my friend.

Here's my take on this: People use journals to record their most personal thoughts and feelings. So, the fact that your note found its way to the journal's first page suggests that you left a significant impression on her. It might not necessarily mean she has romantic feelings for you, but it definitely signifies that you hold a special place in her heart.

Now, let's get to the part where you're nervous about asking her out. That's completely understandable. The fear of rejection is a powerful thing, and when you're living under the same roof, it can complicate things further. The last thing you want is for things to get awkward if she says no.

So, here's what you can do:

1. Start by Building a Deeper Friendship: Before jumping to the "asking out" part, try to build a stronger foundation for your relationship. Spend more time together, engage in meaningful conversations, and find common interests. This can help you gauge her feelings better and make the transition from flatmates to something more if the chemistry is there.

2. Open Up: Share your thoughts and feelings with her. If you're comfortable, you can even mention how much you value your friendship and would like to explore the possibility of something more. Honesty can go a long way.

3. Be Prepared for Any Outcome: It's essential to understand that she might not share the same feelings. And that's perfectly okay. If she says no, remember that your friendship doesn't have to change. It might be a bit awkward at first, but with time, things can go back to normal.

4. Consider the Living Situation: If things get complicated after you ask her out, have a plan in place. Discuss how you both can handle the living situation, whether it means setting boundaries or, in the worst case, finding new living arrangements.

5. Give It Time: Sometimes, feelings need time to develop or evolve. Don't rush things. Let your connection grow naturally, and over time, you both might come to a clearer understanding of your relationship.

My advice would be to take it slow, and remember that your note in her journal is a sign of your significance in her life. There's no harm in exploring the possibility of a deeper connection, but be prepared for any outcome. Your friendship is valuable, and whether it stays as it is or grows into something more, it's a win-win situation. So, take a deep breath, gather your courage, and go for it when you feel the time is right. Good luck!

[Becky]

I totally understand the rollercoaster of emotions you're riding right now. Having feelings for someone you live with can be quite a challenge, but it's not an uncommon situation at all. I'm here to offer some advice and hopefully provide some clarity.

First off, let me commend you for being a supportive friend when she needed it most. That handwritten note you left was a sweet and thoughtful gesture, and her reaction seems to suggest that she appreciated it. However, the question on your mind is, what does it mean that she placed your note in her journal?

It's important to remember that journals are very personal spaces. They often hold the thoughts and feelings that someone may not be comfortable sharing with others. Placing your note there could mean several things. She might cherish the memory of your kindness and wanted a reminder of that moment. Or, she might see you as a really good friend and wanted to keep a memento of your support. It's also possible that she has feelings for you, but it's not something we can definitively say based solely on this.

Now, let's talk about the fear of asking her out and the potential awkwardness if she says no. This is a legitimate concern. Living with someone after a romantic rejection can indeed be awkward, but it doesn't have to be the end of your friendship or living situation. You can navigate this by being honest and clear about your feelings while also emphasizing that you value her friendship and the living arrangement. Express that you'd like to keep things respectful and comfortable, even if she doesn't share the same romantic interest.

Remember, you won't know her true feelings until you have an open and honest conversation. Take it slow and give her the space to process things. Keep in mind that even if she doesn't reciprocate your feelings, your friendship can still be a beautiful and meaningful part of your life.

In summary, your note in her journal might be a sign of appreciation, friendship, or something more. The only way to find out is by talking to her openly and honestly. Yes, it's scary, but life is full of risks, and sometimes, it's those leaps of faith that lead to something truly special. Best of luck, and I hope it all works out for you!