CRUSH ON THE BUS

Dear Jellybean,

I've just started college and I take a shuttle bus in the morning to get there. Since the beginning I've noticed this guy... this one very cute guy. So every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday I see him on the bus and I know it's crazy but I think I have a huge crush on him, even if I don't know his name, what school he went to, any of his friends, virtually nothing but that we go to the same school. I've asked friends who take the bus with me if they knew who he was but no luck. Recently, I've tried to give out little hints out to him like smiling at him from across the room... or bus lol... umm... sitting near him on the bus and I know he's noticed me because when I glance at him he looks at me and when I get on the bus first he sits near me. I'm completely smittened by this guy but I'm shy. Is there still a way I can meet him?

Sincerely
Crushing from afar

Dear Crushing from afar,

So far, so good. You've smiled, he's looking back. You get on the bus, he sits near you. Now it's time to step things up a bit.

Since you have friends who take the bus with you, you can get them to help. One or two could take a seat near him, not with you. Then you can get up at some point to "go talk to your friends", and as you pass by your crush, say "Hi!" with a bright smile. Hopefully he'll say it back. Then next time you get on the bus, you can just say "hi" without an excuse, since you already said it once. And with any luck, that will eventually lead to more conversation and... who knows?

You could also pull out your camera phone and ask your crush to take a picture of you and your friend, so you can send it to another friend (or her boyfriend, or whoever).

If you have a bold streak, try this oldie but goodie. Bring a funny book with you on the bus, and sit near your crush. Start reading your book, and then start laughing. Lock eyes with your crush and let him know you're not a nut - this book is just so funny! Say something like, "Sorry, this book is just so funny. Listen to this..." and then read a hilarious line. If your crush has any interest in you, he'll laugh and the conversation will be kick-started.