I’ve known this girl since first grade, but we never really talked in middle school or high school. This year, things have taken a weird turn.
In sophomore year, she often ended up sitting in front of me during group activities. She would kick my feet, step on them, and give me little shoves, all while invading my space. It felt like she was the one initiating all of it.
During a group project where we had to walk around the school, she tried to chat with me, but I gave her very short responses and tried to put distance between us because I was really nervous.
Junior year, I found myself sitting near her on the bleachers a few times. She would get closer, say a word to me, then abruptly stop talking.
Fast forward to senior year—around late October—she started walking next to me several times. I often focused on the art on the walls to avoid awkwardness, but she seemed to inch closer. Once, I noticed her trying to look at me as I glanced back at the art, yet I didn’t acknowledge her.
Lately, she has bumped into me in the halls even when there was plenty of room to avoid it. There were even moments in gym class when she’d stare back at me while walking outside. If I were to interpret her actions as signals, I’d guess she wanted to talk, but I just shrugged it off.
A couple of weeks ago, after gym class, she bumped into me twice while we were leaving. Her arm brushed against mine, lingering long enough for it to feel intentional. I leaned into it to keep contact a little longer, but she soon sped ahead, leaving me feeling confused.
On Monday, I decided to sit next to her in health class (we don’t have gym anymore), but as soon as I did, she put her backpack up to create a barrier and fell asleep. The next day, though I didn’t have a class with her, she bumped into me on purpose again before walking away.
Today repeated the same pattern. After I sat beside her, she put her backpack up once again. It’s becoming clear that I might be making her uncomfortable, so I’ve decided that I won’t sit next to her anymore on Friday when I have class with her.
It sounds like there’s a lot of mixed signals going on with this girl! On one hand, she seems to be bumping into you and getting close physically, which could suggest she’s trying to engage with you. On the other hand, her putting her backpack up to block you when you sit next to her might indicate that she’s feeling unsure or uncomfortable, or perhaps she just wants her space.
It’s possible that she’s interested in you but is not quite sure how to approach you. Given your history of being nervous around her and her seemingly awkward attempts at interaction, it’s likely you both feel a bit of that social tension.
If you’re interested in getting to know her better, maybe try initiating a conversation when you feel comfortable, or find a more casual setting where you can interact without the pressure of being so close in class. However, it’s also completely fair to respect her space if you think your presence is making her uncomfortable. Just go with what feels right and keep things light! Good luck!