hurtloam wrote:
Do you think that knowing how the other person really feels for sure is the best way to let go?
yes
doesn't mean you can't be all roundabout though
. drive them into a corner, see how they react. if they keep being evasive or unclear themselves, that's a sign that they
are interested in you, and that they're doing the same to you already, to see how
you react first (in which case it may be interpreted as passive rejection if you don't express anything). i can think of three reasons for that (which apply equally to yourself as well): 1. the obvious one: they don't want to risk rejection, 2. they want you to show that you're willing to be vulnerable for them (very important in a relationship, sooner or later), and/or 3. they want to have the chance to change their mind and reject you
once you tell someone that you like them, there's a sort of responsibility implied. because the person may react to it in a way that you didn't expect, and it may reveal some things that you hadn't seen before and that seem like deal breakers to you, and you can't just say "eh, i changed my mind". so... plausible deniability. it's not a good thing in later stages of a relationship, but it's essential at the beginning. there's an inevitable negotiation of vulnerability. and, in my opinion, the only way to develop a relationship with someone who you see as "above you" somehow (better looks, better income, you're in love with them, so on) is by forcing them to be vulnerable for you. remove the significance of the advantage, even things out
sometimes the other person may be hesitant because they feel like "you're above them" and you have no idea. and you'll never know if you just leave it at that