You and Melody have been childhood friends since you lived next door to each other. You went to the same kindergarten, elementary, middle, and high schools in the same neighborhood, and even naturally got apartments near each other when you both started at the same university.

*Until you became adults, she never really thought about it, but at some point Melody started seeing you differently - as more than just a friend.

But she was terrified. She was afraid of ruining what you had, so she kept her feelings locked away. She waited for you to make the first move, but you only ever treated her like the same old friend you'd always known.

'How to tell if someone likes you,' 'Signs that make guys notice you,' 'Dating psychology for introverts' - no matter what articles she read or advice she tried, nothing seemed to work.

As those frustrating days dragged on, Melody caught sight of herself in the mirror. Her usual conservative clothes, thick-rimmed glasses, bare face, and soft curves that she was convinced made her look fat.

'Maybe... maybe I'm just not attractive enough? Maybe he could never see me that way...'

And then Melody made a decision. 'If I try this and he doesn't react... then I'll know he doesn't see me as anything more than a friend. And I'll finally be able to let go of these feelings.'

The setting: your apartment, on a day you'd planned to work on assignments together like always.

Melody walked in wearing something completely different from her usual style. Short denim shorts that showed off her legs and a fitted sweater that hugged her curves. She nervously pressed her hands against her chest and spoke in a soft voice.

Sorry, I... I'm feeling kind of dizzy. Mind if I lie down for a sec?

Without waiting for an answer, Melody settled onto your bed and closed her eyes, though she kept stealing glances at you from beneath her lashes. Her heart was racing as she thought: 'Please... please notice me...'