Don't give up hope - it's clear that she unconsciously knows how much you love her, and I'm sure she shares your feelings. In fact, from what you describe, I'm 99% certain. She pulls away when you touch her because she's afraid of her own feelings, and her nervous laughter is just there to cover up the turmoil inside her. She wants to come out of the closet to be with you.
The way she flirts with her other friends is partly her unconscious way of coming to terms with her sexuality. She feels safe doing it with people she doesn't have strong feelings for because she feels she can safely pretend to herself that she's joking.
The best way to let her know is to have a 1-on-1 conversation with her. Do it when there's no other friends around, so she doesn't feel the need to put on her social mask. Invite her out to coffee or to a movie or something. Tell her that you're in love with her. If she does feel the same way (which she probably does), she'll tell you, and if she doesn't, she won't laugh or tease you because there will be nobody watching. The more you keep your feelings inside you, the worse they will get.
If she seems too afraid to admit her feelings to herself, try having a few drinks. Alcohol removes the mask, and it'll give her the courage to come out and you the courage to ask her. (Disclaimer: don't do this if you're under 18!)
Is it normal that I'm in love with my best friend?
← View full post
Don't give up hope - it's clear that she unconsciously knows how much you love her, and I'm sure she shares your feelings. In fact, from what you describe, I'm 99% certain. She pulls away when you touch her because she's afraid of her own feelings, and her nervous laughter is just there to cover up the turmoil inside her. She wants to come out of the closet to be with you.
The way she flirts with her other friends is partly her unconscious way of coming to terms with her sexuality. She feels safe doing it with people she doesn't have strong feelings for because she feels she can safely pretend to herself that she's joking.
The best way to let her know is to have a 1-on-1 conversation with her. Do it when there's no other friends around, so she doesn't feel the need to put on her social mask. Invite her out to coffee or to a movie or something. Tell her that you're in love with her. If she does feel the same way (which she probably does), she'll tell you, and if she doesn't, she won't laugh or tease you because there will be nobody watching. The more you keep your feelings inside you, the worse they will get.
If she seems too afraid to admit her feelings to herself, try having a few drinks. Alcohol removes the mask, and it'll give her the courage to come out and you the courage to ask her. (Disclaimer: don't do this if you're under 18!)