'10 Signs You Liked Me Back'

This is a heartwarming young adult short story titled "10 Signs You Liked Me Back," narrated by Eliza, a self-described "invisible" sophomore who develops a crush on Rafael, a popular and brilliant student-athlete.
The narrative follows Eliza as she discovers a clickbait article listing signs that a crush likes you back, only to realize those signs are manifesting in her real-life interactions with Rafael. The story moves through several key "signs," including:
Small Acts of Kindness: Rafael remembers her specific food preferences (red and blue gummy worms).
Prioritization: He skips a major post-game celebration to help her study in the library.
Protection and Vulnerability: He defends her from a bully and reveals his own nervousness around her.
The story culminates at the Spring Formal, where the "signs" transition from subtext to a direct confession. It is a classic "coming-of-age" romance that highlights the power of observation, quiet connection, and the courage to step out of one's shell.