Kate, 13, from Boston, asks:

Hey VictorM,

My crush Matt found out I like him, and he told his gal pal, Taylor (she’s my friend too) that he doesn’t really mind that I like him. I hung out with him and his friends and my friends yesterday night at the pool and he didn’t act any different than usual. We don’t talk a lot (actually, almost not at all—but don’t ridicule me for that!), and I’ve only just started hanging out around him a week or so ago. I overreact sometimes, and I feel like he hates me, even though Taylor says he really doesn’t care. What should I do to get him to warm up to me? I don’t really know if I want him as a boyfriend, but it would be great to get to know him. Should I do something or just let it go? What will impress him without making everything more awkward than it is? I'm good at flirting with guys, but with Matt I'm at a loss. HELP!!!

VictorM's advice:

Ahhh Kate, so many boys, so little time. :)

I'm not so sure flirting would work too well with Matt. Since you know Taylor, find out from her what Matt is into the most (like a certain video game, sport, music, etc.) and when you talk to him ask him to explain something about that which he knows a lot. Boys love to show off to girls. Even shy guys can turn into motor mouths if they are talking about something they know a lot about. And they love being around people who show interest in what they like.

Also, pay him "sss" compliments. That is, short, sincere, and subtle. Things like "Thanks Matt, you made it so clear," or "wow Matt, you know so much." By the way, a little tip: try to use the word "so" into your compliments. "You're so smart" works better than "You're smart". "That shirt looks so good on you"... the "so" adds more sizzle. Of course, follow it with a smile.

Maybe I should call it "sssss" compliments: short, sincere, subtle, with sizzle and a smile.

Now go get him -- you so can do it Kate, because you are so irresistible. :)