I’ve been getting better at it, but it’s hard to talk to her or text her without being a little too obvious (which I don’t think I’m ready for, especially given that she almost definitely doesn’t like me back). I don’t know any of the people she hangs out with, and she only occasionally hangs out with my friend group, so it’s a challenge to really find/make an opportunity for conversation. I’ve been trying to gradually develop a friendship with her, but I’ve been making awfully slow progress. 😛
I have two points of advice. 1: You do want to be somewhat obvious because it’s a safe assumption that she would appreciate you being clear with what you want. If you’re polite and friendly, but still bold and confident, then there’s a chance that she’ll like you back, even if she hasn’t considered it now. 2: Gradually developing a friendship isn’t what you want, and that isn’t how relationships start, so unless you’re completely satisfied with her just being a friend, then there’s no need to take that route. Use your best judgement, but I can say that the gradually developing a relationship approach doesn’t work.
Lol, sorry for the unsolicited advice, I’ll stop now.