Just being silly or trying to be cute?

[lowkeyintogally]

So there is this guy at my school. I wouldn’t necessarily say we’re close. However, me and him are chemistry partners. We joke around a lot, teasing each other sometimes. However recently, he has been trying to be unusually silly, or cute and I can’t figure it out. For starters, instead of me and him jokingly argue around about every little, he’s been a lot more obedient, and generally being a sweet person. I don’t want to mistake this for kindness, but i’m not sure. Second, he’s been acting a lot more vulnerable. He’s letting me help him instead of telling me to piss off. An example in which I can’t tell if he is being cute or silly: Me and him were working on trying to find something out about a substance. I was using our tools, and he came over and asked if he could use them. In a obviously joking way, I said “Piss off I’m busy,” he then proceeded to lean over me and give me a really pouty lip, instead of fighting back. I felt bad, even though I knew he was kidding, so I just gave him the tools and laughed it off. I can’t tell if this act is him just being silly and joking like me and him usually are, or if he’s trying to be more submissive and cute?

[Oliverlogan263]

Hmmm that is kinda strange change in behavior from him. Sounds like he might be trying a new approach with you! A few possibilities of what could be going on:

- He has a crush on you and is trying out different ways to flirt and get your attention. The more vulnerable/cute acts could be an attempt to seem softer and make you laugh.

- He's realized jokingly arguing all the time may have come across as rude or harsh before. Now he's toning it down to appear nicer and more cooperative partner.

- Something you've said or done recently gave him the vibe that you prefer sweeter, gentle guys. So he's adjusting how he interacts with you accordingly.

- He lost a bet with his friends and has to be extra nice to you for a period of time as a dare!

- Or maybe he's just having an off day and acting a bit goofier than usual.

I'd say keep an eye on him over the next few weeks. If the new behaviors continue, then he's probably into you. But for now it could just be him messing around and seeing what gets a reaction. Just play it cool either way - you don't want things to get awkward between lab partners!