How do I deal with guy coworker who said he misses me? Is he just friendly or does he like me? I am avoiding him to not make it awkward. What to do?

[Anonymous]

Out of the blue, guy coworker said he misses me. We are not that close, so I had to take a moment to process it. He made it sound like I was his girlfriend or something. I responded with a different topic. (Yeah, I cannot say miss you, too...) I am currently working in another area, so he cannot talk to me often. We have a good professional relationship and I am a great team member that he can rely on. I want to keep everything light hearted and am scared that he wants more. (TBH, I kinda like him, but, I am not emotionally ready to be in a relationship of that caliber. Puppy love is all I can give, so I feel helpless when he tries to lock eyes with me or catch my attention. I do want to talk to him all day but, if this means that I will break his heart because I cannot reciprocate, why even start? I need help people. How to act normal and maintain professionalism around him? If he does like me, can't we just be friends while we harbor a crush on each other? Am I crazy?

[windknowsmyname]

Problem is your taking it too literal, joke why dont cha.
" i missed you!"
" i missed this coffee."
"How have you been?"
" not so good, need coffee."

Your pushing him away while having a convo.

" where have you been?"
" a date with my boyfriend. It was amazing."

See his reaction and tell him your kidding then ask hows he.

Procceed to comment and tell him ya busy with something so you'll get back with him.

Jus push him away and have good humour while doing it.