Does He Like Me? 10 Signs to Watch For

The experiences shared in this article are based on real emotional journeys, but all personal details are anonymized and used with the explicit written permission of the clients. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental. We are committed to treating all client stories with the utmost confidentiality and respect.

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1. He Asks “And Then What Happened?”

We’ve all had dates who nod politely while mentally drafting their grocery lists.

But someone who’s truly interested leans into your stories like they’re binge-worthy Netflix shows.

Take my client Ivy.

On her third date with a guy, she mentioned her childhood fear of lawn gnomes. Instead of laughing it off, he asked, “Wait—did your parents actually have gnomes, or was this a Home Alone trauma situation?”

Two hours later, they were still swapping weird childhood stories.

They’ve been together a year.

What to watch for: Does he follow up on details you mentioned days or weeks earlier? (“How’d that presentation go?” or “Did your sister ever fix her kayak?”)

Try this: Share a mildly vulnerable story (e.g., “I once tried to dye my hair purple and turned into a Smurf”).

If he asks thoughtful follow-ups, that’s a green flag.

If he pivots to talking about his Tesla, proceed with caution.

2. His “Availability” Matches His Effort

Let’s debunk a myth: Busy people make time, not excuses.

A surgeon client of mine once rescheduled three dates with a teacher because of emergencies—but each time, he proactively proposed new plans, sent apology cupcakes, and FaceTimed during breaks.

Contrast this with “Dave,” who texted my client Sofia things like “Miss you!” at 11 PM but ghosted when she suggested weekend plans.

Spoiler: He wasn’t “too busy”—he was too lazy.

Try this: Next time he says he’s busy, respond warmly but firmly: “No worries! Let me know when you’re free.”

If he doesn’t circle back within a week, he’s telling you everything.

3. He Notices the “Boring” Stuff

Early in dating my husband, I casually mentioned hating the sound of chewing.

A week later, he showed up with noise-canceling headphones for our movie night “just in case.”

I nearly cried.

Genuine interest isn’t about memorizing your astrological sign—it’s about paying attention to what makes you you.

Try this: “Forget” your umbrella on a drizzly day.

If he offers to share his (or runs to his car to grab one), take note.

If he says “Good luck with that” and walks faster, well…

4. His Friends Know You Exist

When a guy likes you, he’ll mention you to his inner circle—not necessarily in a “Meet my parents!” way, but organically.

One client, Erin, knew things were serious when her date’s best friend greeted her with, “Oh thank GOD—he wouldn’t shut up about your Star Wars hot takes.”

What to watch for: Does he share anecdotes about his friends/family? (“My mom would love your cookie recipe!”) If you’re a total secret after months, ask why.

Try this: Playfully ask, “What would your best friend say is your weirdest habit?” If he engages, it signals comfort. If he clams up, he might be compartmentalizing.

5. He’s Curious About Your Opinions

A man who values your mind will ask for your thoughts on everything from climate change to The Bear season finales.

I once went on a date where a guy spent 20 minutes mansplaining my own job to me.

Needless to say, there was no second date.

What to watch for: Does he ask “What do you think?” during conversations? Does he playfully debate your hot takes instead of dismissing them?

Try this: Mention a topic you’re passionate about (even something niche like “19th-century quilting techniques”).

If he asks questions, he’s into you. If he says, “Cool,” and changes the subject, he’s just passing time.

6. He’s Okay with Silences

Awkward pauses happen.

But comfortable silences? That’s intimacy in training.

I’ll never forget a fifth date where my now-husband and I got stuck in traffic for an hour.

Instead of forcing chatter, we blasted ‘90s hip-hop, ate gas station nachos, and laughed about it later.

What to watch for: Does he fill every lull with nervous jokes? Or can you people-watch at a park without him needing to “perform”?

Try this: Suggest a low-pressure activity like a walk or coffee shop hang.

If he seems at ease just being with you, that’s golden.

7. His Body Language Leaks Joy

Words lie.

Bodies rarely do.

A client, Elsie, realized her crush liked her back when he’d unconsciously angle his feet toward her during group dinners.

Another knew it was mutual when her date’s eyes crinkled every time she laughed—a reflex even the best actors can’t fake.

Try this: “Accidentally” brush his hand during a conversation.

If he leans in or reciprocates, he’s interested.

If he recoils like you’re holding a tarantula, retreat gracefully.

8. He Invests in Your Happiness

Not with grand gifts, but through acts that say “I see you.”

When I was recovering from surgery years ago, a guy I’d been dating for just a month showed up with my favorite soup, a puzzle book, and a handwritten note: “For when you’re bored of Netflix.”

What to watch for: Does he celebrate your wins? (“I brought champagne—you crushed that interview!”) Offer support during rough days?

Try this: Mention a minor stressor (“Ugh, my laptop died”).

If he later asks about it or sends a tech meme, he’s tuned in.

9. He Introduces You to His Passions

When a man likes you, he’ll want to share his world.

One client’s date taught her how to fish—not because he expected her to love it, but because “I wanted you to see why I care about this.”

What to watch for: Does he invite you into hobbies or traditions that matter to him? Share childhood stories or favorite books?

Try this: Ask to see a photo of his happiest memory.

If he lights up and shares freely, he’s inviting you in.

10. He Respects Your Boundaries

Here’s the ultimate sign of respect: A guy who honors your “no” without pouting or pressuring.

I once ended a date early because of a migraine.

Instead of arguing, he walked me to my car and texted later: “Hope you feel better. Let me know if aspirin doesn’t cut it.”

What to watch for: Does he check in about physical/emotional comfort levels? Respond gracefully when you reschedule?

Try this: Set a small boundary (“I need to head home by 10”). If he says, “Of course—I’ll walk you out,” keep him.

If he negotiates like a used car salesman, walk away.

Final Words from The Darling Code

Here’s the secret no one tells you: If you’re constantly wondering whether he likes you… that’s your answer.

Real interest feels clear, not cryptic.

Trust your gut.

And remember—you’re not a detective solving a mystery.

You’re a whole person deciding if he deserves you.

You’re worth someone who chooses you—boldly, consistently, joyfully.

With heart,
The Darling Code

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