You might as well tell her how you feel and what you hope will happen. Ask her whether she reciprocates your feelings and if she’d be willing to go on dates alone. If so, great. If not, you can define her a bit differently in your brain, take your holiday break, and return seeking different company. Really, it sounds like your crush is big enough that if she isn’t up for trying a real romantic relationship, you’ll want to take some space.

As for the friends (and yes, I know this is Love Letters), but you might want to broaden your horizons too. Many people here will tell you that the first friends you make at school aren’t always the ones you’ll keep by your side for all of college. Also, this is a time to meet many people (if you can; I know COVID makes this complicated). Make sure you’re not limiting yourself to the politics of this love square. Your school is a much bigger circle.

I bet many of us older people look back on college, our early 20s, etc., and wish we had been clearer about our intentions and moved on when we weren’t getting what we wanted from someone. I know this is a big risk, but you already have a close relationship with this person. Tell her what’s up and ask where you stand. Listen and learn.

– Meredith

Readers? Take a shot here? What about these friends? If the crush has feelings too, how will it be to set boundaries with the friends?