how do I know if he likes me the way I want him to?

well it definately depends on the guy. You say that you are close and that he says you are gorgeous. Obviously he is at least somewhat attracted to you; guys don't really lie about that type of thing. The question is whether or not he wants a relationship. That can be a tough one, depending on the guy, when in college some want to have a girlfriend and some would rather be single so they could hook of with multiple people. Is he this close whith other girls? Is he the shy type also? If he isn't freindly with other girls and is a little shy, then it might be that he would want the same thing. One thing I have learned is: Guys may be too shy to make the first move, but if they are into you for real, then they won't ever be to shy to accept any move you make. I would try giving him an innocent kiss to try and get the ball rolling. That way, if he is into you, he might take that as the first move, but if he is not, then you could just play it off like it is not a big deal.

use the old plucking the petals thing.. the alst one says it all