However, he’ll probably pay extra attention to your face, since he has a crush on you, and spend extra energy analyzing your expressions. This means that he’ll be more likely to pick up on subtle cues, but he may misinterpret them also.
You don’t have to walk up to him and flat-out announce “I like you. " Instead, use the more obvious flirting tactics in your repertoire, and clearly communicate through your words and body language that you’re interested. Remember, not everyone likes to be touched. It’s fine to err on the side of forwardness. Many autistic people are sincere and straightforward, and they enjoy it when people are clear about what they want.
There is a slight chance that he’ll panic or overreact. If so, it’s probably because he doesn’t know what to do (not that he doesn’t like you). Give him time.
Speak as clearly and compassionately as you can. Then tell him if you want to be friends or if you think it’s better that you go your separate ways. Don’t offer to be his friend out of pity. You won’t be doing him or yourself a favor. Only offer to be his friend if you truly like being with him.
For example, “It startles me and makes me feel uncomfortable when you hug me from behind. Please stop doing that. If you want a hug, you can approach me from the front, or hug somebody else. " It may feel blunt, but clarity is the best way to get through to him. That way, he won’t keep doing something you don’t like, and then feel embarrassed or guilty about not noticing the signals later.
