Maybe not all barkadas have this dynamic, but everyone knows two people who are in the same friend group and share an undeniable chemistry that they will forever deny. Even if everyone around them tells them to date, they’d continue to reject the idea as if it is the funniest joke ever told. There two have an unmistakable connection that often leaves others wondering if there’s more to their friendship.

Recognizing the signs that two friends might be secretly in love can be both intriguing and heartwarming. It’s not always easy to pinpoint the subtle cues, but certain behaviors tend to stand out. Whether it’s the way they interact, the special attention they give each other, or the quiet moments they share, these signs can reveal a deeper affection that goes beyond mere friendship.

Here are 10 signs to prove that the two friends in the barkada might be harboring secret feelings… even if they won’t admit it.

1. They Secretly Gaze Each Other

One of the most telling signs is the way they look at each other when they think no one is watching. It does not have to be the flirtatious look but something to do with how they are secretly looking out for each other.

It’s also clear that their eyes often find each other across the room, even in the midst of a crowded gathering. This means that their eyes are only interested in one person and they’ll continue scanning the room until their eyes meet and sheepish smiles are exchanged.

2. They Have Inside Jokes Only They Understand

Inside jokes are common among close friends, but these two take it to another level. They share a lot of private jokes that no one else in the group quite understands, which often leaves them laughing together while the rest of the barkada looks on in confusion.

So, while they try to explain what the joke is about, you’ll also realize that these two spend too much time with each other to have that many jokes and to have that level of understanding.

3. They Laugh At Each Others Jokes Even If They Are Not That Funny

Even the lamest jokes from one seem to be the funniest thing ever to the other. You will notice that when another person from the barkada attempts the same joke style, they’ll cringe.

However, their laughter is often louder and more genuine when directed at each other’s attempts at humor. They seem to be each other’s biggest fans, finding amusement in the simplest things. It’s almost as if their laughter is a way of showing support and appreciation.

4. They Spend More Time Talking Than To The Group

They often break away from the group to have private chats. This does not mean that they leave the room or move some place. Instead, it could be as simple as sitting in another table close to the group but away from the main discussion. Even if the barkada is talking about a juicy chika, they will really move away to talk about the most random things only the two of them enjoy.

Whether it’s a serious discussion or a light-hearted exchange, they seem to prefer each other’s company and can spend hours talking, often losing track of time and neglecting the rest of the group.

5. They Give Each Other Special Treatments

They go out of their way to do things for each other that they wouldn’t normally do for others in the group. This could be as simple as bringing each other their favorite snacks, offering rides, or providing emotional support in times of need.

They seem to have an unspoken understanding of each other’s preferences and needs. Whether it’s remembering how the other likes their coffee or planning surprises that cater to their tastes, these gestures speak volumes. They prioritize each other’s comfort and happiness, often putting the other’s needs above their own.

6. They Tease Each Other More Than Anyone In The Group

Their teasing is light-hearted and fun, often accompanied by knowing smiles and laughter. They seem to enjoy pushing each other’s buttons in a way that’s both endearing and entertaining. This playful banter often serves as a way to express their closeness and comfort with each other.

The rest of the barkada won’t even engage in that level of joking with each other but these two are different. They know when to make the other laugh or what things irritate them. They will deny any romantic involvement, but you know their interactions tell a different story.

7. They Rely On Each Other For Advice

Whenever they face personal dilemmas or need guidance, they turn to each other first for advice. The funny thing is that even when the problem is about their crushes, they always talk to each other about it first. Whatever it is, they value the other person’s insights and opinion more than anyone else.

You might often hear, “This is better, right?” “What should I do?” “Do you like it?” and more questions like this that indicate their mutual dependence. Everyone in the barkada knows that is not just surface-level chatting but a safe space for both of them to share thoughts and concerns

8. They Unconsciously Mimic Each Other’s Behaviors

They start to pick up each other’s habits and mannerisms without even realizing it. Whether it’s using the same phrases, gestures, or adopting similar tastes in music and hobbies, this unconscious mimicry is a classic sign of closeness.

This mimicry extends to their likes and dislikes, with them developing shared preferences over time. The barkada might joke about how similar they’ve become, noticing the little things they’ve picked up from each other.

However, everyone in the barkada knows that It’s not just about copying behaviors; it’s about being in sync. They might even finish each other’s sentences or anticipate each other’s needs, showing a deep understanding.

9. They Notice And Comment On Small Changes About Each Other

Ever noticed that when your other friend gets a haircut, colored their hair, or changed their outfit style, the other one comments about it first? Did you also observe that when one is sad or less talkative than usual, they are the first one to check in on that person? Don’t be surprised at how quickly they pick up on these changes.

They will even try to push away the conversation by saying that they are each other’s “personal stylist” or “life coach,” but it’s clear that their attentiveness comes from a place of genuine affection.

10. They Quickly Notice The Absence Of The Other

When one of them is missing from the barkada, the other is quick to comment on their absence. When that happens, they seem to be less engaged and might even express a sense of longing for the other’s presence. It’s clear that their enjoyment of the activity is diminished when the other is not around.

Moreover, most of the time, they know where the other person is. So, the rest of the group asks where the other half is when they are not present. You won’t even be surprised to know that they were the first one to be informed about the other friend’s whereabouts.

These signs between the two friends in your barkada can unfold in several ways. One is where they might eventually acknowledge their feelings for each other and take the leap into a romantic relationship. Alternatively, one might muster the courage to confess their feelings, only to find them unreciprocated—this can break the barkada too. In some cases, despite the undeniable chemistry and the constant speculation from friends, they may choose to maintain their relationship as close friends, keeping their feelings unspoken yet palpable.