So I’m awkward when it comes to knowing if someone likes me back

I (24/F) have a huge crush on someone (M), but when it comes to telling them or trying to see if they like me back I’m awkward and anxious about it. Like I don’t know how to tell if the person I have a crush on, has one on me back without asking. I don’t want to straight up ask, so how can I tell without asking? Any advice would be great, but please don’t be like “just ask”.