I think direct would be a better approach unless ur testing the waters, what I honestly do is if y'all are friends in social media share posts that may like call this person out lol. That's the most indirect approach you can do, drop some hints that really describe the person u like is them. Or if in real life, you could honestly just fake flirt an...... reply
Uhhhh ummm idkkk , maybe .. stare at the moon tgt and then say "the moon is beautiful tonight " *smolder into the distance with hands in pocket * ??? idk mahnnn , im just a single loser TwT but im rooting for you girlll !! You can do thiss !! I hope the person like you back !!! hwaitingg ✧(⸝⸝> w reply