Eye contact, compliments and body language can be ambiguous. They do not reliably tell you whether someone wants a relationship, and there is no special set of signals that makes another person fall in love.
Separate an observation from an interpretation
“They smiled at me” describes an observation. “They want to date me” is an interpretation. Keep those separate until you have clearer information. People express interest differently, regardless of gender.
Use a direct, low-pressure invitation
Try: “I like talking with you. Would you like to go on a date?” This makes your intention clearer than testing whether someone becomes jealous or responds to carefully timed messages. Accept a refusal without trying to change it.
Watch for follow-through
Interest is easier to assess when someone makes and keeps plans, answers questions honestly and respects your preferences. If words and actions differ repeatedly, ask about the mismatch rather than inventing a hidden explanation.
Appreciation does not require self-erasure
You can compliment a partner and show care without ranking them above everyone else, managing their ego or giving up your friendships. Ask what makes each of you feel appreciated instead of assuming all men or all women need the same thing.
Before the next conversation, identify what you want to know: whether this is a date, whether you are exclusive, or whether another meeting is wanted. One clear question is more useful than a long list of supposed secret signals.