Even the best of us can miss the timeless signs that someone is seriously interested. You could hold a special place in someone's heart but if they're still too scared to tell you, you might never know. Or they could be dropping those telltale hints of affection, but if you're not picking up on them, you could live your life oblivious to their love.

If you're unsure if someone is really smitten or just being pleasant, here are five more signs he is totally into you. He's seriously into you if ...

1. He defends you

A good friend will always have your back when someone else tries to intimidate, insult or harass you. But when a guy has stronger feelings for you he'll be extra sensitive about your safety and wellbeing. He'll go out of his way to stop rumors that hurt your reputation. He'll step in if another guy doesn't get the message that you're not interested. And he'll take your side if you and a mutual friend go head to head.

A man who is interested acts like a shield to protect you from anything negative.

2. He asks for your input

A guy is into you if he's always asking for your advice or opinion. Even if you don't know anything about the subject, he just wants to engage with you and spend time with you. He also wants you to know he values your thoughts (and just hear your voice). I'm sure you know how intoxicating it can be hearing the voice of someone you fancy.

3. He offers to help

When there's even a hint you may need something, he's the first to volunteer (also, he'll vigorously fight any insistence that you don't need help). Whenever there's an apartment to be packed up and moved, a tire to be changed or an airport to be driven to, he's there for you. A good friend will do some of these things, but a guy who wants more will rearrange his schedule and go far out of his way just for you.

4. He apologizes for himself

A man who wants to mean more to you would never want to hurt you. He does everything he can to keep from feeling hurt or uncomfortable. If he does misspeak or misstep, he's quick to profusely apologize and then works to make it up to you. A man in love always give a sincere, thoughtful and meaningful apology.

5. He apologizes for others

He will also make up for rude, antagonistic or disrespectful behavior he sees in other people. His goal is to make you feel protected and safe, even if that means apologizing for a rude waiter or the driver in front of you. He knows he doesn't need to step in on someone else's behalf but wants to be the one you can rely on to fix any situation.

If you have a great friend who does all of the things for you, consider yourself lucky. He may just be looking out for you and want nothing more. But chances are very high if he's a single guy who goes above and beyond ... it probably means he's interested. Look at this man in your life a little closer, because he's totally into you.