Asking out a, shy guy friend Options

[bambamboozle]

So I have a friend who's really shy, and I like him.
I just went with him to a dance and had lots of fun (but I played off asking him by saying just as friends)
And my friends (who are also friends with him) think that he likes me too, so I'm gonna tell him.

The only problem is, we're both always so quiet and awkward with eachother and if he doesn't like me, I don't want it to ruin our friendship...plus it seems hard to get in a situation where I could actually tell him.
Oh, and he's a senior so I'm only guaranteed to see him this week and then one week in the summer when we have this event. Otherwise I'd have to flat out ask to meet up with him.
Any help with how I can tell him or play it off if it's obviously weird?

[ame;]

These situations are always weird. but i say go for it, if you ask him out of course you guys will meet up to be with each other troughout the year
You dont have to ask him straight out, maybe ease yourself there, like ask him out on a date? Even though you guys are friends already .
Seriously dont wait, or leave it, you'll most likely regret it later .