I once knew a pretty Mexican girl named Esperanza in high school - so it cracks me up to call you that!
Happy Anniversary, Wes! It meant something very wonderful just a bit ago, and I hope it does again in your near future.
Its been said before that the LBS rides a rollercoaster just like the WAS does. Maybe this is a down time for you? You're right that we're working very hard on positive change and the typical WAS isn't. Yet, I think that Michelle's focus on the R is key. If we change, we can pull our WAS to change as well. She is noticing your changes, Wes. Otherwise, she wouldn't be circling so much. Her behavior in this regard seems way beyond just liking familiarity.
In terms of the MLC-type stuff, let it go. Its her way of doing her work - exploring, answering questions, just like all/most of us did as teens - first liking one music/type of friend, then another - all to answer that very key question. Who am I?
She's circling you b/c she's probably experiencing some pleasure while doing so, and may be starting to realize that part of her identity is a woman who is pleased by your presence in her life. Give her time to admit that, and you'll be left with at least a good friend, setting the basis for perhaps more in the future.
