What is the best way to tell a boy you like him?

My boyfriend just broke up with me today so harshly which sent me into a horrific tale spin but i recovered after a while because we decided to remain friend's. But my ex boyfriend's best friend Brendan has always been there for me more than my ex was and i always have felt this connection with him and i get the feeling that he likes me too and since i am single i decided i was going to hint to him that i like him and would like to date him so what would be the best way to tell him without my ex boyfriend finding out i see this boy in the morning on the bus and he is in my cl all day not to mention we also ride the bus home together. I was thinking about telling him and hinting to him in a note that says private and give it to him and see what happens but i am not sure if that is a good idea, Anybody have any good advice?