Women woes!
Shrike,
I have to think back a long way to help you with your woes. But here goes:-
You say the girl you like flirts with you and then denies it. My answer to that is never, never accuse a girl of flirting with you because she will never ever admit to it (well, maybe a few years after you're married). If you think she's flirting with you, then she is. What you have to do is flirt right back, but don't go overboard.
If this same girl is going out with the juggler who you think is a dope, then it's possible he makes her laugh a lot. Next time you see them together just watch and see whether she's having a good time. It's possible that she likes the attention he's giving her by putting on a show.
The impression you guys seem to get about girls being attracted to assholes is probably because she can't figure him out yet and she wants to find out what he's all about. (BTW my definition of the asshole type at that age is a broody, surly kind of boy, not abusive).
I'd like to know what kind of a fellow you are, and what your definition of 'asshole' is, because there's all kinds.
One thing you have to remember is that at your age the girls are changing all the time. She will fancy you one day, then the next day she's over it.
Trust me when I tell you that there are all types of women out there, your best bet is to get to know all of them and find out exactly what you like about each one. Just be friendly and don't come on too strong. Send me a PM if any of this helps. I do remember those years fondly, and it's the beginning of a very complicated dance.
Good luck
Teri