So I know I'm calling the kettle black here, but I think this is one of the times you want to be really clear and just ask, full out. Its one of those things that, if you're getting into a relationship or want to be in a relationship with that person, you really need to be clear on. Trust me, I've been burned with it before, and have since learned to ask when the subject comes up.
And Pancake, I'm a shift manager...so no contract. I'm trying to swap some shifts about with a couple of sympathetic (pitying) coworkers, though...and she'll be in the area for a day next week. I'm going to try and talk to her then, I think.