Almost dating?

Are any of you in that 'almost dating stage'? Like, you hang out a lot, you kiss, you cuddle, and you've gone out on a few dates, but you aren't in a relationship? That's where I am right now. Part of me is giddy at the aspect of I might have a boyfriend soonish, but part of me is scared that nothing will come of this and we will just part, especially since he has been super busy and not responding to me so much anymore. Sad thing is, I really want this to work, you know? I've never met a guy who is into anime and other nerdy things like I am, and hit it off right away with them. Rationally I know he probably isn't as talkative because he is in college, and having finals and such right now, but the insecure part of me is thinking, "Oh, he's probably talking to someone better.." Anyone else have these kind of feels? Leave advice for others who may be in this weird phase :3

Ask him. If he's a good enough guy he won't mind easing your fears. The cognitive dissonance you feel comes from society paradoxically teaching women to shut up about their feelings.

I know...or knew the feeling. Really, there are probably just as many enviable things about being single. Anyways... I don't understand the in between thing. The way I am is like this, if there is physical intimacy beyond that of what would be called friends, we're having a talk to discuss what we both want. I prefer something serious even if how my current relationship started seems to say otherwise ( we had a thorough talk shortly *ahem* "after"... And here we are ten months later.) .

Be sure that he knows you want a relationship not to just a friends with benefits. If you're already in that zone then just be honest and ask, better that then for you to later feel like you've been led on if things don't pan out. Oh and congrats, glad you found someone who shares your interests :D