I’ve been seeing a lot of advice that says “be their friend first” and eventually it can turn into something more. But honestly, that idea makes me hesitate because to me "let's just be friends" feels like a space where she keeps me around as an option while still exploring other guys. That’s not a space I enjoy being in.
What I’m curious about is how it played out for you. If you’re in a solid relationship now, did it start off with clear romantic intent (like dating and exclusivity) or did it begin more casual/friendly before things shifted? And if it was the latter, how did you tell the difference between building a genuine foundation versus just being a safe backup?