I (19F) started talking to Brent (19M, fake name) since early December of last year, went on our first date on Valentines Day, and confirmed to officially be in a relationship since July. This is my first real relationship with a guy so I just didn't know if this is normal.
With this timeline, you can tell that we take things very slow. To be more clear, it was more like I was in control of the pacing because he wanted me to be as comfortable as possible. I really appreciated it because I don't like feeling rushed and it really helped me navigate my feelings towards him while learning about what kind of person he really is. It actually made me like him more since Brent was so patient with me for everything and made me feel appreciated for who I am, especially because one of my biggest fears in a relationship was being used for sex.
So, we've held hands, kissed, and hugged through my initiation. Around a month ago was when I realized I truly do love my boyfriend and I wanted to tell him that I do. I've told Brent multiple times around the start of the relationship that I appreciate when he initiates things too, especially since I feel comfortable with him and I also want to feel wanted. But he hasn't really initiated any like "next step in the relationship" stuff unless I've already asked for it in the history of our relationship. I know he isn't shy because when I finally had the courage to like make out with him for the first time, he immediately gave back the same energy. It was like he was waiting for me to do that for a long time.
All I'm saying is that I want him to initiate saying that he loves me first because I've initiated all the other things in the relationship, and I want to feel wanted too. I know the basic answer is to talk to him about it again since it's been a long time or just say that I love him, but I don't know. I feel immature and want him to say it without my slight push for it. I know that's a problem, I'll eventually talk to him about it. Or, maybe he just genuinely doesn't know if he loves me so he hasn't said it yet…I'm confused.
TLDR: Went on dates since Valentines Day of this year, started dating in July. I've initiated most if not all of the "next stage" things in a relationship, so I want him to say it first. Is this not enough time to know if you love someone?