Hi, KittyPink! Hope it's okay that I'm hopping in on this topic.
I agree with Sam about rehearsing what you would want to say to this guy. Feeling centered and grounded when you go into a conversation like this is super important, as well as being flexible and understanding that you've had fun so far and that doesn't have to necessarily end even if you're on different pages.
One article that I think you might find helpful is Hello, Sailor! How to Build, Board, and Navigate a Healthy Relationship. (Not sure how to hyperlink it, so I'll just paste the link here:
https://www.scarleteen.com/article/abus ... lationship)
I also try and go into situations where I know I might be rejected not hoping for any result from the other person (easier said than done), but deciding that I can surrender control of everything except myself and the feelings I carry and that I am well equipped to process disappointment or sadness without projecting that onto the other person, even if I'm nervous about it. If I can truly believe beforehand that whatever happens, I'll be okay, the idea of being rejected becomes less scary. I also might try and remember that just as easy as this person came into your life, you never know when someone else will as well - and if this person isn't the one for you, there are so many more chances to meet someone who will want to engage with you the same way you do with them. All we can hope for is that the person we're being authentic with will be authentic in return for us. Does that resonate for you at all?
I'm wondering - have you had conversations where you've felt rejected before, about relationships or anything else? If so, what do you remember about that time that you could either carry to this situation and do differently, or what worked well for you? <3