I'm not sure if I just need someone to talk some sense into me, or what, but I am having the hardest time getting over one guy in particular.

Last year I met a guy who I fell for really quickly. We started out flirting, but when it came time for our first date, he said he wasn't over his ex. Still a pickmeisha at the time, I agreed to hang out with him as friends. I thought I could do the platonic friendship and my little crush would subside. Over time, I grew to like him as a friend, but I still had romantic feelings towards him. While we were "friends" we did some things that I ideally would only want to do with someone who I was exclusive with. Unfortunately, I think that sleeping with him only complicated things for me. He did the hot and cold thing for a bit, and I stupidly believed it was because he was struggling getting over his ex. So after a few months of hanging out I told him how I felt and he said he only wanted to be friends. I really backed off at that point, asked him for space... But still occasionally texted him to say hi... Texting him was such a habit by this point.

After a lot of silence between us (and me deleting his number multiple times) he recently started conversation with me over text and asked me if we were friends again. I said no, I couldn't do it because I wanted more than just friendship. But the only problem is I can't seem to stop thinking about him. The other day, I ran into him in my neighborhood, and I was genuinely happy to see him. Part of me wants to message him and say, yes we can be friends again, but I worry about getting hurt. I mean for all I know, he could be dating someone right now. I miss his friendship... but want to protect myself.

Since finding this sub, I've really wanted a fresh start but I just feel so conflicted about him. Thoughts?