Dear Steve,
A month ago, I met this guy on Instagram (we have the same interest in cosplaying). Within two weeks, we confessed our feelings for each other, even though it's really out of character for me to fall for someone in such a short time. He lives on the other end of the country while I'm right here. We still manage to find good times to talk. We talk about how much we care for each other and get excited whenever we discuss my going to his city for college next year. He's really funny but can also be serious and a good listener. He's comforted me about my worries and confided in me. We're able to get along well and can talk without feeling pressure (given the circumstances, since we are behind screens).
One thing that kind of bothered me was when I accidentally saw a comment on his account from another woman, and I wound up doing some snooping and found out she was his ex (broke up last fall). So I'm wondering: Am I a rebound or someone to get his mind off of her? He did mention that he wants nothing to do with her, but all of his accounts (he did not tell me about two of them) still follow her. And if it pains him so much, why doesn't he delete his account that has some memories of her on it? The thing is, we haven't really established what our relationship is. There aren't really any labels, and I suppose I'm OK with that because maybe labels add more pressure? Should I even ask him what we are this early on? I don't want to make assumptions. I've never been in a relationship before, and with the long-distance issue ... well, it makes me scared to ask. I don't want to frighten him away.
– Complications