Am I [18F] making a mistake even considering a relationship with this man [29M]?

I'm 18F, guy in question is 29M. That's obviously the main issue here.

We met on the internet (through a common interest, not a dating site) and we have a very specific hobby shared by very few other people. We talk all the time - texting and voice chatting. We have a similar sense of humor and never run out of things to talk about. We've also met up in real life 3 times - this last time he asked me if I would consider being in a relationship with him.

I gave a noncommittal answer because I *do* need to think about it - which is why I'm here. I know how weird it seems, and we both know that we wouldn't be able to publicly be in a relationship for at least 5 years as I'm in university and am in a career field not accepting of things like this.

I love spending time with him and he's never ever pressured me into anything. He and I are both virgins. I just don't know what to think. I have more relationship experience than he does and in some ways I feel more mature. Because of our shared interest, it's difficult to date people that aren't part of it. Am I crazy for even considering this? I've read many posts about couples with age gaps like ours - calling the guy a creep and manipulative and telling the girl she's being taken advantage of. I don't feel like I'm being taken advantage of - but of course, how would I know if I am? Any advice is appreciated.

--- **TL;DR;** : Large age gap in potential relationship - looking for general advice.

Submitted May 10, 2019 at 04:12AM

I'm 18F, guy in question is 29M. That's obviously the main issue here.We met on the internet (through a common interest, not a dating site) and we have a very specific hobby shared by very few other people. We talk all the time - texting and voice chatting. We have a similar sense of humor and never run out of things to talk about. We've also met up in real life 3 times - this last time he asked me if I would consider being in a relationship with him.I gave a noncommittal answer because I *do* need to think about it - which is why I'm here. I know how weird it seems, and we both know that we wouldn't be able to publicly be in a relationship for at least 5 years as I'm in university and am in a career field not accepting of things like this.I love spending time with him and he's never ever pressured me into anything. He and I are both virgins. I just don't know what to think. I have more relationship experience than he does and in some ways I feel more mature. Because of our shared interest, it's difficult to date people that aren't part of it. Am I crazy for even considering this? I've read many posts about couples with age gaps like ours - calling the guy a creep and manipulative and telling the girl she's being taken advantage of. I don't feel like I'm being taken advantage of - but of course, how would I know if I am? Any advice is appreciated.--- **TL;DR;** : Large age gap in potential relationship - looking for general advice.