We're talking about two queer high schoolers's first love and (serious) relationship and they are roommates. Up to this point their communication has been rather mature and good for dudes their age so when it comes to something as meaningful (to them) as "are we dating now" I think I can understand the hesitation to outright ask. You're doing your best sweetie
And honestly as far as labels go... how they are with each other and their love for each other IS exclusive (calm down Hirano... lol) and mutual so even if theyre not "official" rn, after almost five years of reading I couldn't be happier
you are so for real i love you
I could almost understand the complaints that theyre taking too long to be official but then I put my phone down and talk to my allo-heterosexual peers about their 9+ month talking stages while theyre sleeping together and then I can easily cut hrkg some slack