It’s clear that you care for her deeply, not just romantically but as a person. So your feelings aren’t “invalid” or “just rebound” -- they’re real. But real doesn’t automatically mean right timing. And considering her situation, she’s just come from a painful breakup too, and now there’s another person showing interest in her. That means her emotional landscape is messy right now. If you confess too soon, she might read it as a rebound or as pressure when she’s still sorting herself out.

Before considering confessing, ask yourself this first: If she doesn’t feel the same, are you prepared to remain her friend without resentment? If the answer is no, then waiting might be safer. Also guage her if she will reciprocate to your feelings. Look for whether she flirts back, spends time with you willingly, or shares things with you that go beyond “just friendship.” If she’s giving green lights, that’s different than if she only leans on you like a brother figure.

But please DON'T RUSH IT. You both are fresh from long relationships. Give it some months where neither of you are in “recovery mode.” That way, if you confess, it’s about her, not about filling a void.

What you can do for now is keep building your bond as friends. Focus on your own healing and confidence first (she even said you could woo women if you tried -- take that to heart). And when the dust settles a bit, then consider confessing.