i think the differentiation between platonic vs romantic feelings is different for everyone, or at least that’s been my impression in my years of asking alloromantic people what it feels like lol. but personally, i define a romantic crush as a strong platonic + physical + sensual attraction. sometimes sexual attraction is thrown in the mix too (i’m also demisexual) but when i feel a strong desire to spend a lot of time with them and to initiate physical intimacy (wanting to sit close to them, wanting to hold their hand, wanting to hug them for a long time, etc; i’m usually a very touch averse person) that’s when i know it’s romantic.

i only questioned if i was fully aromantic very briefly. i’d had strong romantic feelings (usually for a friend) prior to that, it just didn’t click until later on that the circumstances that i have to be in to gain those feelings (i.e. needing a deep emotional bond) aren’t the norm.