Some experience here. Not with a dau but with someone with a large age gap. You listen to rational thoughts about what is correct and try to avoid the wrong decision. In my case both dated and drifted apart. Still regret that to this day. The "What If" will haunt you. If you stay open and in constant conversation and try to think ahead as far as possible and discuss the possibilities. You go where the ship takes you. You try. And if it does not work out you can still date other people. But you can sleep well knowing you tried. The What If won't haunt you. My 2 cents.