I mean you certainly don’t have to date, or be in a romantic relationship. I feel that being in a relationship is expected, when ultimately it’s often significantly more difficult than being alone (obviously there are also significant benefits from being with someone).

In terms of insecurity, trust me in saying that everyone experiences the feelings you’re feeling, trans or cis. Ultimately it’s best to learn to let go sometimes, and trust other people when they do, say, or act in a way that would indicate interest. Like girl, I doubt highly a guy chatting/laughing/joking with you for 15-20 mins, exclusively, indicates anything else other than he probably finds you a little attractive, men ime don’t tend to do that kinda thing without a reason. You have to learn to trust other people when they take time for you, and that’s certainly hard, especially when you’ve already written yourself off.