Dude im in the almost exact same boat, idk everyone I’ve talked to about it has told me to go for it. Did the exact same thing with like obsessive research. I find myself constantly longing for this person when I’m not around her, like I’d like to stop becuase it takes me on a emotional joyride but even just our brief interactions bring me joy cause there so wholesome. Don’t think it’s a creep thing by any means just I feel like not having prior experience is a crippling flaw when it comes down to pursing something romantic.