Well, exploring feelings does not mean sex! You don't have to jump into anything, and you don't have to comprimise the no sex before marriage.
That said, it is a big decision to persue a relationship outside your normal orientation.
I had never had much attraction to men, and was pretty settled that for the most part, I prefered girls. Then I met my boyfriend, and we've been together for almost four years. I still generally find females more attractive, however I love my boyfriend and am very attracted and committed to him. I strongely believe there is more to interpersonal attraction then genitals. At this point, I could not imagine loving or wanting someone more then him, but it took me awhile to accept that yeah, you know, maybe I actually am supposed to be with this person. That said, I must voice my pet peeve with some people who claim bisexuality. Women who cheat on their male partner with a woman because she is "bi" or a male cheating on his woman partner with a man because he is "bi". I don't understand, because I firmly believe that sex and sexual attraction is born out of love, not the other way around...

Anyway, yeah. Go slow, think it through, and if you change your mind, abort mission.

Hi UniversityPrincess. I and several of my friends have been through similar situations. Just relax and this situation will work out one way or another. Do what you feel comfortable doing, and don't stress about it.

Wow, thank you all so much for your comments. They made me think about my situation a little more. I'm pretty sure she knows how I feel and I know she likes me...

LOL, yes, that is a lot of talking for just friends!

I've been thinking really REALLY hard on this for the past few weeks and I think I am going to do my best to just relax and chill. So let it go where it may. If I end up dating or in a relationship or married to her...then so be it. However, if nothing comes of it...I'll ALWAYS remember this experience!

I've also prayed over this. My religion is very important to me and it's really difficult to relax when you think you're going to burn in eternal damnation because you wanted to be with a girl...So I'll keep praying. I'm not asking God to make it go away or to take it to another level, just to let his will be done...and for me not to go to **** (smile)

It's funny though, I was an ally for LGBTQ equality and supported our local chapter's events and all that jazz, but it never occured to me that one day I might be in this situation...ever.

But, thank you all so VERY much for your comments, they were helpful and made me step back and think a little bit more.