How do I know if I really like someone?

Jo

My last relationship ended pretty badly. I was infatuated for the beginning but then I never really loved him after that but I was too scared to break up with him (he was crazy and always convinced me out of it, he cheated twice). So anyways I’m going to grab some food after work on Wednesday with this guy I think is cute. How do I know if I feel anything? I don’t think I’ve ever really loved anyone and I don’t want to force it. We’ve been texting and I like the feeling of someone wanting to talk to me. He seems nice. I’m just so scared I’m gonna force something. It also doesn’t help I really want a boyfriend, so I don’t want to want him just cause I want one. I want to make sure I really like him and have a connection. I’m freaking out here. I feels like I’m never gonna really love anybody.