Dating Mid to Late 20s

I’ve always gone from relationship to relationship, ever since high school. Serial monogamist you could say! I’m now 26, and have been single since March. I started dating and find myself in a situation right now where I’m seeing 2 people.

One is basically somewhere between friends with benefits and dating, and we have acknowledged that. Very sex focused, very hot and steamy, flirty, etc. he makes me feel like the most attractive woman to walk this earth, and it’s pretty fantastic. lol!

The other... I met him on an app and we’ve been on two dates. He’s a total gentleman- opens the door for me, very respectful, very kind. Our first date we literally talked for 6 hours and just hugged at the end. Our second date, hung out even longer. We finally held hands and he walked me to the door at the end of the night and kissed me. Very romantic. He makes me feel respected, almost courted which is so old school. But it’s definitely a slower build of attraction... we have a third date planned already.

Everyone says unless someone asks to be exclusive, it’s assumed you can see other people. What are your thoughts? FwB guy texted me while I was on my date, but I didn’t reply until the next day. He wanted to know how my night went but I feel weird lying... but I also feel weird saying I was on a date.

How do YOU navigate the dating scene and seeing more than one person at a time? I feel like I’m cheating or leading someone on!