Casual Dating

I need some advice please!!

I am recently out of a 5.5 year relationship and whilst out met someone with whom I have mutuals with who I found out was interested in me and we ended up going on a few dates. We’ve been on about 4 dates over the last month and a bit and we have had sex so whilst it’s new, we’re definitely ‘involved’.

I’m not sure exactly what I’m after, and he knows I’m newly single - he’s also 8 years older than me, which doesn’t bother him (or I) but I feel it gives context. When I’m with him he seems very keen and we actually have a really great time, but our texting relationship is not great, we’re both very busy though - which also means organising to see eachother can be tricky. I suggested a date to which he said he couldn’t wait and then when I checked in today (the date was set last week and the date was for next week) he had completely forgotten he was busy and we’ve rescheduled.

He apologised and blamed work but if I’m honest, he didn’t seem super apologetic. I know this is a huge red flag and I feel a bit silly for rearranging for the week after - but I feel like as someone who’s new on the dating scene I shouldn’t be so quick to get rid of someone I’m actually enjoying getting to know.

What should I have done here? I feel like there’s a power imbalance and I’m coming across very desperate? The truth is I just enjoyed being around him and I’m genuine - surely nothing to feel ashamed about?

Would love some takes on the above x

Side note - if anyone has any advice as someone who is newly dating, I have no idea what the rules are here. Have I already set the tone as not being someone to take seriously?