How to text him about taking things further without pushing too hard

If he gives a vague answer, changes the subject, or takes hours to reply to something straightforward, that's information. It usually means either he hasn't thought about it, he knows the answer isn't what you want to hear, or he's the type who avoids difficult conversations. None of those are about you being too forward. You asked a normal question. His response tells you what he's willing to give. Pay attention to what he does, not what you hope he means. A guy who's into you and thinking about the future will engage with this directly, even if he says he needs time to think.

Your reply needs to ask the question clearly enough that he can't wiggle out with a non-answer. Vague responses deserve follow-up, not acceptance. If he says something like 'I like you, let's just see where it goes,' you still don't know if he's open to commitment or stringing you along. A solid response points out that you're asking something specific and you need a real answer, not a stall tactic. It also signals that you're comfortable having the actual conversation, which takes the pressure off him. Sometimes guys avoid these talks because they think you'll fall apart or get angry. If you stay calm and direct, you give him permission to be honest.

Send it during the day when you're both likely to be alert and not busy. Avoid sending after drinking or late at night. Give him 24 to 48 hours to respond properly. If he reads it and doesn't reply for days, that's your answer. Don't double-text asking why he didn't respond. Once you have his answer, decide if it's something you can live with. If he says he's not ready for commitment but you are, staying around hoping he changes isn't a plan. If he's open to it, suggest moving the conversation to a phone call or in person so you can actually talk about what that looks like.