Hey, just to give you some context, I'm in my late twenties and I've developed a crush on a coworker. The interesting thing is, neither of us identifies as straight. He's in an open relationship, which means he can flirt with anyone while still having a partner. I've been going through depressive episodes lately, both in my personal life and at work. Although we don't work directly together, our company is pretty small, and everyone knows about my struggles. They're concerned for me because I'm not doing so well.

We had a one-time hookup, and it was amazing. Despite being aware that I'm not at the top of his priorities, I feel genuinely happy and comfortable whenever I talk to him or spend time with him. We even made an agreement that we can handle our emotions and treat this as just a fling. We both know that if it ends, which I expect it will, we'll go back to being good friends. However, being the pessimist that I am, I don't want to end up in a bar crying and feeling awkward around him.

Everyone is cautioning me to be careful, but damn, I'm happy, and people are noticing it. It seems like I'm more into him than he is into me. Don't get me wrong, he does reciprocate, but in a flirty way. Another thing is that I've been experiencing manic depressive episodes lately, and he's the only one who keeps me sane. He's become something or someone I can look forward to. Unfortunately, growing up, I never felt liked or loved, which is why even though he gives me the bare minimum, and even though I know my place and don't have the right to ask for more, I still find myself wanting it. Even if it means getting scraps of love, attention, or affection from him, I feel like it's enough. It's similar to what I've experienced in my past relationships.

I asked my work friends for advice, and they all told me to be careful. It's frustrating because I've fully accepted him for who he is, and I believe he has done the same for me. In gay relationships, finding that kind of connection is rare. So, dear Reddit friends, what the hell should I do? Thanks in advance