Is it ever OK for the woman to make the first move?

[Bloodredheart]

I'm hopeless at dating. There is someone who I'm extremely attracted to, but he seems to go from being shy and nervous to being aloof, then showing obvious interest. He's lovely and I don't want to pass this by. I feel there's so much we have in common and a great deal we could talk about.

How do I go about this? Or should I follow convention and let him pursue me and follow the old age rule of "if he's interested, he'll move in"?

I was like this years ago with a guy. Convinced he was interested as he seemed very interested. We went on "dates", ie out to the cinema, dinner, etc. But nothing g romantic ever happened. I wasn't sure if he was shy or not interested. After a year of fannying around I told him that I really liked him. He was surprised and sadly for me said he wasn't attracted to me but really liked me as a friend as we had loads in common.

I wish I'd asked him earlier as it would have saved a load of heartache for me. Just ask him. Worst case he says no but then you know where you stand.