I should start by explaining I'm from a very conservative background, a different culture in many ways from UK or European cultures. I don't like to say exactly where as don't want to out myself. I've lived in the UK since I was very young though (now in mid 30s).
I've never been romantically involved with any British man before, although have been previously married to man from my own background. I'm divorced and have a young child. My ex husband is no longer in our lives (for reasons that are too complicated to go into here).
For the last few months I've found myself falling for a British man and have been told (can't say how) that he's falling for me too. Nothing romantic has happened between us, although we have become close friends. I met him through an activity we both take part in.
He knows my circumstances and background. He's told me the more time he spends with me, the more he likes me. I feel the same way about him but I don't know how to word it to him. I'm so shy. I have been told (by another person) that he's holding back from being more direct with me out of respect for my religion, background as well as because he knows I didn't have a great experience Doesn't want to scare me. Also I've been told he's holding back because of my religion (he doesn't believe I'd be interested in anyone from outside my religion).
How can I word my feelings in a suitable way?