But this was different, and I couldn’t ignore it for long. So, I started to do some research. I’d always known about aromanticism and asexuality, having spent plenty of time in LGBTQ+ circles on social media. But I’d never been repulsed by sex or romance, and I’d liked being in a relationship, so I’d always assumed I wasn’t aro/ace.

But through my research, I realised just how amazingly varied the spectrums of asexuality and aromanticism are. On one site, a list titled “you might be aromantic if…” included several thoughts and feelings that I could relate to.

From having a celebrity crush because everyone else did, to liking the idea of a romantic relationship but not needing to seek it out, to having trouble distinguishing between romantic and platonic feelings. The last point resonated with me especially strongly, and I realised that I might be demiromantic.

Don’t get me wrong, I still want a relationship in the future. I still find people attractive (even if I don’t get ‘crushes’), I like romantic gestures, and I don’t get repulsed by the thought of romance. But I do still consider myself on the aromantic spectrum, because to me my future partner will always be more like a very close best friend, but one whom I cuddle with and kiss.

Obviously, everyone experiences aromanticism and asexuality differently, and this is only how I feel. I’m only a couple of months into my journey, and I may feel differently in the future, but for now I feel proud to have found my place on the spectrum.

Joshua is an ambassador for Just Like Us, the LGBT+ young people’s charity – sign up for their newsletter.