Would it be unusual to ask someone bluntly if they want to remain friends?

Asked by rockfan (14627) August 24th, 2020 from iPhone

I’d been casual acquaintances with this person for about a year, and before the pandemic, we’ve hung out 4 times, watching movies, going out to eat, etc. Because of my Aspergers, I think I’ve come across awkward and withdrawn, even though I’m having a nice time when I’m around her, and she seemed to as well. Also, we didn’t clarify if they were dates or not, I was afraid to label it that in fear of being rejected. So we’ve remained friends. But I can tell that she may not be interested in being friends anymore, she rarely texts me first, and I usually initiate the conversation, and it doesn’t last very long.

I think she feels awkward around me, and is staying friends with me out of guilt, because I have autism. Yesterday I texted her if she wanted to hang out, but she hasn’t replied. What do you think I should do? I mean, I could potentially be completely misreading the situation. So I’m not sure if I should risk sending her this message:

“I know I can be awkward around people, sorry if I’ve come across that way. I’m not the best at reading peoples emotions or telling people how I feel. The past few times we’ve hung out I had a lot of fun, but I don’t think I ever expressed that, and I feel bad for doing that. Do you want to stay friends? I really like you, but if you don’t feel the same way, I understand.”