I pondered that question myself and have to say that the conduct of the parties, doesn't automatically lead to a conclusion of exclusivity. I waited about three months to 'ask' though we seemed exclusive and he'd said things like he doesn't date multiple people (if that was true). Within two weeks of my asking or the "DTR" talk, he broke it off. I think my asking "what do you consider me?" forced him to take a look at how he was leading me on. I waited a while to ask since we are 38 and 45 and being a little older, I wasn't in a real hurry to have a commitment. It is awkward to ask but it's more awkward NOT to ask.. don't assume even if it feels and appears exclusive.