Where did I put my dating handbook?

I have to say that I hate not knowing the rules of the dating scene. Is it something you learn after a bit, or is it innate? Is it passed on from older to younger, or is it like I feel- pushed into the deep end of the pool and drowning. Not sure if flailing my arms round will make me seem more ridiculous than I already feel.

Who, and How do figure out if you are exclusive? Like boyfriend and girlfriend (and is there a difference?) Because I realllly don't want to be the one to ask and make the guy go "Oh, holy shit, she wants... duh duh DUH Commitment!. No, more like I want to feel more secure when blonde German bimbos are putting slutty pictures on your guestbook. My hand itches to bitchslap.

And how long do you date before you introduce friends? I've been dating for a month (yeah, head games start early) and his best friend is coming to visit. I have been told I won't get to see him for a week. A week? Umm... why do I feel like I'm a toy who has been regulated to the closet? I hate that. But I like him, so I take it. Which is stupid too. Because if anyone else asked me about any of the shit I've done, or put up with I would not respond this way. (Oh, nothing terrible, he's a really nice guy, I just think I wouldn't be so whipped.)

I think part of the reason I put up with it is because he's hot. Now that may sound shallow, but I really don't care. I'm the girl in high school who was on the debate and forensics team. German Club President. I played cello in the orchestra, I had braces, asahma (sp?), glasses, acne, and thought overalls were a good idea. Ugh. So yeah, when a hot guy looks at me I'm the one sitting there giggling and point to myself and questioning "me?" cuz that can't be right.

So if anyone has any advice I would realllly appreicate it. I know I'm old enough I should probable know this shit by now, but I don't. (Dork in HS remember?)