When you first start to date someone, the relationship is neutral and undefined.   But since relationships are never static,  that neutral status only lasts for a few dates.  After that, one of three things will happen.

If things work out right, you will become romantically involved.  But, the more that you date someone without romance developing, the more likely it is that the two of you will just become friends.  And, if you fail to become romantic or friends, then the relationship will just end.

So, if you are looking for a loving relationship, it needs to happen in the first couple of dates.  If it doesn’t, then the romantic relationship is doomed.