URGENT relationship advice

So basically I have been talking to this guy- Michael, for a few months I’d say (3ish), and after about a month and a half we went on a date. It was nice, he’s nice, but I didn’t feel like I liked him. Although that could just be because i needed to give it longer. Anyway we went out another time and a little bit after my phone broke so I couldn’t text him. Fast forward I got it fixed on Sunday and it’s Thursday and I still haven’t texted him to say I got it fixed. (I feel very bad about that I know it’s harsh but other things have been on my mind, but I should’ve texted him.) He texted me late yesterday to ask if my feelings have changed for him as he hasn’t heard from me. I haven’t replied to that because I have no idea what to say. Do I give it longer, or do I give it up? We don’t have much in common I don’t think but maybe he’s just shy I can’t tell. For instance he is more mathsy while I prefer literature, and it is quite important that I date someone who also enjoys literature and arts (music, books, tv etc). also it’s very hard to speak to him in school because we are both awkward and in front of everyone it makes it much more awkward. And sometimes he stares at me (he sits behind me in lots of classes) and when I turn around he’s just staring at me, so I quickly turn back around, which I again, do feel bad about. what do I do?

Let’s break it down gently and clearly.
1. Do you like him romantically?
From everything you wrote:
Those are all signs that you’re not feeling a romantic connection — and that’s okay. It’s not something you need to force.
At 3 months in, if you were really into him, you’d know.
2. The staring, awkwardness, and pressure
It makes sense you feel uncomfortable — if someone likes you more than you like them, the dynamic can feel weird. The staring isn’t malicious, but it can make you feel watched, and that adds pressure.
That pressure can also make you pull away even more.
3. What’s the kindest and cleanest thing to do?
The kindest thing is honesty with softness. You don’t need to blame him, and you don’t need to make a big emotional announcement. Something short, respectful, and clear is enough.
Here’s a template you can use:
Message option 1 (simple and honest): “Hey, I’m really sorry for taking a while to reply — my phone was broken and I should’ve messaged sooner. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know you, but I don’t think my feelings have grown into something romantic. I didn’t want to lead you on or make things confusing. I hope we can still be friendly at school.”
Message option 2 (gentle but firm): “I’m sorry for the delay — it wasn’t fair to leave you hanging. I’ve been thinking about your message, and I don’t think my feelings have changed. I really respect you and I didn’t want to say something unclear or confusing.”
4. Will it be awkward?
Probably a little bit — but only for a short time. Awkwardness passes. Dragging things out makes things way worse.
By being direct and kind, you’re actually giving both of you space to move on.
5. Should you “give it more time”?
Only if you want to — and it really sounds like you don’t. You’re not excited about seeing where it goes; you’re anxious about disappointing him. That’s not a foundation for a relationship.
People don’t have to share all interests, but if shared artistic/literary interests are genuinely important to you, then honoring that is valid.
6. You’re not doing anything wrong
Not liking someone back doesn’t make you cruel. Feeling awkward doesn’t make you rude. And taking care of your own feelings before entering a relationship is actually very mature.