It's the proverbial slippery slope. Yep, I admit to it. I want that emotional involvement! It makes it more fun, even if I realize that it's probably one sided, as long as she can be fairly convincing that it's more than that, it makes things more enjoyable.
With that said, as we all know, if you aren't careful, this is where you can get burned. (and as you've probably read in my other posts, it HAS happened to me) BUT, I have also had SEVERAL LTRs with these girls, and at least one (my ATF), after about three years with her, nearly led to a long term commitment (she divorced and I nearly did).
I see signs where my current fav could turn into something more than just fun, but I have learned my lesson and know that I will not let my emotions run too far ahead of things.