These are some of the reasons I believe he may be on the spectrum, the thing is, he doesn't know.
He is very intelligent and extremely passionate about his interests- learning everything about the topic, he doesn't like small talk-would prefer to be silent instead of small talk, he doesn't like/take compliments and almost never gives them, he does not like to be rushed-we went to a late night food joint, it was packed, we were up, they asked what we wanted, he turned around and walked out the door, we went to a hardware store he hadn't been to before, he was looking for some particular things, didn't know where they were in this store, I offered to show him since I know the layout, after a few he put his items down, said he didn't like this store and would go to the other one later on, so we left (I'm not sure what that was about but would love some insight), it took me a long time to realize he didn't just want to be casual friends with benefits because the only verbal feedback I had ever received was that he liked my butt and hanging out with me.
Once I started to put the pieces together, it seemed to make sense. To be clear, I love these things about him, though sometimes I'm confused! So I guess my questions are;
A. Does this sounds like someone who may be on the spectrum to y'all?
B. If so, is this a conversation you have with your partner if they are unaware and it could be helpful to better understanding each other?
C. If it's not something to bring up to him, are there more clear/direct ways I can ask about what he experiences and how I can be helpful without mentioning ASD?
D. Any and all advice is greatly appreciated!