Leo female Taurus male crush won't stop...

I've worked with a Taurus male for a little over a year. For me it was attraction at first site. He's slightly older then me and a superior. Not a boss directly. It I import his projects at work. Recently, a flirtation has developed between us ( 3 months ago) and I just can't get a read on his behavior. In person, the sexual chemistry is thick and the banter is playful(from my perspective at least), texting about non work things can be playful too but albeit short and to the point. My convern about the latter is that I am the only one to EVER initiate a text with him and he's always responded quickly. At this point, I feel embarrassed and silly and want to back offfor my own sanity. I'm not sure anything further will develop at this point since it's been 3 months but if I back off will it cause him to pursue me or just accept it as is...backing off?

Or just ask the dude out.

How sure are you that he is interested in you in that way? From all you've written I'm not convinced. I'm sure there is a lot you are leaving out for brevity.

Takes me awhile to take the cookie, no matter how much I want the cookie.

He could be worried about texting, especially if he is using a company phone. Not every company is hellfire and brimstone about people getting involved with each other, but he could be playing it safe.