Wow...it seems like we're a lot alike: somewhat emotionally closed off to women. Smug. Intellectual. Distant. Welcome, brother. I've actually had to work through this in the course of a couple serious relationships (currently married), so I may be able to provide some insight.

In me, I've done enough introspection to know that I've cultivated these qualities out of a fear of emotional vulnerability. I'd been hurt emotionally a few times and had retreated into myself as a result. The good news is that it lends tremendous personal power because you don't give a fuck what people think...you're true to yourself first, but it creates a pproblem for relationships because you like being in your own head and have little or no requirement for emotional connection or outside validation. Maybe this is a bit presumptive, but if this describes you, the following may apply.

It's really hard to get by this, but you can, with practice, build a completely different skill set. You can, if you so choose, open yourself up to this girl...and she will appreciate it. This girl is providing you some momentum for change that you can use to set a precedent in the relationship where you're more open and sharing. Hell, you're already half way there. The earlier you do this, the more natural it feels. This is the bond that my wife and I formed when we got together and she knows more about me than anyone on earth.

As for the rest, my advice from a relationship standpoint, I would just go with the flow and see how it goes. If you like her and want to spend time with her, do it. Be up front (but not creepy or clingy). Don't put a lot of pressure on yourself. Dates are hard for men cuz we're not as thoughtful, but just find things that you want to share with her and you'll have your date. Consider what she'll think if she knows that you haven't been in many relationships, but you seem to want to be serious with her. That's a powerful message.