@PE Once again, you have captured my reaction in a single post.
@CM I was recently in a similar situation with a girl I knew from a summer camp we both attended on the same week each summer. (Well, recently is a bit of a stretch, 4 years ago.) Pretty much I was crushing all over her. She was the gorgeous redhead, and I was the nerdy pubescent guy trying to edge my way into her head heart and pants.
Long story short, we played some card games with a group of friends, hung out a bit in a public setting. I got to know her a bit, she got to know me a bit; and we're both friends to this day. That's it. I got over my infatuation, I made a friend, and I never once had to confess deep feelings for her. Also, since you're worried about being new at this; I was home schooled from 5th to 6th grades, and then again from 8th to 10th. Thus I had no experience, and I don't feel myself any worse off for it. Take a step and learn.
Also, dear god, if you live in a place where middle school kids are in physical relationships, kissing, and "more." Then that is one messed up place. 99% or more of middle school relationships are total and utter nonsensical crap. You didn't miss jack.