I need advice

My friend met someone who is older than her by 10 years. They are still in the talking stage, but she has already developed deep feelings for him. The problem is, she is scared to ask if he is married.

Part of her feels like she should ask now before her emotions grow even deeper, but another part of her is afraid of hearing an answer that could break her heart. She keeps overthinking it because she genuinely likes him and does not want things to change between them.

At the same time, she knows avoiding important questions can lead to bigger pain later. She is confused between protecting her feelings and facing the truth early.

What advice would you give her?