"Take a step back"? From what? YOUR relationship? Naw, sorry, that's not sounding too good. Sounds like she's keeping you around, "just in case".

TRUST HER? I think the only reasonable thing to trust is that she is comfortable stepping out to consider OTHER possible relationships. There's nothing wrong with you having female friends and her having male friends...but if you DO...then THOSE FRIENDS should be part of YOUR group in addition to being people you might see AS FRIENDS on the side. YOU DO NOT TAKE A STEP BACK from a relationship unless you are considering ending or changing the relationship. Do NOT waste time "feeling" stupid, how could you know this was coming? At least she is being partially honest with you and maybe SHE doesn't fully realize that she wants to change the relationship, or maybe she thinks it's ok to consider other options while keeping the "sure thing" on the hook. Personally, I don't think it is ok to do that to anyone! Think about what YOU want, and what you are truly WILLING to accept in terms of treatment. Relationships should be about loving after some time has passed and as they are forming and new...at least about CARING to some point about the other person's goals, feelings, interests. Make YOUR OWN decision as to what you are willing to accept...respect YOUR FEELINGS, you deserve the BEST, not second hand hash! Grieve, cry when you need to AND then MOVE ON!