>>323311946
Just woke up so sorry about the late response. 
I'm not a gay male either. I'm 21 and surrounded with people who are unsure of themselves, so maybe that has something to do with it. Decided that someone had to take the reins in order to build an honest friendship. Turns out most people want the same, yet they're too ashamed to ask. 
Most of my friends are in a similal age range so I lucked out. Maybe play up to the age gap and act like an uncle or something. Emphasize that they're younger and need guidance or something. I pull this card on my friends who are 2 years younger on me and it's great lol
But if it's in vrchat and not irl I doub't they'll care about your age

>>323310332
>I preach to these autists that it's good and fun and that living without this kind of affection is bad for you. A fate worse than death is not to have lived at all. Unfortunately they're fucking pussies and don't want to risk rejection. 
Good take!
My only complaint is that for me it's 100% platonic and I don't really flirt/erp. It's important to treat your close friends with the same love and respect as a romantic partner, but without the sexual aspect of it. 
I don't dish it out to everyone I meet, either. 
>There's no malice or ulterior motive.
As long as this is true and you back off when they're uncomfortable I think it's all good