M(35) Christian Non Kashmiri wants to take next step with F(26) Muslim Kashmiri but unsure.

I'm someone in my early 30s who wants to settle down . I'm friends with a Kashmiri girl(a decade younger to me) for many years. We both have seen each other kinda grow to where we are now during this time. I like her but I'm a little hesitant to profess myself to her as she is kinda a free bird( very forward thinking) yet one who ardently follows what her parents say. We have spent time together but just as friends(I want to take the next step). I have been in two big relationships till now but with her I'm a little nervous as I don't want to ruin whatever we have. Any advice would be helpful.