It just means that you are spending time together. If your parents allowed you to go to the dance, then they must have thought that there was a possibility that you'd actually dance with someone. But, yes, they may not like the idea of you actually dating someone yet. Dating is a big step not only for you to take, but also for you parents. If you do want to date this cute guy, perhaps you should talk to your parents and see if they'd let you go with a group of people to somewhere like the movies.
Many girls start dating by going out in large groups.
I'd have to say that it does seem a bit early to go on dates alone at the age of 12. Although you are definitely becoming a young woman, it may still be too soon. However, group dates are a ton of fun and you can still spend quality time with your date. Now's a perfect time for you to sit down with your folks and work out what the ground rules will be as far as you and boys are concerned. If you go to them about it, you may even find that they're impressed with your maturity and honesty about the subject.