I think it made perfect sense for a Nightwing Annual to explore what Dick and Barbara really mean to each other.
This is true, but it doesn't really impact on my original comment though, which was referring to the original stories in their original context. There was nothing beyond cute flirting up until Chuck Dixon came along and introduced the "DICK AND BABS HAVE ALWAYS LOVED EACH OTHER" retcon.
The original version of Dick's chat is almost toe curlingly embarrassing, and Babs either IS asleep or continues to pretend so as not to hurt the kids feelings. She has no interest in pursuing the relationship, it IS just a crush he has on her from her POV.