A source told Britain's Daily Star newspaper: "They swapped numbers then and although they texted each other quite regularly they didn't meet up.
"Then when Lily split from Ed, Rupert offered her a shoulder to cry and she took it.
"They get on really well and he makes her laugh. Last week they enjoyed a Japanese meal together where they had a long intense talk as well as a few laughs."
Lily, 22, is said to love how Rupert - who was recently rumored to be dating 'Skins' actress Hannah Murray - makes her feel safe and protected.
A source said: "Lily got really upset when people recognized them so Rupert protected her. She likes that.
"Lily is still dealing with a terrible start to the year and Rupert is really helping her through."