Hey Dave! Oh you are so right! I also experienced having a relationship where the guy was not over the ex. The mother of that guy still remained best friends with her and she called her mommy(twisted yeah) . When I found out I was separated but still in shock. They could not see the damage of maintaining such connection. I would not imagine a happy family in such conditions. I wish I would have asked more questions and to find out earlier because clearly I would never had continued if I would had known. I have found out many troubling details only after and I could understand many things after I've put myself in painful situations. Lesson learned but it has cost me time and a heartbreak.

I agree that bonding with the partner is necessary. And quality time alone. Relationships are like flowers, they need constant care and attention.

When people don't care about the relationship and the partner, they will just use it and throw it when they filled up their tank. It can even go worse, up to verbal and physical abuse. Nobody should stay in toxic relationship where they are disrespected by people who should get help from professionals.

Thank you for making time to read and reply with such a lovely well thought comment, I appreciate!