You're sorting out a lot of emotions right now, and it's obvious you're really confused and hurting. I'm sorry that you're going through such a difficult time.

We could guess what this guy's motivations are, but then we'd be here all day. Instead, let's take what he says at face value: he says he needs to take a break from being in a relationship with you but still wants to see you. Is that okay with you? Can you spend time with this person as friends without pining away for something more? If you can, then continuing to see him is okay -- just be sure he isn't getting too involved with your kids' lives. It's not fair for them to have to deal with someone waffling about the level of commitment they can make.

If you can't remain friends without expectations of something further, then you need to do yourself a favor and take a step back No matter how much he cares about you, he is not able to be in your life the way you would like him to be, which cannot be ignored.

I have to tell you though, I don't think this guy is main thing you want to be focusing on now. You still must be working through lots of feelings about your divorce. Seeing a counselor might help with that. How are your kids doing? Maybe you could concentrate on spending time with them. (A counselor for them might not be a bad idea either.)

Whatever you decide, please don't put your life on hold waiting for this guy to come through

But I think that he really loves her.

. You, and your kids, deserve better than that.