I may need to read it again when I get back from town, but Charles sounds like someone who would not judge you. His affection for you over the years sounds genuine, gentle, sensitive, and very different from D. He's got to know something is up, you disappear at times.

I tell people (if they ask) I did not complete college because I got married and started a family, but that I want to go back.

If I had a new lover I would want to be able to be honest and close. Not much point to it otherwise for me, where I am right now.

You are a smart, beautiful, dynamic lady. Just let him adore you as you are. You are worth it. So what if you've had bumps in the road, that is life and makes yours a more interesting one than most. These trials and tribulations make us who we are now (my therapist says).