Hi niceguy, must have been quite a wrench even knowing (deep down) that you were doing the right thing. Sometimes what we want (however badly) can be so far away from what we actually need. And the relationship with them sounded like something you really didn't need in your life. And "too much water under the bridge", right?
But perhaps see it more as they missed out!! From what you say you could have given them so much.
Although the "what could have been" you know realistically (?) it sounds like that leaned more towards longerterm pain/heartache overall for you. And with some people/the power they have over you things like that can hurt SO MUCH.
But maybe one day, if you want, you'll be able to look back on the good times with them without the pain and even smile while KNOWING you've done exactly the right thing.
And one day with someone who is really right for you and loves you just forbeing you.
It can take time, as in grieving for the ending of the relationship....but there CAN be brighter skies.
Hey, why am I telling YOU this? YOU know right- and probably a lot more!
So maybe all I can say is I know where you're coming from, I know it's got to hurt, and there for you if you want to talk/want some support..........
Alison