I think besides that there is another issue of him claiming that he was abused by his ex wife, she beat him up and he was mistreated and now all of a sudden they are so chummy. If I told my husband that I was abused by a man, but then I was all friendly with an abuser, my husband would be concerned.

This guy either lied about abuse in his past marriage or something else is going on here.

In addition hope’s husband is not trustworthy, he is known to lie. He is known to be too chummy with women including exchanging romantic messages. I’d not trust him to be just friendly with ex. Not saying something fishy is happening but emotional infidelity might be taking place. I’d not be surprised if they are that friendly, he likely discussed marital problems that he has with hope. I’d not trust this man at all. Not at this point.

You are referring to a normal situation being friendly with exes when people all get along and can trust each other. This situation isn’t normal whatsoever.