Forgive me for asking, but are you looking for a stable committed relationship? Do you think that this man is capable of such a thing? If memory serves didn’t he have relationships outside of his marriage both with and without his wife’s permission?

I know instinct tells you to cling to that known thing, but I would suggest avoiding that particular circle of friends entirely. They didn’t give you much support or assistance in the past. Find a new group of people that have the same goals as yourself. Good luck!