how to 180 when you've been too independent?

[TrentC]

No, no common law here.

No marriage makes it easy to walk away; on the other hand I am spared all the pain of the divorce and separation that everyone else is going through.

Well, the legal part is a bit easier. I don't think it'll be any easier on you emotionally.

If the A ends, and he wants to talk...I may be there, I may not, right?

Exactly. And if he wants to try to work things out, you need to set boundaries and insist on transparency.

I'm curious to know why you lived together for so long without getting married, but it's not really any of my business so don't answer if you don't want.

It's something you may want to put some thought into before you get into a new relationship, though (or rekindle an old one).