Big hugs Julia! I think you know the answer to some of your questions but here goes. You care about yourself too much to have unprotected sex. Unless you are looking at test results for yourself about your special guy, you just aren't going to know.
Drugs would be a deal breaker for me. You are going to need to weigh that out for yourself. Lots of other issues come with someone who uses drugs. Is he trying to stop using?
I hear you on the ex front. Mine is getting married this weekend. If we didn't have these kids in common, I would try to keep him out of my life. He is lost and there isn't a way to help him. You didn't waste your time because you needed to really try in order for you to let go. Once you are back and have your kitty back there won't be a need to keep up with him.
I hope I have helped a little.
kat
Me-53(and learning!) S24, S21, D18, D17 Just keep swimming, Just keep swimming. Dory