I don't understand the "we'll always be friends" thing. Especially if you still love him. But that's me. My W once said we'll always be friends, but no more. Obviously, I don't understand that because she'll always be more than a friend to me.
I've also seen couples become "friends." It was generally very short lived.
But you're not me, and you're not these other people. If you can do it, more power to ya!
And maybe it's the best way to keep your options open. Detached but open.
