Better it being a rumour than the truth!! But still I understand. Remember you haven't seen this guy in a long time and his news could date back to when ye were nearly there. Regardless best yo brush it off without fanning the flames.

For me that little how are you is not so little. Because it is missing in my situation. It shows an interest. It is by no means ground shattering and can be somewhat superficial, it is still worth noting. Every now and again elaborate a good response maybe even exaggerating a recent experience:
"I'm great and delighted with how I beat my pb time this morning when running"
"I'm excited about the evening the my mate has organised next weekend"

You get the idea. In essence you give a glimpse of a better you.

All these little things are important to observe and encourage they are only signs. Positive signs albeit, still just signs. In themselves they don't mean much. Added together and built on consistently they form a foundation. Until then no expectations.

Best wishes


R 25 years
M 14 years
S11 & S13
Working on it alone since Oct 2014
M in trouble a lot earlier (~2 years)
Feb 2016. 1st R chat in a yr.
Next R chat Aug'17
Still together