You are in a situation many of us dream about... regardless of whether or not you decide to try to make it work with your ex, it certainly must feel nice to hear that validation and remorse. Even if its not sincere. Or is. None of us know. And should not project either way.
Our left behind brains want to desperatly say "yes. He was suffering all those years ago. He just didnt feel safe to come back. Was afraid of rejection and punishment" but thats our thoughts. Theres also a good chance that they were having a ball back then and villified us enough to not care. They have the grass is greener brains and now you have become the other grass. So i would be careful.
You mentioned that you are dating someone new. What is he like? How serious are you guys?
Also do you have children with your ex? If so how has he been with his children?
