I have tried soooo many times to reply but my computer is still giving me fits! Sorry!
I think you really hit on something when you mentioned that your H loved the "independent" you.
That's exactly what I meant when I said that you should show him with your actions what a wonderful woman you are. He needs to see a confidenent, independent, sexy YOU.
My H once told my sister that he absolutely loved my independence....said in such a way, meaning that he found it desirable. (She, of course, called me immediately and told me!)
Now, what could you do to show him that you are confident and more independent? (Big Hint here: don't talk about, think about, dwell on OW. She's a non-factor in your new life. Let her be your H's burden....and she is you know...a burden.)
Sending this off to you now just in case my computer crashes ....again!