I think I know what you mean about the emotional stunting. My ex showed puzzling psychological patterns. At times he seemed almost sociopathic in his disregard for the feelings of others, but I realized it was just that he'd been so prejudiced to think of outsiders as less-than and sinful that he truly did not seem to realize we'd have morals at all. Especially women, whom he used like toilet paper. He seems childlike in his views, everything is black or white. He believes in demons. There's a paranoia to him, always thinking people are out to screw him over. He's deeply envious of one other filmmaker, sees the guy's success as a threat to his own, a zero sum game with only a handful of winners. Ugh. It is exhausting.
I've never known a better liar than this guy. He lied constantly. And utterly without remorse.
Hon, these are two of your recent quotes about this man. Do you really need anyone else's advice about what you should do with this relationship? I think maybe you're just looking for reassurance and support. This is a great group of people for that.
You seem to be intelligent and articulate in everything you say. Can you really not find a better potential mate?
Good luck!