Can we be friends?

I was with my boyfriend for 17 years when we split up. We have been through so much together and I'm feeling a bit lost. I have just found out that since we split he has been with another girl and now she is pregnant. They are no longer together as she is being abusive to him. I have spoken to him recently as we had some things to sort out and he wants to be friends. I can see he regrets ever breaking up but I don't see how we can continue to be friends. At the minute I feel like I am missing part of me. There is no going back, I will not restart the relationship but can a friendship work?

Fresh start is what you need. Down the line, when you are on more solid footing, you can make a decision on friendship. Go to the gym, take a trip, do something just for you...things do get better.