> They are completely acting on their own self-interest which is fine and logical.

When did I say she wasn't?

> yet try to make it look like you have it all figured out.

I have the kind of lifestyle that allows me to learn these kinds of lessons very quickly. Beautiful women, and their attendant problems, have come into and out of my life for as long as I can remember, and I've read everything interesting that I could find regarding human attraction / connection, tested the methods, and come to my own conclusions. The lessons / surprises you say I'm 'in for', I've learned over and over again.

There is still room in the world for love and trust and tenderness. You need to be emotionally mature and be willing to be vulnerable. Heartbreaks happen but you move on. If you let yourself get scarred then you'll never find truly honest and open love. That honestness and openness is so important for me to find that I will allow myself to get hurt as many times as it takes.

I do not see myself as playing a game with this girl that one of us will win. I see it as two people exploring life together. It's not a game, there are no points, only experiences to share.