So I'd emailed back and forth with Stella and continued our conversation..
Stella wrote:
Well, yeah, I can't see how you knew that, but that's right on the head. That is the fear I am feeling. I don't like hurting people and it seems that every time I am over him, and am just getting back in to a good healthy relationship, he shows up and I end up hurting someone that doesn't deserve it. Do you really think that is why I am cancelling dates? That's some amazing stuff.
I responded:
Letting go is a difficult thing, but letting go is made almost impossible when a destructive relationship keeps reoccurring. You need to free yourself of this person. Seek out some therapy and disappear from this person's life. Also, don't date for a bit. You need to stand on your own two feet for a little while before getting back out there. You'll find yourself, your independence, and learn your strengths. The next person you end up in a relationship with will thank you for it.
Good luck.