At this point, after almost a decade together, I actually do think Alex likes being with Louise, I don't even mean that in a romantic soulmate kind of way. And yeah, I know being together for years doesn't automatically mean much. But... I think she gives him something he likes and feels comfortable with.
Maybe it's the distance, maybe it's the fact that they don't seem to live like a traditional couple. Maybe it's the freedom of having a relationship without all the expectations that seemed to exist in some of his previous ones. I don't like Louise and I'm definitely not trying to defend her, but I think people sometimes forget that Alex is actively choosing this too. The relationship says just as much about him as it does about her.
And honestly? Alex has always struck me as a very insecure person when it comes to relationships. I don't think he's someone who does well being single. Maybe that's part of why this works for him in a way his other relationships didn't. Anyway, I'd still rather see him learn how to be alone, that would be a thousand times better than being with Louise. Or maybe find someone who genuinely adds something positive to his life 🤷🏻
Valid.