Your ex is an ex for a reason. If you’re not married to them nor ever married, leave your used goods “back there.” Stop reaching [back there], reminiscing on “what could’ve been.” You found an old phone # and wondering if they’re still at that number. You’re playing yourself if you reach out to the ex after you dumped them or they dumped you. Leave the damaged goods in the past. Move on with the new chapter in your life and a new way of thinking. The ex means “next.”