Talking from experience, honestly, you are going to have to pull away for a while to make it easier to get over the previous attachment. For both of you. You can explain that to him. You know, that you just need some time to clear the air, to separate yourself from the previous relationship, but would like to continue a friendship. It's hard going from a relationship to just friends. So definitely express how you are feeling and then give it a little time. Especially if it's a toxic relationship. I've definitely had to distance myself from toxic people in my life. Some of them were repairable others not so much. Take a little time and see how it goes. Good luck to you.
