How to let go of someone who strings you along?

Have been close, dating someone for 6 years then I moved out of town. We kept in touch, he called everyday, but never has made effort to visit. When I go back where he lives for an important event, he wants to see me, treats me like I am a queen, tells me he wants to know everything that happens to me, I go back home and there is nothing. Great charmer of a guy, seems like kind of guy who would be faithful, acts that way -but is not in reality. He is a player. And I was clueless. I feel stupid. Heart hurts a bit – not as much as if I still lived there – but if Ilived there, we would probably be together. He is middle-aged, lives with his mother – they are kind of like one unit. Yet that is his free choice – not a crime. Like his mom. He has told me he loves me many times. Find myself wanting to protect my heart from ever getting hurt again. How can I ever or will I ever have someone that truly loves me and is not a schmuck? Feel kind of frozen and scared to meet anyone. Have stayed within family and very few friends to heal. And am often alone. It is okay to be alone, right?