its very hard,i was in the same situation as you,believe me he will go to any lengths to get money of you,cheating,lying ,stealing,i have been through it all.they never change.i nearly lost my house,friends,divorce.i had money lenders etc on the phone threatening me.i had to pay off his car,he always got stuff put in my name,so I was liable for everything.i met him 30 years ago and we are still friends,one of the kindest people I know,every now and then he gives me a couple of hundred pounds,any work needed done in the house he does for free(he is a painter and decorator)he says he knows what he done was bad, I cant forgive what he done but I've learned to live with it(compulsive gambling is a horrible illness)I think he still gambles but not as much,but i'll never know,the excuses is unbelievable.by all means continue your relationship,but to keep it NEVER'lend or give him money.