Guys, How to communicate effectively to this old flame that I genuinely care about him but won't stand mistreatment?

[SeintMary]

I am in on and off relationship with this one old flame. It is just that we met in difficult time and I regard him as someone dear and special to me cuz he was there for me and I was there for him. He recently contacted me again and I was just happy, so much happy and this is like meeting again that long lost old friend feeling and it was not about me tryna making him stay and choose me, pick me, love me vibe. Just I was happy and feeling good in general. But now, he acting like upper hand and tryna play some stupid games and started treating me a bit shitty, I got anxious yesterday despite knowing all his tricks. I also feel regret that I showed him I still care about him a lot. How do I resolve this issue?

[caring__1]

Apparently, he's playing games because that's what he believes will work with you. The key here is communication. Explore how the two of you have changed over time. Find out what works or turns the other off. If his behavior is a turn-off, educate him with alternatives that work better for you. Don't just criticize him and expect him to know what you'd prefer. Pay attention to his patterns, as they're likely to continue reappearing. Show curiosity to understand how those patterns have worked for him in the past. Never stay, holding onto hope the other person will change for you.

[CuriousMufuxka]

Girl, you need to stop tryin to act all ditzy and tell me bout those tricks he be playin! Really though it sounds like you want him to be a friend with the open option on your end for extra..

[SeintMary]

I guess this is how he thinks too

[In_Trance]

Don't

[Iron_Man]

Just be nice and kind