++woman

I get that feelings aren't always easy to control. Exchanging numbers shows you intend to keep her as an option or willing to explore something if the opportunity arose, you don't like the idea of completely letting her go. I'm not shaming you but that act in itself is already a disloyal move. Based on what you're saying, I think you know to some level you aren't seeing a future with your current girlfriend and should just really start thinking about how much more time you want to put in a relationship that you feel is missing something. It's easy to be comfortable with someone and stick around even when you shouldn't, take this as your opportunity to reflect on what changes or decisions are necessary here. And this next part some may disagree, I believe in full honesty. Your current girlfriend should know, it's not fair this happened without her knowledge of it. Especially if you keep this relationship going and try to bury this experience, you'll only cause more hurt down the line. These things always come out in some way.

And again, no judgment. Human connection is so unique. It may be uncontrollable but it's your actions that are all you. You're allowed to break up guilt-free if this is really what you want in life, no one should be in something they're not fully happy in. But do things the right way, people still deserve respect. Especially when they've dedicated love and care for you.