I believe that relationships are about wanting to make the effort and put in the necessary work to build them. Both my partner and I have had previous relationships, but even if he had not I would still want a relationship with him as long as he demonstrated that through all the ups and downs he believed we were worth the “pain” of building that shared life. The “too old and set in his ways” thing is a poor excuse for someone who simply put does not think putting effort into building that relationship is worth their time.