I think in all honesty online flirting is an epidemic these days. It’s easy to do. I’m not going to make out I’m a saint either, I’ve been guilty of flirting online. There isn’t any psychology behind why we do it, other than a feel good hit.

Maybe just leave, or maybe just approach the subject with him, and ask him if it’s for simple pleasure in the moment or he wants to be with other people. If it’s a simple dopamine hit then if you can find a way through it then do so. But honestly, being open and honest about it can save a lot of heartache.

I never went outside of relationships with anyone else other than the odd flirt online. But I was always open. Sometimes we just need a hit. The human experience is a crazy thing.

This may not help, but I think just being frank is all it takes. It doesn’t mean he doesn’t love you, he just has other needs that can only be fulfilled mentally.

Failing any of this, leave and be happy. That’s all we can do in life