It exploits the worst parts of human nature as well, meaning the desire to be “in on a secret”, as tantalizing little hints are thrown at you couched in language that makes you go “I always figured it was something like that”, followed be stuff like “maybe I shouldn’t be saying that to you, you may not be ready”. It exploits naivete, there is no doubt; but more malicious than that it also exploits good intentions. That’s what makes exes so persistent. Fool me once – shame on you. Fool me twice – shame on me. Fool me thrice – go die in a fire.