Hi there!
It sounds like the new love interest is a great guy! I have been in the same situation myself (down to my dad not being the best at fatherhood). A year ago, after a string of relationships with “bad boys”, I started dating a guy who was the opposite of that– extremely straightforward, gentle, sweet, and warm. It lasted a year and taught me so much. I often found myself getting a little frustrated simply because he did treat me so well– I just wasn’t used to it, and had learned to equate drama with passion and turmoil with excitement. It was definitely an adjustment for me, and I often felt vulnerable with him, especially in the beginning. But with his patience and understanding, he very naturally guided me through the process of expressing myself. I think that I was more comfortable around him than I have ever been around a significant other. Although the relationship ended after a year due to my moving away, I learned so much from what I experienced with him. I hope that you allow this new person into your heart a little bit. If he really is as gentle and understanding as you perceive him to be, it could change the whole landscape of how you handle relationships and view any future partners who may follow him.
Best of luck and love energy your way!