I am in a similar situation, that is a history of short relationships and then a long history of punting. In the main, it has been a necessary and pleasant palliative, but I held on to the conceit that these women truly liked me and it was not a business. Sadly, I have finally realised and accepted that for all WGs', that is what it is and will always be. Like yourself, I have been trying to accomodate a WG with whom I have had a long association, but have become tired with her flakiness on the comms front, and my chasing her. In the end, I had to ask myself whats the point in all of this for an hr or two and a return to the status quo?
I know that I wanted intimacy and understanding, coupled with sex with a partner with a high sex drive. It fulfils a need, but like fast food, it may sustain but it does not nourish you. Also, I have reached the point where I cannot justify the cost; to my self esteem and bank balance. The tipping point for me, was when I contacted a WG and asked her out for lunch, just for some company and conversation, and it became a business deal - that was I realised that the connection we had was all in my mind and fuelled on my ego.