Detailed Breakdown:

1. Core Idea:
   • The passage explores the dynamics of being overly nice in a relationship, especially when the other person exploits that kindness for their benefit. It touches on the concept that constantly being available and helpful may not earn the affection or respect desired but rather cause one to be taken for granted.
2. The Illusion of Progress:
   • Manipulation Tactic: The person who is being too nice is led to believe that they are gradually getting closer to the object of their affection. However, this closeness is often an illusion, a tactic used to maintain their interest and effort without any real emotional connection or commitment.
   • Emotional Investment: By giving just enough attention to keep the person invested, the manipulator ensures the “nice guy” remains available and continues to offer support, favors, and emotional labor without reciprocation.
3. Standing By:
   • Long-Term Presence: The passage highlights that, regardless of how many relationships or partners the other person might have, the “nice guy” is often kept around as a backup due to their reliability and kindness.
   • Kindness as a Tool: This person is seen not as a romantic partner but more as a useful tool — a link that can be utilized when needed. Their emotional investment is exploited while they are kept on standby in case they are needed for something in the future.
4. Relationship Dynamics:
   • Acceptance by Partners: The passage suggests that if the person in question clarifies to their new romantic partners that the “nice guy” is just a friend, those partners may accept this relationship. Whether the “nice guy” remains in the picture often depends on the boundaries set by the new romantic partner.
   • Boundaries and Control: A strong partner with clear boundaries may refuse to allow this manipulative dynamic to continue, essentially “saving” the nice guy from further manipulation. However, without external intervention or personal realization, the cycle of exploitation may persist.
5. The Role of Boundaries:
   • Rescuing the Nice Guy: In some cases, a new romantic partner’s clear boundaries and refusal to tolerate manipulation can save the nice person from being perpetually taken advantage of. They may step in, noticing the unfair treatment and encourage healthier dynamics.
   • Personal Boundaries: The underlying message is also a call for the “nice guy” to set his own boundaries to prevent further exploitation. Without these boundaries, manipulation can continue indefinitely.
6. Call for Self-Reflection:
   • The passage implies the importance of recognizing when kindness is being manipulated and the need to reflect on whether this dynamic serves one’s self-worth. It advocates for the establishment of personal boundaries to avoid being a perpetual source of convenience for others.
7. Conclusion:
   • Ultimately, the passage is a cautionary tale about the dangers of always being nice without boundaries. It emphasizes that kindness, while a virtue, can be manipulated if not paired with self-respect and discernment. It serves as a reminder to evaluate the motives of others and not allow oneself to be used under the guise of friendship or emotional closeness.