Sex with New Partner After Sharing Story

Elizabeth

I was raped 2 years ago and kept dating my rapist for another year. I was constantly pressured by him to engage in sexual activities and I’m ashamed to admit that eventually I became complicit and stopped saying anything. Sex is a very important, intimate thing to me and has been triggering ever since my abusive relationship. I’ve shared this with my partner now of 9 months who is the most supportive man ever. After thoughtful deliberation, I’m ready to have sex, but he’s afraid that I will regret it or become closed off. How do I show my partner I’m truly ready while still respecting his autonomy?