I would say that they can work if there is hope for them becoming close at some stage. If it's implied that they will be long distance forever more I can't imagine it would work long term.
sorry that you've experienced this but I wouldn't say it was any more general here than on any other site you would find... or in life.
You'll always have that person who wants to play the field so they can see which person works out better.
I personally don't understand it... to me I think you should be honest, if you want to play make the other person aware and therefore able to make an informed decision.
Mmmmmmm that smell....
hi guys...darren... I am strange... why else would I be hanging round here
I like the smell of summer rain as well...
ooooh and freshly baking bread... I sometimes make rolls just for the smell