That is the habit they form and the habit you let them form when you were in the relationship with them. Not judging - it's natural to apologize and then accept an apology in a normal relationship.
When you know and acknowledge that it is over and move on, they don't necessarily acknowledge it, and will still try the same strategy that worked for them in the past.
Glad you can see the pattern, and that you are not falling for it. Just be prepared for backlash when he realizes it didn't work this time.