On the other hand, as horrible as EJ is he at least treats Sami with respect
Ok - first off...this is not defense of Lucas or slam of EJ....just my observation on this issue.
Here, to me, is the contrast I see:
EJ treats Sami with respect on the surface - the way he speaks to her, the way he treats her, etc. However, under the surface his behaviors can be very disrespectful - ie - paying Nicole to testify, manipulating her by asking Nicole to try and make her jealous. Although he is very upfront about his feelings, his methods still are questionable. EJ still does what it takes to get what he wants. Just like Sami.
Lucas can speaks very disrespectfully to Sami. I think the "lying whore" comment was a bad bad call on the part of the writers. Just not appropriate to use those terms ever. Just like the "my ex-****". Not liking that stuff. He is always willing to assume that Sami did something wrong, but again, this can be justified somewhat by their history. However, Lucas has shown true dedication to Sami in many situations. He respects (although disagrees often) with her opinion, and although he may confront her, he will usually call her on something in private. I think Lucas has a desire for their relationship to move onto a more mature level, but so far they've been sidetracked every time they make progress. I think they really understand each other, and sometimes that is where the distrust comes from. They both know what the other is capable of. Lucas understands love but not real trust. Just like Sami.
I am just loving John. Marlena is waaayyy wrong to inject him again, knowing his feelings about people taking control of him against his will But Marlena always thinks she knows best, and thinks that justifies doing whatever she wants. So does Roman. Poor Sami has the genetic cards stacked against her....LOL Also loving that John is sooo enjoying discovering all the little secrets and quirks about his family that he is finding out. And that he loves pointing out how wierd they are. LOL