You might be surprised to hear that non-attachment is an important quality for relationships.

http://www.elephantjournal.com/2015/09/why-non-attachment-is-one-of-the-keys-to-a-happy-life-relationship/

"Only a non-attached person can love unconditionally, that is, without expecting anything in return."

Anything in return.. That is well off the mark, except in the usual human minds way of thinking. Unconditional means Divine love.
The article seems to suggest the ego can be side-stepped to evolve above the basis of human existence and survival instinct. In such a case, what replaces it?
You ARE your ego. It exists for a reason. Unconditional it is not.