I just did TRL today and Joel was there, and it was the first time we’d seen each other and it was so, like, nerve-racking,

Duff, 19, told PEOPLE Monday at the 18th annual GLAAD Media Awards in New York City.

I knew that he was going to be there and he knew. It is what it is.

But Duff, who dated Madden, 28, for nearly two and a half years, was realistic about the situation.

I mean, what am I going to do?

she said.

It’s life.

So was their run-in awkward?

It was a little strange at first, but I wish nothing but good for him and I know that he wishes the same for me,

Duff told PEOPLE.

I’m happy and he’s happy and I think that’s all that counts.

In another interview, Joel confirms his respect for Hilary:

Every girl I’ve ever dated I have respect for, and I always try to leave them in good terms,

says Madden.

I don’t see the necessity to be friends with anyone you’ve dated but definitely out of respect of the time, you have to be kind of respectful and that’s what I try to do.

This is all thanks to hilarynews.com