My girlfriend of seven months exhibits distinct signs of being highly clingy. We've each met one another’s children—mine are 22 and 14, hers is 17.

She has an unwavering need for constant communication, particularly when we aren’t physically together or working. If I fail to respond to a text while busy, she promptly follows up with, 'Are you okay?'—as if silence itself is cause for concern.

Being a middle school teacher, I routinely reach new heights of exhaustion by the week's end, especially during state testing or the final stretch of the academic year. I’ve expressed the need for space to decompress, as well as uninterrupted time with my children. While everyone has met, my role as an actively involved father remains unchanged. I’ve always prioritized my kids above all else, a principle I made clear from the outset. They come first—always.

The frustration is real. Attempting to read an article, browse Reddit, or simply immerse myself in a book is often met with her hovering presence, competing for my attention. Factor in my pursuit of a master's degree in educational leadership, and the picture becomes clearer.

She is fully convinced that a marriage proposal is imminent. Truthfully, I am nowhere near ready for remarriage. For the first time in 25 years, I have the rare opportunity to focus on myself and my children. I have no interest in dating around—I simply want to rebuild my life on my own terms.

The red flags are undeniable. More colors than a flag officer’s ship, indeed.

What say you, brothers?