Wow—I must say that for years, I was exactly like you. Things are cool at first, you don’t let on how much you’re into someone, things are great and then—BOOM! You become like a magnet. And with text messaging and email, you can take clingy to a whole new stratosphere.

There’s nothing worse than that morning-after checking of your phone and seeing the same number over and over again on the outgoing call list—but we’ve all done it before, and many of us are repeat offenders.

First things first: Relax. Sure, this guy saying he didn’t realize you were the “dependent” type is not exactly a compliment, and, speaking as a guy, I can say that the words “we should slow down” have never yet come out of my mouth. But, I wouldn’t say you’re sunk just yet.

He did say he’s used to his space, so I would say give it to him. A few days, maybe a week, with no contact. Then try a phone call or an email, seeing if he would like to get together for lunch, a cup of coffee, something more associated with hanging out, not dating.

Everyone has seen the episode of Seinfeld where one character has lost the upper hand in the relationship; and while you may have lost the upper hand for the moment, you have to see if this is going to be a two-way relationship.

Because you not only have to want him, he has to want you as well. And if it looks like that’s not the way it’s going to be, then I’d say jump ship and move on.

Mike, 30, is a general assignment reporter with an NBC affiliate in Colorado. While he’s currently single, he has been in long-term, committed relationships with both his cat Marley and the Boston Red Sox.