I used to if they worked and then would drive home several hours in the evening, I wouldn't get a text or call until they got up the next am and yes I worried if they got in safe. Sometimes clingy says I love you, and other times it says I am making you my life because I have nothing else to focus on and that can maybe look unattractive to a partner, even if they love you. So imo space is good. Nothing wrong with giving a call or leaving a VM saying, Hope your day is going great, miss you ... and then be patient for their reply.
“The one you love and the one who loves you are never, ever the same person.”