When I Realized My Control Wasn't Unconditional Love

I've been a Daddy to my submissive partner, Alex, for the past five years. We met at a DDLG event and connected instantly over our mutual desire for this dynamic. She was in her early 20s then, but now she's in her late 20s, still as vibrant and playful as ever. The role of Daddy is one I've been passionate about since my own adult life began, I feel it complements my personality and gives me a sense of purpose. But recently, something has shifted within me, creating an unsettling rift that's hard to ignore. It started with small things, she'd ask for permission to stay out late or take part in activities I wasn't entirely comfortable with, and while I used to give her leeway, I've been tightening the reins. The more I control aspects of her life, the less certain I am about it being rooted in love rather than some deeper insecurity or need for dominance. Our physical relationship has always been explicit and detailed, filled with mutual consent for every act. Yet recently, during our sessions, there's a noticeable tension that wasn't there before, my control isn't liberating her anymore, it feels more like I'm chaining her down. I find myself questioning whether my role as her Daddy is evolving into something unhealthy. Is this still about caring and guiding her towards independence? Or am I seeking to assert dominance over an adult who deserves the autonomy of her own choices? Alex respects me deeply, but she's not a child anymore. She's blossomed in every way, intellectually, emotionally, and sexually, and it's made me wonder if my role is still relevant. There are times when I feel like pulling away entirely because of this discomfort, yet other moments where I'm hyper-focused on maintaining control. I need to know, is there a point where Daddy can transition into simply being a supportive partner? Can the line between discipline and control be blurred without causing harm? Am I the asshole here for not letting go when it's clear she needs space to grow, or am I just protecting us both from potential dangers? Your thoughts would mean the world to me right now.