Hello David,
Might you have any other apple devices currently logged into your account? Please try going through the motions again but this time Click Didn’t get a verification code when trying to verify.
Choose to have the code sent to your trusted phone number.
You’ll get a text message or phone call from Apple with your verification code if you had previously linked your cell phone.
From what device are you trying to verify? And what is the exact message you receive when trying to use the code emailed to you?
Do you have any purchases connected to this apple id? Would it be possible to backup all of your data and ditch this problematic account?