I mean the part when you said about shifting your mindset away from her making her uncomfortable...does she take comfort in your attention?
I think you can protect yourself a bit. You're allowed to do that, Bead. Her stance has made you uncomfortable to say the least. Worrying about her comfort now will only bring you pain. Have love for her, sure...from a distance, a friendly distance.
I don't think all is lost though. I'd say she may realize she made a hasty call in a snap knee jerk reaction to hearing your height.