The problem I see here is that, this is not so much being attached because of being "in love" or romantic love but that it's a dependency issue. you gain something from feeling like you're there to guide her to a better place, in life. Like a caretaker, that is the hook. Of course it is up to you to interpret what I am saying as accurate or not but you say you see her as you were, and want to help her to come to the place where you've grown. That, is mentorship not really the makings of a romantic relationship although I would guess it "could" work...