Well, there was 'only' 6 years difference in age between step-daughter and myself.
(She 'picked me out' for her mom, long story, deals with being friends and gettiong asked why I didn't date much.. and then being setup on a blind date. ['set up' being the operative terms here])
But yes, she did call me "dad" often and with pride.
(And pointedly in front of certain giggly girl types at the mall. a few funny anecdotes about that to relate.)
I'm sure those anecdotes are hilarious!!!!
And she will always be a part of you.