It feels like I am actually making a decision that could impact my future in a (possibly) negative way. That is why I am going to back off and let things be.

Hang on a second. It doesn't seem to me like you are whining. It seems like you put real time and real effort into something and want recognition for that fact. I think you're absolutely right in wanting that recognition and to be worried about how your actions might result in some kind of retribution.

Obviously, I don't know you or your P.I., but do you get the feeling that she did this intentionally? In your original post, you do mention that you wanted to change your research direction. Is it possible that she is unaware of how her actions have affected you? Is this something that fits a pattern of behavior that has negatively impacted others?

I don't think that bringing up your concerns constitutes whining about it. I also don't think that to get recognition for this that you have to be confrontational. It may be that your P.I. acted in an unprofessional manner and that's something that should be addressed. If your institution has any sort of dispute/conflict resolution specialists or mediators, you might be well served by voicing your concerns to them or some other neutral third party with an interest in seeing both of you preserve the relationship and continue to work within the institution. I don't know where you are, though I did see that you mentioned Europe, but in the US many universities and colleges (and increasingly hospitals and private companies) have these kinds of people, of whom other people within the organization might not be aware of.