For a while, they all stood around yammering about what they wanted to do and what they should do first – go for a swim, or take the boat out, and Jeffrey should make stuffed bell peppers to honor their first summer.
Batty hung back and waited. She knew how it went: Jeffrey would get sucked into Jane and Skye's adventures first, he would compliment Rosie until she turned red, and then he would remember Batty.
She didn't mind being fourth though, because when Jeffrey finally did get to her, he gave her all his attention. And, Batty sometimes flattered herself, she and Jeffrey were able to connect on a deeper level. Skye could play soccer with him for hours, and Jane could talk his ear off, and he would always respect Rosalind's advice above all else, but only Batty could sing. Only Batty could reach him in the special place of music and mentorship.
They ended up running down to the beach for a swim and soccer game. Then they lounged for a while. Jane talked about the novel she was working on.
Then when Rosalind and Skye moved onto make dinner, Jeffrey and Batty headed over to Alec's living room.
"Let's see what ya got," Jeffrey said.
He played the piano, and Batty sang.
And at last, her heart was full.