As Beltane (May Day) approaches, Kestrel is happy that spring has finally arrived and is excited that Grandpa has finally come home from the hospital. But Grandpa is still very ill, and Kestrel can't help worrying about him. Meanwhile, at school, some of Kestrel's classmates have started constantly talking about their crushes--and teasing Kestrel for not having one. Except Kestrel does have a crush, one she isn't sure she wants to admit because she doesn't want to ruin a friendship.
Grandpa's illness is concerning, and crushes and relationships are confusing. But Kestrel has her family's support, and she believes everything will be okay.