The part you included of Betty's feelings being with Van is the one of the parts that stands out the most for me. Certainly she knew that Jim didn't love or have desire for her and all of his behavior is strange. Companionship and connection with Van would have been like a drink of water in the desert. But the connection and her enthusiasm seems to go far beyond all of those factors.

I hope you will share more in the future of Betty and Van's correspondence.