stockinette at the button bands

As you can see, the right front is almost done. A few more rows to the neckline, then up to the top of the shoulder. Working both sides of the bodice I've been perplexed that the first six stitches at the button band edges are stockinette instead of lace. Seven stitches of lace are bound off at the armhole, but these six stockinette stitches continue to the neckline. Seems counter-intuitive to me. But I've checked and rechecked, even highlighted sections of the pattern - there's no mistake. Maybe it'll help reinforce the button band edges? To prevent pulling or gapping between the buttons when stretched across the bust? We'll see when it's done - hopefully by the beginning of next week.