The Black Hounds Motorcycle Club embraced Sophie after that day. They filled the school auditorium for her recital, their leather vests dwarfing the chairs. They created a scholarship fund in Isla’s name for Sophie’s education. They let her climb onto bikes during parades, vowing she’d ride one herself when she was ready.
But the most haunting moment came six months later. While playing in Jonas’s backyard, Sophie paused beside an old chestnut tree.
“She wants you to dig here,” she told him.
In a rusted tin box buried beneath the roots was a note in a child’s handwriting—unmistakably Isla’s.
“Daddy, the angel said I won’t grow up, but a girl with yellow hair will come one day. She’ll sing my song and save you when you’re hurt. Please trust her. Don’t be sad—I’ll ride with you always.”
Jonas collapsed, tears streaming into his weathered hands. Sophie wrapped her arms around his shoulders and whispered, “She likes your red bike. She always wanted you to have one.”