Before the Sunflower Blooms

When one thinks of the winter months rarely do they associate it with the south. Our minds go to to the chilly days of hot cocoa under a warm firer, snowfall in the big apple as the Rockefeller tree is put up, the New Years ball dropping and ice skating. Even for one like Eleonora who had grown up with her small town when it came of the thought of winter she could not help but think of her mothers home back in the city. The lights, the snow fall, the winter breeze, even in their depths of despair it was all so magical but here, in Eden hills the winter season seemed nothing more than another tuesday. Her emerald gaze searched the surrounding area as she took in the sights of the setting sun behind the sea of of Syckamour’s. The sounds of the laughter as her shoulder was gentle nudged brought her back to existence as she was handed a bottle and she merely laughed before shaking her head as she watched the bonfire being light. She couldn’t imagine what use it’d be but the nights tended to get colder in Eden Hills or perhaps that’s just what she felt during those late nights alone. 

She watched leaning against her hot rod as a with sun kissed skin stood on the back of a nearby pickup truck. She heard one of the other dolls whisper how his eyes were was deep as the bayou and she couldn’t help but laugh again at the thought of how predictable some of the others could be. As he raised his bottle the nearby road exploded with sounds of engines reveving and people cheering before their fearless leader gave them a warning glance shutting the lot up. A single look from their fearless leader was all it took to silence the crowd a chill traveled down Eleonora’s spine as she thought of how much power the male wielded and yet she trusted the tattooed stud with her life. “ We all know why we’re here tonight?! “ The male called Ace questioned and the crowd went wild once more. Ironic the king of the Inferno Spades being named Ace she thought to herself before focusing back on their leader. 

“ Tonight is the night we celebrate to ragged lot finally getting your skins! So raise your bottles to these newbies and remember La morte non mi troverà vivo and if he does then we obviously didn’t do a good job at living“ Ace told before everyone took a swig of their drink. It was an odd saying but it was something that had been said by the inferno spades since the very beginning and she never thought to question it. After Ace jumped down cementing their end to their little welcoming and Eleonora would return to focusing on her vehicle. She had been one of the few other lucky dolls to join the Inferno Spades confirmed the moment that fresh ink decorated her body. It was truly a beaut and easily covered to be concealed from her father which was a saving grace as the male would bury her six feet under if he knew she had joined a biker gang.

There were many variations of their Gangs Logo that they’d have the choice to tattoo on their body as long as a Spade was present they typically got the go ahead. Most chose to go with the Playing card or simply just the Spade set a flame but Eleonora decided on a different approach she chose a black widow between her chest with the spade on it because if you were close enough to see it you’d be facing death in it’s eyes. Drinking and racing was there ever a better combination she thought to herself. The moment of it all left one feeling so completely free and uninhibited while allowing the universe to take control. 

While the other girls chatted Leo had chosen to focus on her baby in front of her tuning it up for when it was finally her race. She could feel eyes on her when one of the girls who went by Luna began to give the group some information on who had been watching them. Across the road she could feel the eyes of a group of males that Luna informed them to be senior members about three to four years their senior. The group must have been doing the same as they seemed just as focused on the females as they were on the males, all but one that was. “ And that is Viper. Their all players but at least he keeps things respectful, always working on his hot rod though “ Luna informed just when the male Leo had been watching flashed her a wink. 

“ Looks like someone has an admirer already “ Lunaa teased and Eleonora would playfully roll her eyes ignoring the males and focusing her gaze at the hot rods that lined up along Blackhawk road while the other females laughed and were filled in by luna on those to be weary of. More than a few guys stood out to her but she wasn't foolish enough to pursue a fellow member. She didn't need to make the same mistake twice in her life, let alone doing it with someone she was now bound to since the only way out was in a box. Instead she allowed her friends to enjoy the moment as she grabbed a beer and sat on the sidelines watching the others race, laughing, joking around and cheering them on. " Alright Sunshine, you’re up " Was all Leo heard before she was on her feet and walking towards the starting line. 

It seemed her willingness to race gained the attention of the group of males as she heard their attempts at cat calling her. Her gaze focused on one of the males who had been staring at her for an unknown reason before he winked. “ Try not to cry too much when I smoke ya doll “ the male told causing Leo to fake gasp before holding up her middle finger. “You got this Sunshine!!! Dust his ass “ she could hear her best friend yell which caused her to rev her engine further hyping her girls up. Hearing that the female was to race one of the seasoned members, like the others that were standing around Viper didn't believe that the one known only as sunshine could actually win but knew that it would still be fun to watch nonetheless. And judging by her theatrics Viper knew this one would be no different.

When the flag dropped she was off to the races and back just as quickly beating the old timer by a good minute and a half. Leaving the males stunned and the women impressed that one of their own could do such a thing. The thrill of the race was always something she enjoyed over the actual process. The way ones heart raced at increasing speeds, the look of the sceneary as you drove past blending into one, it was always so exillerating. And when she finally got the chance to win well the euphoria was like walking on clouds. When she came to the finish line she had just sat their enjoying her win. Before she’d even exited the vehicle her friends Luna, Cupid, and Angel had been rushing to her side with a celebratory drink in hand. “ That’s our girl “ Angel told pulling her best friend into a hug before they leaned against the vehicle to watch the next race.The male hadn't really cared who won, but was still equally shocked that Sunshine had come out on top - a first in his eyes and he was beyond impressed. His buddies nudged him forward, encouraging him to talk to the female and he didn't need much to do so as the group made their way to the ladies. As he finished his beer he'd go around Sunshine’s car checking it out before stopping at the driver's side window, leaning down slightly as he started to speak. "Good race doll, fancy another?" Asked as his gaze flicked over towards where others stood, though they'd settle back onto her face the corner of his mouth curling into a smirk. "But let's make it interesting, if I win...I get a date." He paused and glanced over to where his own vehicle was parked, "And should you win...you get my car." His head tilted slightly to side, dark hair falling into face, "Interested?"

 " It's Leo actually, but most folks been calling me Sunshine” the female corrected. Doll, just never sat right with her. Even if she was a woman she was far from doll like. Her gaze shifted following the one known as Viper shifting from his friends to his ride. " She is a beaut but I'll have to pass " The male was cute and ballsy she'd give him that. But he had those eyes that screamed trouble and she had enough trouble to last her a life time. Besides if she raced too much her father would notice the cars milage had gone up and that wouldn't end well for her. “ Back off Enzo, Sunshine’s not the girl for you “ Cupid warned from beneath the arm of one of the males friends. Leo hadn’t known much about Cupid before she joined the gang. Just that the girl was a notorious flirt and married to one of the senior members although if one believed the rumors that didn’t stop either of them from living their best lives.

"Good to know...doll" A few of those who were standing close enough to the two would chuckle as he refused to call her by either of the names she provided. When he called her doll rather than either of the names given she couldn't help but roll her eyes. Although she was grateful for the other girls aid she didn’t find it necessary instead she simply tuned him out best she could. Upon hearing her turn down the challenge and Cupid’s warning Viper couldn’t help but chuckled, “It’s alright if you’re a little scared. I would be too to face me.." Wouldn't bother sticking around to hear a response, after straightening himself back out he'd begin to step away from her car and shook his head. 

"It's a no go, sorry everyone...appears she's only good for one race." A few disappointed groans came from the crowd, though their was nothing he could do about her decision. However, that wouldn't stop him from provoking the female, and that's exactly what he'd do. "I saw we give the doll some encouragement to be more...adventurous." Spoken as he turned back towards Isabella, a mischievous glint sparkled in his eyes as those around them began to chant 'race’. She would lean against the hood arms crossed in front of her chest as she listened to his attempt to rial her up. Her gaze settling on him now that she could get a closer look at him. The flames of the bonfire caused shadows to dance across his features but she could still make out what he looked like. The birthmark, slick back dark hair but oh those piercing blue eyes those would be trouble if she allowed herself to be swallowed by them. She smirked shaking her head no at his little attempt. " A new adventure is always welcomed, just not with you but cute attempt" The female told loud enough for the others to hear gaining several howls and oooh's from the group. " It wouldn't be very lady like of me to take advantage of you. But I'm sure one of these other dolls would enjoy it " She told brushing him off

After the howls and oooh's from the group died down Viper would begin to walk back towards the female, "You say a new adventure is always welcomed, but turn down the best one you'll ever have...?" His eyebrow raised slightly as it hadn't much sense to him, his words gained more cheers from the men in the crowd though he hadn't seemed to notice. Sunshine couldn’t help but laugh at the males words. ” you hear that dolls, he thinks he’s the best one out there. I doubt everyone would agree “ Leo told looking at the group of ladies as they snickered. There were several snakes all the girls would love to sink their fangs into although she’d be doing her best to avoid any of that for now. 

"What are you afraid of exactly? Having fun, or breaking the rules?" Asked as he stopped just an arm's length away from where she leaned against the hood of her car, and he'd chuckle at her words. ” neither, I’d just hate to break your poor little heart “ they already had one member known for breaking men’s hearts didn’t think they’d need another "Would you look at that, joined the Spades and still thinks she's a proper lady." And one that thought she could take advantage of him by racing him, an interesting perspective but their was no doubt on who would really win in the end. "Hate to break it to ya doll face, but ain't nobody in this town gonna treat ya like one with your ink." His eyes ventured over to where the majority of the female spades had gathered, he grinned as a few had winked and blew kisses in his direction. 

Viper however wasn't interested, as she had already caught his attention. "While that may be true, only one doll will do." Had turned his focus back to Leo at this point as he spoke. ” Fine, you win I’ll race ya” arms crossed in front of her chest as a devious smile crosses her lips as she thought of some new terms ” When I win, I get ya car and you quite the gang. And if you win you get the date and whatever else you want. Unless of course you’re the scaredy spade ” she figured even a stubborn fool with pride wouldn’t risk leaving the gang over a flimsy date for a doll they’d get bored of after a few nights.

But oh was she wrong. Hadn't bothered him any naturally because like the rest of the males within the gang he already had a female fan base, though, after today he might've lost a couple with his behavior with one of the newest recruits. "My heart doesn't break easily, but you're more than welcome to try." A challenge that he hadn't offered before to anyone before, though, he had no problem in doing so now since he figured she'd say no anyways. ” I don’t try, I simply do “ she shrugged off as she watched the male. It was getting dangerously late but neither seemed to be ready to turn down just yet. He'd smile as the female caved into racing him, and it wouldn't falter into hearing the new terms that she laid out for him. And for once the crowd had grown silent, most already figuring that he'd chicken out - though they'd be very wrong in assuming so. "I'll take that bet." A few shocked gasps leaked out from the crowd, and before Viper would walk back to his car he'd allow his Italian accent roll out. "Possa la persona migliore vincere." (May the best person win)

” oh she will “ Sunshine called out as she’d walk back into her vehicle and drove to the starting line. “ Sunshine maybe it’s better not to do this. I’ll talk to Ace he wouldn’t make you go through with the bet “ Luna told leaning into the window. “ Yeah EL we’ll pop a tire give you an out. He’s a really good racer they say “ Angel baby chimed in as she pulled out her pocked knife discreetly. Her friend attempting to discourage her and leave while they had the opportunity but the male had poked the bear and now he was going to eat his words. “ I got this girls, Just watch “ Sunshine reassured them taking a finger to her lips before sticking it out to them, the other girls followed suit before they connected their fingers in their secret handshake.

The female was indeed after his own heart, and she didn't even realize it. He didn't often speak in his native tongue, and when he typically did he was met with blank stares. She however knew exactly what he had said and given the perfect response as he walked back to his car. 
” Not too late to quite now. I’ll even let you keep your jacket “ she called out to the male as she looked towards him when the count down began. He had placed himself at the starting line alongside Sunshine, "Quit? I'll pass, though if you want to go ahead and take your own advice be my guest. I “even got the perfect date in mind” Viper smirked slightly and became more focused on the one who was starting the count down. And when they signaled to go the male wasted no time in hitting the gas pedal, his car shooting ahead though he knew she'd be close behind.She should have quit. It was likely the smarter move but the minute the person said Zero her foot was off the break and she was coming up behind him. He was mere inches ahead but for Leo that was okay as long as she secured a quick turn she could always get ahead.
 As their vehicles raced ahead she could almost hear cupid yelling kick his ass before getting into an argument with her husband over which friend would win.

When it came to challenges Viper was never one to really back down, it didn't seem to matter who issued it. And he couldn't afford to lose, after he had shot forward the male could see Bo quickly picking up speed beside him. He flashed her a quick smile before shifting the gears causing him to lurch forward again. He wouldn’t be losing this race, not tonight, He planned to win and get a little time in the sunshine.


He had bypassed a couple of drunken morons who were getting dangerously close to the road, though he hadn't thought they'd be much of a problem as surely someone close by would yank them back to their senses. It was a battle of skill as they raced neck and neck each second one surpassed the other and vice versa. The two evenly matched as she switched gears once more slamming down on the gas. Her father was defiantly going to freak if he saw the amount of milage that went up. As they neared the turn she switched gears as she turned the wheel while his turn was wide hers was short giving her the advantage in passing him. Increasing her speed she looked back momentarily to see the male far behind her in a cloud of dust. Could hear the others cheering her on as she screamed in excitement. As she banged her hands against the steering wheel excitedly. Although she was far from a win Eleonora could tell that if she continued at this speed she’d likely be securing her victory and watching the male be stripped of his skins. 


 Unfortunately her eyes had been off the road far too long and when she finally looked forward to focus on the finish line she noticed them. A drunken i***t thinking it would be funny to run or rather stumble across the road. It was a split second decision but she knew she was going far too fast to stop, even if she hit the breaks at that point she'd end up killing the person at that speed and the last thinking she wanted was to be stuck going to the ice box for murder so she did the only thing she could truly do. Slamming on the break she'd turn the wheel hoping to swerve and miss the person, her car flipping in the process on the side of the road as the male passed her with ease. A groan escaped her lips as she opened her eyes momentarily seeing she was upside down before passing out.


As Lorenzo sailed past Leo and across the finish line he'd been about to cheer until he saw the face of the others and watched as Cupid, Luna and Angel baby began running to the road with the others in tow. His gaze shifted to the rearview mirror as he watched in horror as the female's car flipped upside down a few feet from where the race was to end. 

He noticed as those nearby pulled the drunken fool off to the side while others were working on getting Sunshine out of her veichle, though were struggling to free her from her seatbelt. Lorenzo could feel the urge to beat the guy to pulp serge through him although he wasted no time in getting out of his car, and took off running towards her car. A million things raced through his mind, but the only thing that seemed to stick was that it was all his fault. Had he not encouraged her race, nor took her up on the new bet they'd all be laughing it up and getting drunk. As he got closer to the wreck he shoved his friends out of his way and eventually kneel down besides busted up driver side window.

Cupid seemed to be getting creative with her curses in Spanish as she was pushing Ace forward so he could help but Lorenzo had already been on it. In the distance he could hear sirens of an ambulance rushing towards the scene, so he'd work quickly on freeing her from the car. Watching as the other quickly began to scatter to avoid a night in the clink. Lorenzo could see why those before him were having trouble as the seatbelt buckle had jammed, so he pulled out the pocket knife from his jeans and as he cut her free he would use himself as a buffer so that she wouldn't land on any of the broken glass or twisted metal. Her consciousness was coming and going as she stayed upside down. The blood rushing to her head she could hear the others speaking, sounds of sirens in the distance, and her friend speaking words that seemed intangible to herself. " Run" was all she managed to tell them before she lost consciousness once more.

As he inched himself out with her tucked securely in his arms he'd bring her unconscious body off to side to make sure that she wasn't fatally injured. He hadn't seen any obvious signs, but he couldn't be sure and as the ambulance arrived so did several police cars. She didn't need anyone getting locked in the cooler over her. She just needed to gather enough strength to free herself. Although it never came, the female was out cold while Lorenzo pulled her from the car and the others scattered at the sounds of sirens.