The Ninth Bride (Samantha and Finley)

Chapter 85 Investigating the Past

Finley gazed miently at Samantha, standing before him like a ghost from his past. "Did we know each other before?" he asked, his eyes searching hers for answers that seemed just out of reach.

Samantha recalled that this wasn't the first time Finley had asked her that question. She couldn't remember her exact response from before, but it didn't matter. She would answer- him again, hoping for a glimmer of recognition in his eyes.

"We knew each other, and we've known each other for a long time, Samantha replied, her voice soft yet steady. "It's just that you don't remember me now. But it's okay. I believe that someday, you will remember me." She clung to the hope that one day, the veil of forgetfulness would lift, and he would finally remember her.

What did she mean by that?

After all, he didn't recall losing his memory. The thought lingered in Finley's mind like a haunting melody. He realized he needed to find out more about Samantha to understand why she felt so deeply connected to him. Gently, Finley released Samantha from his embrace. "I'm a bit hungry," he said, attempting to shift the focus away from the unanswered questions swirling between them.

"Then I'll make you something to eat," Samantha offered with a reassuring smile.

Samantha slipped out of Finley's arms and hurried to the kitchen. Once she was gone, Finley picked up his phone, his mind made up. He sent a quick text to his assistant: "Investigate all the information on Samantha" After sending the message, Finley set his phone aside and clutched his mouth, stifling a cough that left a trace of blood on his lips. With each painful cough, he wondered how long his body could endure.

Meanwhile, in the kitchen, Samantha busied herself with preparing a meal for Finley, Daphne, noticing Samantha's injured hands, approached her with concern. "Mrs. Dean, your hands are hurt. Should I help you with the chopping?" Samantha shook her head, determination in her eyes. "No need, Ms. Stuart. I won't cut myself chopping vegetables, and I want to do it myself.

"Is there anything else you need help with?"

Samantha shook her head again. "No, thank you.

BGB.

Chapter 85 Investigating the Past

"Alright. I'll stay here. If you need anything, just let me know," Daphne said, respecting Samantha's wishes while remaining close by.

Samantha nodded and continued chopping vegetables, her hands moving with practiced ease despite the bandages that adorned them.

An hour later, Samantha carried the freshly prepared meal into Finley's room. She set the dishes on a nearby stool and handed Finley a bowl and chopsticks. This is what I just made for you. I'm not sure if you'll like it, but please try it." Finley accepted the bowl and chopsticks, taking a bite. The taste was tainted with the metallic tang of blood, making it difficult to distinguish the flavors. Yet, he said nothing, quietly eating in silence.

Samantha noticed the oil stains at the corner of Finley's mouth. With a tender touch, she fetched a tissue and gently wiped his

mix of hope and concern etched ps before sitting beside him, watching him eat with a

on her face.

She continued to watch him quietly as if her gaze alone could unravel the mysteries that lay between them.

After ten minutes, Finley finished his bowl of rice. Samantha promptly handed him a bowl of steaming soup. "Have some soup," she offered.

Finley looked at her with a hint of curiosity. "How did you know I liked this? Did Ms. Stuart tell you?"

Having shared a life with Finley in another time, Samantha naturally knew his preferences, though she kept that knowledge close to her heart.

Samantha smiled, a secretive glint in her eyes. "That's a secret I'll keep for now."

Once Finley finished the soup. Samantha again wiped his mouth and set the dishes aside. "You've finished eating. Would you like to go outside for some fresh air?"

"No need, Finley replied, his weariness evident.

"Then would you like to rest for a while? I can stay here with you, Samantha offered her presence a quiet comfort.

Finley didn't refuse. His body, worn and weary, craved rest.

After Finley lay down, Samantha tucked him in with care. She stayed by his side for a while, silent guardian, before gathering the dishes and quietly leaving the room, her mind filled with unspoken promises and unanswered questions.Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.