Printed Hearts Chapter 31-35 | CraftyCotton.co

 

Chapter 31: A Day of Refreshment and Peace

The morning sun peeked through the curtains, casting a soft, golden light over Mimi's studio. She awoke to the sound of her phone buzzing on the desk beside her. Stretching, she reached for it and saw the notification: two new watercolor orders.

A sigh of relief escaped her lips. It wasn’t a massive load like last time, but still, she had to get the work done. She could sense the fatigue in her body from the previous day’s marathon of thirty paintings, but today, she promised herself, she wouldn’t overwork. She’d tackle these two pieces later in the evening, when the day had wound down, and her mind was clearer.

Mimi made a mental note to focus on her mood first. After all, she had learned that working when she wasn’t in the right headspace didn’t yield her best results. So, instead of diving straight into her work, she decided to do something that would lift her spirits.

After a quick breakfast, she grabbed her bag and headed out the door. Today, she was going to take a break and explore—something she hadn’t done in a while.

Chiang Mai was known for its natural beauty, and Mimi had always wanted to visit the zoo. It wasn’t just for the animals, though—she knew the zoo had vast, lush gardens, and the peaceful surroundings were exactly what she needed to recharge. So, she set off toward Chiang Mai Zoo, a tranquil spot that was only a short drive away from her apartment.

Upon arrival, Mimi rented a small golf cart to make the journey around the zoo easier and more relaxing. As she cruised through the pathways, the sounds of animals and rustling leaves filled the air. The zoo was peaceful in the early hours, with only a few other visitors. Mimi felt like she had the place to herself, a serene escape from the bustling city.

She stopped at a few exhibits to admire the animals—a playful group of monkeys swinging from tree to tree, a proud peacock displaying its iridescent feathers, and the majestic tigers lounging lazily in the shade. The sight of the animals in their natural habitats was soothing, their calmness a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple things in life.

But it wasn’t just the animals that captivated her. The zoo's gardens were lush and vibrant, with flowering trees and blooming plants that filled the air with sweet fragrances. Mimi took her time, taking in the beauty around her, letting the greenery and peaceful atmosphere soothe her overactive mind.

As she drove the golf cart through the quiet paths, she thought back to her work and the heavy workload she had recently. It was easy to get caught up in the rush of deadlines, but today, she realized, she needed to let go of the pressure for a while. She had been pushing herself so hard, but taking a break and being present in nature was exactly what she needed to find her balance again.

After spending a few hours at the zoo, Mimi decided to continue her little adventure. The Chiang Mai Zoo was located near a waterfall, a natural oasis that many people didn’t know about. Mimi had heard of it before, but she had never visited. She was determined to see it today.

Following the signs, Mimi drove her golf cart to the waterfall, and as she arrived, she was greeted by the soothing sound of rushing water. The waterfall cascaded down the rocks, surrounded by moss-covered stones and tall trees. The air was cool and refreshing, a perfect place to relax.

Mimi parked the cart by the edge of the waterfall and got out, feeling the mist gently spray against her face. She walked closer to the water, her feet sinking into the cool earth beneath her. For a moment, she simply stood there, watching the water flow and listening to the calming rush of the falls.

She sat down on a large stone by the water’s edge, closing her eyes and breathing deeply. The sound of the water seemed to wash away the tension in her shoulders, and for the first time in days, Mimi felt truly relaxed. The beauty of the moment, the soothing environment, and the cool mist all combined to bring her a sense of peace.

After a while, when the sun was beginning to dip lower in the sky, Mimi felt rejuvenated and ready to return home. She climbed back into the golf cart, making her way back to the zoo entrance and then back to her apartment. The drive was peaceful, and the clear sky above her felt like a perfect way to end her little getaway.

As she arrived home, Mimi felt the tension in her body loosen. The weight of the last few days seemed to have lifted, and she was in a much better mood than when she had woken up.

She settled into her studio, ready to take on the two watercolor projects waiting for her. The peaceful day had worked wonders for her spirit, and she knew she could now give the artwork the focus it deserved.

Mimi worked diligently on both pieces, her brushstrokes flowing smoothly. The tranquil vibe she had gained from her trip to the zoo and waterfall infused her work, and it felt effortless. By 11:45 PM, she had finished both paintings—beautiful pieces she was proud of.

Before heading to bed, she sent the completed works off to her clients, feeling a sense of accomplishment. Today had been about finding balance, and Mimi realized that sometimes, it was just as important to take time to nurture your soul as it was to complete tasks.

As she lay in bed that night, the images of the zoo and waterfall still fresh in her mind, Mimi smiled to herself. The day had been exactly what she needed—a chance to reset, recharge, and rediscover the joy in her work.

Chapter 32: A Day of Choices

Mimi awoke to the soft, warm light streaming through her window. She stretched and yawned, feeling a sense of calm that had carried over from the peaceful day she had spent yesterday. She reached for her phone, eager to start the day, and as she unlocked the screen, her heart skipped a beat. There was a new email waiting for her.

It was from the dating service she had recently joined, the subject line catching her attention: “Your Matches for Today: Morning, Lunch, and Dinner!” Her eyes widened with surprise—three dates in one day! It was exciting and overwhelming at the same time, but she felt a rush of curiosity about what the day would hold.

There were no work orders for Mimi today, which felt like a small gift. After completing so many watercolor paintings over the past few weeks, she relished the idea of having a day to herself, even if it meant meeting strangers for dates. She scrolled through the details of the matches, each person scheduled for a different time of day. She smiled to herself, wondering how the day would unfold.

First, she noticed that her morning date was with Alex, a soft-spoken software engineer she had exchanged a few messages with. Next, her lunch date was with Ben, a charming local business owner she had met briefly at a networking event. Finally, her dinner date was with Jack, an artist who seemed to have a lot in common with Mimi.

It was going to be an interesting day.

Mimi stood up from her bed and took a moment to think about what to wear. She wanted to feel confident, but also graceful—something that reflected her personality. After rummaging through her wardrobe, she settled on a black lace dress that was both sweet and sexy. The dress hugged her figure in all the right places, with delicate lace details adding an air of elegance. She paired it with some understated black heels and a simple clutch. Mimi knew that first impressions mattered, and she was determined to look and feel her best.

With a deep breath and a sense of excitement fluttering in her chest, Mimi checked the time. Her first date was just an hour away, so she quickly grabbed her keys and headed out the door. She hopped into her car, the sleek vehicle purring to life as she drove through the quiet streets of Chiang Mai.

The morning was crisp, the sky a soft blue with just a few clouds dotting the horizon. Mimi felt a sense of anticipation building as she neared the restaurant where her date with Alex would take place. It was a cozy café known for its warm ambiance and delicious pastries—an ideal spot for a relaxed morning meeting.

As she parked her car and stepped out, Mimi smoothed her dress and took a deep breath, reminding herself to stay calm. She walked toward the entrance, her heels clicking softly on the pavement. The restaurant’s charm was already working its magic on her, and she couldn’t help but smile as she entered.

Inside, the warm scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods filled the air. She spotted Alex right away—a tall, reserved man sitting at a corner table, his eyes scanning a menu. Mimi felt a flutter in her stomach, but she forced herself to remain composed.

"Hi, Alex," she said, her voice steady but friendly. He looked up, his face lighting up with a smile as he stood to greet her.

"Hi, Mimi. You look amazing," he said, offering her a warm handshake before guiding her to the table.

They chatted easily over coffee and pastries, discussing everything from their careers to their favorite hobbies. Mimi found herself relaxing into the conversation, appreciating Alex’s calm demeanor and thoughtful insights. By the end of the date, she felt a genuine connection, but there was still a sense of curiosity about the other dates that lay ahead.

After saying goodbye to Alex, Mimi had a few hours to kill before her lunch date with Ben. She decided to take a stroll through the city, enjoying the sunshine and allowing her thoughts to wander. It was nice to have the time to herself, and for once, she wasn’t rushing from one task to the next. It felt good to slow down.

Lunchtime arrived quickly, and Mimi found herself at a modern bistro for her date with Ben. He was already waiting for her at the table, and as soon as she sat down, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Ben was witty and outgoing, with a warm smile that immediately put Mimi at ease. They spent the next hour chatting about their favorite foods, travel destinations, and even their childhood memories. There was a spark of energy between them, and Mimi couldn’t help but laugh at Ben’s jokes and lighthearted nature.

After a delicious lunch, Mimi said her goodbyes to Ben, feeling a little more hopeful about the potential of these dates. Now, she had a few hours to prepare for her final date of the day.

As evening approached, Mimi changed into a more relaxed outfit, but she kept her black lace dress on, deciding to add a cardigan for warmth. Her dinner date with Jack was going to take place at a chic Italian restaurant, and she wanted to look effortlessly stylish.

When Mimi arrived at the restaurant, she immediately spotted Jack—a tall, artistic type with an easy smile and a confident posture. He was already sitting at the table, sketching something in a small notebook.

"Hey, Jack," she greeted him as she walked up to the table, feeling the comfort of the familiar atmosphere.

"Hey, Mimi," he said, standing up to greet her with a warm hug. "You look stunning, as always."

They enjoyed a cozy dinner together, discussing everything from art to their favorite music. Mimi found Jack’s creative energy inspiring, and they connected on a deep level. It was a beautiful way to end the day, and she left the restaurant feeling grateful for the experience, regardless of what the future held with these men.

After her last date, Mimi drove home, reflecting on the day. She had enjoyed each date in its own way, and although she didn’t yet know where things would lead, she was thankful for the opportunity to meet new people.

As she settled into bed that night, she couldn’t help but smile, thinking of the possibilities ahead. Today had been a whirlwind of emotions and new connections, and she felt content with the choices she had made.

Chapter 33: The Decision

The days after Mimi's whirlwind of dates had been filled with introspection. As she sat in her cozy apartment, sipping tea and reflecting on her encounters, she felt a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. All three dates had been interesting in their own way, each with its unique charm, but now the question remained—who would she choose?

Mimi had received messages from both Jack and Ben, each expressing how much they had enjoyed their time together. Jack, with his artistic soul and easy-going demeanor, had made her laugh and feel at ease. Ben, on the other hand, was outgoing, witty, and ambitious, with a warmth that made her feel truly cared for.

But Mimi knew that the decision was more than just about who made her feel the best in the moment—it was about finding someone who shared her values and aspirations, someone who felt like a true match for her long-term happiness.

She sat on her couch, staring out the window at the warm winter light filtering through the trees. Her thoughts kept circling back to her dates.

Jack was amazing—his artistic passion was something Mimi admired, and their conversations flowed effortlessly. But deep down, she realized that their connection, while meaningful, didn’t feel as strong as the one she had shared with Ben. Ben's energy was different—his entrepreneurial spirit, his drive, and his genuine care had struck a deeper chord within her. There was something about the way he listened to her, truly paying attention to what she said, that made her feel heard and valued. It wasn’t just about the chemistry or the laughter—it was about the potential to build something real together.

Mimi had never been one to rush decisions, but she knew what felt right. And in her heart, she felt a spark with Ben that she hadn’t quite experienced with Jack.

The next day, Mimi texted Ben, telling him that she had enjoyed their time together and was excited to see where things could go. She hesitated for a moment before typing out a message to Jack. It was harder to explain why she hadn’t chosen him, but she knew it was the right thing to do. She thanked him for the wonderful dinner and the great conversation, but ultimately, she felt a stronger connection with someone else.

As she hit send on both messages, Mimi felt a sense of peace wash over her. She had made her choice, and while it was difficult, she knew it was the right one. Ben’s drive, kindness, and the ease they shared together felt like the beginning of something that could turn into a lasting connection.

That evening, Ben replied with a message that made Mimi smile from ear to ear: “I’m so glad you feel the same way. I’ve been thinking about you a lot. Let’s make plans soon.” The words were simple, but they held a promise—a promise that Mimi was excited to explore.

As she sat down to work later that evening, Mimi felt a renewed sense of joy. She had made a choice that felt right for her, and for the first time in a while, she was excited about what the future might bring with Ben.

The decision, though challenging, had been a step toward something real, something meaningful. And for Mimi, that was all that mattered.

Chapter 34: The Next Step

The weeks following Mimi's decision had been filled with an easy, comforting rhythm. Her connection with Ben had deepened, and it seemed as though they were growing closer with each passing day. Their conversations had become more open and vulnerable, and they both felt a sense of excitement about where things were headed.

One evening, after a quiet dinner at a cozy restaurant in Chiang Mai, Ben and Mimi sat together, enjoying the soft hum of the city around them. It was one of those perfect moments where time seemed to stand still, and the world outside faded into the background.

As they sipped on their drinks, Ben looked at Mimi with a thoughtful expression. "Mimi," he began, his voice steady yet filled with emotion, "I’ve been thinking a lot about us. We’ve spent so much time together already, and things feel right between us. I think we should take the next step."

Mimi looked at him, a slight smile tugging at her lips. She knew what he was getting at, but she waited for him to continue.

"I’ve always believed that before getting married, it’s important to really understand how we work together in daily life. What do you think about living together for a while? I think it could help us understand each other even more and see if we’re truly ready for that next big step."

Mimi’s heart fluttered at the thought. She had been imagining her life with Ben, and the idea of taking this next step felt like a natural progression. She had always believed in the importance of truly getting to know someone before committing fully, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. It felt right.

"Yes," she said softly, her voice steady but full of warmth. "I think that’s a great idea. I love how we’ve been building this connection, and I’m excited to see where it can go. I’m ready to try living together."

Ben’s face lit up with a smile that made Mimi’s heart skip a beat. There was something in his eyes—joy, anticipation, and a sense of relief—that made her feel like she was making the right decision.

"Really?" Ben asked, as if to confirm that she truly felt the same. "I’m so happy to hear that. I’ve been thinking about it for a while, and I think it’s the next step for us. I would love for you to move in with me."

Mimi nodded, her heart swelling with emotion. "I’d love to," she said, feeling a deep sense of contentment. "I think we’ve built something really special, and I can’t wait to see how we grow together."

Ben took her hand in his, his touch warm and reassuring. "I’ve already got a place in mind. It’s not far from here, and I think you’ll like it. We’ll make it our home."

Mimi’s mind raced with thoughts of what life together might look like. She wasn’t nervous, just excited and ready for the challenge. It was a big step, but one she felt confident taking with Ben by her side.

As they finished their drinks, Ben squeezed her hand. "This feels right, Mimi. I’m so glad we’re on this path together."

Mimi smiled back, her heart full. "Me too. I’m excited for what comes next."

After leaving the restaurant, they walked hand in hand through the streets of Chiang Mai, the cool evening air swirling around them. It felt like the world was theirs, filled with endless possibilities.

Living together would be a new chapter in their relationship, but Mimi knew deep down that it was the right step. As they strolled along the streets, she couldn’t help but feel that the future was bright—full of love, growth, and a shared vision for what was to come.

When they reached Ben’s car, Mimi took a moment to look at him, her smile warm and genuine. "So, when do we start looking for places?" she asked, her voice full of excitement.

Ben chuckled, his eyes twinkling with happiness. "Tomorrow," he said. "We’ll start tomorrow."

And with that, they both knew that their journey together was about to take a beautiful new turn.

Chapter 35: First Day That We Live Together

The first morning in their new home felt like something from a dream. The soft light of dawn filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow on the room. Mimi awoke slowly, feeling the unfamiliarity of the space around her, but also the comforting presence of Ben beside her. The bed felt different—new and yet strangely familiar. It was the kind of peace that only came when you knew you were exactly where you were meant to be.

Mimi turned her head to see Ben still asleep, his face relaxed and content. The night had been quiet, filled with the soft rustling of sheets as they got used to this new life. Everything felt so new, but at the same time, it was like a natural progression, a moment in time that made sense in every way.

She smiled softly to herself, knowing this would be the first of many mornings together.

As she turned her head to look outside, the crisp air of morning flooded in through the open window. The world outside was waking up, the hustle and bustle of the city beginning to stir. But here, in this moment, everything felt still—just the two of them, together in their shared space.

Ben stirred beside her, and before she could fully process the thought, his eyes opened slowly, blinking at the light. "Good morning," he murmured, his voice hoarse but warm, full of sleep.

Mimi smiled and stretched, feeling the softness of the bed beneath her. "Good morning," she replied, her voice quiet and calm, the comfort of the day wrapping around her like a cozy blanket.

Ben’s hand reached for her, pulling her closer until their bodies were pressed against each other. She could feel the warmth of him, his body steady against hers. "I’m so happy we're doing this, Mimi," he said, his voice full of contentment. "Living together... it feels right, doesn’t it?"

Mimi closed her eyes for a moment, soaking in the feeling of his presence. She felt it too—the sense of completeness that filled the room. "It feels perfect," she whispered.

They stayed like that for a while, just holding each other in the quiet morning light. Mimi’s mind wandered to all the possibilities this new life could hold—building a home, sharing quiet moments, making new memories. It was the start of something new, something real, something they could both grow into together.

As the minutes passed, the weight of the day ahead began to settle in, but it didn’t feel overwhelming. In this peaceful space, with Ben beside her, it felt like everything could be handled together. No rush. No stress. Just them, starting their life together, one moment at a time.

Ben lifted his head slightly, his face close to hers. He smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her forehead. "Are you ready for our first day?"

Mimi smiled back, feeling a flutter in her chest. "I think so," she said, her voice full of anticipation.

They shared a soft kiss, a moment of quiet affection, and then, as if by unspoken agreement, they slowly began to get out of bed. The day ahead seemed like a blank canvas, just waiting to be filled with new experiences. They were starting their life together, and Mimi couldn’t help but feel that, despite all the uncertainty and challenges that may come, they were ready to face it all side by side.

The first day of living together was more than just the beginning of sharing a home—it was the start of their new chapter, a chapter they would write together, every step of the way.