I Blame Myself For Believing In Fantasies.

Kendall's thoughts raced, "A contract marriage? Does he think I'm some kind of pawn to be used for his convenience?

Darren's gaze was fixed intently on her, his eyes filled with a silent longing, as he thought to himself, "I hope she'll say yes, I hope she'll agree to this proposal."

"Kendall, I need this huge favor from you," Darren said.

Kendall stood up, her eyes narrowed, her voice firm but laced with a hint of hidden vulnerability. "A fake marriage? No way, Darren. I'm not getting tangled up in some elaborate charade with you, no matter how pretend it may be." She crossed her arms, her body language screaming defenses up, while her heart raced with a secret longing she dared not reveal.

Darren stood up, his eyes locking onto Kendall's, his voice laced with persuasion.