When did I become so soft-hearted?

Layla's behavior caught me off guard. I had only been rejected once by Zara, and I don't want to experience that again.

I broke free from the hug, my expression darkening as I gazed into her eyes. "I don't love you," I said, trying to sound convincing. "I was just being stupid. How could I have fallen for someone like you? I'm sorry for the inconvenience. Let's just get this fake marriage over with." I stormed away, leaving her stunned.

I packed my bags and left the hotel, boarding the next flight to Las Vegas. My inside burned with rage. How dare she reject...