darling means the same as dating. It's having a cuddle for someone. Xodó is a loving expression to call a person you like.
"Having a crush" is the same as having a love affair, a preference for someone.
"É meu xodó" is a loving way of saying that you like someone or that you have great affection.
Xodó is a term used in several states in Brazil, especially in the Northeast, to show another person a feeling of affection, affection, esteem.
The expression pet can be used not only for people but also for anything you like, even a pet.
I just want a darling
I just want a xodó is a classic of Pernambuco forró, music composed in 1974, in partnership with the Pernambuco singer, composer and accordion player Domingunhos with Anastácia:
I miss a good
I miss a sweetheart
But since I don't have anyone
I live life so alone
I just want a love
end my suffering
A darling for me in my way like this
How happy is my life