53. (DEIRK POV)

(DEIRK POV)

I caught Cami's eye, signaling for a moment of her attention. When she approached, I suggested, under the guise of the overcrowded room, that Percy and I step aside to solidify our newfound bond in a quieter setting.

"You know he will try to follow. It would be best if you had Dane," she cautioned quietly.

I responded, "Can't, Jo's awake already."

Cami's frustration was evident. "This is why I wanted you all in the west wing. I can't let you take him off grounds, not right now. If he tries to escape..."

Percy began to interject, but Cami firmly silenced him with a hard slap. I felt a protective instinct kick in, and I wrapped my arm around Percy, which drew a knowing smile from Cami.

She leaned in, whispering, "I was worried you were just claiming him to keep him from Mag, but I can see that's not the case. Three days, Deirk. Three days, and you keep control of him. If he runs away, I will have your head. Do you hear me? And in those three days, I need you to convince D