Edmund’s back gate was unlatched, and Dell wondered if there was a purpose to that. How many people came and went from the Belaen man’s house in secret? How far into this rebellion was he? He had many spies and loyal men under his control. And Dell now knew why. He understood Edmund on a level he never had before.

Edmund had something—someone—to fight for.

He wrapped his knuckles against the wood of the back door, hoping Edmund’s one servant was home and would remember him.

The door opened, and a hand shot out, pulling him inside before slamming the door.

The man who served Edmund with as much loyalty as Dell, pushed him up against the wall. “Why have you come?” The man’s wild eyes roamed Dell’s face until recognition set in and his grip loosened.

“I want to help,” Dell wheezed. “I didn’t know where else to go.”

The man released Dell and pushed out a breath. “I’m sorry, master Tenyson. I’m a bit on edge tonight.”

“We all are. Do you know when Edmund will return?”

He threaded a hand through his hair. “Soon. There are still preparations to be made. You may wait for him.”

Dell nodded and walked to the couch before collapsing onto it in exhaustion. He needed to talk to Edmund. To find out what his plan was to protect Helena at the revealing ceremony.

He forced his eyes to stay open as he waited for the one man who could help him keep Helena safe.

Chapter Twenty-One

Helena didn’t want to be at the ball any longer. Not when she knew something dark was brewing in Madra. Not when Dell left her confused and frightened, thinking something was going to happen to him.

Ian Tenyson slithered to her side once more, and she had to force herself not to shrink away. How could one brother be so sweet and noble while the other was like a slimy serpent?

“Enjoy your stroll, Len?” he asked.

“My name is Helena.” She faced him, fire in her eyes. “Princess Helena.”

“Your brothers call you Len. If we are to be family, I will have that pleasure as well as many others.”

She stepped closer to him, leaning in so their bodies brushed and lowered her voice. “You will never be a part of my family.”

She tried to back away, but he gripped her arm. “You think you’re clever. But know this Helena, your father is not the one who has promised you to me. I will have you.”

What did he mean her father didn’t promise her in marriage? He was the only person with the power to do so. Not even the queen had a say.

Helena glanced out over the men who’d come for the ball hoping to be chosen. If her father hadn’t planned this, maybe one of them did have a chance.