Her brother snorted. “Of course he is. He doesn’t even sleep in the great house. Lady Tenyson puts him with their common workers in the barn loft. He’s the result of his father’s unfaithfulness. Nothing more.”

Helena stood to get a better look as the boxers faced each other. Instant recognition raced through her when she caught sight of the second man.

What had Edmund called him?

Orlo.

She shook her head, muttering to herself. “This isn’t good.” Dell was going to get himself killed.

Ian Tenyson stood next to the boundary line, a grin stretching his face. A shiver shot down her spine. Something wasn’t right with that man.

Why was Orlo even in the fight? He had a wife. He wasn’t competing to impress the royal family and hoping to win the princess—win her.

No, something else brought him here.

Ian.

It was the only explanation.

She had to get down there. Had to see him.

Turning to her father, she dropped her eyes. “Father, may I be allowed to go to the privy?”

He didn’t take his eyes from where a man launched a javelin on the opposite side of the arena. “Tell the guards at the door to escort you.”

“I would rather it be Quinn.” She fluttered her eyelashes and dropped her lips into a worried frown. “I feel much safer in his presence.”

“Sure, fine. Return promptly. The people need to see you enjoying the games.”

Quinn gave her a questioning look as he collected his bag and rose to lead her through the door.

“Sir,” one of the guards started. “Wait here. I’ll have a few of my men take you where you need to go.”

Helena gave a slight shake of her head, her eyes imploring Quinn to help her.

Quinn put a congenial hand on the guard’s shoulder. “If I can’t keep my sister safe, no one can.”

The guard relaxed his stance. “Yes, sir.”

Quinn grabbed Helena’s elbow and pulled her away from the guards at the door. She stumbled, but he kept her from falling.

“Len Rhodipus.” He sighed as he pulled her around the corner into a quiet hall. No one was allowed in this part of the arena while the royal family sat on their platform. He released her and pushed a hand through his dark hair. “What is this about?”

Quinn was the only member of her family who might allow her to do as she wished. She’d picked him specifically. Stev wouldn’t even think of it and Cole would demand he go with her.

She rushed out a breath and met his eyes, unblinking. “I need to go down there.”

“Where?” The caution in his voice told her he knew exactly where.

“The arena floor.”

“Absolutely not.”

“I’m not asking you, Quinn. It’ll be easier with your help, but I’ve done it on my own before.”