Noah knew it wouldn't be that easy.
The next night, the moment he settled by the river, he sensed it—him. Theron's presence, a heavy weight in the air before the alpha even spoke.
"You're still here."
Noah didn't flinch, didn't turn. "Observant."
A low, amused huff. Then, Theron moved, stepping into view, all towering strength and barely restrained dominance. "You're on my land."
Noah tilted his head. "What gave it away?"
A growl rumbled in Theron's chest, but instead of snapping, he did something Noah didn't expect.
"I have an offer."
That caught Noah's attention. He finally looked at Theron, suspicion creeping in. "What kind of offer?"
Theron crossed his arms, watching him. "You're a rogue. That means no pack, no shelter, no food unless you fight for it." His eyes darkened. "Stay in my territory. I'll let you eat, I'll let you rest. But in return, you follow my rules."
Noah scoffed. "And what are your rules?"
Theron took a step closer, gaze locked onto Noah's. "Don't challenge me. Don't cause trouble. And don't tempt my wolves."
The way he said tempt sent a shiver down Noah's spine.
He knew he should say no. Knew that being close to an alpha like Theron was dangerous. But there was something in the way Theron looked at him, something barely leashed, that made Noah's pulse quicken.
He licked his lips and shrugged. "Fine. I'll stay."
Theron's jaw tightened. He stepped back. "Then don't test me, omega."
Oh, but testing him was exactly what Noah planned to do.