Running into a winged lion shifter was never in Mitch's plans. But Bluebird Valley Preserve has more surprises in store, including wildlife and shifters, most of whom Mitch never knew existed. As a caracal shifter, Mitch is used to oddities. The chaos, he can handle. Calix, the saber-toothed cat, is what knocks him off balance.<br><br>Calix is a vet and a physician. Great in theory ... except he can only diagnose, not heal. Still grieving, he vows to protect his heart from another crushing blow. Then, he saves a caracal shifter from the flood waters. When he sees Mitch, he struggles with leaving the past behind and making a future for himself which includes Mitch.<br><br>Raging waters and mudslides threaten, leaving the whole preserve at risk. Mitch puts his life on the line to rescue Calix. But, it's Calix's heart Mitch finds the most challenging and worthwhile to win.

Mitch

“There’s a new crossing about half a mile up. This old one is closer, mostly gets foot traffic.”


“Foot traffic. Of the four-legged kind?”


“Yep.” Nate cautiously drove the Jeep over the boards.


Mitch braced himself, preparing to swim to shore if the planks gave way. Thankfully, that didn’t happen.


He found the trek interesting. Nate made for a decent tour guide, pointing out critters and habitats. They’d passed the small lion pride territory—real lions, not shifters or the winged variety. A large fence complete with gate separated that particular area from the one next door which catered to the wolves. Those, Mitch caught sight of rather easily. He’d guarantee a few of them were shifters, although which ones he couldn’t decide without some up close and personal sniffing. The point remained moot as Nate kept driving.


Chapter 6