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

Finding his used towel, he wiped his hand off.


He was tired. Tired of being constantly on the move. Tired of being alone with no friends. Tired of existing on a few measly dollars and living out of his single suitcase.


“It’s too early to say if this is the place or not.” He whispered the statement to himself, seeing the truth for what it was. This was his shot at happiness. Whether it panned out or not, he’d just have to wait and see. Until then, he needed some rest.


Clean, he returned to his bedroom, climbed under the covers, flipped onto his side, and sighed wearily. He hadn’t bothered to close his bedroom door. Didn’t really think it necessary as his roommate most likely would remain in wolf form. So, unless the full moon peeked through the clouds, turning Cain into Cujo, he figured he was good.


Not long afterwards, thunder rolled across the night sky, pulling Mitch from his sleep.


Chapter 14