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

Zap grinned saucily. “I’m batting fifty-fifty.”


“Oh, you have no idea.” She gave him a come-hither look. “Fresh meat is always the best.”


He choked on his own saliva, coughed hard, then managed to clear his airway once more.


Zap winked at him before bounding ahead. “I’ll be seeing you later.”


Mitch groaned to himself. “I’m working. All the time. Besides, I’m gay. Solid. Absolutely. Totally gay.”


“Uh-huh.” She laughed and dashed off to her left in a fast trot. A second later, she halted and looked around.


“Breakfast. Cafeteria is straight ahead.”


She flashed him a smile. “That’s right. Fresh meat and food. A very nice combination.” She hurried down the trail.


Mitch watched her go in amazement. Do shifters get dementia? Because that lady is missing a few marbles from her marble bag.


And she wants us. Bad,his inner cat whispered.


The urge to pause and bang his head on a nearby tree hit. Why me?


Chapter 16