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

The prediction sounded ominous. “For the packing or for the hazards along the way?” Mitch followed along as they made their way back to the cafeteria.


Nate shrugged. “Maybe both. Probably more so because of the inhabitants. They aren’t the most social type.”


Mitch thought of Tims. Wonderful.“They aren’t going to shoot me on sight, are they?”


“Nah. You’re good that direction.”


Despite Nate’s reassurance, Mitch’s anxiety remained high.


“You have a way with people. You’ll be fine.” Nate smiled slightly.


“Uh-huh.” Nothing about this task bode well. Still, Mitch couldn’t refuse to do it. Lives were at stake.


As soon as he entered the cafeteria, he paused. Calix stood just inside, blocking Mitch and Nate from taking more than a couple of strides inside, his attention riveted.


Chapter 44