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

“Makes living with you kind of like a game of grenades.” Calix’s eyes held a hint of amusement.


Mitch latched onto that expression and held it close. He snorted. “I’m not that bad. Never do I go off half-cocked.”


Calix’s face softened and his lips twitched the slightest.


Mitch knew Calix pondered the double meaning of the statement. Hell, he did the very same thing.


The front door creaked open. Footsteps echoed across the kitchen.


The moment broken, Mitch turned to appraise the newcomers.


Dev led the way, quickly followed by Rafael. They carried mud all over their boots, jeans, and even up to their flannel shirts and jackets.


Mitch wasn’t a clean freak but the thought of mud tracks through the house made him flinch. “What happened?”


“Sandbagging the cafeteria. Had to go dig one of the Jeeps out around the south bridge. Mud’s too deep to get through with all the overflowing of the banks,” Rafael answered tiredly.


Chapter 46