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

Kitt chattered at Cain. Cain licked her, helped her down from the couch, and trotted out of the room.


Mitch stood up. “Want to get a cup of coffee and sit on the porch? I think the storm is dissipating enough for that.”


Calix nodded. He needed a break from the critters zipping around the room, anyway. He headed to the kitchen, pulled two mugs from the cabinet, and handed the spare to Mitch. A tiny spark coursed through his hand at the brief touch. Calix ignored it.


Mitch filled both cups up, passed one back, and led the way to the front porch.


Calix shivered when a cold blast of wind hit him. He set his drink down on the small table on the porch, headed back inside for a jacket, and returned, grateful for the overhanging roof that provided cover for the entire porch. While a bit breezy, it shielded them from the rain.


Chapter 49