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

“Thanks.” Mitch lifted his hands, noticed the thick white bandages, and scowled. Obviously that was where the pain came from.


“On it.” Cain padded back out of the room.


“When you redirected that lightning bolt, it exited through your hands. Thus, the burns.” Calix lightly rubbed his back. “The recoil from the expulsion of so much energy knocked you back several feet. You landed really hard. From what I can tell, you have a concussion.”


Mitch nodded, then regretted the motion even as the puzzle pieces fell into place. He turned to stare at Calix. A pair of nearby crutches drew his attention. “You were hurt.”


“Broken ankle. Nothing major.” Calix waved his free hand. “A couple more shifts and it will heal the rest of the way up.” He grabbed a couple of pillows and shoved them behind Mitch, then eased him back against them.


“Much better. Thanks.” Mitch smiled at Calix in appreciation. “And Nate?”


Chapter 56