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

“It’ll come back. Just give it time.”


“I sure hope so. If I can’t chop food or stir with a spoon, my cooking career is sunk.” A shard of worry stuck him in the chest, seizing his breath. Without his hands, he had nothing to offer an employer or anyone else.


“Hey. Stop putting the cart before the horse.” Calix placed two fingers under Mitch’s chin and lifted until Mitch met his gaze. “Patience. You’ll be good as new in no time. Until then, you just have to work on some exercises and let yourself continue to heal.”


“Okay.” Mitch soaked up the advice. He had no reason to doubt Calix’s words.


“Good. Now bend your fingers down to a ninety degree angle then back up.”


Mitch completed that exercise with decent ease on both hands.


“Good. Now bring your thumb across your palm.”


A little more difficult, but doable. Mitch smiled. “Maybe there’s hope yet.”


Chapter 68