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

How long they played in the puddle, Calix didn’t know. He only knew that when he tired out, both he and Mitch were covered in mud and wringing wet. The cold air didn’t help matters, either, sending a shiver through Calix despite his naturally heavy coat of fur designed to keep out the frigid temperatures and dampness of the Ice Age. One glance at Mitch told him that the caracal suffered the same, if not worse. A tremble coursed through his body.


What? We had fun, his inner beast answered.


His saber snorted. What if he kicks your ass for being a worry wart?


Before Calix could form a sharp rebuttal, Mitch slid his body all along Calix’s right side, sharing and spreading the mud in a cute, affectionate gesture. He paused then nuzzled Calix under the chin.


Calix’s heart skipped a beat as a wealth of emotions rolled through him. Instinctively, he licked Mitch’s ear, coming up with a mouthful of muddy water in the process.


Chapter 80