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

“Shifters get mean when it comes to their food,” Calix reminded.


“Uh-huh.” A long moment passed where they simply stared into one another’s eyes. Calix felt the draw, the connection all the way to his very soul.


“I…well, I…” Mitch stammered then stopped. He shifted his weight as if a bit antsy. Unusual, because Mitch carried confidence in his stance and in his words. For him to falter now meant the topic had to be something big.


Calix’s heart skipped a beat at the fire in Mitch’s gaze. Emotions flashed across his face before fading again. With bated breath, Calix waited. To no avail. Mitch dropped his attention to his feet and grew silent.


Whatever he wanted to say, he obviously wasn’t ready. Time would come for it later. After a day of work for them both. “Go.” Calix smacked him smartly on the rear. “I have elk waiting and you have a hungry crew to feed.”


Chapter 84