Candi's Buck — Jane Wakely

Candi Smith spends her days working her dream job as head chef in her brother's new restaurant. The café's early operating hours allow her a daily walk in the forest and time to visit her special place, the alcove. When a buck starts to visit the alcove as well, she learns there's one thing better than being alone in the forest. Candi's feelings for the buck are confusing but they become more unusual when she meets Aiden.

Aiden Montgomery is a zoology professor and a deer shifter. His job is rewarding, but a run through the forest in his buck form is the perfect way to end to his day. Forty is fast approaching and his age, combined with his scarred leg, are reminders he isn't worthy of a mate. He keeps the loneliness at bay by drowning in projects for work, seemingly content with his life. When he sees Candi for the first time, and recognizes her as his mate, her youth and perfection persuade him he doesn't deserve her.

Aiden is driven to spend small amounts of time with Candi, convinced his intense feelings will be easier to control if he gets her out of his system. The plan backfires and leaves the pair unhappy, despite the love they share. He knows they can't be together, but Aiden feels he owes Candi the truth about their connection. Candi's not as naïve as she seems and she has her own plans for her buck.