The Lion's Crown

(The Lion's Crown is a second chance romance and a short story. It can be read as a standalone but is part of a series.)Ashton Duvall is a cheetah shifter with a secret. Ten years ago when his brother Aaron decided to move to New Orleans, Ashton went with him. However, Ashton's reasons for leaving were not what he said they were. Being rejected by his mate sent him running. Now, ten years later, he spends his time running the most popular strip club around and only takes the stage when he's in the mood. Having his mate pop back into his life is not something Ashton expected but, when it happens, there's only one feeling dominating his heart. Anger. Nathan Velez is a lion shifter and a covert operative for the CIA specializing in black ops. Ten years ago, Nathan rejected his mate because of the job he does and a deal made with his father. Now, with the deal fulfilled and retirement from the job a sure thing, Nathan is prepared to fight for what he wants. His mate. However, it's not going to be as easy as he thought. Ashton is justifiably pissed when Nathan reappears in his life but, Nathan is determined to fix things and will do anything to earn a second chance.Will Ashton be able to give Nathan the second chance he desires? Can Nathan fix the damage caused by his rejection and prove to Ashton that he's here to stay? Or will the pain of the past keep them from a happy future? (Warning: Contains sexual content and explicit language. Not recommended for those under the age of 18.)