Tristan has never been what someone would call a social guy. Like the alligator he shares his spirit with, he prefers being alone. Now, after enduring decades of forced isolation as an animal attraction in a curiosity show, Tristan is even more reclusive than ever. He lives mainly in animal form, swimming in the large pond on the gargoyle's estate. When he helps kidnap his abuser, Bud Wallice, Tristan decides interrogating the bastard is a great reason to finally interact with others. Eventually, Bud is reported missing by his wife, and the trail leads to the gargoyle's estate. Tristan meets Detective Collin DeSoto, who is looking into the disappearance. Tristan immediately recognizes the man as his mate, and while the sex between them is explosive, that's the only easy thing between them. Collin isn't out to his incredibly large family, and he doesn't approve of how Tristan handles Bud. Can the pair resolve their differences, or will Tristan end up returning to his pond...alone?