Twenty-four-year-old Storm Darlington, wealthy mogul of Darlington Securities, decides to remove himself from his heavy workload in New York City and spend a month in Barefoot Beach, Florida. In Barefoot Beach, Trent Long is happy with his lifeguarding duties. He enjoys the sun, taking photos, and saving lives. But his world is turned upside down when Storm enters it. Sparks ignite the moment their two worlds collide. The only fly in the sunscreen ointment is Storm’s best friend, and retired Wall Street stock broker, Barbara Mullen. Storm is forced to rethink his romantic feelings for the sexy lifeguard when Barbara reveals some of Trent’s secrets. But there’s very little time to think because Barefoot Beach is threatened by hurricane Edwin. Threats also come from Barbara, who insists she’ll end her friendship with Storm if he doesn’t dump Trent. During the hurricane’s fury, Storm questions his relationship with Barbara, his busy life of finances in New York City, and the secrets he’s learned about Trent. Can Storm come to terms with all three? Will he be able to navigate the stormy waters of love, loss, and a possible future in Barefoot Beach?

Barefoot Storm

Today is no different, of course. Not at Storm Executive Security. Not at Barefoot Beach. And not in the presence of Trent Long. I am who I am, shine with pride, and know that nothing or no one will ever change me.


I nod and say, “As a matter of fact, I do think you’re a beefy athlete.”


Surprising me, catching me completely off guard, he does a quick up-down on my toned body, and responds, “You’re not so bad yourself.”


“I appreciate that,” I say, and rub my hairy-built stomach with an open palm, attempting to tease him.


My provoking turns out to be ineffective, though. Instead, he swings his right arm up, twists his wrist, and points to the strip of beach behind him. “I should be getting back to my run.”


“You should. Exercise awaits me. Staying fit prevails.”


Again, he thanks me for letting him use the span of beach for his runs, motions a quick wave as a goodbye, and runs away, back to his straight life and world. 10: Peter Umbly


Chapter 8