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

I do decide to purchase a friendship greeting card for Barbara, two candles, and a set of dolphin wind chimes carved from balsa wood. Positioned at the cash register, ready to check out, I fall into the store owner’s emerald-colored eyes, study his firm nipples concealed by his T-shirt, and inquire, “Are you related to Jessica Mullen by any chance?”


He beams a warm smile. “Not that I’m aware of. Jessica and I used to be the best of friends, though. Gal pals to nth degree. We grew up together in this town. Let’s just say we werethe best of girlfriends and have gone our separate ways.”


Chapter 9