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 finally break down and read, “The love in front of you will lead you astray. Follow it with an open heart.”


He bursts out with laughter, claps his hand against his chest with an open palm, and asks, “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?”


I’m a die-hard romantic. Following this self-revelation, I fold the paper fortune in half and place it on the table to my right. A lie slips out of me with such carelessness, “Love is blasphemous. Who needs it, anyway?”


He agrees with me. “Humans are not meant to be monogamous. Fucking with strangers rules by far.”


I laugh it up with him, decide drinks are in order, and search for cans of beer in my Kenmore for us to share. 22: Darkroom


Chapter 20