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 hire two Mexicans to board up the bungalow’s windows with plywood. Supervising their work for the day, I study the waves as they ebb up to the shore, rising by the minute. The waves are blue-gray and angry looking, indicating a future tempest of destruction. Never have I experienced a hurricane before; not that I have ever wanted to, either. New York City does get its frequent snowstorms during the winter months, which a high percentage of residents survive. And the rainstorms in the city are actually more beautiful than dangerous. Many city people get caught in the rain, but few die, if any. The oncoming storm here seems perilous, without beauty, and quite sinister. The meteorologists are not suggesting to evacuate Barefoot Beach as of yet, but they do forewarn to stock up on provisions, board all windows, and have a supply of water for a week, and I heed their advice.


Chapter 26