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

“Say it,” he whispers in the darkness, having my body locked against his own.


“Tell me that you’re falling for me. Tell me I’m the only guy you’ve been thinking about.”


“Why not? What’s your deal?” He sounds depleted, broken by my teasing.


“I’m not gay. I don’t like guys,” I admit.


His mood lightens and he comprehends that I’m only playing. He says, “I forgot. Shame on me. I’m such a fool.”


“Hey, don’t say that. You’re not gay,” he says.


“My bad. I forgot. All this falling for you distracts me.”


He giggles and kisses me. The kiss is exhilarating, moist, and just right. When he pulls his lips away, the tip of his nose grazes the tip of my nose, and he chants, “I know it sounds cheesy and everything, but I want to say it again. I love you, Storm Darlington.”


Chapter 32