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

He removes his fingertips from my cheek, dots a kiss to my skin, and says, “I’m glad you said that.”


I lie still next to him, motionless, but find the strength to say, “Thank you for saving my life.”


He whispers in return, “Just remember, you saved my life first.” 38: Day 21, Debris


Following a trip to Barefoot Beach Hospital, physically unharmed by Hurricane Edwin, having a clean chart of health, Trent and I tour the damage of my bungalow. The kitchen is totally in a state of devastation. Doors are ripped off of maple cupboards and strewn over the floor. Four inches of Gulf water cover the tiles. Half of the wall facing the Gulf is no longer present, providing an open view of the sandy beach and beyond. All of the countertop appliances are dented and damaged; some are even missing. The stainless-steel appliances look beaten with iron fists, obviously ruined.


Chapter 35