Life as a teenager is already a challenge. Life as a mute only adds to the chaos, but for Aubrielle Matthews, it’s just a regular day. Balancing being a gold medal gymnast, a social pariah, and backlash for her mutism is nothing new.

If that wasn't already enough, throw in Riverback Heights alum Lynx Peak.

Lynx is the golden boy who returns with some unfinished business. Despite his popularity, he faces demons from his past. On the outside, he’s handsome and rich with a carefree aura, but that’s just on the outside. Much darker and haunted things lie beneath. Lynx knew his return wouldn’t be a warm welcome, but he was shocked by all the changes in the town that never changes.

Can Brie and Lynx find the strength to overcome the poison that is Riverback Heights?

Will Lynx be able to right the wrongs of his past?

Can Brie find the voice the town stole from her? 

The Balancing Act was created by AZW, an eGlobal Creative Publishing signed author.

The Balancing Act

Gentleman. That was the only safe and PG word I could use to describe him. I had to be losing my mind. I just compared a Peak to a gentleman.


I ran my fingers through my hair at this revelation. After gorging ourselves with more food than we could eat, he followed me home. He had insisted on driving me until he realized we both drove ourselves. I didn’t want it to end, and I was almost certain he didn't either. It was why we ate until we both felt sick.


He sat in his Durango and waited until I was parked and entered my house before pulling off. I stared at the last text he sent, unsure of what to say.


'Sweet dreams, Brie. I hope you allow me to take you out properly next time.'


The words on the small rectangular screen stared back at me. Could there even be a next time?


Ugh, when had high school life become so hard? Why couldn’t I be normal and this whole thing could be normal?


Chapter 16: A Liking