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

Tonight, Lynx wanted to take me to dinner. I tried not to stare at my phone while I lay on Vic’s floor as we completed our homework. I didn’t know what to say back. What could I possibly say back?


Should I say yes? Could I say yes even though that would be betraying Vic in some way? Being his friend was one thing, but going on a date with him...was that even in the realm of possibility?


Did I even want to go on a date with him?


“What’s on your mind?” Vic asked.


I blinked back into reality and peeked up at her. She lay across her bed, a Physics textbook opened in front of her, but her attention remained on me.


I hated lying to her, but what else could I do? She hated Lynx, I could see the fire of her hatred burning bright in her chocolate-brown eyes.


“What makes you think something's on my mind?” I deflected.


"We’ve been friends for years, I’d like to think I know when something is bothering you,” she said.


Chapter 14: Choosing Friendship