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

 I liked to pretend I was a morning person, but I knew better. I needed coffee to function and more importantly, I needed a nightmare to kickstart my legs to move despite my exhaustion. Last night I had not been given the liberty of a night terror; it wasn’t the first night I had a clear mind, but it was the first time in a long time.


I couldn’t remember falling asleep last night. I remember texting Lynx and then staring at the stars on my ceiling wondering what he was doing and if he was thinking of me. It was a downward spiral of destruction, and I was on the path willingly.


Lynx would destroy my poor heart and yet I couldn’t convince myself to hide it from him.


 “Gabe, is Brie’s car outside? I want to know before I start breakfast.” My mother’s voice sounded from the other side of the door.


Chapter 18: Pick the Peak