Counting Our Stars • Tyler Joseph •

Chapter 26

          •  Claire  •

"Welcome back, Alpha!"

"He's our leader now?"

"Look, he's not sick anymore!"

The chorus of excited remarks and questions buzzed around the clearing. Tyler had stepped out from the medical building for the first time in a month. His skin was smooth and unblemished. He had a much healthier glow and he seemed much stronger. Claire couldn't wipe the grin from her face as she locked eyes with Tyler. A smile formed on his lips before he turned to the crowd. He clasped his hands together behind his back as he strode closer to the group.

"I'm alive and well again!" He exclaimed proudly and only smiled wider as he received praise in return. Claire glanced at the sea of faces and noticed a small group huddled together off to one side. They were muttering in hushed tones, a few looked disdainfully towards Tyler. She figured they weren't too thrilled about their new leader. They would have to deal with it though. It was Tyler's right to become Alpha. She turned back to Tyler and realized he had begun addressing the pack.

"I am aware that many of you are skeptical of my abilities to lead. I learned many leadership skills from my father, a fair and kind leader." He said, rubbing his hands together as he slowly paced in front of the huddled crowd. There was a dangerous aura about him as he eyed the members of his pack. He was the predator and the pack was his prey. "However, I will not be that leader. I know there are several of you who want me banished because of my extra abilities." Claire stared in horror at his words. This wasn't the Tyler she was used to. He wasn't kind, compassionate and caring. This Tyler seemed to be a monster in disguise.

"Loyalty is always a key component to an Alpha. From now on, anyone who doubts my leadership is banished. I will be changing the laws to fit my reign." Tyler continued as he halted in his place, his eyes shifting from warm brown to icy blue. "Meeting dismissed. Alice, Ryan, Alec and Mother, meet me in my office." He stated, his tone sharp. Then his eyes met hers.

"Come with me." His words seemed to draw her in somehow but her feet wouldn't budge. Why was she feeling uncertain? She chewed on her lip in indecision. Tyler extended his hand toward her, the gesture so inviting.

One by one, Claire took steps towards him and extended her own hand. The two met in the middle. A warm smile crossed Tyler's face. "I believe I promised you a tour around the territory." There was a glint in his now brown eyes. Claire smiled and meekly nodded in agreement.