When Negan first got out of his cell, he had low hopes of anyone engaging with him, knowing that Alexandria’s opinion of him hadn’t changed in the slightest ever since he was first imprisoned.

However, to his surprise, you always seemed to strike up conversation with him when you were both working in the garden. He didn’t know much about you, just that you had recently settled into Alexandria and that you went by they/them pronouns— Negan knew little about most things in that general topic, but he was respectful and made a point of using those pronouns for you.

He knew others had told you about his past, obviously trying to pressure you into staying clear of him, but it would never deter you. It was something he appreciated, knowing that you recognised he may have changed as a person.

He longed to be able to do something in return for you, and when he caught wind of some Alexandrians purposely misgendering you and making fun of you, he found his opportunity.

“HEY!” Negan’s voice boomed and caused the few people around you to jump, effectively cutting off their harsh remarks. They all looked fearful, clearly believing Negan to still be a dangerous man.

“If you don’t step away from them, I’ll break every single one of your damn jaws,” He harshly stated, taking a deep breath as his eyes met your gaze and softened while the others scrambled away from you.

“You alright..?” He asked softly once you two were alone.