Chapter Text
It was a fridged winter night in the city of Atlanta and everything was relatively calm amongst the streets. All the stores had long been closed and the deserted streets were spotlighted in the gentle, orange glow of street lamps. A chilled wind whisked through the inactive town and it it weren't for the muffled beat of music comming from a massive building on the corner of a main road one would be able to hear leaves rake against the faded cement.
The private night club by the name of 'Azul Dynasty' was the only source of life ans vigor this evening, it was a grand building teeming with colorful lights and a deep thump of base reverberated from within it like a heart beat. There were people linned around the block waiting for entrance into the massive club that was bustleing with whooping, drunken crowds and flocks of wasted flirts.
Access into the exclusive night club was no easy task as you had to be at least twenty one years of age and have a pretty penny in the bank account as well as some sort of title to your name to get in, half of those who awaited in the line were denied access just because they didn't meet one out of countless qualifications to be granted a pass into the extravagant pub.
Little did any of the bouncers know that someone who failed to meet ANY of the requirements was about to make a grand entrance.
The young man didn't bother sitting in a long ass line in the freezing cold as he knew he was far too young to even be concidered eligible to set foot in a place like the one he was sneaking into. No, the sly boy had went around back where men were unloading booze and cases of goods to take into the clubs pantry and snuck into one of the crates where he crammed his body snugly against bags of potatoes. He had to rearange the sacks and shove his body into the wooden box in a very uncomfortable position, his knees cramped against his torso with arms glued by his sides and head ducked down. He held perfectly still as he felt the weight being shifted for transport and bared through how every tendon and muscle in his body strained in the cooped up pose he fashioned himself in. Before he knew it he felt the little trip come to a stop as the crate was lowered to the ground, Carl stared into the darkness of the little box and waited for the voices of workers to fade before he lifted the lid of the receptacle and scanned the area to insure the coast was clear. He hopped out of the box and rubbed the side of his neck with a stiffled groan as every muscle in his joints sprained itself after unwinding from his crumpled up posture.
Icey blue eyes scanned the dim basement he found himself in and the lanky boy took it upon himself to browse the selection of stock that brimmed every shelf, anything he wanted was just ripe for the taking. Eventually carl selected an entire bottle of the clubs best and most expensive liquor and a whole box of breadsticks fresh from the pastry shop. He wisely decided not to gorge himself as not to draw suspicion and with bottle in hand and box tucked under his arm the reble made his way up the rustic staircase and snuck into the kitchen, he didn't rush nor sneak as not to draw suspicion to himself. People were walking in and out of the area to resupply their pantry so surly no-one would pay the boy any mind even if they did ceatch him passing through from the corner of their eye. It was incredibly risky but that was why Carl loved it so much.
Not a single fuck was given as carl pushed himself against the white double doors of the cooking area that lead out to the rest of the fun house- he was home free and instantly he found himself swept up in the thriving atmosphere.
The main room was a vast, open space containing a full lengthed bar and dance floor, to the further outskirts were areas for lounging and taking a break, the whole area was the definition of extravagance. It was of upper class modern design complete with sleek surfaces and plush furniture all bathed under the purple and blue glow of vivid florescent lights whicg cast intense shadows in all the right places for For scandalous couples to hide away in and make out discretely- even though this place was 'fancy' classic night pub elements such as that remained. As of now carl was on the first floor which branched out into smaller game and entertainment rooms, he looked up to a large spiraling staircase leading to the second and third floor which was accustomed for mingling and lead out to a balcony that wrapped around the front pretemiter of the building- of which contained yet another bar with one of those fancy table grills. Yhea, this place was decked out.
The teenager looked to the tiled dance floor and one of the lounge sections beside it trying to find a good place to hunker down and enjoy his smuggled refreshments. Partys never appealed to carl as he was anti social and publicly akward but the thrill of sneaking into a place like this gave him a kick beyond racy dancing or the intoxication of drugs or alcohol. He could feel the smooth beat of the music thud within his rib cage as he passed between wandering party goers and clusters of social butterflies. Mostly everyone was dressed fairly sharply. Men wore suits and women wore tiny dresses dispite the chilled temperatures whereas carl garbed himself in a grey hoodie and blue jeans with black combat boots, thankfully not everyone appealed to the formal dress code as there were a few who dawned less extravagant wear but even still mannaged to flash their wealth.
Carl didn't want to draw any attention to himself so he slipped to a more quiet end of the room, the air thick with the scent of twisted drinks, cigarettes, and perfume. Eventually he arrived to a calm section, the music sounding distant and soft and the sound of pool balls clacking together occasionaly broke the stillness. Uttering a relived sigh the long haired boy strode over to a vacant table for two and poped open his wine bottle, holding it out and away from himself as pink bubbles erupted from the nozzle and splashed to the hardwood floor. Carl sipped the tart, sparkling liquid before placing the bottle down to pop open the box of fresh breadsticks which were still warm, taking one and munching into it.
His eyes drifted about the spacious area linned with pool tables which only a few groups crowded around. He passed his sights over a bartender who polished glasses and made small talk trying to find anything of intrest to occupy his mind on. Eventually carls attentions settled on the table where a little candle flickered inside of a glass giving off a warm light. He slumped in his seat, holding a freckled cheek in a hand and proping his elbows on the table as he watched the little flame flicker about. And so the teen sat by his lonesome, a entire party with something for everyone raged on yet here he was watching a flame with a mouth full of bread wearing a expression as if he was watching paint dry.
Negan smoothed back strands of dark hair that had fallen into his eyes, a half finished cigarette dangling from his lips. He inhaled deeply, toxic smoke burning his throat as it filled his lungs only to be expelled slowly from his nostrils. With a slightly shaking hand, he pulled the cigarette from his lips to hover just in front of him. The smoke dissipated into the brisk night air with each step he took that left a trail behind him that lasted only a few measly seconds before disappearing.
He had parked his car a few blocks away from the club due to no open spaces right in the front. It didn’t stop him from driving past to gauge the amount of people attending the high-end club. He caught the eyes of the men and women waiting impatiently in line who looked at him with a curiosity in the short time he appeared. His only response was a quick, toothy smirk before he had stepped on the gas pedal and made his way elsewhere.
With the front of the night club gathered around in crowds, the surrounding streets were fairly empty. There were a few stragglers that had already seemed quite intoxicated, their obnoxious conversation and laughter echoing off the walls of the tight-knit buildings and disrupting the peace. No one attempted to speak to him, thankfully; too wrapped up in their either themselves or those they were spending time with.
When he hit the back of the line, Negan made no point to make it even seem like he was going to wait like the rest of them. He stepped to the side, making his way casually past the dozens upon dozens of frustrated people, the scantily dressed women hugging themselves in an attempt to gather warm in the frigid weather. He caught the bothered mutterings of a few who witnessed him skipping the line but paid no attention. The last thing he wanted was to waste his time on an unnecessary fight before he even entered the bustling club.
“Entrance for one, please,” Negan joked when he reached the barricade of the two burly, muscled bouncers blocking the door.
“What the fuck? Get in the back of the line, asshole!” A man screamed, earning an annoyed glare in the direction of his voice from Negan.
“Negan?” One of the guards inquired with the quirk of an eyebrow.
“You’re damn right.” Negan clicked his tongue, flashing a quick wink. Unceremoniously, he dropped his finished cigarette to the ground and put it out by stepping on it with his heavy boot; grinding the ashes into the faded red rug trailing to the doors.
Without a response, both men stepped aside and allowed Negan inside with no further questioning; the complaints of those stuck outside fading as their voices were drowned out by the blaring music.
Negan made a beeline for the bar first thing. He maneuvered through the suffocating crowd smoothly without any issues, blending in with the multiple bodies dancing against each other to the beat of the heavy bass that he could feel vibrating in his bones.
He made a vague hand gesture as the bartender caught his eye, in which they procured a simple bottle of beer. They removed the cap with a clink that was inaudible with all of the noise around them before handing it to Negan. Lifting it to his lips, he took a long swig, his adam’s apple bobbing with the swallow.
With a wink to show thanks, he slid away from the bar and back into the chaos of the floor. As he leisurely walked through the crowd, ice cold beer in one hand with the other stuffed into the pocket of his blue jeans, he surveyed the area to see who was out tonight.
From what he could make out thus far, it was the usual crowd, nothing out of the ordinary. He casually greeted those who acknowledged him and narrowed his eyes as those who obviously showed a dislike to him. He kept his hands to himself. At least for now. It was still too early to get into any altercations. He at least wanted to have some fun to take his mind off of any unwanted thoughts that knocked around in his head.
He wandered in the quieter areas of the establishment, the thumping of the lively music muffled behind him. There was the sound of hushed, private conversations and the periodic clack of men taking their turns in pool. It was a drastic difference from the overwhelming aura of the dance floor, which Negan found that he needed. If he were to get out there and have fun, he needed to have a bit of alcohol in his system to loosen up a bit first.
Taking another hefty swig of his beer, he scanned the mostly vacant area. His gaze ended up falling on a someone sitting alone at a table with an entire bottle of lavish liquor and an entire box of what looked to be breadsticks. In the dim lighting, he was unable to tell if they were a woman or a feminine appearing man; the long, gorgeous hair throwing him off despite the masculine clothing choice.
His curiosity was instantly piqued, but he found himself suspicious as well. He has had people try to go against him in the past by sending others to watch over him to wait for a perfect opportunity to strike, so anything unusual didn’t slip past him easily. He also wasn’t one to shy away in fear of causing a scene. For the most part, confrontation failed to make him anxious.
Negan made the choice not to approach this mysterious, casually dressed stranger just yet. Instead, he nonchalantly wandered around them. He faked interest in the various games set up around the perimeter of the room as he whistled a tune; turning the bottle in his hands as he took sips out of it here and there. Even if he refused to acknowledge the person just yet, it was obvious that he was aware of them; intending to intimidate them with his slow, shark-like circling.
Carl seemed to be utterly shut out from the thriving party that was muted in the distance. The thudding beat of muffled songs still rumbled through the relitively quiet area with enough power to cause slight ripples through the teens rich, magenta alcohol which he soon set his focus on. The lovely young man gazed at the purpleish-pink liquid confined within the glass, observing the way glittering rings pulsed from the center before bouncing right back into itself once it made contact with the bottles pretemiter. He looked utterly, mind-numbingly bored.
Carl felt his heart sync with the smothered thump of a racy song, as if the rhythm itself had re-wired his system in a vain attempt to get his body to sway and flow to the tempo. The boy was never one to dance, he always found it akward and it simply wasn't his forte; he would always just find himself standing stiffly on the sidelines while watching others wondering how the hell they weren't plauged by embarrassment from the sultry and nonsensical ways they would wiggle and flaunt their bodies. It didn't matter how much Carl would drink- it didn't matter that he had the cities most top-teir booze in hand- he was NOT going to dance. It would be a cold day in hell before the social outcast would even consider such a idea.
The chestnut haired boy sighed heavily as he slowly chewed the soft mouthfull of bread, finding its layered, buttery texture to be quite fulfilling to his senses. He swallowed and washed down his appetizer with a good glug of his alcohol, its slightly acrid tang being surprisingly palatable with the sweet breadsticks. For now the thin boy remained alone within his bubble of disinterest for anyone or anything around him, it had seemed just as Carls thrill had kicked off it had just as sporadically plummeted right back into a pit of boredom. He snuck in and snuck a few goods. ....Horaaaaaayyyy.......
...now what..?
A small cluster of men had tailed in after Negan, not at all harnessing their leaders suave moxy as they cluttered in. The trio of men shoved through the vivacious swarm of party-goers and quite a few unsavoury words crudely transpired in the thick of the vitalized tunes. None would guess these three clunky brutes would be underlings of someone as cunning and dashing as Negan but he was clearly the lead of Americas most brutal gang for a reason- nonetheless, it was still hard to bunch Negan and his lackies together as one species. Negan was a handome charmer and he had ever billowing charisma that he effortlessly generated in every mannerism of his behavior, his men, on the other hand, were far more impulsive and barbaric, even as animalistic as they all were they were all kept in a deathly straight line by the dark haired man. Even though he seemed to be the most clean-cut of the bunch Negan was the most blood thirsty and maniacal and everyone knew it all too well, it reflected clear as day by the way the sea of people would part for the rugged man as if he were some kind of king- even still that didn't stilt distasteful glances in his direction nor did it cease gossipy chatter that stirred about his very presence.
Eventually Negans tag-alongs had forced their way over to the more tame section of the party lead by none other than Simon. The man was around Negans age and wore a constant look of ruthless intensity about him. Once he stumbled through the crowd he straightened up his olive green bombers jacket ans surveyed the area, trying to play it cool dispite having fumbled clutzily to this area alongside two other goons. He kept tabs on Negan at all times, damn near acting as the dark eyed mans shadow as they made rounds about pool tables illuminated under jolly-rancher blue lights. "Can you belive those jackasses at the door?" Simon spoke his frustration swiftly, clearly having his feathers ruffled at the fact someone had the GALL to look down their nose upon him. If it weren't for Negan keeping him in check he just may have put a few bullets in those bouncers.
Simon crossed his arms before stroking his chin as he watched A game of pool unfold. Stripes were winning. The air was clouded with a smaug from cigarettes and hearty laughter errupted from a few drunken men as they swung their bottles about and spoke fondly between eachother. "Wanna place bets, sir?" A twisted grin streched across Simon's lips at the idea of sneaking a quick buck off his boss. Before Negan could answer Simon was already digging in his pockets for some cash unknowing that their two pawns had slipped over to the mysterious person who lurked in the shadows by their lonesome.
It wasn't long at all before the pair returned, both giggling like idiots at their own childish antics. They were shot off by what they belived to be a young woman who was in fact a pretty boy, they were both reeling in shock as a deep voice coldly and simply snaped "fuck off" to them before they scampered off back to Negan and Simon. Eventually after much debate one of the men went to Negan and jabbed their finger into his arm a few times to get his attention "sir." a voice trembling with chuckles spoke, "i bet you wont go flirt with that cute girl over there~" he taunted, jutting a thumb in the direction which the illusive person sat, shrouded in dark clothes and opulent hair.
It was a perfect set up to embarrass Negan. They knew hed never turn down a challange- especially one so trivial. Negan was something of a womanizer and surly this little test of his pride wouldn't be one he would let slide, little did he know he was being set up to flirt with a boy. A very sassy, angry one at that.
With his lackeys following him like well trained dogs, he once again found himself unable to travel about alone. As much as they could get on his nerves sometimes, he valued their loyalty and willingness to upkeep his public image and keep him from harm. As much as he would say he could handle shit himself, he knew that if a time came where it was him against another group of people who only wanted to see him bleed out, he wouldn’t end up being the winner in that fight.
“Eh, those assholes are all talk. They know not to fuck with us. At least, I hope they fuckin’ do, or else they’re in for a rude awakening if they pull anymore shit.” Negan shrugged as he responded to Simon. He ended up idly watching the game of pool play out in front of them, the winning team far ahead of the other, much to the losers’ frustrations.
“Really, you wanna place bets? It’s clear who’s gonna fuckin’ win, and I know you’re gonna choose em,” Negan chuckled, tipping the neck of his beer bottle in the direction of the active game in front of them.
“What the fuck do you want?” Negan snapped when he felt a few harsh pokes jabbed into his arm.
He turned only to be met with his other two men that giggled like school girls. Narrowing his eyes at them, he wondered what the hell was so funny and what the hell they could have gotten themselves into.
At the proposal of the somewhat childish dare that Negan swore he could clearly hear in the voice of a douchey thirteen year old, he laughed. A hearty, obnoxious laugh that reverberated through the closed in room, bouncing off the darkly painted walls.
“All these fuckin’ bets bein’ proposed to me, damn.” He shook his head. “Sorry, Simon, I’m takin’ their bet. Easy money.” He flashed a cocky grin at Simon before he smoothed his hair back in preparation to approach the girl, having no idea of the reality of the situation.
“You assholes better not fucking back out of this. ‘Cause I’m gonna crush this,” He commented quickly to the two men that told him the bet, making an “I’m watching you” gesture with his free hand.
With that final statement, he set his sights on the stranger who had confused him previously. His men only quelled his questions, or so he thought.
Putting on his most charming grin, he approached her from behind. His footsteps could be heard as he gradually made his way over thanks to the lively music being contained behind the sturdy walls separating them from the dance floor.
“Hey, sweetheart,” He purred, leaning down as he rounded the table in an attempt to get a look at her face hidden by the billowing brunette hair cascading over her shoulders. He pulled a chair up to sit right beside her, not even making the effort to ask if he could join her at the table first. His voice dipped to a low, sensual baritone that held the same frequency of the heavy bass that thrummed in their chests. “You’re lookin’ a little lonely.”
Just as Simon had pulled out a wad of cash from his jeans and begun counting out twenties and tens his mischievous smirk only grew figuring that he had this bet in the bag. As those two utter doofuses made their way over and distracted Negan Simon's entertainment floped into annoyance and then boiling anger once their leader took them up on whatever bullshit they threw his way. A growl tore at the insides of his throat as he crammed his money into his pocket bitterly and stepped over to the pair of dunces who were slapping each others arms and tittering like a couple of elementary girls. "What the hell did you bet him on?! " he snarled, snatching one of the shorter men by the back of his shirt.
A pair of knowing smiles flashed his way before the one who was snatched back spoke "we dared him to go hit it up with that girl over there" Simon felt his blood boil as he shoved the imbecile away from him "seriously?! What're you?! Six!? You made me miss out on my bet for this shit?!" a slew of doltish chuckles left the lackies as the other explained " 'cept it aint a chick. Its a dude. I bet he'll chicken out once he realizes."
Simons eyes grew the size of tennis balls and his jaw dropped before he grinned in intreuge and disbelief. This should be fun to watch. Shaking his head Simon leaned back against the pool table, sitting on its edge as he watched their boss waltz to the presumed girl "wow. You dumbasses actually came up with a decent idea. And it's no skin off my nose ither way. " Simon figured Negan may be livid for being duked in such a manner but he refrained from warning the two morons as it would only make his night so much better to see their necks wrung.
Carl groaned in annoyance after those two brainless jocks left him alone in an exagerated hoot of bewilderment after they realized he wasn't a girl. He had long hair, so fucking what!? He folded his arms across the tables coal black surface and stared to what colorful lights refracted off of the polished surface as embarrassment rolled over him. What immature asswipes.
One thing the pale boy did take notice of before the two barged in on his peace and quiet was the way a certain leather jacket wearing man appeared to loom around the area. he cast sideways glares through his bane to ceatch the towering man staring from time to time much to his annoyance. Why was he so fixated on leering at him and did he seriously think he was blending in well around the mingleing cluster surrounding one of countless pool tables?
Anyhow after the encounter he had with dumb and dumber Carl seemed to have dismissed the man who watched him from a distance nearly forgetting his existance entirely untill he picked up trace sounds of footsteps creeping up behind him. For a moment the teen thought maybe it was just an offbeat factor to the faded music but before he could clearly make heads or tails of it a voice as smooth as honey rung through.
A shudder trickled down the lanky boys spine as he pulled his wine bottle close, beit to protect his not at all easily obtained beverage or in preparation to bust the glass over the others head. Here we go again.
Annoyance gripped Carl as he was addressed as 'sweetheart' and his bleak expression contorted to one of extreme irratation. His body became noticeably more tense as the man ploped down close beside him almost close enough for their shoulders to touch , crude alcohol and cigarettes whafting to his senses. He gulped thickly, a tad bit nervous to be dealing with someone who wasn't a fumbleing idiot and who actually came on strongly to him, Carl knew this one probably wouldn't be warded off so easily.
"Look. Im not a girl. Fuck off and go hang out with tweedle dee and tweedle dumb over there. " his words were deep and had a threatening edge to them, clearly blowing the misconception of his gender out of the water. Even as he gave such a merciless verbal lashing right off the rip Carl refrained from looking in the strangers direction and instead glared daggers to the bottle he kept close, digging his fingers into the sleeve
Negan heard the commotion behind him of his men bickering with each other before it died down. He paid no attention to them and focused on the task at hand, which wasn’t really a chore at all. He wasn’t one to shy away from talking up an attractive woman. Hell, he knew he was getting money from it, so it made it all the more enjoyable.
When a deep, masculine voice spoke words of warning, his eyes slightly widened and both of his eyebrows raised, creating lines in his forehead. This wasn’t at all what he was expecting. With that, he caught on right away that they were just fucking with him in an attempt to bother him. Little do they know, the forced interest he showed with his greeting only grew to be genuine.
Negan cast a glance over to his men from the spot at the table, narrowing his eyes at them. His sly smirk only grew; a mischievous glint in his deep brown eyes.
Without missing a beat, he turned his attention back to the boy in front of him. At a closer spot, he was able to get a glimpse of his face under the hair framing his features.
“Well, shit. Sorry ‘bout the mix up, doll,” He apologized, keeping his voice low so that only the boy could hear him. “Doesn’t change the fact you’re sittin’ here lookin’ all bored and lonely in the middle of a fucking night club.” He leaned down a bit lower, tilting his head to get a better look at the boy’s face. “Or that you have the prettiest lips I’ve ever fucking seen. Fuck, I know women that would kill to have lips like that.” His voice once again dropped into that sultry, suggestive tone.
He refrained from touching the boy, sensing his on-edge aura. The last thing he wanted to happen tonight was to be end up in the emergency room from getting whacked on the head with a clunky liquor bottle that held the same weight as a wooden bat with the liquid still nearly at the top. Being cautious, he scooted closer, their knees just touching. Close enough for the vague scent of musky cologne and leather to reach the boy’s nose.
The trio watched Negan like hawks knowing that it would only be a matter of seconds before he would realise he wasn't at all set up to flirt with a girl, they leaned in collectively as if trying to hear what bitter words would leave the long haired boy and slap their boss with a staggering realization all at once.
Once Negan turned to Glare at them the three shared a few snickers and became absolutely filled with devious mirth. None of them could have predicted that their leader would do anything except march right back over to them but to their bewilderment he just turned back around and CONTINUED to flirt. The tables were completely swaped, all three of the mens jaws dropped and nearly dislocated themselves as they became blungent with dumbfoundment. "You better make good on this bet." Simon warned after recollecting his scattered wits. It was all he could say, shaking his head he continued to watch the gangster making a move on the younger male as he held his chin almost as if to keep it from hitting the floor should any other nonplus scenario arise. Surly Negan was just doing this to win the bet. He couldn't possibly actually be INTO that brat...right...?
Carls vice like hold on his large bottle wavered so that his long, boney fingers could glide about the pleasingly smooth surface. One arm remained limp across the table still providing a protective look about his posture. "Just forget about it..." he all but muttered, hardly loud enough to be heard between the droneing beat of the chaotic music even if it was smothered.
Carl felt the strangers leg press against his own, his light saphire eyes zipped down to look to their blue jeans brushsing against one another. As he was given such prestigious complements Carl couldn't help but to feel heat creep to his ears, that warmth threatning to spill over his face at any moment. The young teen rolled his eyes trying his hardest to seem annoyed- and he was, in a sense, even still he had to admit he was suprised that the other continued to come on to him even after finding out he was a boy.
A long, exasperated sigh left Carls lips and he lifted his hand from the bottle so that he could sweep his cascading bang out of his face to save the other from intreudeing his personal bubble more than he already had. A pair of dazzling baby blue eyes met the dark brown ones, they were condescending and blizzard cold but they still withled tolerance behind them. With his hair out of the way it revealed more of the boys stunning features, he had a fair complexion and a button nose as well as a cluster of freckles that scattered across his cheeks like constellations.
Carl slouched a bit as his elbows rested on the table, Negan now seeming to have his undivided attention. Even though he was never one to flirt he still allowed the others advancements for the time being, It was intresting to say the least and ultimately saved him from his snares of boredom so he refrained from sending Negan on his way as he did his subordinates.
"Uh...thanks..." carl squeezed his arms trying to calm himself, not used to receiving such praises in the slightest. He had no idea how to accept a remark of the rather lewd sort so he just shot out a timid thanks and shifted the subject. "Why dont you go talk to a real girl though? " he inquired with a tounge made of razor blades, using his annoyance to cover up his shyness as best he could.
Carl looked over the man who sat right against him, giving a quick but not at all discreet size up of the other, he was quite a looker and surly he would have no trouble picking up any select girls who caught his fancy thus stirred up quite a few inquirys within his mind. "If its because i look lonley dont worry about it. I prefer to be alone rather than be bothered by idtiots." even though he was quiet and reserved when Carl did speak it was often vicious and tended to cut down those who annoyed him within seconds but there wasnt half as much scorn to his tone as he exhibited with the previous duo, even if Carl put on an irked face deep down he was secretly intrigued.
Waiting for the unfamiliars response carl lifted the heavy bottle to his lips and dipped it forwards, letting the enticing liquid wash over his tounge and down his throat- never breaking eye contact with the alluring man as he took a few gulps
Negan half expected to be warded off with a slap with the way the boy was holding himself. As much as the boy sounded annoyed, Negan could tell that there was a hint of interest that was being shown in return, even with the rolling of his stunning, bright blue eyes and frustrated sighing.
With the overgrown bangs pushed out of the way, Negan was able to see what he really looked like. There was no doubt that he was a man, but his features still held a hint of femininity that mixed perfectly with his masculinity. His intense, piercing blue eyes were of something that Negan had never seen before. They held a thousand words behind them, a story that Negan found himself very much wanting to find out. While he looked young and nearly flawless, the cold maturity in his eyes as he glared sent a shiver down Negan’s spine.
As the other took swigs from the oversized bottle, Negan upheld the eye contact that they shared. He narrowed his own eyes, his elbow propped on the table and chin resting in his palm as he stared. He watched as the boy’s adam’s apple bobbed with each swallow, the older man doing nothing to hide the obvious attraction in his gaze.
“Maybe I’m in the mood for something a bit different tonight,” He responded after a minute of simply observing the other. “Not that often that a boy as pretty as you comes walkin’ on in here. And let’s get one thing straight; I’m no fucking idiot like those goons over there.” He pointed to his men watching the scene unfold in front of them from afar, casting them a quick glance before turning his attention back onto the boy. “Must’ve been a reason you snuck on in here, huh? Wanted a little taste of something different, something fun?”
The smirk stayed plastered on his features as he alluded to the boy’s sneaking in. He didn’t know for sure if that was the reality of how he got inside, but he could tell that the kid appeared fairly young. Much younger than anyone else that he spotted mingling with others around the club. Paired with the fact that he wouldn’t be allowed entrance simply for his mundane outfit choice was even more of a sign that there was no way that the bouncers would have given him access past the main doors.
Carl pulled his lips from the bottles end with a small pant, having almost drowned himself in the glace drink he splurged himself in. Setting the bottle outside of his guarding arm the hoodie wearing boy wiped his wrist across his light pink lips to rid them of any lingering droplets of alcohol that may have spilled over.
Carl remained grounded in his position, he didn't scoot back or try to put any space between himself and the dashing man in the slightest, this lack of action speaking wonders in contrast to how he treated the two empty heads a few moments prior.
The boys slightly hooded gaze followed where Negan pointed, if glares could kill all three of those men would be decapitated right now. It dawned on the youth that Negan must have been set up on some sort of prank thus their encounter but judgeing by the mortified expressions on the trios faces the black haired man continuing to talk to him caused their joke to backfire significantly.
A thin brow drifted upward ever so slightly with Negan hinting to the fact he snuck in, he must have been throwing darts in the dark but it just so happened that he was right on point. Carl knew it wad obvious he was way too young for this place and it reflected in his height and stature alone, not to mention his far too comfortable attire- but even still Negan wasnt too much better than he was; leather jackets, T-shirts, and blue jeans weren't exactly formal. He must have had some kind of special pass.
He could see the bright intreuge glittering in the others eyes that looked like solid black pools in this lighting and Carl knew he was just waiting for him to spill the beans on how he got into the glamorous nightclub that was strictly forbidden to the likes of him. Carl let his eyes fall down to the table as his finger begun to drag about it in aimless patterns. "Well out back there was some workers loading off some stock for the kitchen..." he begun, letting his stunning eyes meet with Negans as he curled his hand into a light fist. "So when they went inside i got into one of the crates of potatoes, it was a really tight and really uncomfortable fit and it felt like i was in there forever." his tone never strayed from its monotone even as he spun the rather exciting tale. "Anyway, they carried the crate down to the basement and i got out, while i was there i picked these up" he gestured lazily to the wine bottle and breadsticks Before he continued "after that i just walked out of the kitchen and came over here. " he watched Negans expression as he finished, a trace of a smirk unfolding across his lips in an almost bragging manner.
"And i just wanted to come in here 'cause its something im not supposed to do. Its fun i guess, but right after i sneak in i get bored pretty fast and leave." a note of entertainment mingled in with the stoic boys voice as he continued to talk with Negan although he was sure to keep ot under wraps, he wasn't easily impressed but he did throw the man just enough bait to keep him clawing for more. Maybe tonight could be a little fun after all, maybe he'd stick around and toy around with the other and just see where that would lead. This would be a new experince on both their parts and Carl had already decided to play along.
As the boy told the tale of how he weaseled his way into the exclusive club, Negan’s expression brightened with ever-increasing interest. He was genuinely in awe of the stunt the young boy managed to pull without running into trouble. Any thoughts of him being someone that was sent to cause harm to him or any members of his gang started to fade, but that didn’t mean that he let his guard down entirely just yet.
“Shit, really?” He couldn’t help himself from laughing. “That’s fuckin’ impressive. You know, you could put that sneaky shit to work. Make something out of it.” He wrapped his arm around Carl’s bony shoulders, patting him on the back in a friendly manner.
Negan took a swig of his beer, finishing it off before placing the empty bottle on the table in front of them. He was feeling a tad tipsy. Far from feeling completely plastered, but just enough booze in him to ease his mind and loosen him up. He eyed the bottle of liquor that the boy held, wondering how he handled his alcohol. Negan had a feeling that he was one to get to the point of drunkness fairly quickly based on his size.
“Don’t think I caught your name, sweetheart,” He inquired, keeping his arm around the other. “What is it?”
Carls smirk extended across his lips by a meer centimeter in response to the older males jovial reaction to his story, he was bragging and that much was obvious even in the jadded manner of which he presented his tale. Even still, the alcohol was partially to blame for the social hermit opening up as much as he did, one would be lucky to mannage so much as a acknowledging glance from the teen on a good day after of course nagging at him for several minutes but here he was having an open conversation with the inveigling man all the while not opposing to their snug proximity. It was a miracle!
Not the slightest discomfort could be detected in the boy as Negans arm draped around his shoulders enclosing him in a sinful warmth, he didn't lean into the touch but he didn't rip away ither. He sat as still as a statue while he looked to the bold flirt knowing full and well he had the other coiled around his finger and he couldn't help but to wonder how far his 'romantic' inertia could push the other before he lost his patience and made a brash move; it was going to be alot of fun to test the strangers self control.
At the mention of putting his ninja like talents to work Carl offered a simple shrug and let his eyes flicker to a bustleing pool table, a loud clack sounding prior to a dull thunk of a ball falling into a pocket, he then spoke blandly as ever "i -could- but i don't think I'd have time for it. Sneaking into places like this and stealing a few things is just a hobby of mine." noticing the empty bottle that was discarded Carl scooted his massive bottle over to the strangers side, offering him some of the potinent beverage he could never dream of finishing himself. The gesture was small yet showed Negan he was on the right track of sparking his fancy.
"Im Carl." he introduced himself as if he were about as intresting as a foam cup. He inched closer to the man, pushing the sides of their bodies togetger with mild firmness "whats yours?" the words fell from his lips with subtle seduction as he looked between that dark set of eyes, their faces inches apart
Negan observed the boy closely, reading his subtle body language that began to contrast his near-refusal at Negan’s suggestion. So far, he wasn’t whacked over the head or pushed away in defiance. He took it as a cue to continue with his advances, keeping a close eye on any unwanted signs for him to back off.
As the large bottle was slid over to him in offering, Negan accepted it. He took a long swig, sighing in content as he placed it back down onto the table with a thud.
“Carl, huh?” He tested the name on his tongue, finding that he liked the sound of it. He was pleasantly surprised as the boy now identified as Carl pressed into him, melding their bodies together at the sides. He could feel the warmth radiating from the smaller male’s body through their clothes, the alcohol doing its job to warm him up as well.
“The name’s Negan.” He grinned, showing off shiny, perfect teeth. The eyeliner that decorated his hooded eyes made them appear even darker than they already were.
He clasped his hand over Carl’s shoulder tightly, holding him in place. The other came up to gently brush strands of his hair behind his ear, further revealing his freckled, adorable features to the low light of the room; the multicolored neon lighting of the dancefloor bleeding into the room from afar. The faded colors danced over their features and coated the room in a hint of an easy on the eyes pink. Negan upheld the eye contact that they had formed, finding himself lost in the boy’s enticingly blue irises. Once he tucked Carl’s hair behind his ear, it settled on the back of his slender neck.
Negan nearly laughed to himself when he thought of how his men must be staring at them right now. If they knew how damn wrong they would be about setting up an idiotic prank in an attempt to anger their boss only for it to blow back up in their faces.
“You know, Carl…” He started in an intimate whisper. “I really think you could make somethin’ out of this little hobby you have. You’re saying that you never got caught, not even once? Either way, what you pulled tonight is fucking crazy. I think you could be someone real valuable, be put to use. Not good use, but use nonetheless.”
Carl relaxed completely in Negans hold, seeming totally content with their tightly-nit possition even if it was with a dark and mysterious stranger. His posture was loose and unwound, no longer did the social outcast seem as if he was going to lash out in an explosion of unhinged agression but instead he deliberately teased and dabbled in the striking mans flirtatious nature, this alone causing a shock wave to pulse through the three men who stood like pillars infront of the nearest pool table. They knew Negan was something of a lady killer but they had never seen his charm work so exubrerantly on someone who was so cold and secluded,-on another male nonetheless- this whole situation just kept growing more and more bizzare for the witnesses.
The long haired boy eased his arms to a more narrow possition closer to his body so that they didn't sit out as widely and prevent Negan from getting closer. His wtists overlapped one another neatly and his elbows pushed against his slender frame so that the two of them could compress together even more. Bit by bit Carl was lowering his defences and welcoming more provocative advances.
He watched as Negan chugged the piquant bevrage without the slightest cringe gracing his features and once it was mildly slammed down Carl let his hand glide over to it in order to wrap around its girth where he then brought the nozzle to his lips for a quick sip, able to taste a trace of a foreign beer the other had enjoyed earlier, in an obscene way it enhanced the flavor to Carl.
Negan was defiantly a name he had never heard before, it was a fitting title for the adrenalized and magnetic livewire of which he never seen the likes of. Even though they had only been interacting for at most five minutes now something within the phlegmatic boy was deeply drawn to Negan, perhaps it was the fact his aura screamed bad boy and promised excitement he had been starved for- he was dangerous, Carl could pick up on that in an instant and that alone made Negan all the more fun to play with.
A shudder trickled down carls spine as Negans fingers bearly skimmed over the surface of his skin in order to tuck his silky bane out of his face entirely. His eyes fluttered a bit as the touch ghosted over his ear beofre a carees settled upon his neck, pressing his fluffy hair to his skin.
His gaze was soft, tempting even as Negan held him so securely. He felt his knees grow weak dispite the fact he was sitting sitting and his whole body filled with tingles- outside of being a bit tipsy Carl hadn't the slightest clue why he was feeling the way he was, it was like he was hypnotized by the fetching man.
The music seemed to fade out and any chatter or sense of presence ceased to exist to Carl as he stared deeply into the mans mesmerizing gaze, completely fascinated in him. With the proposition laid out the pretty boy quirked a brow again, the only repatriation of his increasing intrest. "Nope. I've never been caught before." he confirmed, his tone remaining fairly casual in comparison to Negans saucy one. "What did you have in mind...? Are you tryinna say you want me to sneak into your house sometime~?" he /almost/ purred, taunting Negan with kittenish cruelty.
Negan was surprised as Carl started to loosen up and push closer to him on his own accord. He had expected it to take longer due to the closed off, unsure way in which the boy carried himself through observing him from afar to the first word he spoke to him not even ten minutes ago. The way he so quickly warmed up to the blunt advances only stroked Negan’s already over the top ego and the pride in his charismatic skills he put to work in flirting with others to make them swoon. He knew that the alcohol the other had in his system was mostly to blame for his sudden change of behavior, but that didn’t mean that he still felt cocky about his talents to make people weak in the knees.
“I have a more practical use in mind for you. Make you into someone who no one would even think of fucking with. You’d get wealth and respect if you made the right choice to join me, Carl. But…” His touch trailed from the back of Carl’s neck to cup his chin, the pad of his thumb tracing along the boy’s plump bottom lip. His gaze flicked down to watch it slowly glide across the pleasantly pink flesh before he locked eyes with him again. “Doesn’t mean I’m not on board with you sneakin’ into my own humble abode for a little one-on-one fun on occasion.”
Negan was doing a wonderful job at peaking the teens Intrests, he wasn't letting Carls expectations down in the slightest as he promised such grand rewards and titles which caused a gleam of enticement to sparkle in those saphire eyes.
Even though the pretty boy held a solid poker face his hooded eyes served as a transparent window into his churning ideals and concealed excitement which was impossible to fully mask with the man being so close. Carl wanted to ask Negan who he was- at least who he thought he was to make such audacious claims but the boy had a talent for reading others beyond their surface value, he could tell Negan wasnt just some wannabe thug fuck boy, there was a raw edge to the other carl just couldn't help but to prod even knowing the results could be disastrous and messy. He liked it, and he wanted Negan to sweep him off his feet and show him just what sort of deviancey he had planned.
Carl was a good kid, or so everyone was lead to belive. He was quiet at school and made good grades, he was polite when he had to be and was kind and loving to his father, sure he would have a scrap with his mom from time to time but it was only natural for a teenaged boy his age. Carl was the apple of Ricks eye and belived it was impossible for his son to do anything wrong, if only daddy dearest had the smallest clue his angel had an unsationable craving for something absolutely wrong, and tonight it seemed Carl was going to be hooked up with his lifetime fix.
Carl remained still as Negans thumb traced over his soft lip which was a bit slick due to some cherry lip balm he had applied earlier. He gazed up to the other with a seemingly unmoved expression, his every breath was slow and drawn out as he hoped his perpetual indifference was digging under the suave womanizers skin, in a way it was like they were playing cat and mouse with the roles constantly switching with the unspoken power struggle brewing between them. Carl held tight to his composure even though his stomach was fluttering, he knew Negan had to be used to just winking at a girl and having them damn near faint and drop their panties but Carl was eminent to make it clear he was going to be tough to crack even if he did partake in the others game of which he refused to be a pawn of.
The astute boy was letting it be known in subtle ways that he wasn't going to be some plaything to use to his convenience and dispose of. they were both kings on a chess board, uniting mutually and Carl expressed this in his 'stubbornness'
"I might have to take you up on that offer" Carl complied in a equally dim voice, noticing the longing glance Negan gave his incredibly kissable lips. "So is there any initiation i have to go through?" he Simi-joked with a daring smirk creeping across his unsuspecting features. "It better be worth my time~" it seemed the boy was incaptible of saying anything without some form of sass tangled in.
Negan could tell that Carl was attempting to hold back from showing too much interest. The way he kept his voice steady and nearly motone didn’t fool the man. He could see the glimmer of excitement dance around in his hooded eyes and the way he made no move to break away from Negan’s touch, even if he made no further action to push them closer together.
He also could tell that Carl wasn’t one to so easily bow his head and show vulnerability. It was obvious to the man that he was more submissive in nature when it came to intimacy. Yet there was permanent, cold and steadfast way in which he held his expression. Every word he spoke sounded vaguely unsure yet playful; the boy’s sassiness further spiking Negan’s curious interest on who he really was under the surface.
“I think you should. I’m givin’ you an option here, but I’d be a damn liar of I said I wasn’t pushin’ you to choose the one that’s most in your favor and joinin’ me.” His touch lingered at the defined edge of Carl’s jawline, his fingertips ghosting over the pale skin of his neck. “There is a sort of initiation...but I got somethin’ different in mind for you, doll. Something less… violent. Unless you got a taste for that sort of handling.” At the last sentence, he wrapped his hand at the top of Carl’s throat, pressing down just enough to apply a hint of pressure to the pulse at the side of his neck.
Carl had to bite back a small chuckle that bubbled up from his chest at Negans persistence to get him to agree to his proposal to partnership. He wondered just how long he could drag the man out untill he was practically begging him to join his 'side'. Whatever that meant.
Unfortunately, Carls curiousity got the best of him and grew far out of his containment. As much as hed love to strech his teasing session out he could no longer deny his more eager and adventurous nature that laid just under his placid skin. Carl bit at the inside of his cheek, his lips skewering to the side as he gnawed at the tender flesh, He was deep in thought as he became lost in the ruggedly enchanting mans bottomless, void like eyes.
For a moment Carl didnt realise a hand had crept across his neck untill he felt a light squeeze, the contact ripping him out if his endlessly rolling thoughts. The boys breath hitched and his chest rose suddenly, his pulse becoming rampid under Negans touch. Digging his fingers into his palms Carl desperately clung for his self control and somehow mannaged to keep his cool even as composure was being desimated.
Finally, the teen spoke, a small tint of iron leaking upon his tounge as he gave his answer "alright." it was as simple as he could mannage, his knees buckling in on themselves but he tried his damndest to ignore it. "What did you have in mind? Im pretty sure i can handle anything you throw at me..." as always he spoke in a challenging manner even though he was secretly crumbling under the others hold. Without even meaning to, Carls head tilted upwards just a bit, giving away the fact he was actually enjoying the brash and fairly errotic and dominating gesture
Negan’s dark eyes lit up with delight at Carl’s answer.
“Good fucking choice.”
His subtle grip on Carl’s neck loosened, curling around the back of the boy’s Neck once again to hold him in place. The way he had felt Carl’s pulse quicken and his breath catch in an adorable gasp revealed how much of an effect the man had on him. He wondered on his end how much it would take for the other to crack until the frustration build to be unbearable. As much as he had the urge to scoop up the brunette in his arms and whisk him away to one of the upper rooms for more privacy, he held off on making any impulsive decisions for the first time in his life.
“Well, I have a few specific things in mind for you, darling… one of them being puttin’ that perfect pair of lips to good use.” The hand not occupied with holding Carl steady rose to his lips, the pads of his pointer and middle finger pressing against the plush surface but not yet breaching inside the warmth of his mouth. “I don’t think those fucking morons over there would be too happy being witnesses.” He cocked his head in the direction of his men standing statue-like near the pool tables. “They’re probably already losin’ their fucking minds because they thought they could get away with their fun little prank they tried to pull on me.”
Negan cast a glance over to them with his forehead nearly making contact with Carl’s. The middle finger of his hand clasped around Carl’s neck stuck up for a moment in a silent “fuck you” as he flashed the most irritating, shit-eating grin he could muster.
Feeling Negans hold return to the back of his neck made Carls shoulders slouch, he hadn't realized they had risen in anticipation untill the racey contact was releaved. The teen found himself clambering for his self control and ability to remain taciturn with every passing second he spent with the man who was the living definition of tall, dark, and handsome.
Carl tried to tell himself that HE was in charge here. He tried to remind himself this stranger was wrapped around HIS finger and at HIS mercy and that he was only toying with the other yet he found himself having to tense his body to keep from fidgeting under Negans touch. There was a dangerous attraction between the two, something that ran like a drug deep within their veins; it was something so intense and vergeing that the three henchmen could feel it shift the very atmosphere of the party.
"You're a real creep, aren't you~?" Carl mused, seeming to relish in busting the tough guys chops in any situation he could. He let Negans rough fingers trace along the velvet like texture of his lips, only parting them to speak and nothing more. Carls attention drug over to the three cardboard cut outs of dumbfounded men, the tallest and most sensable -using that term extreamly loosely- of the three furrowed his brows, his jaw slightly agape as he appeared deeply perturbed by something, his gaze staring right thtough the pretty boy his boss had snared in his arms.
Carl rolled his eyes in annoyance, he hated being stared at and really wouldn't object to Negan doing something risque to him so long as it made those three look away. "Well if they wanna watch so bad i guess you should put on a show." he nearly sighed out, a flirty undertone danceing on his very breath. Even if his words were simply beckoning Carls arms never left the table where they laid idly. Negan was all over him like a vine on a tree yet Carl not once had touched him....yet...
As Negan flicked his men off a small chuckle rumbled from the teens throat and he leaned a smidgen closer to close the space between their forheads, but nothing more. "Well, are you just gonna sit there or are you actually gonna do something?" he challanged in a voluptuous whisper, it was truly as if he was dangling a steak infront of a starved wolf. He knew his actions may very well have unpredictable and uncontrollably zealous outcomes but that wild risk simply captivated Carl further.