(ZadWill drabble because i have been ZadWill deprived and i just want to write for fun. I want to take a break by writing without worry. This might not make sense but i hope you'll enjoy!)

(Watch out for Williard's last name reveal. Also some slight Will childhood trauma reveal so warning for that ‼️)

...

"So class, do you believe that persuasion depends on how it is executed? Or does it merely depend on the words used?"

Zadkiel's hand immediately shot up. He was known as an active reciter in class for he always seem to have an opinion to share. Of course, this question was no exception.

"Sir I think how it is executed plays a big role on persuasion. You might fail to persuade someone if you do not keep in mind their weaknesses and their strengths. If you do not put effort in persuading, then it will bare no fruit for your words would be empty."

Zad sat back down, his air full of pride and triumph. Another good job for himself for answering well.

"Sir! I would like to object.", a voice exclaimed.

Zad turned his head towards that direction then rolled his eyes. It was from Williard Davis.

It was quite rare for Williard to recite in class for his focus was never in the classroom. Zad felt irritated that at this one rare moment Will decided to speak in class was to object him.

"You may answer, Mr. Davis." The professor spoke.

Will stood up. "Well, I think words alone can persuade or change someone. It doesn't matter if the person can be good in persuading. If words can cut deep enough, then its enough to hurt, and in the long run, manipulate someone to be persuaded."

Zad frowned. 'This fool!'

"May I rebutt what he said, sir? You see, picking the right words requires the effort of being a great persuader. We can't just throw random words and expect that I'll change someone." Zad stared right at Will as he said those words, as if his looks can pierce together with his words at him.

"Hmm, I still don't think so. I will have to disagree." Will smiles weakly. "If someone were to say 'I hate you', even without much care to say those words, you'd still remember it all this time... right?"

'Fuck', he has a point.

"Not to get personal but... I still remember how people would remark on my looks. To them those are just words, but I was persuaded enough to try change my entire being just for those people to stop those comments."

After saying those words, Will paused, perhaps to contemplate what he just said. But then he went back to his typical disposition like nothing happened.

"Haha. That's all. Same thing with people saying I look good anyways. And idk about ya'll but I remember that better because I know for a fact that that's true." Will winked, earning a few laughs from their classmates.

"Good discussion everyone!" The teacher exclaimed. "Alright, it's time for me to dismiss all of you. Remember to study for your prelims next week."

And with that class was dismissed.

Zad quickly picked his things up and was ready to leave. He didn't want to stay in his class for long because he felt partly responsible for Will bringing up something heavy. Also maybe the selfish part of him felt defeated and he didnt like that.

"Hey.", came a voice that was clearly Will's. He had approached Zad.

Looks like Zad couldn't escape after all. "Hmm, hey."

"Well-" Will scratched his head sheepishly. "Forget about me being suddenly personal earlier, my bad. But... no hard feelings between us, ey? I do admit that yeah... you have a point."

"Oh-" Zad now felt guilty. "No, I should be the one sorry for making you bring up that topic."

Will shook his head. "Don't be silly, Azad. You didn't do a thing. It's all cool." He smiled at him.

'He's too nice', Zad thought. 'Still a fool'.

Will suddenly raised his hand in front of them, gesturing for Zad to shake it. "To show that we're all cool here? Yeah?"

"Yes. Sure." Zad reached forward. He awkwardly shook the other's hand. Will's hand felt welcoming and warm.

To his surprise, Will brought his hands to his lips and kissed it gingerly, looking right into him as he does so.

Zad felt his whole being turn weak. He was sure he was melting for he couldn't feel his body functioning the way it should be anymore. He couldn't hear a single thought from his brain but he could hear his chest thumping loudly.

Was this an act of persuasion? Was he being tested?

'Williard what the fuck have you done?'

Once Zad was back to his senses, he pulled his hand away. "Will- I-"

"See you around, Azad! Don't fail the tests next week!" Will turned around and left without another word.

Zad sat down on the classroom chair because he couldn't take standing up for much longer. He needs a break. He didn't know what just happened, but one thought plague him

If Will were to persuade him, he doesn't even need to make any effort. One word or one deed and Zad would be done.