"?"
Will couldn't figure it out—why had Umbridge come to him?
Had she asked around at all? His friendly relationships with the professors were no secret.
"Why?" Will leaned back in his chair, his tone indifferent. Umbridge looked even more displeased. She had already made herself clear: Minister Fudge thought highly of him.
"You don't need to know that much, Mr. Behrens." Umbridge's expression hardened. "I know you're talented. Despite being Muggle-born, you completed your research on Potion-Charm Conversion in your third year, joined the Society of Extraordinary Potion-Makers, earned Minister Fudge's appreciation, received an Order of Merlin at a young age, and gained access to the Wizarding World's most exclusive circles.
"Someone was even willing to invest a fortune in you, spending lavishly to track you down.
"I can tell you're ambitious. You want to rise to the top of the Wizarding World, and what I'm offering you is an opportunity.
"I know you get along with everyone, including all the professors. That's why I want you to gather information on that werewolf.
"Think carefully, Mr. Behrens. This is your chance to join Minister Fudge's ranks. One day, you could become part of the Wizarding World's true elite. Remember—"
"That's enough. Shut up, Pink Toad." Will waved a hand impatiently. He couldn't be bothered to listen to another word of Umbridge's speech.
"What? What did you say?!" Umbridge froze, then flew into a rage. How dare he? She was a senior Ministry of Magic official, and Will Behrens had actually insulted her?
Will didn't waste his breath. He raised his wand with unhurried ease.
"You're going to attack a Ministry of Magic official?!" Umbridge hurried to draw her wand, but before she could raise it, a spell struck her.
"Confundus Charm."
Umbridge went still, then obediently lowered her head.