Will being subtle and Abduxel not being exceptionally perceptive with regards to human behaviour, the demon is unaware if his human fishing-buddy has noticed his flinching at the name of Christ. Seeing no reason to raise his guard, he remains relaxed, although he really hopes Will doesn't make a habit of saying that, because it's going to give him a headache.

"I never did well in English class," he says casually. "Does empathy only work on other humans, then?"

This isn't a clever baiting; this is Abduxel forgetting himself and using the word human instead of person.

Finding his manners suddenly (sort of), he holds out a stale Bronzefish to Will. "Want one?"