He barely has the time to brace himself, which adds to the pain that explodes the moment Sasuke's fist connects with his cheek. As if his hiss of pain wasn't enough, when Sasuke finally lets go of him he reaches up to touch, dropping it again seconds later.

He can taste blood.

"... Ow. That was ha--"

It was supposed to be, he's sure.

"Do you feel better?"