the LEGEND of She-Cat

Duncan Conner was a man full of anger and anguish, having lost everything he loved, and nearly his own life. Living in self-imposed exile, he wasn't seeking out companionship, hoping to heal from the deep wounds of loss. What he found in the scorching heat of the desert sand would change his life forever...if he survived.
~~~
My slap caught his jaw, the echo of it bouncing back from against the rock, my palm stinging fiercely from the strength behind the blow. The next I knew I was looking up at the sky, ears ringing, shuddering waves of pain rippling from the side of my face. I had not even seen him move, but the rider had spared no strength in his instant retaliation.

Dizzy, the world somewhat indistinct and whirling I did not resist when he reached down and again pulled me to my feet. I swayed and nearly fell but the man caught me, gently holding me in place until I could stand on my own. I looked at him, my eyes wide with astonishment, and he must have sensed how I felt because he shrugged. He knew I did not understand him, but he spoke anyway, his voice deep.

"I told you I'd lay you out flat, and I don't speak for the pleasure of it."