The Illusion of Power

Humiliation turned into rage in an instant.Caleb crossed the distance to Tessa in three strides and drove his palm across her face.

The impact rang out sharp and clean, cutting through the surrounding noise like a crack of thunder. Tessa's hand flew to her cheek, and she went utterly silent.

It took a long moment for her to surface. Her eyes stretched wide with disbelief. "Caleb!

"You actually hit