The blow didn't come as a shock, but it was still enough to knock him back before he could even attempt to block. He was ready for the next one though. He held his arm tight up against his head, eating the punch so that he could deliver one of his own. Once, twice more he attempted solid hooks to Matthew's face and body before he broke off, instinct and just common sense making him pull back before he was beaten to a bloody pulp.

But he burned a little blood to make those hits count. He was still absolutely furious about what had happened; however, the fury had abated just enough for good sense to peek out its head. Blaine jumped back, retreating to the far side of the room but within reach of the door if necessary. An escape route. Old habits died hard.