The sweetness slowly receded, and the heat began to creep up.
It wasn't overwhelming at first; it felt light, like a feather brushing across his tongue. He swallowed the bite and decided it was manageable—not nearly as spicy as he had feared.
"It's really good!" Liam offered his earnest evaluation.
Suzy had been watching him intently, and hearing his approval filled her with quiet satisfaction. "Eat as much as you like then."
Encouraged, Liam took a second bite. This time, the noodles carried a bit more sauce. It hit his palate with that initial sweetness, followed by a wave of heat that felt noticeably heavier than the first. The spice crept from the tip of his tongue to the back of his throat, quickly filling his entire mouth. His ears began to feel hot.
