A Speck of Red

I stepped away from the counter and wandered over to a large wooden rack holding glass jars. One glass bottle was filled with bright red flakes. I managed to pry loose a single tiny dried flake that had spilled onto the shelf. Curious, I touched it to my tongue. The sharp sting kicked in instantly, warm and intense, making my eyes widen before settling down into a deep, savory heat. It was definitely a bit hot, but I quite liked it.