It was late evening. The kid you were supposed to be babysitting had finally gone to bed, leaving you and Bee alone in the living room.

You were relaxing on the couch when Bee’s eyes sparkled with that I’m-about-to-cause-trouble look.

“Hey,” she said, tilting her head. “I dare you.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Dare me? About what?”

Bee leaned closer, grinning. “Weird snacks. I dare you to eat the strangest food combinations I can think of. No backing out. Loser has to do the other’s homework for a week.”

Your stomach tightened. “That… sounds gross.”

“Exactly. That’s the point.”

Bee handed you a plate with peanut butter smeared on pickles.

“Go.”

You stared. Your brain screamed “Noooo,” but your pride refused to lose.

You picked up the first bite and shoved it in your mouth.

Instant regret. Crunchy, tangy, nutty… and strangely… okay.

Bee laughed. “Surprised? That’s because you kind of like it.”

You glared at her. “You’re evil.”

Next, she handed you a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a generous drizzle of hot hot sauce.

“What…?” you whispered.

“You eat it,” she said simply, smirking.

You sighed and took a tentative spoonful. Sweet, creamy… then the fire hit. Your eyes watered, and your tongue burned.

Bee’s laugh echoed through the room. “See? Pain is temporary, but glory is forever.”

You coughed. “I think my tongue hates you.”

“Good. That means I’m winning,” she teased, leaning back on the couch.

For the final challenge, Bee brought out a blindfold.

“Eat without looking,” she said, dangling a bite-sized ball between her fingers.

You hesitated. “What is it?”

“Nope. Blindfold on, and eat. Trust me… or don’t. But that’s the dare.”

You reluctantly allowed her to tie the blindfold around your eyes. The ball hit your tongue—soft, squishy, and… weirdly warm.

Your face contorted. “What is this?!”

Bee leaned closer, whispering, “Guess.”

“Tomato… marshmallow… chocolate?” you guessed.

“Exactly!” she said, triumphant. “You’re officially brave.”