"swallowing burning coals"

I leaned far away from her as I could without moving my seat, twisting my head out into the aisle. I braced myself, locking my muscles in place, and then sucked in one quick chestful of air, breathing through my mouth alone.
	Ahhh!
	It was intensely painful, like swallowing burning coals. Even without smelling her, I could taste her on my tongue. The craving was every bit as strong as that first moment i'd caught her scent last week.
	I gritted my teeth and tried to compose myself.
	"Get started," Mr. Banner commanded.
	It took every single ounce of self control i'd achieved in seventy-four years of hard work to turn back to the girl, who was staring down at the table, and smile.
	"Ladies first, partner?"