Don’t be rude: How to recover from a cheek-kiss gone wrong

A reader has asked us to reveal the best way to recover from a cheek-kiss gone wrong.

We feel for you. We wish no one did this. It’s just too fraught.

Only ever attempt the cheek-kiss with people you have at least a genial acquaintance with. That way, if things go pear-shaped and you end up headbutting, or worse, brushing lips, it can be laughed off breezily.

If you must go for the cheek-kiss with someone you only know professionally, take it slowly. Move in gently. Treat it like a dance, because if you get it wrong there’s only one option. Marriage.

Also, don’t cheek-kiss Will Smith. He will slap you.