Consent is an important part of any relationship. Even if it is for something as seemingly small as a kiss, it is important to be sure that your partner is on board with what you want to do. This is particularly true in the early stages of a relationship. I’ve been in relationships where I have kissed the other person before I was ready because I felt like I had to, and dated someone who tried to pressure me into kissing them even when I kept saying ‘no’. That kind of persistence is not romantic. It was uncomfortable and honestly frightening. So please, when you are ready to take that step with your partner, take a moment and ask them if they are ready too.