Dear Massi, My sister-in-law insulted me and I can’t ever talk to her again.

She accused me of flirting with her husband, all because he said my biriyani was even tastier than his wife’s and then he kissed my hands to show his appreciation.

It’s not my fault what happened but she says I blatantly flirted with him and that’s why he kissed my hands.

My own husband and his parents were in the room and no-one else had an issue with what happened.

She has stopped talking to me and has blocked me on Facebook and WhatsApp.

I’m the one who has been insulted yet she’s acting like the victim.
Should I make an effort to patch things up?

Massi says, Your sister-in-law has taken her husband’s reaction to your food rather personally.

This may be indicative of her own issue with him rather than with you. I think she needs to take this up with her husband as he kissed your hand.

You have said that this incident occurred in the presence of other family members who did not react.

Although in your eyes and their eyes this incident is not a big deal, it has upset your sister-in-law.

Reach out to her to explain that you have been upset by her reaction and that you sincerely wish to make amends with her.

If she remains reluctant, leave her be. 

Give her time to offer an olive branch when she is ready.