Q. I am a 29-year-old gay man. About four months ago I met a man at least 30 years older than me. We have become very good friends with many shared interests. I am certain that my friend (let’s call him ‘Tom’) has enjoyed the friendship as much as I have. It has been entirely platonic, even in situations where ‘something’ might have happened. We have often discussed making a trip to Paris (in particular to go to the opera). We had a very straightforward conversation about the cost of the trip and it is clear that I am to be his guest in April, for when the trip is booked. Last week Tom told me that the hotel he had carefully chosen (no doubt a lovely place to stay) cannot provide twin beds in its rooms. He has asked if I am happy to share a ‘very large bed’. This is not a welcome development but I have no wish to damage our relationship. I do not know if this has been engineered by him or is simply an unavoidable situation. Please advise, Mary. 

– A.W., London

A. In order not to spoil the relationship, tell ‘Tom’ that a fictional family member/old friend, on hearing you are coming to Paris, has insisted you spend the night at her flat, which happens to be extremely close to the hotel he has booked. She is one of those types that takes offence easily and so you feel you must play ball. Then book an Airbnb near the hotel. If Tom seems angry at this, rather than relieved, you will know you had a lucky escape. 

Q. My boss lives in one city but often works with me in another. He and I have a good relationship but there is no chemistry between us. I have never met his girlfriend but I have heard she has become jealous. No reason, except she learned I am ten years younger than her. How can I stop this? 

– Name and address withheld

A. Go online to the theatrical suppliers Screenface and purchase some Old Age Stipple (£9.45) for simulation of aged and wrinkled skin. Find an excuse to make a FaceTime call to the girlfriend wearing this makeup. This should set her mind at rest. 

Q. I am a student with a large friendship group and attend quite a few parties. I don’t drink or smoke and feel awkward at the start when I’m asked, sometimes a bit accusingly, why I’m not drinking. Later on, people tend not to notice. What can I do?

– Name and address withheld

A. Bring a bag of balloons and stand at the back of the room blowing them up with a purposeful look on your face until you feel it is safe to enter the throng. Incidentally, heavy drinkers rarely resent non-drinkers when the non-drinker is holding something that resembles an alcoholic drink.