To me this is a serious comment. In my social circles asking before kissing is the norm. I too thought it would kill the romance, but if anything it amplifies it. In asking you show vulnerability, show that you respect the other person, and when the other person agrees it is pretty great.

FWIW - I wouldn't normally say "can I kiss you", I'd normally say something like "Sooo, I'd like to kiss you now" (assuming we'd be chatting for a while). And they'd respond along the lines of "I'd like that too", or "No, but thank you".

There is also a secret to be had here – As a man dating women, seeking consent is a secret weapon. It may feel weird to do, but my experience is that women respond exceptionally well to it.

As an example, I think the gender balance of our social circles has changed over the last few years. I often find myself to be the only guy around the dinner table.

Get consent, treat women as the human beings they are and things will go pretty well.

PS. Also, asking is so much easier. Much less dancing around the subject.

EDIT: Should probably have been in reply to the the child comment.