When the man behind me on the airline abruptly placed his filthy foot directly on my armrest, I had to reprimand him for being impolite 
The aircraft had just gotten to cruise altitude. I opened my book, put on my headphones, and sat down by the window. Everything was quiet until my armrest was brushed by something cold and disagreeable.
I turned around slowly and froze. A filthy foot in a gray and tattered sock that had once been white was resting on my armrest.
— Hey! — I shouted, furious. — What the devil is this?
The man behind me didn’t even try to shift his foot position. Without taking his eyes off his magazine, he spoke the words, “Calm down, my love.” This place is a little snug.
— Close? That’s no justification for putting your feet anywhere you like! — I lost my temper and snapped.
When he finally turned to face me, he grinned and said, “Go sit in business class if you don’t like it,” without moving his foot. There’s more space there, I’ve heard.
Some of the passengers looked around. My face was getting hotter.
— Would you like a pillow as well? Give you a pedicure, perhaps?
He gave a snort.
You’re too stiff. I’m not hurting anyone, so relax.
With your sock, I mumbled through my teeth, “No, just my armrest.” — The flight had a great start.
I requested hot, black, sugar-free tea from the flight attendant.
The cup appeared on my tray after a few minutes. His heel brushed against my elbow once more.
I turned slowly, grinned, and mutely replied, “You know, you were right.” We should definitely unwind.
I then unintentionally tipped the hot tea cup directly onto his foot.
— Ah! He jerked his leg back and exclaimed, “Are you crazy?”
I said with the most innocent smile, “Oh, I’m so sorry.” — This place is really tight. I take it you understand?
The travelers made an effort to conceal their smiles. The flight attendant even winked at me as she passed.
The man sat calmly for the remainder of the flight, keeping both feet tucked under his seat.
I’ve learned my etiquette lesson.
