Mark’s coworker, Jenn, went on maternity leave in 2023 and continued to work from home afterward. Mark took over her office, which was significantly better than his previous loud cubicle.
In 2025, the company recalled all employees back to the office. Jenn returned and asked Mark to move out so she could have her old office back. Mark refused, and HR ultimately sided with Mark, allowing him to keep the private office.
The Twist
The entire team started gossiping, assuming Jenn was on her way to fight for the office and “take her office back.” However, when Jenn arrived, she closed the door and revealed to Mark that she didn’t actually want the office.
Jenn explained that HR had already approved her continued remote work arrangement, and she only came in to clear her personal belongings. She grabbed her old inbox tray, said, “All yours,” and walked out.
The Aftermath
Despite the situation being resolved and Jenn clearly stating she was fine with the outcome, the coworkers continued to whisper. Mark was left in the middle of the gossip, with the team convinced he either “pushed her out” or that Jenn had pulled some secret move on management. Mark concluded by asking how to deal with the undeserved “bad guy” reputation.
