But they sent my area to a different building.
I’m at a place I don’t know, surrounded by people I’ve never met, and as it happens food I can’t eat.
I’m not allowed to leave.
I’m supposed to feel appreciated.
Just leave.
I’m not sure autistic people realize that’s an option. My daughter’s autistic and I don’t think it would ever occur to her than she can simply bail without explanation.
“Oh yeah, I’ll be back in a bit. Just realized I forgot something in my car…” They’ll probably not even miss you. Just go home. I would. If anyone asks, you weren’t feeling well. It’s true.
Go to the bathroom and “get lost.” You’re in a strange place. It’s plausible. Slip out a side door and leave.
They mean well, but these things can be such bullshit. These days, I just thank them for the invitation and send my regrets. If they want to make an issue of it, they can be my guest. The fact is, they need my autism (to show diversity and disability in the workforce) as much as I need their job, so neither of us is going to make a fuss.