30 seconds left on the microwave in the lounge

What did you bring for lunch? The person behind me asks, waiting

Tupperware in hand

They are a familiar face

I am 31 years old, trying to make new friends

Leftover takeout, I say—a grilled cheese

Where is it from?

Anchor Bar—It’s a fish and chips place

Then I explain why I have a grilled cheese

And not, you know, fish and chips

(No one asked)

I didn’t want to be that person heating up fish in the lounge microwave, I say

Oh

What did you bring for lunch?

Salmon

Oh.

(We did not eat together)