I was working at my desk when a horrible smell suddenly filled the office — like someone had microwaved fish. I pulled off my headset and asked out loud, “Did someone microwave fish?” My coworker turned around, glared, and snapped, “Yeah, me. Got a problem?” I stayed calm and just suggested she use the café microwave next time since the smell spreads everywhere.

The next morning, I got called into HR. I figured they just wanted to understand what happened, but I was wrong. They told me they’d heard I “didn’t like the smell of microwaved food” and that the company believes in treating everyone equally, so they’d be taking action.

A few days later, the new rule arrived — a full “smell-free policy.” No strong-scented foods allowed at all. Not just fish. Everyone had to follow it, and no one was happy. People were frustrated that one polite request had somehow turned into a company-wide restriction.

I never imagined that asking someone to be considerate would blow up like this. I just wanted fresh air — not office-wide food drama. Now everyone blames me for the new rule, and I’m honestly wishing I’d just opened a window instead.