To Solve(nt) This Case

(I am walking down the path between two separate buildings in our retail when I see some employees from another department spray-painting a wall for a mural we are planning. I decide to use the other path so as not to get any solvents or fumes in my face. Later, I am in my department when my manager asks to see me.)

Manager: “[My Name], [Coworker] said that you were walking on the path when you saw [Employee #1] and [Employee #2]. He said that you went over to the other path several feet away as soon as you saw them. Now, I don’t want to have to write you up, but I’d like to hear your side of the story first.”

Me: *confused* “Why?”

Manager: “Well, [Coworker] believes that you were being offensive by trying to get away from them.”

(Suddenly, it clicks. The employees from the other department are two women wearing hijabs.)

Me: “Oh, no, no! They were spraying solvents for the mural.”

Manager: “Ah. I see. Oh, well, [My Name], you’re not in trouble.”