It seems that 'networking,' in our contemporary context, often lacks the genuine reciprocity that underpins true social bonds. This reminds me of the anthropological work of Marcel Mauss on gift exchange and its implications for social solidarity. The 'transactional' nature of many workplace relationships becomes starkly apparent in moments like yours, when the veneer of cordiality is easily shattered. Perhaps this also reflects a broader societal trend, where we increasingly struggle to foster what Emile Durkheim called "organic solidarity." In this state of fragmentation, seemingly minor deviations from social scripts, like deciding not to attend a goodbye event, can be interpreted as major transgressions. Have we perhaps forgotten that the 'social contract' is ultimately grounded in human needs for connection and belonging?