Small local guy got me through quick too, big firms just juggle too many cases.

Ha, this is such a real thing. Every office has some unofficial system that looks like a scam from the outside but turns out to be legit, like the guy who "sells" snacks from his desk drawer or the parking spot swap group. It's funny how we assume anything with a cash box and a spreadsheet has to be shady, when half the time it's just one organized person saving everyone from terrible coffee. The mug thing is a trap though, because dish duty is basically the tax you pay for joining the club. Bring your own mug and you're not just opting out of dishes, you're saying you want the benefits without the chores, and people notice that stuff. Dave would probably still pour you a cup, but you'd be on the list, and every office has a list. Just do the dishes, man, it's like 4 minutes and it buys you good standing forever.