I Gave My Boss A Terrible Gift

So there was this thing at work last year where everyone had to bring a little gift for the new boss on their first day. I knew my coworker Alice had picked out something nice, so I figured it wasn't a big deal if I got lazy and didn't think too hard about it. I ended up going with these stupid novelty pens that light up in neon colors when you write with them, super cheap from the dollar store. Everyone else brought thoughtful things like plants or gift cards or little desk decor. Anyway, the new boss opens my pen and everyone is just kind of awkward for a moment while I'm all 'Awkward silence.' Alice was sitting right next to me and she rolled her eyes when my present was revealed. I mean, it's not like there are any rules about what you should bring. But still... I felt so small after that day, even though nothing really happened afterwards except everyone avoiding eye contact with me for a while. It was just one of those moments where you feel stupid and out of place.