A potluck! He loves potlucks. But, oh, stress. He didn't make anything. He knows the sign said new people don't need to bring anything but he feels deep shame in his midwestern bones for showing up empty-handed all the same. Maybe he can offer to wash the dishes? Or serve! Yeah, he can do that.

So, behold, one of the newcomers fresh off the ferry, standing behind the table with a wooden spoon in-hand offering to help anyone who comes over fill up their plates with whatever looks good. "Hi, I'm Max! What can I help you with?" By the way... where did he get that apron he's wearing?