Yes, you were paid for the meeting, but you put in the effort to socialize and try to connect with your colleagues, which is additional work! I think that all counts!

Did the gay colleagues know that you are gay? I mean, I know you're not closeted at work, but that doesn't necessarily mean that everyone knows, right? And again, who knows. Maybe the lesbian is having marital problems and you commenting on the pic on her lockscreen made her feel uncomfortable. Maybe she's also an introvert and just didn't want to be there. But I'm so glad your boss supported you getting out at least some of it. Our new manager let us know today that even though he plans to be in the office many/most days, he has no intention of changing that we work from home most of the time. It's good to be supported!

Have a nice lunch with Chris! Tell him hi from us! Maybe someday he'll come back to game night!