BBM - good insight. Because she was used to doing this with her father (sad that it was necessary; he must have been a negligent father) and it would seem natural to, as you say, try and lighten the mood.
And all the more humiliating if Meredith became even MORE angry. To me, all the pieces fall into place with this idea. For the first time, Rudy's story about Meredith's anger - which Guede seemed to be awkwardly listening to - has a basis in reality. And to think, Crini has only the unflushed toilet theory, while this key of key, this light of lights has escaped him :tears:
I can really see the possibility of things escalating in this scenario. I've always thought AK's blood was from a nose bleed from flailing arms or something. If two men happened to view this I can imagine them interceding and knowing AK's prank would possibly blame MK for overreacting. If MK was harmed, they may have felt they had to silence her.