My first impression: you are financially exactly where you expected to be. Did you leave a tip, which you could have claimed?
The example mentioning a gift card does not apply, gift cards are like cash and qualify for a reimbursement. A coupon would reduce your out of pocket expenses, we are only reimbursed out of pocket expenses.
My later impression: If the client did not pay for the meal, then why is the MSC not applying for the expected reimbursement??!!?? The client expected to reimburse the expenses, they received the money and owe it back. It is none of their business who paid, the shopper was able to make all of the necessary observations.
My posts are solely based on my opinions and for my entertainment, contact a professional if you need real advice.
When you get in debt you become a slave. - Andrew Jackson