Just because there are rules doesn't mean they are applied fairly or evenly or even the same rules in any two situations.

Two people can have massively different reactions for the same actions. One person's quirky friend is another's harassment. Thinking "I did something for them, they now have to like me" is a horrible way to go at life. No one owes you any feelings because you provided some service.

To be promoted at one job you need to prove yourself to be fully competent so the manager can leave you to it, the next you may just need to be buddy buddy with them, the third you may need to be related to the owner. The thing you should be doing is learning what hurdle you need to cross for success in the situation you're in before it's too late and the goal is moved.