Originally Posted by
PAL62V
Depends. If I arrive at the airport with them, it’s awkward to leave them after security. That said, it depends who I’m with!
If I arrive separately then I’ll go to the lounge and meet them at the gate later on.
Indeed, the other option, which I admit I've done when said colleague was driving me nuts in the car to the airport, is just be honest, tell them flatly "I'm off to the lounge, see you at the gate". They may not be bothered about the lounge, may value the time away from you too, or want to get a proper meal rather than a school dinner buffet! They may not even realise you are able to take a guest if they don't travel much.