Two+ years ago, my parents gave me a lump sum of money as a graduation gift (a check that I deposited), which I invested in stocks at the time.
I recently had a fight with my dad, and my mom warned me that he plans on demanding the lump sum back. Do I have to/should I return the money? My parents have no financial need for the money (they are well off); he is planning to demand it back simply out of spite/anger (a product of our fight). And, the lump sum was a gift in good faith back then.
In order to return it, I would have to sell my stocks. I have arrangements to move out in 2 months, and while I don't strictly need the money, I can't deny that the greedy part of me wants to keep it.
EDIT (for people interested in more details): My dad and I aren't fighting because of the money; we're fighting because he doesn't want me to move out. There are a few reasons: Indian belief that a daughter should not leave their parents until arranged marriage, concern for my safety due to the current economy/inflation and international affairs, etc.. My father is not physically abusive; while I'm not comfortable with self-diagnosing him as mentally abusive, I do know that my mental health has suffered due to several defined incidents involving him. I'm also a closeted gay, and while he doesn't know that and I can't 100% predict his reaction, I don't feel comfortable telling him this while living at home because he has threatened to kick me out for less-monumental arguments. I know this sub recommends living with your parents for as long as possible to save money, but I feel financially secure enough in my emergency fund, salary/budgeting, and general financial knowledge to do so (I waited until now to ensure all of that before moving out).
The only way to "fix" my relationship with my father is if I didn't move out (the money isn't the problem here). But, it would be at the cost of my mental health. I realize that it's a selfish decision to make, and I probably should value my father's support and relationship more, but my heart will always be open to his love. Just, you know, in a separate home where I can feel secure in having a roof over my head.
Submitted March 13, 2022 at 10:52PM by GabblingGoose https://ift.tt/8dDkqHe
