AITA for refusing to pay for nephews schooling after he stole from me?
He had quietly set aside a secret treasure for his nephew's future—$40,000 tucked away in mutual funds, a silent promise to support his dreams.
It was a gift born from love and hope, meant to fuel hard work and scholarships, not to be touched until the right time.
This was his way of protecting the boy he cared for, a guardian without children of his own, offering a lifeline where his brother could not. But betrayal cut deeper than any financial loss.
The nephew, trusted and cherished, was stealing from him—small amounts that soon added up, a breach of faith that shattered the quiet bond between them.
Hidden cameras revealed the truth, forcing a painful confrontation that tore at family ties and left dreams hanging in the balance.
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The original poster (OP) is facing a difficult situation where a significant financial gift intended for their nephew has been revoked following the discovery of theft.
The core conflict lies between the OP's desire to support the nephew's future and the justified response to the nephew's breach of trust through theft.
Given the nephew's proven dishonesty and the brother's perceived betrayal by revealing the secret fund, is the OP entirely justified in withdrawing the $40,000 education fund, or does the initial intention behind the gift warrant a different approach despite the theft?
Commenters Came in Hot with Their Takes:
The thread exploded with reactions. Whether agreeing or disagreeing, everyone had something to say — and they said it loud.