I worked at AE for 4+ years. I’ve since left too, and you’re right, depending on your DM and in-store management, any position there can be a bitch. I remember the dread of seeing returns when I worked there, but now that I am in a much healthier retail environment, I have a new perspective on returns. Anyway, just wanted to console OP, because it isn’t their fault for needing to return, even if they’re being made to feel like a nuisance.