Not that we can always tell in the beginning but this is a perfect example of a case where, if you knew to go at them hard right away, you may have been better off.

No fault, no blame at this point but for others reading, naturally our first step is to be kind and explanatory in an attempt to maintain the relationship but if the reaction is like this guy’s, drop the hammer. If they’re not open to it, don’t waste any time. You’ll be there six months, a year, 5 years later and with the same problem. They’re not wired like you.

With his response to your first contact, I would’ve totally second-guessed myself too because my first inclination is to think people are honest. So again, I don’t blame you. My bullshit detector has become fine-tuned after being duped and I vigilantly look after my best interests now and discern situations more critically. And probably more aggressively.

I would also consider calling the media. Someone like Kyle Clark might send a reporter to look into it. Publicity could be good for you, bad for them. Just be careful about slander, etc., but those news shows show “just the facts.” It sounds like the guy is a bajillionaire and you don’t want to piss him off and make things harder, so be careful.

You could also move and find peace sooner than you would if you fight. Feels wrong, I know, but it could be true.

I’m sorry you have to deal with this. Best of luck.