I Refused My Dad’s Last-Minute Demand—Now Half My Family Is Furious

Her dad gave $15k to help with the first house, swearing it came with no strings. Then he demanded it back. For his girlfriend’s son. Now she is torn between keeping the home and keeping the peace.

My fiancé (30M) and I (28F) have been saving for a house for years. Back in February, my dad (58M) offered to gift us $15,000 to help with the down payment. He said he wanted to see us in our first home while he’s still around and made a big deal about how it was no strings attached.
We found a place in April, put in an offer, and it was accepted. As part of the process, I transferred my savings and his $15k into our joint account so the mortgage broker could see proof of funds. Everything was on track until last month, when my dad suddenly said he needed the $15k back. Apparently, his girlfriend’s son, whom I barely know, is in legal trouble and needs help more urgently than we do. He said we are young, can keep saving, and family comes first, meaning his girlfriend’s kid.

Problem is, the $15k is already tied up in closing costs and deposits. If we give it back, we lose the house and thousands in fees. I told him we can’t return it now without ruining our deal. He blew up, saying I’m choosing a house over family and that he only gave us the money because he thought we would understand if something came up. Now, half my extended family is calling me selfish, while the other half says a gift is a gift and I don’t owe him anything. My fiancé is furious and says we shouldn’t give in, but I hate that this could permanently damage my relationship with my dad.