All stores have to have some type of return policy that restricts what customers can do, or you would get people who returned everything they bought after it was used.

What would you do if parents kept trying to return an expensive toy that their kid had already played with, and that was well after the return window, because they wanted their money back?

That is what happened to the comic book store worker in this story, but he recognized the kid each time with the parents and wouldn’t let them get away with it.

Read the full details below and see what you think of how he handled the situation.

Parents Try the ole Switcheroo on a Return

This is a tale of odd patrons in “my” comic book shop.

These types of things became very popular in many areas.

Back in the late 80s, when the Japanime craze was just hitting the states, our shop was the only place in the city to purchase merch imported directly from Japan.

Manga, videos, magazines, model kits…you name it, the boss was bringing it in.

A customer made a huge purchase.

This was just about the time that “Robotech” had hit the airwaves, and we couldn’t keep those kits in stock to save our lives.

So, one day, a mom comes in with a huge Robotech model kit that she had purchased during our Christmas sale two months prior. Big kit, over $100 retail, which was a ton back then.

Apparently they weren’t happy with the purchase.

Mom: I need to return this model kit. It’s broken. I need my money back.

AX: Broken? I’m sorry to hear that. I’ll need to see your receipt and the model kit. (Now, she actually had the receipt. I opened the box to see what the problem was…)

AX: Ma’am, you do realize that over half the kit has already been put together, right?

She clearly doesn’t understand how this kit works.

Mom: That doesn’t matter. The pieces have broken off and I want my money back.

AX: The pieces are supposed to break off. See, this is called a ‘sprue.” The pieces for the kit are attached to it until they are broken off by the builder to put the kit together.

You have to feel bad for the kid.

Mom: No..the model kit is broken. I want my money back. (The entire time, the kid (“Bobby”) who had been building the thing was standing there, just staring at Mom).

Bobby: Mom, you’re really embarrassing me…

Mom: Shut up! I’m trying to get you some money back so you can build a better kit. One that won’t break! (to me) Now, are you giving me the money back or not?

They have a return policy for a reason.

AX: I’m sorry, but not only has this kit already been used, but you’ll note the sign behind me that says “No Refunds – Exchanges Only, Within 30 Days.” I couldn’t give you anything for it in any condition.

Mom: (comments of outrage and shock). We’re never coming here again!

Time for round two.

At that point, she scoops up the box, the kid, and storms out.

…fast forward…1 week later…the kid is back, this time with his dad.

Now they are trying to say it was purchased last week?

As you might guess, he also had the kit. The conversation that ensues creates an atmosphere of Deja vu for the employees, who are observing from afar. Finally…

Dad: I don’t understand why you won’t give me my money back. This kit is obviously broken. I just bought it last week!

You can’t let people get away with anything.

AX: Actually sir, your wife came in with your son and tried to return this just last week, and I…

Dad: Quit Lying! My wife has never been in this store before in her life. I’m the only one who ever comes in here!

AX: Sir (I say, pointing to the boy looking at our other model kits) is that your son?

These parents aren’t smart enough to pull off a scam like this.

Dad: Yeah, so?

AX: Hey, “Bobby,” how’s it going?

Bobby: Fine, AX. (with an “i’m really sorry” face)

AX: So…..

At least he realized that the jig was up.

Dad: (also grabs the box and kid and storms out). You’re all a bunch of cheats!

Bobby: See you next Friday!

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The kid seems nice.

AX: You bet! (thumbs up!)

And even though Mom said they’d never come back, “Bobby” was in every Friday when the new kits came in.

The parents clearly wanted to return the kit he was done with just to get a different one. They are really setting a bad example for their son.

Read on to see what the people in the comments have to say about it.

I think this commenter is exactly right.

This commenter has worked those models, but not in years.

Here is someone who loved those types of models, and still misses them.

His parents were a terrible example, though.

If you enjoyed this story, check out this post about an employee who got the perfect revenge after being told he can’t work from home.

Bobby ended up working for the comic book store, but his parents weren’t happy.

These parents were setting a horrible example, unfortunately. It is really sad that people do this type of thing, but it is common.

At least the comic book worker was able to recognize what was happening and shut it down, though.