The road goes ever on...

[jon2911]

Maybe I've just become skeptical, but I have a hard time believing anyone would walk away from their car with $600 under the seat. What was she doing with $600 cash in the first place? Does she not have a bank account? Does she not carry a purse? Maybe it's just me, but it smells a bit fishy.

I agree. She says she stopped using her credit cards and uses cash-only now, which is why she had so much in the car. She still has a bank account, and gets several thousand a month in natural gas royalties. W has had that money coming in since high school, which is a major reason she overspends so much. At least she's stopped with the credit cards.

Growing up with a ton of money can be a blessing, but a lot of people end up like W. Before we got married she never had to work a job, or save up for anything.

I'm still skeptical about parts of the story, but the stock gives me a way to help her out without hurting myself. And, I think it shows financial responsibility to her. I'm having her send me a picture of the stock certificate before I transfer the money.

Thanks for the advice everyone! I never could've imagined how much this would hurt, wanting her to know that I care but can't bail her out any more. Hopefully rock bottom will come soon.