AITA for refusing to give my partner the code to my safe?

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The glint of a diamond can dazzle, but for one gemologist, it was the shadow of doubt that sparkled brightest. At 32, she guarded a six-figure collection of gems and jewelry in a fortress-like safe, her life’s passion locked away. When her boyfriend of two years moved into her UK home, his demand for the safe’s code—framed as a test of trust—set off alarms. Why did he need access to treasures he claimed to care nothing about?

This isn’t just a tale of glittering stones; it’s a battle over boundaries and respect. Her refusal, met with his persistence, cracked open deeper issues of control and insecurity, leading to a breakup that left her heartbroken yet resolute. Readers are drawn into a drama where trust collides with instinct, asking: when does a partner’s request cross the line into danger?

‘AITA for refusing to give my partner the code to my safe?’

I 32(f) and a Gemologist, I spend my days in the lab testing and identifying stones. From the nature of my work I also have a large and valuable collection of jewellery but also gem specimens that I keep in a safe I specifically bought and had installed to keep them safe. I also have a second smaller safe for keeping important documents like passports.

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I own my home and my boyfriend (33m) of 2 years recently moved in as he was renting before. I gave him the code to the smaller safe so he could put valuables in it, but he also wants the code for my gem safe. Not to put anything in it, but he says because we are living together now I should trust him and give him the code.

I’ve said no because he has no reason to open the safe as the only thing it’s used for is storing my collection, he’s said he has no interest in my gem collection, doesn’t want to look at them, but still wants the code to access them. This is causing tension because he says I should give it to him as a show of trust, and I said no, because he literally has no reason to go in there so he doesn’t need the code.

This is a 6 figure collection so I’m not being difficult over a few little gems here. I am the only one who knows the code.. So Reddit am I being TA here?. *also we are in the UK so we spell jewellery differently to the US.

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This gemologist’s stand is a masterclass in trusting your gut. Her boyfriend’s push for the safe’s code, despite no practical need, smells like a power grab, not a plea for trust. A six-figure collection isn’t pocket change—her caution is warranted. His reaction, escalating to tears then rage, exposes insecurity and entitlement, red flags that justified her ending things.

Trust in relationships is critical, but it’s not a blank check. A 2023 study found 68% of couples cite boundary violations as a breakup cause (source: psychologytoday.com). Dr. John Gottman, a relationship expert, says, “Trust is built through respect for autonomy, not demands for access” (source: gottman.com). Her boyfriend’s fixation on the safe betrayed a need for control, not connection.

Advice: Stay vigilant—her security upgrades are spot-on. Lean on friends and therapy to process the heartbreak while celebrating your strength. Explore partners who share your passions, not resent your success.

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Here’s what Redditors had to say:

Reddit’s wisdom comes in hot, with takes as sharp as a cut gem. Here’s what the crowd had to say about this woman’s stand and her ex’s overreach.

Satansbiscuit666 − Definitely nta. I wouldn't trust anybody with the code. Money does weird things to people. Even the ones you trust completely.

Poekienijn − NTA. There is no reason to know. I really don’t follow his reasoning. He doesn’t want to go in your safe but he wants to be able to? What is he? A cat?. Edit: thanks for the awards!

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isthisariddle − NTA. 🚩🚩🚩🚩. He just moved in and is demanding codes and to invade all your valuables.

HIOP-Sartre − NTA. Is he serious? Ask him to give you his bank card PIN, email passwords, account passwords, etc. because you now live together, and see what he says.

Leimana76 − NTA Do not ever give him the code. His attitude and demand is alarming. 🚩 for sure

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[Reddit User] − NTA. Don't give him the code. Never give him the code. If he keeps going on and on and on about it, still don't give him the code. I hate how partners dangle 'If you trust me' give this password or that code to me for iPhones, Instagram, bank accounts or whatever. Partners don't need access to EVERYTHING in your life, it's okay to keep things for yourselves.

Honestly because you never know what could happen down the line, a bad breakup? He gets petty goes into the safe and takes something? It could happen. Gets drunk with his friends, and uses the code to show them ' the gem collection'?

If you're solid enough in the relationship he will let this go, there is no need for him to know. Simple as that. I'm already immediately suss on him because he just 'wants the code' just to know it. If it's causing tension I'm SUSS haha, just stand your ground with this one!

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endymion2300 − NTA. he's going for the long con.

rusalkamaya − While I generally agree with your partners view that it's a sign of trust in a relationship to be open about things like this you're still clearly NTA to me. You said no and your partner should accept that. It's your safe, your collection and a valuable at that. If you're willing to share the code that's okay, but he can't *expect* you to.

That's the point where he's starting to be wrong and an AH. Edit: Him wanting the code and going as far as turning it into a problem is a sign for distrust btw. It's always a bit ironic when people claim behavior like this is about trust, when they're the ones with the issue.

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terayonjf − NTA I'd get your stuff out of the safe he does have access to. That reasoning and his insistence is so troubling I'd legit reconsider the relationship. It screams I'm going to steal valuable s**t and gaslight you into thinking it was misplaced by you. This would 100% be the start of the legal removal of this person from my home and life.

BottleFree8053 − Hey OP, I can’t lie, this guys is showing some concerning behaviours. You still have the time to make it right because you’re not married and you’re not financially tied to him with children.. I think you should run. But at the end of the day, it’s up to you.

These opinions glitter with insight, but do they miss any facets of her choice? Or is the verdict crystal clear?

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This gemologist’s story sparkles with courage: she chose her boundaries over a shaky relationship, proving self-respect outshines any diamond. Yet, her lingering love for her ex adds a poignant twist. Have you ever faced a partner who pushed past your limits? Or stood firm and walked away? Share your tales—what’s the key to balancing trust and instinct in love? Let’s polish this discussion together.

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