Exactly. OP made him a "founder", but he wasn't a founder. Not in his heart. He played along for a while, but it wasn't in it. Founders need an attachment to t

Exactly. OP made him a "founder", but he wasn't a founder. Not in his heart. He played along for a while, but it wasn't in it. Founders need an attachment to their companies like it's their child... this was a step-parent, and not a good one. Now, the question is, why did you make someone who wasn't a co-founder, a co-founder? Was OP overwhelmed? Lonely? Lacked confidence? Wanted someone else to have the same level of attachment and passion for the company? Trying to trap/guilt them from leaving with the title? None of those justify the action. OP F-ed up here at #4. 1- not to diminish real step-parents, that step-up and put in the work, and earn it. Lucky to have met someone who did IRL.