Years ago someone asked me if I’d be interested in converting a web design to code for them. I expressed interest because it was potentially a chance to make some cash on the side.
They show me the design and it’s abysmal, busy, and would be stupidly complex. It was a whole can of worms waiting to happen. They were offering no money though. Instead, they said they’d give me the codebase for the custom content management system they had built so that I could use it for myself. Tried to sell it like I was getting access to something exclusive. I declined because I have zero use for that and I only accept money or an equal exchange of some sort.
The dude’s response was anger and he said “closed mouths don’t get fed I guess.” No, dude. Money talks.