broken engagement and home improvements

In some states, you can sue her for breach of promise, and try to get reimbursed for expenses you incurred in anticipation of the marriage.

New York isn't one of those states, so chalk it up as an expensive gift.

If you somehow get access to the apartment and trash your improvements, you'll end up in jail and be prominently featured in the Daily News.

>be prominently featured in the Daily News!

You know what, Mr. Blue? Things could have been worse. You could have married the wrong person. A divorce could easily cost much more than those home improvements.

And, you are a special person to do this kind of work in an apartment for someone you loved. Someone is going to cross your path who will see your specialness and want to build a life with you. So, you paid tuition on an education in life. We all do this from time to time. And spite isn't your style, which is why you posted here. Otherwise the place would be trashed by now. You sowed goodness and I predict you will reap goodness. (Happily [most of the time] married for 37 years]

Judge Judy tries these cases on TV all the time, but with a cap of 5K. According to Judge Judy you are out of luck unless you have her name on some form of loan document. The honorable thing for her to do is pay you back at least half of the 20K.