Guy's Behavior

Former coworker holding shoes hostage for a date? How should I approach and tell him for the tenth time I’m not interested?

I recently had to pack my desk because my job didn’t honor my FMLA. I had an extra pair of shoes but they weren’t at my desk so I thought I took them home before requesting leave and packed them away. I went to check my storage and car and texted my friend that when he gets in to please check or I’ll ask to come in. My friend agreed. My work friend went in to get them and he saw the coworker had them and the coworker texted me that he has them, do I want them? I’m like of course they’re my shoes can you give them to Jim b/c I asked him and I’m two hours away if I can’t meet him this evening. The coworker then says he’d like to visit the city where I am and we can meet and he’ll give me the shoes rather than me driving back before I have to. I agreed. He couldn’t make it, it got really weird. He knows I’m not interested in him I told him eight different times and it isn’t b/c we worked together this man is 45yrs older than me and I had access to payroll even then still wouldn’t change I’m not interested. He’s still holding my shoes hostage like trying to force me to talk to him everyday. It’s weird and gross. As I’m going through some crazy stuff getting out of an abusive situation, trying to find suitable housing on short notice, moving and now I have to find a new job. I don’t have the time nor interest. What do I say? How do I say it both firmly and gently that I want my shoes back, thanks for holding them but if I’m not there in a convenient enough timeframe give them to Jim please. I don’t want to make it awkward for Jim because this weirdo is jealous Jim and I are friends outside of work.

Former coworker holding shoes hostage for a date? How should I approach and tell him for the tenth time I’m not interested?
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