It must have felt horrible to have a planned romantic get away so easily dismissed.

Has he opened up about what it is about his life story that causes such unwillingness to be the recipient of gift giving?

And what would he prefer cash for? I know someone that recoils on gifts but doesn't demand cash in lieu of gifts, just the gift aspect in general is triggering. Not that they don't say thank you at least. But also once that line is drawn, it's about respecting their wishes.