I had a similar experience at the Apple Store in Pleasanton, Calif. The staff would not return something that I purchased (still in the plastic package) only a couple of days past the 14-day cut-off period. When I asked store manager Michael Robertson for a little flexibility, his response was, "we're not obligated...blah, blah, blah.
Where is the customer service for a loyal Apple fan?
DO NOT SHOP AT THE PLEASANTON, CA STORE.
The Apple Store: Bad Customer Service at Your Local Mall