Apple's return policy is 14 days, with a 10% restocking fee. However, if you're still within the 14-day boundary, you may be able to get them to wave the restocking fee, given your situation.
...may be because he got a good deal? I'm not sure about the price when he got it 2 weeks ago but it's $1550 -50 rebate = 1500 at macmall now. I rather get the new over the refurbished for $150 more.