"Always leave yourself a way out" was my mantra when I was an instructor. Particularly Multi Engine and IFR instructing lead to situations that would challenge you. At times some inconvenient decisions had to be taken, but they were all safe decisions. I would do as you and stick around my destination. It would be my way out, no more no less than my diversion field would be. I think someone who'd refer your situation to the books should loosen up a bit and adopt a helicopter perspective on what they're trying to achieve.