Freeform gradient tool mishap

I'm working on an art project and trying to get it by a deadline, however, I seem to be coming across a certain problem that I have not been able to find a solution for.

As you know the "line" option for the freform gradient acts like the curvature tool, and I use alt click alot to manuvre it. But when I stop working and reopen my file those sharp points I made turn into curves and I get a prompt saying that the color stops cannot be "edited, move, or deleted" because it would cause lines to intersect. 

What's confusing is why this is happening in the first place and I'm hoping there is a solution to this that doesn't involve me having to nuke the object and re-apply not just the gradient but the lines and colors.

Please send help asap