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The letter, which she dubbed a “roommate contract,” was a masterpiece of tough-love pragmatism. She began by acknowledging his claim to independence and pointed out that since he was now “making money,” it would be much easier for him to buy back all the items she had provided for him over the years. The terms were stark and undeniable. If Aaron wanted access to the internet—the very tool he used to make his money—he would need to contribute to the service fee. If he wanted the luxury of lightbulbs or a lamp in his room, there was a price tag attached. She even went as far as outlining his share of the rent and utilities, as well as the requirement that he cook his own meals and maintain the cleanliness of the shared living spaces.
