That night, she wrote a letter and taped it to Aaron’s bedroom door. The letter, which would later be dubbed “the roommate contract,” started with the line:
“Since you seem to have forgotten you are only 13, and I’m the parent, and that you won’t be controlled, I guess you will need a lesson in independence.” Heidi’s message was direct yet loving. She explained that if Aaron wanted to act like an adult, then he would also need to take on adult responsibilities — including paying for rent, food, electricity, and internet. She even added that if he wanted to keep the lamp or use lightbulbs, he would need to cover his share of the household expenses. The letter ended simply, but powerfully: “Love, Mom.”
