The lease gave me six months in the unit, but it also made clear that any further extension would require another agreement.

There was no discount for being Frank Miller’s son, no special allowance for the equipment, and no promise that recording work would be enough to support me.

Walter turned the form toward me and told me to read it before I signed.

I read every page.

The rent amount was correct.

The address matched the brass tag Marcus had kept for me.

The dates were clear, and the payment terms left no room for a misunderstanding about what I owed.