They arrived at the apartment in silence. Henry and Byron followed closely behind. 

Earl opened the door and left the key in the bowl in the entrance. 

He walked in quietly. His footsteps echoed in the still furnished space.

“This place is mine,” Earl said looking around. He recalled living there at some point. 

He recalled bringing Serena here as well. 

Perhaps, it was another apartment. He was too tired to think. “You will clean, cook, and buy your own food. You won’t have any privilege. Your parents will send your clothes here and nothing more. Do you understand?” he asked lastly as he turned to face the young men....