Simon wouldn't have been in a hurry to have the empty space filled up either, were he in Cade's position, but on his end, it's a notably better deal to have a comfortable bed in a room with one acquaintance who doesn't like him than a bunk surrounded by a dozen strangers. Accustomed as he is to having to compromise with his living arrangements, it doesn't occur to him to assert himself in response to the order.

"I don't think I've got enough stuff to make a mess with it," he says, hefting the box. It's rather small. "I hope you don't expect me to polish the furniture, though."