Page 25 of Hate It with You

Unsurprisingly, there are two more, each in opposite corners of the store. My feet land heavy on the floor as I carry myself outside, the bells on my door chiming loudly from the force with which I open it. As I suspected, another camera sits high up in the corner hidden away by the awning that covers the front of my shop. It points directly at the front door where I’m standing.

Heartbeat now in my ears, I do the only thing I’m capable of doing at the moment. I raise my right hand, and I flip the camera off.

If he wants to fuck with me, then I want him to know I’m aware. I won’t let him get to me. As I head back inside, now acutely aware of the cameras watching my every move, my heartbeat pulses in my throat as I work through all the ways the bastard could’ve broken into my place.

I knew he was going to get bolder, but I didn’t think it would get this bad. I’m not sure if I should go to the police or tell⁠—

I’m gripping the edge of the register counter, my breathing labored, when my phone chimes.

Landlord

Well that wasn’t very nice.

Son of a bitch.

I should be angry when the text comes through, but the only anger I feel is toward myself when my breathing regulates, and my grip on the counter loosens. It would make sense for Alex to have a key, though I’m not sure why he would install cameras.

At least it isn’t him.

I’m typing a response when I notice Alex’s name is still “landlord” in my phone, so I make the appropriate changes to his contact before hitting Send on my message.

Beth

You’re the one who put up the cameras?

Why the fuck would you do that?

Ever heard of something called privacy?

Asshole

Damn. I was just trying to be a good landlord. Thought you’d appreciate the added security.

Beth

Considering I didn’t know they were being installed, I’m not sure how this is supposed to make me feel more secure.

I can’t pay you back for them. Come get them.

Asshole

Don’t worry about it. 2 for 1 deal.

Besides, I do own the building after all. Just protecting what’s mine.

I type out a few different versions of my message before I stop to think. The added security is nice but only if I have access to the feeds. Although I’d never tell Alex I actually like his idea. I also don’t love the idea of asking him for anything, even if it is access to the cameras.

Asshole

Here’s the link to the camera feeds. Feel free to make your own login.

I can take them down if you want.

I take a moment to think about his offer. With the notes I’ve been receiving, it isn’t the worst thing in the world to have the added security.

Beth

It’s fine, thanks.