Page 26 of Hate It with You

Clearly, I’m bored out of my mind because I send another text.

Beth

For a second there, I thought you put up cameras to watch me.

Asshole

Who said I didn’t?

You are pretty to look at.

Beth

If only I could say the same about you.

Asshole

By the way you were looking at me in your bathroom, I think we both know that you can.

Fed up with the conversation, I slam my phone on the register counter. I knew texting him again was a mistake. Fidgeting with my bookmark display, I turn my back to the camera when my phone goes off again.

Asshole

Crack the screen?

My grip on my phone tightens. At least I know I’ve given him a proper name in my phone. The asshole is watching me.

Teeth clenching, I walk around the register counter to the front of the store. Standing in front of one of the large windows, I look up at the camera tucked away high in the corner.

Pointing at the camera, each word is clipped as it leaves my lips. “Listen, asshole, I’ll allow you to keep the cameras up, but you don’t get to watch me like a fucking stalker.”

My phone dings again in response.

Asshole

Aw, but you’re so fun to watch.

And I’m bored.

Looking back up at the camera, I throw my hands up. “Then go jack off or something. Your boredom isn’t my fucking problem.” My volume rises with each word.

Another text comes through.

Asshole

Is that something you think about often?

Me touching myself?

I’m about to yell at the camera again when I spot motion in the parking lot out of the corner of my eye.

A young couple stands a few feet away from the front door, looking at me as though they aren’t sure if they should be concerned or terrified. I don’t blame them considering the show I’ve just put on.

Trying to save two potential customers, I turn and face the window, giving them my sweetest smile and a wave. That only prompts them to turn away, booking it back toward their car as though they are afraid I’m only seconds away from chasing them down the street.

I take a deep inhale and a long exhale when my phone dings again.

Asshole