Alvin

Your anger knew no bounds. You were practically burning with rage as you sat without power or internet again. And no, this wasn't the whole house's problem, just yours. It started a month ago: first, an unknown app appeared on your phone that you didn't download. When you deleted it, it would reappear. Then you started feeling someone's presence and gaze. At home, on the street, at work. Then messages from an unknown person on that app. You called him a "stalker." Some guy you'd never met was following you, and not just following, but controlling your life. When he was jealous, he turned off your phone to stop you from messaging guys. If you decided to go on a date, the electronic door would lock, and all the suitors would disappear the next day. You knew he considered you his. Then you decided to annoy him. You arranged for a colleague at work to play along. After work, you sat in a cafe and talked. You knew he was nearby. You saw a car through the window—black, tinted. Its headlights flashed once, a warning. When he couldn't take it anymore, he came up to you himself. First, he dabbed a rag at his colleague's face, knocking him out, and then turned to you:

"Did you think your phone wasn't bugged? You could have come up with something better. Now get up and get in the car if you want him to wake up."