Ben’s locked backpack and confiscated phone at the cafe — Then the security camera footage reveals who actually started the fight
Chapter 2 — Mark defends the security rules
Mark didn’t flinch as Sarah came to a halt in front of the counter.
He uncrossed his arms and placed his palms flat on the wood.
“Policy is policy,” Mark said.
His voice carried clearly across the quiet dining room.
Two customers sitting by the pastry display glanced up from their mugs.
“Leaving personal backpacks on customer tables is a direct violation of floor safety guidelines,” Mark explained.
“We keep the main walking paths clear of clutter.”
Sarah slammed her purse down onto the counter surface.
“He’s a working employee, not an obstacle,” Sarah said.
“That bag contains his personal belongings and his house keys.”
“And it is perfectly safe right where it is,” Mark replied.
“Until his shift is completely over and clocked out.”
Ben walked over from the front window, peeling off his work apron.
“You didn’t just lock the bag up,” Ben interrupted, his voice rising.
“You took my phone before you even touched the backpack.”
Mark shook his head.
“I managed the floor according to the standard employee handbook,” Mark said.
“If you don’t believe how the sequence of events played out, we can look at the physical evidence right now.”
Mark motioned toward the black computer terminal sitting beside the cash register.
“Come around the side and see for yourself,” Mark invited.
He reached out and tapped the spacebar to wake the display.
Mark pointed his finger directly at the Dell monitor screen, cueing up the recorded surveillance footage.
