I do bits of copy-editing and proofreading for various people, and I have a new client who is fast shaping up as Client From Hell. I posted about him before when he wanted me to work for basically half the fee I had requested. I got him to back down on that, at least. His next move was to say that the particular project we had 'renegotiated' was on the back burner, and to give me another piece of work, which was a small job. I have done what was originally agreed, he's added more work. I have told him that will cost a bit more, done the work. Now he's asking for more - sourcing material, coming up with headings, etc.
He also sent me his 'book', which he initially claimed to want 'proofread'. He doesn't know the difference between proofreading, editing and fucking ghostwriting, and his book is unmitigated shit.
AIBU to say look, mate, I would like to agree an hourly rate with you and keep you informed of the hours I work, and I will want paying on a weekly basis. He will bleat and cry that he's a startup, that he has dyslexia (I am not mocking or insulting anyone with dyslexia. I believe he has it, fine, but that doesn't mean he can take the piss), that he will give me 'exposure'. BUt I think I need to be firm with him quickly otherwise I will end up pissing about with loads of stupid little jobs for him and probably not getting paid.