Contour on demand

This week , several shows that I watch using on demand have not updated.    I know sometimes it takes longer than a day to get the new episode but we are talking shows that aired on Monday and it is now Friday.     Several of the ones that finally did update are now telling me that I have to purchase the episode or season when all along I have been watching them for free.     How can Cox offer a service where they say you can watch your shows at a later date either not have them or charge you for them.   Aren't we paying enough to have cable service already??!!!!