They had the passion of thirteen-year-old boys for one another. Rebellion and inquisitiveness, hopes and uncertainties, females and aspirations for glory— they shared it all. Emile was impoverished, whereas Paul was wealthy. They skinny-dipped, drank absinthe, and starved themselves before overeating. During the day, he drew models; at night, he touched them... Paul is currently a painter, while Emile is a writer. Paul has passed by glory. But Emile has it all: fame, fortune, and the perfect woman, whom Paul once cherished. They assess one another, admire one another, and engage in conflict. Like a pair that cannot quit loving each other, they lose and regain contact.