The knock wasn’t loud, nor was it quiet but rather irritating to the man who so desperately wanted to finish, insisted on finishing Madden’s essay although he had read them many times, and he would continue to read them over and over until he found what he was searching for. Madden knew something about society and Theo was determined to uncover whatever that was. The man wrote with such a knowledge of human behaviour- the psychology behind his words were flawless, which to Theo meant there was more meaning behind each sentence on the book’s page.
The knock came once more in its mellow tone causing Theo to tut under his breath informing the silent room around him that he was annoyed by his unwanted visitor.
The still silhouette of his brother was recognised by Theo, so when the door was finally pulled to reveal neither were in shock at the other’s presence, in fact Hemingway found himself in a joyous mood; he stood awaiting his brother to invite him in and offer coffee which he could smell through the hallway; the odour danced so freshly on his nose that he almost ran out of the stinky street and into the warmth of Theo’s quarters.
Theo did not possess the same keen attitude that his brother did. Hemingway was a capitalist; a vile and selfish brute whom cared only for his own existence. Money. His life revolved around money. It was the same for every capitalist; their lives were a misfortunate survival.
“Hem I have nothing to say so if you don’t mind to state your business and be gone, I have much work to do and would appreciate it if you made this visit as quick and quiet as you approached my lodgings. If you wouldn’t mind firstly showing me your hospital papers hopefully informing me that you don’t have the new plague as well.” Hemingway had not expected such a harsh welcome- if that could be called a welcome at all. Lifting a heavy hand into his overcoat, Hemingway pulled out a set of garish papers and passed them speedily to his elder brother whom had that gaunt look upon his ageing face. Neither man had been blessed with good looks though Hemingway knew that if they were in competition his brother would win by a long way.
“All seems in order. I wouldn’t invite you in but I can’t risk catching such a malicious virus. I tell you something Hem,” he continued as they both stepped in to the book crowded hallway and closed the front door leading to the forgotten city. “I miss the olden days when the plagues were bacteria; that was when it could be treated merely with a small dosage of antibiotics. These days I’m not too sure.”
Hemingway examined the surrounding before inviting himself into the home which to him appeared luxurious. It was clear instantly to Theo that this would not be the quick encounter that he’d hoped for.
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