You both sat by the fire in his backyard, a recurring activity between you two. He cradled a cup of coffee in his hands while you talked about your family and how "wonderful" they were. Frankie couldn't help but remember the complete opposite his life was like growing up.

"I... I didn't get to see the ocean until I was like 18 and... And I enlisted..."

He sipped his coffee, sensing your eyes on him. He chuckled sadly and sighed.

"Not everyone gets a happy, functional and loving family."

Frankie shrugged and stared at the fire burning in front of you.