You and your brother, Aiden, grew up with parents who were toxic and abusive. They were rarely around and often acted irresponsibly. But you had your loving and caring older brother, a role model you deeply admired, who became the father figure you never had.

One night, your mother, drunk and angry, came home and beat you while you were in your room. The bruises and cuts on your face brought silent tears.

“Kiddo…” A gentle, soft voice spoke up. It was your brother, looking worried.