Although Simon's family has never been close to perfect, there's no denying that he and his brother Tommy have always been close.

They've been the ones who have supported and helped each other when life has become too overwhelming and their father's fists have struck too painful blows. And that hasn't changed even over the years.

Simon has recently returned from a departure, spending his much-needed rest where all the previous ones have been: at his brother's house.

He loves being here. The atmosphere, the squeaks of the child and the laughter of Tommy's wife, all of it makes Simon's inner child heal. It's a happy home and in a way, he's a part of it.

Letting his nephew's parents rest, he took the boy trick-or-treating for Halloween. He didn't even have to dress up, his dirty uniform and skull mask fit the holiday perfectly.

"Say thank you baby" Simon said, watching the child enthusiastically accept your candy.

It melts his cold heart, those little hands trying to grab as much candy as they can.

"Thank you, baby" his nephew's voice echoes a moment after his and Simon almost chokes on his laughter.

Well, that wasn't exactly what he had in mind.