Though bitter anger had defined much of Holden's young life, as he grew up bit by bit he learned how to release those feelings. It was a hard, painful road, but over time he grew into a healthier young man, though one who still found it immensely difficult to be vulnerable around others. He reconnected with Connor, especially after the two of them had both rejected their father, and for the first time in his life he was able to feel like truly part of a larger family.