Minghao opened his eyes. He had spent a long cold night asleep on the hard bench in the police cells. Someone was banging on the door to wake him up and when he opened his eyes an officer called through the trap in the door. “You’re leaving. Someone posted your bail.” He sat up in shock wondering if someone had contacted his parents.

But when he was walked out of the police cells he saw Chenle standing there waiting for him. “You better not skip out on me Minghao.” The usually jocular boy had a serious expression on his face. Minghao knew he wasn’t happy.

He gathered his things from the admissions desk and looked over his paperwork. He had to be at court in eight weeks. “You’re lucky you’re underage and this is your first charge.” The police officer frowned at him. “Get your together kiddo. And make sure you attend court or you’ll be locked up.” He couldn’t get out of there quick enough. The night before he had to think quickly when he was arrested. Not only was he holding, but he was also in the country illegally, and luckily had said he was just on a week’s holiday. He didn’t know how he had gotten away with it but he was just thankful that he had for whatever reason. Maybe the arresting officer felt sorry for him, maybe he was almost at the end of his shift, maybe he was just tired. But for whatever reason they had gone easly on him at the police station, believed his story about being on holiday, and not turned him straight over to immigration. They downgraded his theft charge but the assault and drug possession stayed. He didn’t know what would happen when he went to court. Deportation would be the worst. Worse than being locked up. He couldn’t face his parents.

When they got outside Chenle exploded. “What the actual are you thinking?” He shouted as they crossed the street. “Stealing? Petty theft? How dumb are you? You got locked up over a ing can of drink and an eyeliner?” Chenle shook his head at his friend’s stupidity.

“Is that it? Is that the end of the drugs?” Minghao shook his head. He had left six pills and a few joints at home just in case. Chenle scowled as the walked. “I want it gone Minghao. I like you but this has gone too far. My parents are important people and I’m going to make it as an idol and I can’t risk having you ruin that. What if they raid the apartment? They can do that you know.”

Minghao has never felt smaller. The last six months had been rough but this was rock bottom. The hole left in his system by the drugs was filled by a sinking sadness and desperation. “I’m sorry Chenle. You’ve been great to me and I’m a ty friend.” Minghao blinked his tears away as he stared at the sky. It was cold and clear. A day like today should be cloudy to match his mood but the sun best down on him, almost taunting him, gracing him with its light but none of its warmth.

Warmth was a thing of the past. 

Minghao debated even turning up for the audition. He had bore the brunt of so much rejection. He didn’t think he could take any more. On the other hand this was maybe hi