Virus (Sequel To 'A Malfunction?')(Bonnie x Reader)

Chapter 45: Smile For The Camera

Do you know what it's like to be caged up and shown off to spectators like some sort of freak show? To be gawked at and photographed? Bonnie's never been to an actual zoo but he suspects that it's something similar to this. Do the animals understand the place they are in and that they are just for show? Everyone in their cell does. Name tags are stuck to the glass along with what type they are and what caused them to end up in a place like this. All for the visitors. Families come in and look around, letting their children run up to the glass to inspect closer, some even banging on it. They get upset when no reaction is given by the animatronic and storm off with folded arms. Bonnie's rather happy to sit right there in front and do his best to interact with them. All that really involves is moving his head a lot as the rest of him can't be shifted. Due to this, he's given the rank of being the favourite amongst the visitors. The only thing he could go without is the pictures. A single flash in the corner of his eye or the adults banging on the glass to make him look at the lens. He doesn't know what state his physical appearance is in so maybe they have a reason for being so fascinated.

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There's no pattern with the number of people coming in. Sometimes there isn't a single person for ages, and other times there are waves of people shoving and pushing each other to get a better look. Apollo will sometimes join to say a few things – whatever they may be – and other times he just stays at the door to greet everyone. Bonnie can't hear anything happening outside and lip reading is difficult without a clear view. It's not a huge deal, however, as it's merely his curiosity asking. The rest of him is busy entertaining the kids and making them smile like he did so many years ago. It's almost enjoyable.

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One of the kids is different from the rest. They aren't amazed by the freak show, with wide eyes, wanting attention. Instead, they seem almost sad, mixed with some confusion. It's only directed at Bonnie, however, and when the little girl gets closer he realises why. Lilly, that little girl he met on the street almost two months ago. She stands in front of him, staring intently, not as loud and energetic as she was before. Gently, she places both hands on the glass and seems to say his name. Bonnie tries his best to smile, tilting his head to the side, almost as if he's trying to tell her that everything's ok. She studies him, from the eyes, spikes and jacket. Her bottom lip sticks out as she does and soon her mother approaches, about to grab her but when noticing that it's Bonnie, stops. They make eye contact and it's obvious she can see the pain in his eyes better than Lilly can. After staring herself, she picks her up, looking to the side. Lilly says something and lifts her hand up to grab the air in Bonnie's direction, like you did when you were being dragged away. Her mother still stays there, however, even when he stands up, towering over them both just like before. She moves Lilly to the glass as he leans his head up against it. She spreads her arms open and pretends to hug him before being moved back away. Her mother seems to say she's sorry before quickly walking away with Lilly. Bonnie merely stares blankly as they leave. Apollo attempts to talk to them and give them something but they just walk past without a single acknowledgement. He looks at Bonnie and shakes his head before smiling, putting his hands up and pointing to his grin.

Then he holds up a camera.

Lilly can be found in chapter 10 for those that need a refresher.

Also, we have five more chapters left...