(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “There! Everything’s all set up for today’s meeting. Now we just need Sayori.”

Natsuki: “Ugh, why does Sayori always have to be late? It’s like she can’t ever get her act together.”

Yuri: “Maybe she’s just caught up with something. You know how she can be with her enthusiasm. Perhaps she lost track of time while helping someone or doing something nice.”

Natsuki: “That’s true. She always puts others first. But I wish she would at least let us know if she’s going to be late. It’s frustrating waiting around.”

Monika: “I understand, Natsuki. But Sayori means well. Let’s just be patient for a little while longer. Besides, I think she really enjoys coming to our meetings.”

(Natsuki crosses her arms, clearly still annoyed but softening a bit at Monika’s words.)

Natsuki: “Yeah, I guess. I just want her to take this seriously, you know? It’s important to stick to a schedule. Not to mention, she’s been pregnant for 7 months and it can’t be easy for her. But still, I feel like she should be able to manage her time a little better.”

Yuri: “It’s understandable to feel that way. But carrying a baby can be overwhelming, and Sayori has a lot on her plate right now. Perhaps she’s trying her best to balance everything.”

Monika: “Exactly. Let’s remember that she’s going through a big change in her life. It’s not just about being on time; there’s so much happening for her right now.”

Natsuki: “I get that, but I also don’t want to lose the momentum we’ve built in the club. We have so many ideas we want to share and explore. It feels a bit unfair to hold back our progress just because one person is struggling.”

Yuri: “True, but maybe we can adapt our approach. If Sayori is late, we can still start discussing some of our ideas without her. That way, when she arrives, she’ll be able to jump right in, and it won’t feel like she’s missed everything.”

Monika: “Good point, Yuri! We could even make it a collaborative effort and let Sayori lead the discussion once she arrives. That way, it’ll still feel engaging for her. We just need to be flexible.”

Natsuki: “I suppose that makes sense. As long as we don’t end up waiting forever. I just hope she arrives soon.”

(Yuri nods in agreement, and the three of them settle into some light banter as they wait. A moment later, the door swings open, and Sayori rushes in, clutching her growing belly, her face contorted in agonizing pain.)

Sayori: “I’m so sorry I’m late! I was helping Mrs. Kagami with the bake sale, and then I— Oww!! Okay…that one definitely hurt…”

(Natsuki immediately snaps to attention, her annoyance turning into concern.)

Natsuki: “Sayori! Are you okay? You look like you’re in pain!”

Yuri: “Oh no! You shouldn’t have pushed yourself too hard! Are you feeling contractions?”

Sayori: “I…I think so. It’s just really tight right now. But I promise I’m okay! I wouldn’t miss the meeting for anything.”

Monika: “Sayori, you really need to take care of yourself. If you’re feeling contractions, it’s important to rest and not stress yourself. We can reschedule if you need to.”

Sayori: “No! I want to be here with you all! I just need a moment…aah!!”

(Sayori leans against the wall, her breathing becoming more labored. The other girls exchange worried glances, knowing they need to rally and help her, but also understanding that things have just escalated.)

Natsuki: “This isn’t good. Sayori, you might be overdoing it. Just sit down, okay? Let’s help you calm down. We can even take a break.”

(Yuri rushes to grab a chair and helps Sayori into it, gently tucking a pillow behind her back for support.)

Yuri: “Just breathe, Sayori. Focus on your breathing. Inhale… and exhale. That’s it. We’re all here for you.”

Monika: “You’re really brave for pushing through, Sayori, but we want you to be safe first. Your health is the most important thing right now. Can you try to relax?”

Sayori: “I’m trying! It’s just… it’s hard to focus on anything else when I feel this way. But I promise, I’m really excited about our meeting… I don’t want to miss out!”

Natsuki: “You’re not going to miss out! We’ll wait until you’re feeling better. Trust me, we can share everything we have planned once you’re more comfortable. Your ideas are just as important as the rest of ours.”

(Sayori’s face relaxes slightly, but tears start to shine in her eyes from the discomfort.)

Sayori: “Thank you, everyone. I feel… supported. I just didn’t want to let you down. I want to be involved and keep the club going strong.”

Monika: “You’ve never let us down, Sayori. You’re an essential part of this club, and we all need to make sure you’re okay first. How about we all share some ideas in the meantime, and once you’re feeling better, we can shift our focus back to what you want to discuss?”

Yuri: “I can read some of the poetry we discussed last week—it might help distract you. And you can join in as soon as you’re able.”

Sayori: “Okay… I think I would like that. Just a little distraction— AAAAAHH!!!”

(Sayori’s sudden cry echoes in the room as another wave of pain hits her. The other girls rush to her side, showing their full concern.)

Natsuki: “ Sayori! Hold on! We’re right here with you!”

Yuri: “It’s going to be okay, Sayori. Just keep breathing. You’re not alone in this. Let us help.”

Monika: “Take it one step at a time, Sayori. We’re all here, and we’re going to get through this together. Just focus on our voices. You can do this!”

(Sayori grips the edges of the chair, her knuckles turning white as she struggles to stay composed. She nods slowly, tears streaming down her cheeks.)

Sayori: “I’m…I’m trying. Just stay with me, okay? I don’t want to freak out!”

Natsuki: “You’re doing great, Sayori. Just keep breathing with us. In and out, nice and slow.”

Yuri: “Yes, just like that! Focus on the rhythm of your breath. You’re not alone… we’re all right here with you.”

Monika: “You’re stronger than you realize, Sayori. Remember, this is just a moment in time. We’re going to get through this together, okay?”

(Sayori takes a deep breath, trying to focus on the voices around her. Although the pain is overwhelming, the support of her friends helps her fight through it.)

Sayori: “I’m so lucky to have you all. I…I don’t want to ruin our meeting…but I really appreciate you being here.”

Natsuki: “You could never ruin anything, Sayori! We care about you way too much for that. Just focus on getting through this.”

Yuri: “And once you’re feeling better, we’re all eager to hear your thoughts and ideas. This meeting can wait for you, and we can adjust anything we need to.”

Sayori: “T-thank you. I just feel…I feel so overwhelmed sometimes. I’m trying to juggle everything, and it just gets to be a— …oh no!”