(In the clubroom…)

Monika: “Natsuki sure is taking a while to show up…”

Yuri: “Maybe she went to get a snack?”

Sayori: “Perhaps so, Yuri.” (noticing Monika’s baby bump) “Hey Monika, how’s little Minika doing in there?”

Monika: (laughs) “Little Minika is doing just fine, thank you for asking, Sayori. It’s been an exciting journey so far. Feeling all the tiny kicks and movements is a wonderful reminder of the little life growing inside.”

Yuri: “It must be an incredible experience, Monika. Knowing that you’re nurturing a life and watching it develop.”

Monika: “Absolutely, Yuri. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of, and now it’s finally happening. I feel blessed.”

Sayori: “I’m so happy for you, Monika. I can’t wait to meet little Minika.”

Monika: (smiles warmly) “Thank you, Sayori. I’m excited for you all to meet Minika too. Being a mom is going to bring changes, but I know our literature club will always be a special place.”

Yuri: “Indeed, Monika. We will continue supporting each other and sharing our love for literature, even with the addition of a precious new member.”

(Just then, Natsuki walks into the clubroom with a bag of snacks.)

Natsuki: “Sorry for the delay, guys. They had a special deal on my favorite chocolate bars, so I couldn’t resist.”

Sayori: “No worries, Natsuki. We were just catching up with Monika and her little Minika.”

Natsuki: (brightens up) “Oh, right! How’s the baby doing, Monika? Feeling any cravings yet?”

Monika: (laughs) “Oh, the cravings have definitely kicked in, Natsuki. I might have indulged in a few too many pickles and ice cream lately.”

Sayori: (giggles) “That’s so cute, Monika! Embracing those classic pregnancy cravings.”

Yuri: “Speaking of cravings, Natsuki, what snacks did you bring?”

Natsuki: “Oh, I got us some cupcakes, of course! I knew you all would want to have a taste of my baking skills.”

Sayori: “Yay! Cupcakes! You’re the best, Natsuki!”

Monika: (clutching her belly) “Ahh…ow…”

Natsuki: (concerned) “Monika, are you alright? What’s wrong?”

Monika: (breathing deeply) “It’s just a little cramp, nothing to worry about. The joys of pregnancy, I suppose.”

Yuri: “Maybe you should sit down and rest, Monika. We can take care of everything here.”

Sayori: “Yeah, Monika, you should take it easy. We’ll handle the club activities.”

Monika: (smiling gratefully) “Thank you, everyone. I appreciate your concern. I’ll sit down for a while, but don’t hesitate to call me if you need anything.”

Natsuki: “Of course, Monika. Your health and the baby’s well-being are the most important things right now.”

Yuri: “Indeed, we must prioritize your comfort and safety.”

(Sayori helps Monika to a chair, while Natsuki distributes the cupcakes to the others.)

Natsuki: “I made sure to make extra delicious cupcakes today. I hope they can cheer you up, Monika.”

Monika: (taking a bite of the cupcake) “Mmm, Natsuki, these are amazing! Thank you.”

Sayori: “They’re absolutely divine, Natsuki. I’m so glad we have you and your baking skills in our club.”

Yuri: “Indeed, Natsuki. Your talent for baking never ceases to amaze me.”

Natsuki: (blushing) “Aw, thanks guys. I’m just glad I can contribute something to the club. And seeing all of you enjoy my cupcakes makes me really happy.”

Monika: (feeling another wave of pain wash over her) “Aah!!”