(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Natsuki, there you are! Jeez, we were so worried! What took you so long?”

Natsuki: “Sorry, sorry! I got caught up in something on my way here. You know how time just slips away sometimes. Also, I brought a little someone else with me.” (speaking to the neatly-wrapped bundle in her arms) “Alright, Sakura. You can wake up now.”

(Sakura, Natsuki’s newborn daughter, slowly opens her eyes.)

Monika: (gasps) “Oh my goodness, Natsuki, she’s absolutely precious! Congratulations on becoming a mom!”

Natsuki: (blushing) “Thanks, Monika. It still feels surreal, you know? But Sakura here has made my life so much more meaningful.”

Sayori: (entering the room) “Oh my gosh, is that a baby? She’s so cute! Can I hold her?”

Natsuki: (smiling) “Of course, Sayori! Just be careful with her.”

(Sayori carefully takes Sakura into her arms, cooing at her.)

Yuri: (peeking from behind a bookshelf) “May I…may I also hold her, Natsuki?”

Natsuki: (gentle smile) “Of course, Yuri. Sakura would be happy to meet everyone.”

(Yuri timidly approaches, her hands trembling slightly as she reaches out to take Sakura in her arms.)

Yuri: “Hello there, little one. You’re such a precious bundle of joy. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

(Sakura seems to respond to Yuri’s gentle touch, gurgling happily.)

Monika: (admiringly) “Yuri, you’re a natural with babies. It’s heartwarming to see you bond with Sakura.”

Yuri: (blushing) “Oh, thank you, Monika. Babies have always fascinated me with their innocence and purity. Holding Sakura feels like a privilege.”

Sayori: (gently bouncing Sakura) “I agree, Yuri. There’s something truly magical about babies. They bring so much joy and hope into the world.”

Natsuki: (smiling proudly) “You guys are absolutely right. Sakura has changed my life in the best way possible. Seeing her surrounded by all of you, it feels like a dream come true.”

Yuri: (softly) “I’m grateful to be a part of this moment with all of you. It reminds me of the beautiful bonds we share as friends in the literature club.”

Monika: “Absolutely, Yuri. And Natsuki, we couldn’t be happier for you. If there’s anything we can do to support you, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

Natsuki: (gratefully) “Thank you, Monika. Knowing that I have all of you here means the world to me. Sakura and I are lucky to have such amazing friends. Alright, Sakura, time for your next feeding - Mommy’s got some bottled milk for you.”

(Sakura squirms in Sayori’s arms as Natsuki prepares the bottle.)

Sayori: “Aw, she’s getting hungry! You must be so excited for all the new experiences you’ll have with her, Natsuki.”

Natsuki: (nodding) “Definitely! I’ve been reading up on all the things I’ll need to do and it’s a bit overwhelming, but I’m ready to take on this new chapter in my life.”

Monika: “You’re doing great, Natsuki. Motherhood is a journey full of ups and downs, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’ll learn and grow alongside Sakura every step of the way.”

Yuri: “If you ever need any advice or support, Natsuki, please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of us. We’re here for you.”

Natsuki: (smiling) “Thank you, Yuri. I really appreciate that. I know I can count on all of you for guidance and encouragement.”

Sayori: (giggling) “I can’t wait to see Sakura grow up. We’ll have so many fun playdates and make so many wonderful memories together!”

Natsuki: (feeding Sakura) “I’m excited for that too, Sayori. Our literature club will always be a special place for all of us, and now it’ll be a place where Sakura can create her own beautiful memories too.”

Monika: “Indeed. The literature club will continue to be a sanctuary for all of us, even as our lives change and grow. And Sakura will always have a special place in our hearts.”

Yuri: “Just like our love for literature, our love for Sakura will be everlasting. She’ll have a group of loving, supportive friends right here.”

Natsuki: (tearing up) “You guys…I’m so grateful to have you all by my side. Sakura and I are truly blessed.”

(Sakura finishes her feeding, and Natsuki gently burps her.)

Natsuki: “There, there, Sakura. Everything’s alright. Would you like to hear some of Mommy’s poems?”