(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Um…has anyone seen Natsuki?”

Yuri: “I haven’t seen her since we all went home yesterday. Do you think something happened?”

Sayori: “Maybe she just overslept! You know how much she loves her morning naps.”

Monika: “That’s true, but she’s never been this late before. I’m starting to get worried.”

Yuri: “Well, we could try calling her. Maybe she just forgot about our meeting this morning.”

Sayori: “Good idea! Let’s try giving her a call.”

(They all take their phones out and dial Natsuki’s number. It goes straight to voicemail.)

Monika: “It’s going straight to voicemail. That’s not a good sign.”

(Meanwhile, at the hospital…)

Natsuki: (clutching her baby bump, face contorted in pain) “Doctor, what’s wrong?! Is the baby okay?!”

Doctor: (calmly) “Natsuki, try to stay calm. We’re running some tests to determine what’s happening. It’s important not to jump to conclusions just yet.”

Natsuki: (teary-eyed) “But…but the pain, it feels so intense. What if something is wrong with the baby? I can’t lose my baby…”

Doctor: “I understand your concerns, Natsuki, but let’s focus on finding out what’s happening first. Sometimes, these symptoms can be completely normal during pregnancy. Our priority is ensuring the health and safety of both you and your baby.”

Natsuki: (nervously) “Okay, I’ll try to stay calm. But please, can you give me any updates as soon as you know something? I can’t handle the uncertainty.”

Doctor: “Of course, I’ll keep you updated every step of the way. In the meantime, I’ll order some additional tests and consult with specialists to get a better understanding of what may be causing your pain.”

Natsuki: (weakly) “Thank you, Doctor. I just want my baby to be safe.”

Doctor: “I understand, Natsuki. We’ll do everything we can to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby. Just try to get some rest for now, and we’ll have more information for you soon.”

(Natsuki nods, still clutching her baby bump, her worry evident. The doctor leaves to arrange the necessary tests, leaving Natsuki alone with her racing thoughts. Eventually, the doctor returns with the test results.)

Doctor: “Natsuki, we’ve received the test results, and I have some news for you. It appears that you’re experiencing some complications with your pregnancy.”

Natsuki: (gripping the edges of her hospital gown tightly) “Complications? What does that mean? Is my baby in danger?”

Doctor: “I’m afraid there are signs of preterm labor. We need to take immediate action to prevent any further complications and ensure the health of both you and your baby.”

Natsuki: (voice trembling) “What can we do? Please, tell me what we need to do!”

Doctor: “First, we’ll admit you to the hospital for close monitoring and further tests. Depending on the severity of the preterm labor, we might need to administer medication to stop the contractions and give your baby more time to develop.”

Natsuki: (teary-eyed) “Okay, whatever it takes to keep my baby safe. Please, do whatever you can.”

Doctor: “I assure you, we will do our best. Our priority is the well-being of both you and your baby. It’s important to remember that we have advanced medical resources and a skilled team here to support you.”

Natsuki: (sniffles) “Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate your reassurance. I just want my baby to be okay.”

Doctor: “I understand how worried you must be, Natsuki. We’ll closely monitor your condition and keep you updated every step of the way. You’re not alone in this. We’re here with you.”

(Natsuki takes a deep breath, trying to find some strength amidst her fear and uncertainty. The doctor and medical staff prepare to provide the necessary care and support for Natsuki and her baby. As Natsuki lays in her hospital bed, she clings to the hope that everything will turn out alright. After a few minutes…)

Natsuki: “It’s getting worse…I don’t think this is getting any better…”