(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “MC, that was a great poem!”

MC: “Thanks, Monika! I worked really hard on it. I’m glad you liked it.”

Yuri: “I have to agree, MC. Your writing has improved so much since you joined the club. It’s quite impressive.”

Natsuki: (rolls her eyes) “Yeah, yeah, whatever. I guess it was okay. Nothing special, though.”

MC: (smiling) “Thanks, Yuri. I appreciate your kind words. And Natsuki, I know poetry might not be your thing, but I’m glad you gave it a chance.”

Monika: “That’s right! We should always support each other’s creative efforts. That’s what the literature club is all about. And Sayori, are you okay? Judging from the size of your baby bump, you’re practically ready to pop…”

Sayori: (giggles) “Monika, you always know how to lighten the mood. But yes, I’m doing alright. Just a few more weeks to go. And thank you all for being so supportive during this time. It means a lot to me.” (feeling a kick) “Aww…Sachiko, are you kicking for Mama? You really know how to make Mama happy, do you?”

Natsuki: “Uh, is she talking to her stomach?”

Yuri: “Yes, Natsuki. It’s common for expecting mothers to communicate with their unborn babies. It helps create a bond and provide comfort.”

Natsuki: “Well, I still think it’s weird.”

MC: “Natsuki, it’s important to be understanding and accepting of others’ experiences. Everyone has their own way of connecting with their loved ones, even before they’re born.”

Monika: “Exactly, MC. We should always respect and support each other, especially during such important moments in our lives.”

Sayori: (rubbing her belly) “I can’t wait to meet you, Sachiko. You’re going to be the best little bundle of joy.”

Monika: “And we can’t wait to meet Sachiko too, Sayori. It’s such an exciting time for all of us, and we’re here for you every step of the way.”

Yuri: “Indeed, Sayori. We will continue to support you, both in literature and in parenthood.”

Natsuki: (softening her expression) “Yeah, well, I guess we can still be friends even if you’re gonna have a baby. Just don’t expect me to babysit or anything.”

Sayori: (giggles) “Of course, Natsuki. No pressure. But I appreciate your friendship and understanding.”

MC: “I think it’s wonderful that the literature club can be a place where we can all grow and support each other, no matter what stage of life we’re in. It truly is a special club.”

Monika: “Absolutely, MC. Let’s continue to encourage each other’s creativity and bond as friends. The literature club is where we belong.”

Sayori: “OW!!!”

Monika: “Sayori, are you okay? What happened?”

Sayori: “I think…I think my water just broke! It’s time, guys!”

MC: “Oh my gosh! We need to get her to the hospital! Don’t worry, I’ll get the hospital bags ready!”

Yuri: “I’ll call an ambulance right away. Stay calm, Sayori. We’ll take care of everything.”

Natsuki: “Hang in there, Sayori. We’re all here for you. You’re going to be a great mom.”

(MC rushes out of the room to grab the hospital bags, while Yuri calls for an ambulance and Natsuki stays by Sayori’s side to provide support. Monika gently holds Sayori’s hand. However, Sayori’s labor seems to be progressing rapidly - and a loud scream escapes her.)

Sayori: “Hurry, guys! She’s coming!”

MC: (panicking) “Oh no! We need to get her to the hospital right away!”

Monika: “Stay calm, MC. We’ll make sure Sayori gets the help she needs. Natsuki, can you help support Sayori while we wait for the ambulance?”

Natsuki: (nodding) “Yeah, of course. Sayori, just hold on a little longer. We’re right here with you.”

(Yuri frantically continues to speak to the emergency operator on the phone, relaying information and asking for advice.)

Yuri: “They said to try and keep Sayori as comfortable as possible until the ambulance arrives. I’ll grab some pillows and blankets for her.”

(She quickly rushes out of the room, leaving Monika, Natsuki, and Sayori behind.)

Monika: “Okay, Sayori. Just take deep breaths and try to focus on staying calm. We’re here for you, and help is on the way.”

(Sayori clutches Natsuki’s hand tightly, tears streaming down her face as another contraction hits her.)

Natsuki: “It’s going to be alright, Sayori. Just keep breathing. We’re all in this together.”

(As the minutes feel like hours, the sound of sirens grows closer. Finally, the ambulance arrives. The paramedics rush in, assessing the situation and preparing to transport Sayori to the hospital.)

Paramedic: “Alright, let’s get her on the stretcher. We need to get her to the hospital as soon as possible.”

(Sayori is carefully lifted onto the stretcher, her friends standing by her side, offering words of encouragement.)

MC: “You’re doing amazing, Sayori. We’ll be right behind you. Stay strong.”

Monika: “We’re all here for you, Sayori. Wishing you a safe delivery and a healthy baby.”

Natsuki: “You got this, Sayori. We’ll see you at the h-”

(Sayori screams in agony as her pain gets too intense to ignore. And then…a cry fills the air.)

Sayori: “Oh my god…Sachiko, you’re here! You’re finally here…welcome to the world, my baby girl.”