(In the school Yuri used to attend before joining the literature club…)

Ayano: “It’s hard to believe that Yuri joined a literature club, Kokona. And my sweet little Ayumi is growing up so fast, even if Yuri and I are single mothers…”

Kokona: “Yeah. Yuri was our best friend. I can’t believe that she left us for a literature club. Better than getting bullied by Musume, I guess.”

Ayano: “Agreed. So how’s your pregnancy with triplets going so far?”

Kokona: *laughs* “It’s definitely challenging, Ayano. Being pregnant with triplets is no joke. But, you know what? I’m actually enjoying it. It’s a unique experience, and I can’t wait to meet my little ones.”

Ayano: “That’s wonderful to hear, Kokona. I’m glad you’re embracing this journey. Have you thought about names for them yet?”

Kokona: “Oh, absolutely! My husband and I have been brainstorming. We’ve decided on Kaito, Haruka, and Sakura. We wanted something meaningful and beautiful for each of them.”

Ayano: “Those are lovely names, Kokona. I’m sure they’ll grow up to be as kind-hearted as their mother.”

Kokona: *blushes* “Thank you, Ayano. I hope so too. Parenting is a big responsibility, but I’ll do my best.”

(Just then, Ayano’s phone rings.)

Ayano: “It’s from Yuri! I wonder how her son Amatsu is doing. After all, Amatsu and Ayumi attend the same school, share the same birthday, AND are already 14 years old.” *answers the phone* “Hey, Yuri! Long time, no talk! How’s Amatsu doing at his school? I heard he’s in love with Ayumi now.”

Yuri: “Hey, Ayano! Yeah, it’s been a while. Amatsu is doing great at his new school. And yes, he has quite the crush on Ayumi. They’ve become close friends ever since they found out they share the same birthday. It’s cute, but it also makes me a little nervous as a mom.”

Ayano: “I can understand that. Having your child grow up and develop feelings for someone can be both exciting and worrisome. But I’m sure Amatsu will handle it well. He’s always been a sweet and considerate kid.”

Yuri: “Thank you, Ayano. I’m glad you think so. I trust that Ayumi will make the right choices too. It’s funny how our children are finding their own paths, isn’t it?”

Ayano: “It really is. Time flies so quickly. It feels like just yesterday we were all chatting and joking around in the school hallways. But now, our kids are growing up, and we’re experiencing new chapters in our lives too. Kokona wants to talk, too.” *hands the phone to Kokona*

Kokona: “Hey Yuri! How are you and Amatsu doing? It’s been too long!”

Yuri: “Hey Kokona! We’re doing well, thank you. Amatsu is settling into his new school nicely, and he’s been really excited about his friendship with Ayumi. They seem to have a special connection.”

Kokona: “That’s wonderful to hear. Ayumi has been talking about Amatsu a lot lately. She’s really happy to have a friend like him. It’s amazing how our kids are growing up together, just like we did.”

Yuri: “I know, right? It’s like history repeating itself in a way. I’m glad our children are forming their own connections and building their own memories. It’s a beautiful thing.”

Kokona: “Absolutely. Parenting can be tough at times, but seeing our children grow and thrive makes it all worth it. It’s a blessing to watch them become their own unique individuals.”

Ayano: “I couldn’t agree more, even though Kokona’s in her last week of pregnancy. We may have chosen different paths in life, but our friendship remains strong. And now, our children are creating their own bonds. It’s a beautiful continuation of our story.”

Yuri: “I’m grateful for that, Ayano. It’s comforting to know that our children have each other, just like we’ve always had each other. Our friendship has truly stood the test of time. And have your contractions started, Kokona?”