(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “There we go! Everything’s all set up for the meeting today. Now we just need MC, and then we can start.”

Sayori: “I’m sure he’ll be here soon. He’s never missed a meeting before.”

Natsuki: “I swear if he’s late again, I’m gonna give him a piece of my mind.”

Yuri: “Let’s try to remain calm and patient. He’s probably just caught up with something.”

Natsuki: “But this is the third time this month! It’s starting to feel like he doesn’t care about the club anymore.”

Monika: “Let’s not jump to conclusions just yet. MC has always been a dedicated member of the club, so I’m sure there’s a valid reason for his tardiness.”

Natsuki: “Whatever. Hopefully he arrives just before I pop…trust me, my little bundle of joy’s eager to meet him.”

Yuri: “I think we should focus on preparing for the meeting rather than getting worked up about MC’s tardiness. We have a lot to discuss today.”

Sayori: “Yeah, let’s review our progress on the anthology and discuss potential themes for our next writing prompt. I’m sure MC will show up soon.”

Monika: “In the meantime, let’s make sure everything else is in order. Natsuki, could you make sure we have enough snacks for the meeting?”

Natsuki: “Fine, I’ll check the supply closet. But if I start having contractions because of this stress, then I’m blaming MC!”

Yuri: “Natsuki, please try to relax. Stress isn’t good for the baby. Let’s focus on being productive and positive for the meeting.”

Sayori: “I’ll go double-check that all the writing prompts are printed out and ready to go. We want everything to be perfect for when MC arrives.”

Monika: “Thank you, everyone. Let’s stay calm and focused. I’m sure MC will be here soon, and we can have a successful meeting together.”

(Just then, the door to the clubroom opens and MC walks in, slightly out of breath.)

MC: “Sorry I’m late, everyone. I got held up with something at home.”

Natsuki: “About time you showed up! I was starting to think that all the stress was going to induce labor!”

Yuri: “We’re just glad you’re here now. Let’s get started with the meeting. We have a lot to discuss today.”

Sayori: “Yeah, we were just getting everything set up. Let’s review our progress on the anthology and brainstorm for our next writing prompt.”

Monika: “Welcome back, MC. Let’s catch you up on what we’ve been working on and get your input for the upcoming tasks.”

MC: “Thanks, Monika. I’m excited to hear what everyone has planned. Let’s make this meeting a pro-”

Natsuki: “AAAAAAAAHHH!!!”

Yuri: “Natsuki, what’s wrong?!”

Natsuki: “My water just broke!!”

Sayori: “Oh my gosh, we need to get her to the hospital!”

Monika: “Quick, someone call an ambulance!”

MC: “Don’t worry, Natsuki. Everything is going to be okay. We’ll take care of you.”

Natsuki: “I can’t believe this is happening during our meeting…I thought I had a few more- AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!”

Yuri: “Let’s all stay calm and help Natsuki. MC, can you help support her while we wait for the ambulance to arrive?”

MC: “Of course, I’ll make sure she’s comfortable and safe.”

Sayori: “I’ll call the ambulance right now. Hang in there, Natsuki.”

Natsuki: “Thank you, everyone. I’m sorry for causing a scene, but I appreciate all your support. Let’s just focus on getting me to the hospital safely.”

Monika: “That’s the most important thing right now. We’ll take care of you, Natsuki. Don’t worry about the meeting, we can reschedule and make sure you and the baby are okay first.”

MC: “Just focus on staying calm and breathing, Natsuki. We’re here for you.”

Natsuki: “I…I will. Thank you, everyone. I never thought our meeting would turn into this, but I know I’m in good hands with all of y-”

(Natsuki is cut off as an overwhelming urge to push takes over, and she starts to scream in agony.)