(As I walked to the clubroom, I couldn’t believe what happened yesterday. MC, my childhood friend, had died. The news hit me like a ton of bricks. And as I entered the clubroom, I could see Monika and Himari discussing something. Kotonhoa was also there, and was moving a strange pool - it was round and pink. Yuri was there, too - she was filling the pool with warm water. I was confused as to what they were doing, but was even more confused as to where Natsuki was.)

Yuri: “And…that should be everything!”

Monika: “Great job, Yuri. I’ll set up the decorations now.”

Himari: “I’m so excited for this pool party! It’s going to be so much fun!”

Kotonoha: “I hope everyone likes my special punch!”

(I cleared my throat to let them know I was there.)

Sayori: (trying to keep my voice steady) “Hey guys.”

(They all turned to look at me with sad expressions.)

Monika: “Sayori, how are you holding up?”

Sayori: “I’m…not doing well. MC’s death is still a really hard pill to swallow.”

Yuri: “We understand, Sayori. We’re all grieving. But we thought it might be good to distract ourselves with a pool party.”

Himari: “Yeah! We’ll have food, drinks, music, and swimming! It’ll be a blast!”

Kotonoha: “And don’t forget my special punch! It’s delicious!”

Sayori: (forcing a smile) “That sounds like a lot of fun. But…I’m not sure I’m in the mood to party.”

Monika: “We understand, Sayori. But please, try to have some fun. It’s what MC would have wanted.”

Sayori: (nodding slowly) “Yeah…you’re right. MC was always the life of the party. He wouldn’t want us moping around.”

Himari: “That’s the spirit! Now, let’s get this party started!”

Yuri: “Hold on. Does anybody else notice a lack of somebody?”

Kotonoha: “You’re right, Yuri. Where’s Natsuki?”

Monika: “I haven’t seen her all day. Has anyone tried contacting her?”

Sayori: “I texted her earlier, but she hasn’t replied.”

Himari: “I hope she’s okay.”

(Just then, Natsuki burst into the room - and immediately got into the pool, putting a hand on her massive belly. I was thoroughly confused as to why.)

Natsuki: (panting) “Sorry guys, I’m late. I just had to take care of something important.”

Monika: “Natsuki, are you okay? You look exhausted.”

Natsuki: “I’m fine. Just a little tired.”

Yuri: “And why are you in the pool already?”

Natsuki: (looking down at her belly) “Oh this? I just wanted to cool off. It’s been really hot today.”

Kotonoha: “Natsuki, are you sure you’re okay? You seem a bit…different.”

Natsuki: (smiling) “I’m fine, Kotonoha. Just a little pregnant, that’s all.”

Himari: (gasping) “Pregnant? Natsuki, that’s amazing!”

Sayori: “Congratulations, Natsuki! That’s wonderful news!”

Monika: “We’re so happy for you!”

Yuri: “Yes, congratulations.”

Kotonoha: “I can’t wait to make some special punch for the baby shower!”

Natsuki: (in severe pain) “I-I-It’s a little too late for a baby shower, Kotonhoa.”

(We all looked at Natsuki, confused.)

Himari: “What do you mean, Natsuki? Are you not well?”

Natsuki: (gritting her teeth) “I’m in labor, you guys.”

Monika: (shocked) “Labor?! Oh my God, we need to get you to the hospital!”

Natsuki: “The contractions are too close together, Monika. I need to give birth right here, in the clubroom!”

(We were all stunned, unsure of what to do or how to help. But we knew one thing for sure: we had to support Natsuki in any way possible.)

Monika: “Okay, okay. We’re here for you, Natsuki. Yuri, can you grab some towels and blankets?”

(Yuri nodded, quickly moving to gather everything Natsuki needed.)

Himari: “Don’t worry, Natsuki. We’ll stay right by your side.”

(I could see Natsuki’s face contorted in pain, but she was trying her best to stay strong.)

Sayori: “Natsuki, do you want me to call an ambulance?”

Natsuki: “No time. The baby’s coming right now.”