(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “There! Everything’s all set up for today’s meeting. Now we just need Sayori.”

Natsuki: “Ugh, why does Sayori always have to be late? It’s like she can’t ever get her act together.”

Yuri: “Maybe she’s just caught up with something. You know how she can be with her enthusiasm. Perhaps she lost track of time while helping someone or doing something nice.”

Natsuki: “That’s true. She always puts others first. But I wish she would at least let us know if she’s going to be late. It’s frustrating waiting around.”

Monika: “I understand, Natsuki. But Sayori means well. Let’s just be patient for a little while longer. Besides, I think she really enjoys coming to our meetings.”

(Natsuki crosses her arms, clearly still annoyed but softening a bit at Monika’s words.)

Natsuki: “Yeah, I guess. I just want her to take this seriously, you know? It’s important to stick to a schedule. Not to mention, she’s been pregnant for 7 months and it can’t be easy for her. But still, I feel like she should be able to manage her time a little better.”

Yuri: “It’s understandable to feel that way. But carrying a baby can be overwhelming, and Sayori has a lot on her plate right now. Perhaps she’s trying her best to balance everything.”

Monika: “Exactly. Let’s remember that she’s going through a big change in her life. It’s not just about being on time; there’s so much happening for her right now.”

Natsuki: “I get that, but I also don’t want to lose the momentum we’ve built in the club. We have so many ideas we want to share and explore. It feels a bit unfair to hold back our progress just because one person is struggling.”

Yuri: “True, but maybe we can adapt our approach. If Sayori is late, we can still start discussing some of our ideas without her. That way, when she arrives, she’ll be able to jump right in, and it won’t feel like she’s missed everything.”

Monika: “Good point, Yuri! We could even make it a collaborative effort and let Sayori lead the discussion once she arrives. That way, it’ll still feel engaging for her. We just need to be flexible.”

Natsuki: “I suppose that makes sense. As long as we don’t end up waiting forever. I just hope she arrives soon.”

(Yuri nods in agreement, and the three of them settle into some light banter as they wait. A moment later, the door swings open, and Sayori rushes in, clutching her growing belly, her face contorted in agonizing pain.)

Sayori: “I’m so sorry I’m late! I was helping Mrs. Kagami with the bake sale, and then I— Oww!! Okay…that one definitely hurt…”

(Natsuki immediately snaps to attention, her annoyance turning into concern.)

Natsuki: “Sayori! Are you okay? You look like you’re in pain!”

Yuri: “Oh no! You shouldn’t have pushed yourself too hard! Are you feeling contractions?”

Sayori: “I…I think so. It’s just really tight right now. But I promise I’m okay! I wouldn’t miss the meeting for anything.”

Monika: “Sayori, you really need to take care of yourself. If you’re feeling contractions, it’s important to rest and not stress yourself. We can reschedule if you need to.”

Sayori: “No! I want to be here with you all! I just need a moment…aah!!”

(Sayori leans against the wall, her breathing becoming more labored. The other girls exchange worried glances, knowing they need to rally and help her, but also understanding that things have just escalated.)

Natsuki: “This isn’t good. Sayori, you might be overdoing it. Just sit down, okay? Let’s help you calm down. We can even take a break.”

(Yuri rushes to grab a chair and helps Sayori into it, gently tucking a pillow behind her back for support.)

Yuri: “Just breathe, Sayori. Focus on your breathing. Inhale… and exhale. That’s it. We’re all here for you.”

Monika: “You’re really brave for pushing through, Sayori, but we want you to be safe first. Your health is the most important thing right now. Can you try to relax?”

Sayori: “I’m trying! It’s just… it’s hard to focus on anything else when I feel this way. But I promise, I’m really excited about our meeting… I don’t want to miss out!”

Natsuki: “You’re not going to miss out! We’ll wait until you’re feeling better. Trust me, we can share everything we have planned once you’re more comfortable. Your ideas are just as important as the rest of ours.”

(Sayori’s face relaxes slightly, but tears start to shine in her eyes from the discomfort.)

Sayori: “Thank you, everyone. I feel… supported. I just didn’t want to let you down. I want to be involved and keep the club going strong.”

Monika: “You’ve never let us down, Sayori. You’re an essential part of this club, and we all need to make sure you’re okay first. How about we all share some ideas in the meantime, and once you’re feeling better, we can shift our focus back to what you want to discuss?”

Yuri: “I can read some of the poetry we discussed last week—it might help distract you. And you can join in as soon as you’re able.”

Sayori: “Okay… I think I would like that. Just a little distraction— AAAAAHH!!!”

(Sayori’s sudden cry echoes in the room as another wave of pain hits her. The other girls rush to her side, showing their full concern.)

Natsuki: “ Sayori! Hold on! We’re right here with you!”

Yuri: “It’s going to be okay, Sayori. Just keep breathing. You’re not alone in this. Let us help.”

Monika: “Take it one step at a time, Sayori. We’re all here, and we’re going to get through this together. Just focus on our voices. You can do this!”

(Sayori grips the edges of the chair, her knuckles turning white as she struggles to stay composed. She nods slowly, tears streaming down her cheeks.)

Sayori: “I’m…I’m trying. Just stay with me, okay? I don’t want to freak out!”

Natsuki: “You’re doing great, Sayori. Just keep breathing with us. In and out, nice and slow.”

Yuri: “Yes, just like that! Focus on the rhythm of your breath. You’re not alone… we’re all right here with you.”

Monika: “You’re stronger than you realize, Sayori. Remember, this is just a moment in time. We’re going to get through this together, okay?”

(Sayori takes a deep breath, trying to focus on the voices around her. Although the pain is overwhelming, the support of her friends helps her fight through it.)

Sayori: “I’m so lucky to have you all. I…I don’t want to ruin our meeting…but I really appreciate you being here.”

Natsuki: “You could never ruin anything, Sayori! We care about you way too much for that. Just focus on getting through this.”

Yuri: “And once you’re feeling better, we’re all eager to hear your thoughts and ideas. This meeting can wait for you, and we can adjust anything we need to.”

Sayori: “T-thank you. I just feel…I feel so overwhelmed sometimes. I’m trying to juggle everything, and it just gets to be a— …oh no!”

Natsuki: “Sayori, what’s happening? Hold on, okay? Just breathe!”

Sayori: “I…I think my water just broke! The baby’s coming! Oh no, oh no! I didn’t plan for this to happen here!”

(Natsuki’s eyes widen in shock, and the reality of the situation sets in for the group. Monika quickly steps forward, her voice steady and calm.)

Monika: “Okay, Sayori, we’re going to help you. Take deep breaths, and don’t panic. We need to get you to a hospital right away.”

Yuri: “Yes, we’ll call for help. Natsuki, can you stay with Sayori? I’ll get my phone!”

Natsuki: “Got it! Sayori, look at me! Focus on me. You’re going to be okay! Just keep breathing!”

Sayori: “I can’t help but feel scared. What if something goes wrong?”

Monika: “Nothing is going to go wrong, Sayori. You have us with you, and we’re going to make sure you’re taken care of. You’ve done so much leading up to this, so let us support you now.”

(Yuri quickly fumbles through her bag, her hands shaking slightly as she retrieves her phone. She dials the emergency number, her voice steady despite the frantic situation.)

Yuri: “Yes, hello? We need an ambulance. A pregnant woman is in labor and we’re at the school literature clubroom. Please hurry.”

(Sayori looks between her friends, tears still streaming down her cheeks, a mix of fear and determination in her eyes.)

Sayori: “I’m really sorry for putting you all through this… I didn’t want to cause any trouble.”

(Natsuki shakes her head adamantly, her voice firm.)

Natsuki: “You’re not causing trouble! This is a big deal, and you need to focus on taking care of yourself and that baby. We’ve got your back, don’t worry!”

(Monika kneels beside Sayori, gently taking her hand.)

Monika: “Listen to me, Sayori. This is a natural process, and your body knows what to do. You’re not alone—no matter what happens, we’re all right here with you.”

(Sayori squeezes Monika’s hand, her breathing shaky but steadier as she concentrates on the calming presence of her friends.)

Sayori: “Thank you… I really didn’t expect this to happen. I thought I’d have more time… I didn’t want it to catch me off guard.”

Natsuki: “It’s okay, Sayori! A lot of this is just unexpected. Just think of it as a surprise party, but instead of cake, you’re getting a baby!”

(Yuri chuckles nervously, trying to lighten the mood amidst the tension, and Sayori gives a small, pained smile.)

Yuri: “Yes, it’s definitely an overwhelming surprise—but one that will bring so much joy! All you need to focus on is breathing and staying calm. Just remember, you can do this.”

(Sayori nods, her heart racing with both fear and excitement.)

Sayori: “I hope so. I just want everything to be okay… for the baby to be safe.”

Monika: “It will be, I promise. You’re surrounded by people who care about you. Keep breathing deep and steady. We’re all going to get through this together.”

(Natsuki reaches for a nearby bag, pulling out some extra cushions and blankets. She places them around Sayori for comfort, her brow furrowed with focused determination.)

Natsuki: “Here, lean back on these. We’ll get you as comfy as we can until the ambulance arrives. You need to feel safe.”

Sayori: “You’re all so amazing. I never really thought about how much I’d need you all… but I do… right now, more than ever.”

(Yuri returns with the phone in hand, her face slightly flushed but her determination unwavering.)

Yuri: “I’ve called for help. They’re on the way. We just need to keep you calm and focused. Is there anything we can do to help you focus?”

(Sayori takes a deep, shaky breath, glancing between her friends, feeling their unwavering support wrapping around her like a warm blanket.)

Sayori: “Maybe… if you could remind me of all the fun ideas we’ve had for the club? Just… talking helps me distract from the pain.”

Monika: “Absolutely! How about we share some of your favorite ideas, and you can join in as much as you’re able? You’ve always had such great thoughts about our activities.”

Natsuki: “Yeah! Remember how excited you were about the idea of a poetry slam? You were practically glowing when you talked about it!”

Sayori: “I was! And… and we were going to make it a whole event— with decorations! I was thinking we could use flowers and fairy lights to set the mood…”

Yuri: “That sounds beautiful! And the readings would be a wonderful opportunity for everyone to express themselves. Your vision will inspire others.”

(Sayori’s eyes shimmer with enthusiasm despite the pain. The mere thought of sharing her ideas helps ground her amid the chaos.)

Sayori: “Exactly! And then we could have a section for original pieces—everyone could write about their experiences… their feelings…”

Natsuki beams, her arms crossed as she leans closer. “And you know we’d all be there to cheer each other on! Right by your side at the event, like we always are!”

Monika: “Yes! Just like how we’re right here now. You’re leading us through this, Sayori. Just keep talking with us. It’s inspiring you and giving you strength.”

(Sayori nods, her face regaining some color as she focuses on the meeting, sharing ideas that she hopes will flourish.)

Sayori: “And if we had refreshments, I could bake some of my special cupcakes! Everyone loves those, right? We could even have a cute little ‘best cupcake’ contest…”