(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Um…where’s Yuri? Sayori, Natsuki, MC, have you seen her?”

Sayori: “Hmm, I haven’t seen her since this morning. She’s usually here before me.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, same here. Maybe she’s running late today.”

MC: “I hope she’s alright. Maybe we can text her and see if everything’s okay?”

Monika: “That’s a good idea, MC. Let me send her a message.”

(Monika takes out her phone and starts typing. However, a few minutes later and there’s still no response from Yuri.)

Sayori: “Maybe her phone is dead or something. It happens to me all the time!”

Natsuki: “Or maybe she just doesn’t feel like coming today. It’s not like it’s mandatory, right?”

MC: “I don’t know…Yuri usually loves literature club. It’s unusual for her to miss it without any prior notice.”

(Meanwhile, in the nurse’s office…)

Yuri: (laying down on the medical table) “Wait, nurse, how are you still working here despite being in your last trimester?”

Nurse: “Oh, don’t worry about me, Yuri. I’m used to it by now. Besides, I love my job, and it keeps me busy.”

Yuri: “But isn’t it risky for you and the baby? Shouldn’t you be taking it easy?”

Nurse: “I appreciate your concern, Yuri, but my doctor says it’s safe for me to continue working as long as I don’t exert myself too much. I take plenty of breaks and listen to my body.”

Yuri: “I suppose if your doctor approves it, then it must be fine. But please remember to take care of yourself and the little one.”

Nurse: “I will, don’t worry. Now, what brings you here today? Are you feeling unwell?”

Yuri: “No, it’s not that. I just had a terrible headache this morning, and it hasn’t really improved. I thought it was best to come and get it checked.”

Nurse: “I see. Headaches can be quite bothersome. Let me take your vitals and see if we can figure out what might be causing it.”

(Yuri sits up as the nurse takes her blood pressure and asks her a series of questions about her symptoms and medical history.)

Nurse: “Your blood pressure is slightly elevated, but nothing too concerning. Have you been experiencing any stress lately?”

Yuri: “Well, there have been a few things on my mind, but nothing out of the ordinary. I’ve been trying to manage my stress and practice self-care.”

Nurse: “That’s good to hear, Yuri. Stress can definitely contribute to headaches. I recommend you continue taking care of yourself, perhaps try some relaxation techniques, and make sure to get enough rest.”

Yuri: “Thank you, nurse. I will do my best to follow your advice.”

Nurse: “You’re welcome, Yuri. And remember, if the headache persists or worsens, don’t hesitate to come back and see me. It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Yuri: “Of course, I understand. Thank you for your help.”

(Back in the literature clubroom…)

Monika: “I still haven’t heard back from Yuri. I’m starting to get worried.”

Sayori: “Maybe we should go check on her. It’s unusual for her to miss club, especially without any explanation.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, I guess it wouldn’t hurt to go see if she’s okay. Let’s go, you guys.”

MC: “I agree. Yuri is a part of our club, and it’s important that we look out for each other.”

(The group gathers their belongings and makes their way to the nurse’s office. They enter cautiously, not wanting to disturb any ongoing examinations. But when they enter, they see that the nurse is very heavily pregnant.)

Monika: “Oh my…nurse, you’re still working? Shouldn’t you be on maternity leave by now?”

Nurse: “I appreciate your concern, but I’ve been given the green light to continue working as long as I take it easy. The baby’s not due for two more months, so I’m still here. Plus, this is my first child.”
Sayori: “Wow, that must be exciting! Congratulations!”

Nurse: “Thank you, Sayori! I’m definitely excited, but also a bit anxious. It’s a whole new journey for me.”

Natsuki: “Well, we hope everything goes smoothly for you and your baby, nurse. But we actually came here looking for Yuri. Have you seen her?”

Nurse: “Oh yes, Yuri was just here. She had a headache and came to get it checked. She should be resting in one of the recovery rooms.”

Monika: “Thank you so much, nurse. We’ll go check on her.”

(The group walks down the hallway and finds Yuri in one of the recovery rooms, lying down.)

Yuri: “Oh…you guys came to check on me?”

MC: “Of course, Yuri! We were worried when you didn’t show up to club. Are you feeling any better?”

Yuri: “Yes, the nurse gave me some advice and recommended rest. I’ll be fine, thank you.”

Sayori: “That’s a relief! But still, if you ever need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, we’re all here for you, Yuri. Take it easy and get well soon.”

Monika: “And don’t worry about club today. Your health is the priority. We can catch up on any missed discussions later.”

Yuri: “Thank you, everyone. Your concern means a lot to me. I’ll take your advice and try to rest.”

MC: “If you need anything, Yuri, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re all here for you.”

(Yuri manages a small smile and nods. The group stays with her for a while, chatting and keeping her company before, suddenly, the nurse enters the room - clearly in a lot of pain.)

Nurse: “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!! GUYS, MY WATER JUST BROKE!!!”

(The group is taken aback by the sudden turn of events, and Yuri looks concerned.)

Yuri: “Oh no, nurse! Is there anything we can do to help?”

Nurse: “C-C-Call my husband…I can’t do this without him…”

(Monika quickly pulls out her phone and dials the nurse’s husband’s number. She puts the phone on speaker as they all gather around the nurse, trying to offer support and comfort.)

Husband: “Hello?”

Monika: “Hi, this is Monika from the literature club. Your wife is in labor and needs you here. Can you come right away?”

Husband: “Oh my gosh! I’ll be there as soon as I can. Thank you for letting me know.”

(With that, Monika ends the call and places the phone back in her pocket.)

Sayori: “Is everything going to be okay, nurse? What if you feel the urge to push before your husband arrives?”

Nurse: “Don’t worry, Sayori. My husband is a skilled OB-GYN and he’s on his way. In the meantime, I’ll try my best to stay calm and breathe through the contractions.”

Natsuki: “You’re really brave, nurse. I can’t even imagine going through something like this.”

Yuri: “Childbirth is a monumental and miraculous process. It can be painful, but it’s also a beautiful experience. I’m confident that you’ll do great, nurse.”

Nurse: “Thank you, Yuri. Your words mean a lot to me. And thank you all for your support. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of friends.”

MC: “We’re here for you, nurse. Just let us know if there’s anything we can do to help.”

(Suddenly, the nurse’s husband rushes into the room, a mix of excitement and worry on his face.)

Husband: “I’m here, sweetheart. I’m so sorry I couldn’t get here sooner.”

Nurse: “It’s okay, honey. You’re here now. That’s all that matters-” (clutching her baby bump tightly) “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!”

Husband: “What’s