(I still missed my old friends back before I joined the literature club. Ayano always calmed my nerves when I went crazy for boys, and feeling Kokona’s triplets move around was exhilarating. Just then, I got a phone call - it was Kokona!)

Kokona: “Hey, Yuri! Long time no talk!”

(I was thrilled to hear Kokona’s voice again. Even though it’s been 10 months since Kokona got pregnant, I could hear several things that indicated she was in the delivery room.)

Yuri: “Kokona! Oh wow, it’s so good to hear from you! How have you been? And… are you in the delivery room?”

Kokona: “Yeah, you know me, always multitasking! The doctors say it’s almost time for me to give birth. I just wanted to take a moment to catch up with you before the big moment.”

Yuri: “That’s incredible, Kokona! I’m so excited for you. How have you been feeling throughout your pregnancy? Is everything going well?”

Kokona: “Thank you, Yuri! Overall, it’s been quite the journey. There have been ups and downs, moments of joy and moments of discomfort. But knowing that I’ll soon be holding my little ones in my arms makes it all worth it. And feeling the triplets move around inside me is the most amazing feeling.”

Yuri: “I can imagine. It must be such a unique experience to carry three lives within you. I’m really happy for you, Kokona. You’ve always been so caring and loving, and I have no doubt you’ll be a wonderful mother.”

Kokona: “Aw, thank you, Yuri. That means a lot to me. I hope I can live up to your expectations. Oh, by the way, have you been doing well since we last saw each other? How’s life at the literature club?”

Yuri: “Life at the literature club has been… interesting. It’s been a great opportunity for me to explore my love for literature and creativity. The other girls are amazing, and we’ve become quite a close-knit group. But I have to admit, I do miss spending time with my old friends like you and Ayano. You two always had a way of calming my nerves and understanding me.”

Kokona: “I understand, Yuri. Change can be difficult, and it’s natural to miss what we once had. But remember, friendships can evolve and grow, even if we’re not physically together. Just because we’re not in the same place doesn’t mean we can’t still support each other.”

Yuri: “You’re right, Kokona. I shouldn’t let distance or change diminish the value of our friendship. I’m really grateful to have you in my life, even if we don’t see each other as often. And I’m always here for you, no matter what.”

Kokona: “That means the world to me, Yuri. Thank you for being such an amazing friend. And don’t worry, once things settle down a bit with the babies, we’ll definitely find a way to catch up properly. Speaking of which, I think the first triplet is about to arrive!”

Yuri: “Oh my goodness, Kokona! That’s so exciting! Take deep breaths and stay calm, you’re going to do great. I’ll be sending you all my positive thoughts and well wishes.”

Kokona: “Thank you, Yuri. I really appreciate it. I’ll keep you updated on everything. And don’t worry, I’ll make sure to save a special moment for when we can meet up and properly catch up. I’m sure the babies would love to meet Aunt Yuri.”

Yuri: “Aunt Yuri, I like the sound of that. Please give the little ones a gentle pat for me. I can’t wait to hear all about them and their unique personalities. You’re going to be an amazing mom, Kokona. I just know it.”

Kokona: “Thank you so much, Yuri. Your support means everything to me. I’ll make sure to keep you involved in this journey every step of the way. And remember, even though things might change, our friendship will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Yuri: “And mine too, Kokona. No matter what happens, our bond will remain strong. Take care of yourself and those beautiful little ones. I’ll be eagerly waiting to hear all the wonderful news. Good luck, Kokona. You’ve got this.”

Kokona: “Thank you, Yuri. You’re the best. I’ll talk to you soon, okay?”

Yuri: “Definitely, Kokona. Looking forward to it. Take care of yourself and stay strong. Sending lots of love your way.”

(With a final exchange of well wishes and reassurances, Kokona and I hung up the phone. I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions - excitement for Kokona and the upcoming arrival of the triplets, but also a longing for the familiarity of my old friendships. Nevertheless, I knew that even though things had changed, the bonds of friendship remained strong. And when I arrived at the clubroom, I saw somebody I didn’t expect - it was Ayano! She was talking to Monika, Sayori, and Natsuki - almost as if she wanted to join the literature club, even though Natsuki looked around 7 months pregnant. I couldn’t believe it - for the first time ever since MC’s death, I felt overjoyed to meet my old friend again.)

Ayano: “Yuri! It’s been so long, I’ve missed you!”

Yuri: “Ayano! I can’t believe it’s really you. I’ve missed you too!”

(Ayano and I hugged tightly, both of us holding back tears of joy.)

Ayano: “I’ve been wanting to come back and see you all for a while now. Life has been really tough since MC’s passing, but I’ve realized that isolating myself isn’t the answer. I need my friends, I need you, Yuri.”

Yuri: “I’m so glad you reached that realization, Ayano. We’ve all been worried about you. But I’m really proud of you for taking this step. And let me just say, you have no idea how much we’ve missed you.”

Monika: “Ayano, it’s such a pleasant surprise to see you here. The literature club isn’t the same without you. We would love for you to join us again.”

Ayano: “Thank you, Monika. I would love to join the literature club again. I’ve really missed our discussions and activities.”

Sayori: “Ayano, I’m so happy you’re back! We missed your calming presence and unique insights. Plus, we need your help with planning our next club activity. It’s going to be so much fun!”

Natsuki: “Yeah, yeah! It’s about time you came back, Ayano. Nobody else can beat you in our manga debates. Welcome back to the literature club!”

Ayano: “Thank you all so much for welcoming me back with open arms. It means the world to me. I’ve missed you guys more than I can express.”

(As the club members continued to chat and catch up, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of happiness and gratitude. It was as if a piece of my heart that had been missing for so long had finally returned. Despite the ups and downs we had all experienced, our bond as friends had remained strong.)

Yuri: “Welcome back, Ayano. I’m so glad to have you here with us again. Let’s create beautiful memories together, just like old times.”

Ayano: “Thank you, Yuri. I’m excited to make new memories with you all. Let’s treasure our friendship and the precious moments we share.”

(With the reunion of Ayano and the renewed bond between us, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, we would always have each other for support. The literature club, now complete once again, was ready to embrace the future and continue growing together. After some time, all of us went to see Kokona in the hospital - she was still in labor. We arrived at the hospital and found Kokona’s room, where we were greeted by an exhausted but glowing Kokona.)

Kokona: “Oh my goodness, you guys! I can’t believe you’re here. This means the world to me.”

Ayano: “Of course we’re here, Kokona! We wouldn’t miss this for the world. How are you holding up?”

Kokona: “I’m tired, but I’m doing okay. The first triplet has arrived, and they’re healthy and beautiful. I can’t wait for you all to meet them.”

Yuri: “That’s wonderful news, Kokona! Congratulations! We’re so happy for you.”

Sayori: “I can’t wait to see the little ones. Do you mind if we take a peek?”

Kokona: “Of course not! They’re right over here.”

(Kokona carefully lifted the blanket to reveal a sleeping baby in a bassinet. We all gathered around, admiring the tiny, precious little being.)

Natsuki: “They’re so small! And so adorable! Congratulations, Kokona.”

Monika: “They’re absolutely beautiful. You’re doing amazing, Kokona.”

Ayano: “Aw, they’re perfect. Congratulations, Kokona. I’m so happy for you.”

Kokona: “Thank you, everyone. It means the world to me to have you all here, supporting me and celebrating this joyous moment. I can’t wait for you to meet the other two.”

(Just then, I noticed there was not one, but TWO movements inside Natsuki’s belly.)