(In the clubroom…)

Monika: “Um…where’s Natsuki?”

Sayori: “I haven’t seen her since we all arrived. Maybe she’s running a bit late today?”

Yuri: “I suppose that’s a possibility. Natsuki isn’t usually one to be tardy, but anything can happen.”

Monika: “Well, I hope she arrives soon. We can’t start the meeting without her.” (rubbing her 7-month baby bump) “My little girl Minika’s getting worried, too. She’s not as active today.”

Sayori: “Maybe we should give Natsuki a call just to make sure everything’s alright?”

Yuri: “That might be a good idea. We don’t want to worry unnecessarily, but it’s better to be safe.”

(Monika takes out her phone and dials Natsuki’s number. After a few rings, it goes to voicemail.)

Monika: “Hmm, she’s not picking up. That’s strange. Natsuki usually always has her phone with her.”

Sayori: “Do you think something happened to her? I’m getting a little worried now.”

Yuri: “Let’s not jump to conclusions just yet. There could be a simple explanation for why she’s not answering.”

Monika: “You’re right, Yuri. We shouldn’t worry too much. Maybe Natsuki just forgot her phone at home or she’s having some technical difficulties-” (clutching her belly) “OH, GOD!!!”

Sayori: “Monika, what’s wrong? Are you okay?”

Monika: “I-I think… I’m going into labor! It’s happening earlier than expected!”

Yuri: “Oh my goodness! We need to get you to the hospital right away!”

Sayori: “Don’t worry, Monika. We’ll take care of everything. Just try to stay calm.”

(Monika takes deep breaths, trying to manage her pain.)

Monika: “I…I can’t go on my own. I need help.”

Yuri: “Of course, Monika. We’ll support you through this. Let’s call an ambulance and notify the hospital about the situation.”

(Sayori quickly dials the emergency number while Yuri helps Monika sit down and stay comfortable.)

Sayori: “Help is on its way, Monika. Just hold on.”

Monika: “Thank you, both of you. I’m so glad I have you here.”

Yuri: “We’re here for you, Monika. We’ll be with you every step of the way, no matter what.”

(Just then, the clubroom door swings open and Natsuki rushes in, breathless.)

Natsuki: “Sorry I’m late, guys! I overslept and- wait, what’s going on? Why is Monika in so much pain?”

Sayori: “Natsuki, Monika’s going into labor. It’s happening earlier than expected.”

Natsuki: “Oh my gosh! Is there anything I can do to help?”

Yuri: “Actually, we’ve already called an ambulance and they’re on their way. Right now, we just need to keep Monika calm and comfortable until help arrives.”

Natsuki: “Alright, I’ll do whatever I can.”

(Sayori and Yuri help Natsuki find a chair next to Monika, and they all sit together, offering support and comfort.)

Monika: “I’m…really scared, you guys.”

Natsuki: “It’s okay to be scared, Monika. But you’re strong, and we’re here for you. You can do this.”

Sayori: “That’s right, Monika. We’ll stay by your side throughout the whole process. You’re not alone.”

(Suddenly, without warning, Monika’s water breaks and her contractions become more intense.)

Yuri: “It looks like we don’t have much time. We need to keep Monika as comfortable as possible until the ambulance gets here.”

Natsuki: “I remember reading about this in health class. We can use some towels to make sure she doesn’t get wet and pillows to support her.”

(Sayori quickly grabs towels and pillows from the closet while Natsuki and Yuri help position them around Monika.)

Monika: “Thank you, everyone. I don’t know what I would do without you.”

(Sayori holds Monika’s hand and offers words of encouragement.)

Sayori: “You’re doing amazing, Monika. Just remember to breathe through the contractions. It’ll be over before you know it.”

Natsuki: “And don’t forget to push when you need to. We’ll all be right here, supporting you every step of the way.”

(Monika nods, taking deep breaths and finding strength from her friends’ presence.)

Yuri: “The ambulance should be here soon. Hang in there, Monika. You’re doing great.”

Monika: “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! This is happening a lot faster than I hoped for…!”

Natsuki: “Monika, is something wrong with the labor?!”