(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Hey, everyone! Ready for the festival tomorrow?”

Yuri: “Yes, I’ve been looking forward to it. I have finished preparing my poems for the poetry reading.”

Sayori: “I’m excited too! I can’t wait to see everyone’s amazing creations.”

Natsuki: “Well, I guess it’ll be fun. I’ve been working hard on some new manga ideas to showcase.”

Monika: “That’s great to hear, Natsuki! Your creativity is always impressive.”

Sayori: “Monika, are you sure you’re not worried about anything? You seem so calm about everything…” (looking down at Monika’s belly) “…considering you’re in your 7th month of pregnancy.”

Monika: (smiling) “Well, I won’t deny that being pregnant does come with its own set of challenges. But I’ve been taking care of myself and getting plenty of rest, so I feel pretty good overall.”

Yuri: “I must say, Monika, you’re handling everything so gracefully. It’s inspiring to see your positive attitude.”

Monika: (blushing) “Thank you, Yuri. I appreciate your kind words. It’s been an interesting journey, but I believe in embracing every aspect of life, including motherhood.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, yeah, motherhood and all that mushy stuff. Just don’t go crazy and start writing baby poems or something. We still want you to be the Monika we know.”

Monika: (laughing) “Don’t worry, Natsuki. I promise to keep my poems diverse and interesting, with or without the baby theme.”

Sayori: “I’m sure whatever you come up with will be amazing, Monika. Your talent is boundless, after all.”

Monika: (grateful) “Thank you, Sayori. That means a lot to me. I can’t wait to share my poem with all of you tomorrow.”

Yuri: “And we can’t wait to hear it. It’ll be like a gift from the future, carrying the emotions of both motherhood and literature.”

Sayori: “Exactly! That’s why our literature club is so special. We support each other through all of life’s joys and challenges.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, yeah, I guess I can’t deny that. But don’t expect me to start writing deep stuff like you guys.”

Monika: (smiling) “No pressure, Natsuki. Just keep doing what you do best– …oh, no…not now…”

Natsuki: (concerned) “What’s wrong, Monika?”

Monika: (wincing) “I think…I think my water just broke. It’s time.”

Yuri: “Oh my, it seems the baby isn’t waiting for the festival to arrive.”

Sayori: (panicking) “I-I-I-I can time the contractions! How far apart are they?”

Monika: “I’m not sure, they just started. But they’re definitely getting stronger.”

Natsuki: “Okay, we need to make sure Monika’s as comfortable as possible. Yuri, go grab some pillows and blankets. Sayori, time the contractions as best you can.”

Yuri: “Right away, Natsuki!” (Yuri quickly rushes out of the room and returns shortly with pillows and blankets)

Sayori: “Okay, Monika, just try to stay calm. I’ll time the contractions and let you know when they’re getting closer together.”

Natsuki: “Monika, do you have a plan for getting to the hospital?”

Monika: (taking deep breaths) “I…I hadn’t thought that far ahead. My husband is at work, and I don’t want to bother him just yet. But I’ll figure something out.”

Yuri: “Don’t worry, Monika. We’ll find a way to get you to the hospital. We’ll call for a taxi or an ambulance if we need to.”

Sayori: “Y-Yes! We’ll make sure you and the baby are safe, Monika.”

Monika: (smiling through the pain) “Thank you, everyone. I appreciate your support more than words can say.”

Natsuki: “Alright, let’s get Monika situated on the couch with the pillows and blankets. Yuri, could you also grab a glass of water for her?”

Yuri: “Of course, Natsuki.” (Yuri quickly leaves to get the water)

Sayori: “Monika, I’m going to start timing your contractions now. Just let me know when one starts and when it ends.”

Monika: “Okay, Sayori. I’ll do my best.”

Natsuki: “You’re doing great, Monika. Just focus on your breathing and stay as comfortable as possible.”

Monika: (grateful) “Thank you, Natsuki. I couldn’t ask for better friends in this moment.”

Yuri: (returning with a glass of water) “Here, Monika. You should try to stay hydrated.”

Monika: (taking the glass) “Thank you, Yuri. I’ll do my best to drink.”

Sayori: “Monika, the contractions are about five minutes apart now. It’s almost time to go to the hospital.”