(In the school literature clubroom…)

Sayori: “MC…have you noticed anything strange about Natsuki? She seems to be eating food she normally NEVER eats, like, oh I don’t know, salad.”

MC: “Hmm, that is odd. Natsuki always talked about her love for cupcakes and sweets—salad seems out of character for her usual tastes. Maybe she’s trying to change her diet or something. It could be for health reasons, for a new year’s resolution, or maybe she’s just trying out new things. Have you tried asking her about it?”

Sayori: “No, not yet. I didn’t want to pry in case it’s a sensitive topic. Maybe she’s just wanting to eat healthier? But, you know, she’s always been defensive about her manga and her cupcakes. It just feels like…something’s up.”

MC: “I get that. How about we try to talk to her together? If we approach her as friends who are just concerned about her well-being, she might open up. Natsuki can be pretty straightforward, so if there’s a reason, she’ll probably tell us if we ask nicely.”

Sayori: “That’s a good idea! Maybe we could bring her some kind of treat as a goodwill gesture. We could say it’s to celebrate her trying new things!”

MC: “Sure, we could do that. But let’s make sure we’re also respectful of her choices. If she truly wants to stick to healthier food options, we should support her in that too.”

Sayori: “Right! Supporting each other is what the literature club is all about. Thank you, MC. Let’s find a good time to talk to her, maybe after the club meeting today?”

MC: “Sounds like a plan. And who knows, maybe we’ll learn a new recipe or two from Natsuki’s new food adventures.”

(That evening, after the club meeting…)

Natsuki: “Oh. It’s you two. What now?”

Sayori: “Natsuki, we were just wondering about you lately. You’ve been eating a lot of different stuff, and it caught our attention since it’s so…unlike you. So, we thought we’d check in to see if everything’s alright!”

MC: “Yeah, we mean no prying or anything! We just care about you and wanted to make sure you’re doing okay. We’ve noticed you munching on salad, and it got us curious, that’s all.”

Natsuki: “Ugh, is it that obvious? Look, I was going to keep this to myself, but…I guess there’s no hiding it from you guys. I just…don’t know how you or the other club members would react. Would you…would you mind putting your hands on my belly?”

MC: “Natsuki, are you feeling ill? Is something wrong with your stomach?”

Natsuki: “No, it’s just…there’s someone you’ve got to meet before the big day in 2 months.”

Sayori: “Big day? What do you mean?”

Natsuki: “I mean… I’m pregnant. That’s why I’ve been eating differently. I’m trying to make healthier choices for the baby.”

Sayori: “Oh, Natsuki… that’s such big news! We’re here for you, no matter what.”

MC: “Yeah, we’ll support you in any way we can. Have you been to see a doctor yet? Do you have the support you need? How far along are you?”

Natsuki: “I’ve been to the doctor, yeah. I’m about seven months along. I’ve been keeping it a secret because I wasn’t sure how to tell everyone, and I didn’t want to make a big deal about it in the club…“

Sayori: “Natsuki, this is definitely something you don’t have to go through alone. We’re your friends, and we’ll help however we can. Does your family know?”

Natsuki: “It’s… complicated with my family. But yes, they know. It’s part of why I’ve been so private about it. I’m still figuring out what to do, but having you guys to talk to helps a lot.”

MC: “Of course, Natsuki. You can count on us to respect your privacy and give you the space you need, but we’re also here when you need to talk, or if there’s anything else we can do.”

Sayori: “MC is right. Whatever you decide to do, we’ll support you. And if you want to talk about it more, privately or with the rest of the club, just let us know how you feel comfortable.”

Natsuki: “Thanks, guys. I… I wasn’t sure how I was going to manage with all the club activities and schoolwork on top of this, but knowing I’ve got friends who care makes a big difference.”

MC: “You’ll never be alone in this, Natsuki. We’re a team, aren’t we? We’ll work together to make sure you and the baby are healthy and that you’re not overburdened by club duties.”

Sayori: “Yeah! And if you have any more of those healthy recipes, I’d love to try them too. Maybe it could be fun to have a healthy snack day at the club sometimes!”

Natsuki: “Heh, that might not be a bad idea. I could teach you guys a thing or two. But really, thanks for understanding and not making a big scene.”

MC: “We’ve got your back, Natsuki. Remember, you can always rely on us, and if there’s anything specific you need or any way we can help, please don’t hesitate to ask.”

Sayori: “Absolutely! And, um, congratulations, Natsuki. We’ll make sure everything works out.”

Natsuki: (feeling a kick from her belly) “Oh!” (putting her hands on her belly) “Hello there, Sakura!”

Sayori: “Sakura? Did you already pick out a name? That’s such a cute name!”

Natsuki: “Yeah… I thought about it a lot. Sakura sounds pretty and it reminds me of the cherry blossoms in the spring. It just felt right, you know?”

MC: “That’s a beautiful name, Natsuki. It suits you, and I’m sure it will suit your daughter too.”

Natsuki: “Thanks, MC. It means a lot to hear you say that. I’ve had a lot of time to think by myself, but now, I feel like I’ve got a better path forward with you and Sayori supporting me.”

Sayori: “And we’ll keep supporting you, Natsuki! Just like the cherry blossoms that bloom so brightly, we’ll make sure to help brighten your days too.”

MC: “We should probably discuss how we’re going to approach this with the club and the rest of the school. The news will come out eventually, and it’s best if we plan ahead for how to handle it.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, you’re right. One step at a time, though. Let’s figure out the club first. They’re our friends, so I hope they’ll understand and be supportive too.”

Sayori: “They will, Natsuki. If they’re true friends, they’ll stand by you just like we are.”

Natsuki: “I really hope so. It’s going to be tricky balancing school and being a mom, but with a support system, I think I can manage. Plus, I don’t want to give up on the things I love, like baking and manga. Those are parts of me that I want to share with Sakura too.”

MC: “That’s the spirit. And who knows, maybe Sakura will grow up to be a great baker or a manga artist with a mom like you.”

Sayori: “I can already see it! We’ll have the cutest little club member joining us in the future. Just imagine, mini cupcakes made by mini Natsuki!”

Natsuki: (laughs) “Okay, okay, maybe let’s not get ahead of ourselves. But truly, thank you both so much. Let’s take it one day at a time, and maybe start by figuring out how to break the news to Yuri and Monika.”

MC: “We will. And Natsuki, remember that it’s not just about taking it one day at a time, but also about being open and asking for help when you need it. We’re here for you, every step of the way.”

Sayori: “Yep, you’ve got us, Natsuki. Always. Now, how about we celebrate this new chapter with some tea and maybe even try one of those healthier snacks you’ve been enjoying?”

Natsuki: “I’d like that. Thanks, you guys. I think I’m ready to share this part of my life with the rest of the club now.”

(The next day, back in the clubroom…)