(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “So…while we’re waiting for the others to arrive…is there something you wanted to talk about, Natsuki?”

Natsuki: (sighs) “Yeah. It’s about my ex-boyfriend Lunagaron.”

Monika: “Oh, I didn’t know you had an ex-boyfriend. What happened between you two, Natsuki?”

Natsuki: “We recently broke up, and I can’t help but think about it constantly. It’s been really tough for me, especially since I told him about this…” (lifting up her shirt to reveal her belly) “…burden.”

Monika: (surprised) “Oh… Natsuki, I didn’t expect this. Are you… are you saying you’re pregnant?”

Natsuki: (nods, her voice trembling) “Yeah…7 months along now. I didn’t plan for any of this. We were both supposed to be using protection, but something went wrong.”

Monika: “I’m really sorry to hear that, Natsuki. That must be incredibly difficult for you. Have you talked to Lunagaron about it? How did he react?”

Natsuki: “He was shocked at first, just like me. We both never anticipated this happening. But when I entered my second trimester, he started acting distant and eventually broke up with me. He said he wasn’t ready for the responsibility of being a father, and he didn’t want it to affect his future plans.”

Monika: “I can’t imagine how heartbreaking that must have been for you, Natsuki. It’s never easy going through something like this, especially without the support of the person you thought would be by your side. Do you have anyone else you can turn to for support?”

Natsuki: “Not really… My friends are great, but they don’t understand what I’m going through. And my parents… they would be devastated if they found out. I just feel so alone.”

Monika: “I’m really sorry to hear that, Natsuki. You shouldn’t have to go through this alone. Is there anyone you can trust, maybe a counselor or a teacher, who could help you deal with everything?”

Natsuki: “I’ve thought about it, but I’m afraid of what people will think. I don’t want to be judged or treated differently because of this. I just want to find a way to handle it on my own.”

Monika: “It’s completely understandable to feel that way, but remember that reaching out for support doesn’t make you weak or any less capable. Sometimes, having someone to lean on can make a world of difference. They can offer guidance, advice, and just be there to listen when you need to talk.”

Natsuki: “I… I guess you’re right. It’s just hard to admit that I can’t handle everything on my own. But I’ll think about it. Maybe talking to someone would actually help.”

Monika: “That’s a good first step, Natsuki. Remember, you don’t have to carry this burden alone. We’re here for you too, in the literature club. If you ever need someone to talk to or lend a listening ear, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Natsuki: (smiling faintly) “Thank you, Monika. I really appreciate that. It means a lot to me.”

Monika: “Of course, Natsuki. We’re a team here, and we’re here to support each other through the good times and the difficult ones. We’ll get through this together.”

Natsuki: (looking at her belly) “Oh!”

(Startled, Natsuki puts her hand on her belly.)

Monika: “Is everything okay, Natsuki?”

Natsuki: (blushing) “Yeah, sorry. It’s just that my little girl kicked. I think I’ll name her Sakura. It’s a constant reminder of what I’m going through.”