(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Um…has anyone seen Natsuki?”

Yuri: “I haven’t seen her since we all went home yesterday. Do you think something happened?”

Sayori: “Maybe she just overslept! You know how much she loves her morning naps.”

Monika: “That’s true, but she’s never been this late before. I’m starting to get worried.”

Yuri: “Well, we could try calling her. Maybe she just forgot about our meeting this morning.”

Sayori: “Good idea! Let’s try giving her a call.”

(They all take their phones out and dial Natsuki’s number. It goes straight to voicemail.)

Monika: “It’s going straight to voicemail. That’s not a good sign.”

(Meanwhile, at the hospital…)

Natsuki: (clutching her baby bump, face contorted in pain) “Doctor, what’s wrong?! Is the baby okay?!”

Doctor: (calmly) “Natsuki, try to stay calm. We’re running some tests to determine what’s happening. It’s important not to jump to conclusions just yet.”

Natsuki: (teary-eyed) “But…but the pain, it feels so intense. What if something is wrong with the baby? I can’t lose my baby…”

Doctor: “I understand your concerns, Natsuki, but let’s focus on finding out what’s happening first. Sometimes, these symptoms can be completely normal during pregnancy. Our priority is ensuring the health and safety of both you and your baby.”

Natsuki: (nervously) “Okay, I’ll try to stay calm. But please, can you give me any updates as soon as you know something? I can’t handle the uncertainty.”

Doctor: “Of course, I’ll keep you updated every step of the way. In the meantime, I’ll order some additional tests and consult with specialists to get a better understanding of what may be causing your pain.”

Natsuki: (weakly) “Thank you, Doctor. I just want my baby to be safe.”

Doctor: “I understand, Natsuki. We’ll do everything we can to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby. Just try to get some rest for now, and we’ll have more information for you soon.”

(Natsuki nods, still clutching her baby bump, her worry evident. The doctor leaves to arrange the necessary tests, leaving Natsuki alone with her racing thoughts. Eventually, the doctor returns with the test results.)

Doctor: “Natsuki, we’ve received the test results, and I have some news for you. It appears that you’re experiencing some complications with your pregnancy.”

Natsuki: (gripping the edges of her hospital gown tightly) “Complications? What does that mean? Is my baby in danger?”

Doctor: “I’m afraid there are signs of preterm labor. We need to take immediate action to prevent any further complications and ensure the health of both you and your baby.”

Natsuki: (voice trembling) “What can we do? Please, tell me what we need to do!”

Doctor: “First, we’ll admit you to the hospital for close monitoring and further tests. Depending on the severity of the preterm labor, we might need to administer medication to stop the contractions and give your baby more time to develop.”

Natsuki: (teary-eyed) “Okay, whatever it takes to keep my baby safe. Please, do whatever you can.”

Doctor: “I assure you, we will do our best. Our priority is the well-being of both you and your baby. It’s important to remember that we have advanced medical resources and a skilled team here to support you.”

Natsuki: (sniffles) “Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate your reassurance. I just want my baby to be okay.”

Doctor: “I understand how worried you must be, Natsuki. We’ll closely monitor your condition and keep you updated every step of the way. You’re not alone in this. We’re here with you.”

(Natsuki takes a deep breath, trying to find some strength amidst her fear and uncertainty. The doctor and medical staff prepare to provide the necessary care and support for Natsuki and her baby. As Natsuki lays in her hospital bed, she clings to the hope that everything will turn out alright. After a few minutes…)

Natsuki: “It’s getting worse…I don’t think this is getting any better…”

Doctor: “I understand that you’re in pain, Natsuki, but it’s important to stay calm and trust in our team. We’re monitoring your condition closely, and we’ll do everything we can to help you and your baby. Sometimes, complications can take time to resolve, but please know that you’re in good hands.”

Natsuki: (squeezing her eyes shut) “I’m trying, but it hurts so much. What if something happens to my baby? I can’t bear the thought of losing them.”

Doctor: “I know this is a difficult situation, but stressing yourself out won’t be beneficial for you or your baby. Right now, the most important thing is for you to stay as calm and relaxed as possible. We’re doing everything we can to address the complications and ensure the well-being of both you and your baby.”

Natsuki: (sniffling) “I’ll try my best, but it’s just so frightening. I’ve been looking forward to becoming a mom, and now everything feels so uncertain.”

Doctor: “I understand, Natsuki. It’s natural to feel scared in situations like this. But remember, you’re not alone in this journey. We have a dedicated team of specialists who specialize in high-risk pregnancies. We’ll provide you with the best care possible and support you every step of the way.”

Natsuki: (softly) “Thank you, Doctor. I appreciate your words. It’s just hard to stay positive when I feel so helpless.”

Doctor: “I understand that it’s challenging, but try to find strength in the fact that you’re receiving expert medical care and that we’re taking proactive steps to address the complications. Hold onto hope, Natsuki, because miracles happen. I’ve seen many difficult situations turn around for the better.”

Natsuki: (taking a shaky breath) “Okay, I’ll try to stay hopeful. Please, just keep doing whatever you can to help my baby. They’re my everything.”

Doctor: “Rest assured, Natsuki, we’re doing everything within our power. You and your baby are our top priority. Now, let’s focus on your well-being and take it one step at a time. Together, we’ll navigate this challenge and strive for the best possible outcome.”

(Natsuki nods, still overwhelmed by fear and worry, but finding a glimmer of hope in the doctor’s words. The medical team continues to provide the necessary care, closely monitoring Natsuki’s condition, and working towards the best solution for both her and her baby. Suddenly…)

Natsuki: “Doctor! M-My water just broke!”