(In the clubroom…)

Natsuki: (already fuming) “GAH! How come she hasn’t shown up yet?!”

Monika: “She’s probably just running late.”

Sayori: (entering the clubroom) “Who are you two waiting for?”

Natsuki: “We’re waiting for Yuri. She’s supposed to be here by now!”

Monika: “Yeah, she’s running a bit late today. We were just wondering where she might be.”

Sayori: “Oh, don’t worry about it! Maybe she got caught up in something and lost track of time.”

Natsuki: (crossing her arms) “Well, she should have let us know if she was going to be late. It’s rude.”

Sayori: (gently) “Maybe there’s a reason she couldn’t inform us. Let’s give her the benefit of the doubt.”

Monika: (nodding) “Sayori’s right. We should be understanding and not jump to conclusions.”

Natsuki: (mumbling) “Fine, fine. But this better not become a habit.”

(Just as they finish their conversation, the door to the clubroom opens and Yuri steps in, heavily pregnant with her second child.)

Yuri: (breathing heavily) “I’m so sorry for being late, everyone. I went for an ultrasound this morning and it took longer than expected. But I can’t believe my sweet baby boy Amatsu will be a big brother!”

Monika: “Oh my…what did they say about Amatsu’s sibling?”

Yuri: “They said everything looks healthy and normal, just like with Amatsu. I’m overjoyed to be welcoming another little one into the family.”

Natsuki: (softening her expression) “Wow, congratulations, Yuri! That’s amazing news! I’m sorry for getting frustrated earlier. Did they tell you the gender of the baby?”

Yuri: (smiling) “Thank you, Natsuki. And yes, they did. It’s going to be a baby girl.”

Sayori: (giggling) “Aww, that’s so wonderful! A little brother and a little sister, how exciting!”

Monika: “Congratulations, Yuri! I’m so happy for you. It’s truly a blessing to have another child. You must be thrilled.”

Yuri: “Thank you, Monika. I really am. Amatsu is going to be such a loving big brother. I can’t wait to see them bond.”

Natsuki: (teasingly) “I hope your baby girl takes after you, Yuri. Maybe she’ll grow up to be just as passionate about literature too.”

Yuri: (blushing) “Oh, we’ll see about that. Regardless, I just want her to be happy and healthy. That’s all that matters.”

Sayori: “Of course! And we’ll be here to support you every step of the way, Yuri. You’re not alone in this journey.”

Monika: “Absolutely. We’ll make sure to help you with anything you may need, both now and after the baby arrives.”

Yuri: (gratefully) “Thank you, everyone. Your support means the world to me. I couldn’t ask for better friends.”

Natsuki: (smiling) “Well, we better start brainstorming some baby shower ideas, then. We have a lot to celebrate!”

(As the club spends the rest of the day discussing baby names, nursery themes, and planning surprises for Yuri, they can’t help but feel a sense of joy and excitement for the new addition to their literature family.)

(Eventually, the day finally arrives - and Yuri prepares for her water birth in the clubroom.)

(Inside the clubroom, a makeshift birthing area has been set up with a comfortable bathtub filled with warm water. Yuri is surrounded by Monika, Natsuki, and Sayori. However, Yuri’s contractions have yet to start.)

Yuri: (breathing deeply) “I can’t believe it’s finally happening. Thank you all for being here with me.”

Monika: “We wouldn’t miss it for anything, Yuri. We’re here to support you every step of the way.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, we’ve got your back, Yuri. Just remember to breathe through the contractions and stay calm.”

Sayori: “You’re going to do great, Yuri! We’re all here cheering you on.”

(Suddenly, Yuri’s face contorts in pain as her first contraction begins.)

Yuri: (gritting her teeth) “O-Oh…oh gosh, it’s starting…!”