(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Natsuki, you excited for the festival tomorrow?”

Natsuki: “Not really, to be honest. I have to bake so many cupcakes for our booth, and I’m not even sure if anyone will actually come and buy them.” (caressing her belly with both hands) “Oh, and next week, my little bookworm will finally be here. I can’t wait to meet her, but I know it’s going to be a lot of work.”

Monika: (smiling) “I’m sure everything will turn out great, Natsuki. Your cupcakes are always so delicious, and I know everyone will love them at the festival. And as for your baby girl, I can already tell she’s going to be as wonderful as her mom.”

Natsuki: (blushing) “Thanks, Monika. That means a lot. I just hope she grows up to love books as much as I do.”

Monika: “I’m sure she will. And in the meantime, we’ll all be here to support you and help with anything you need.”

Natsuki: (smiling) “Thanks, Monika. I really appreciate that. I know I can always count on my literature club family.”

Monika: “Of course, Natsuki. We’re all here for each other, no matter what. That’s what makes our club so special.” (hugs Natsuki)

Natsuki: (teary-eyed) “Thank you, Monika. I’m so grateful for your friendship and support.”

Monika: “Anytime, Natsuki. We’ve got each other’s backs, always.” (smiling) “Now, let’s finish up those cupcakes and make sure everything is perfect for the festival tomorrow.”

Natsuki: “You’re right. Let’s do this, Monika. Together, we can make it a success.” (determined)

(The two friends work together to finish the cupcakes, their bond stronger than ever as they prepare for the upcoming festival. However, just as Sayori and Yuri return from running errands for the club, Natsuki’s water breaks, signaling the start of her labor.)

Natsuki: “Oh no, it’s happening! I think the baby is coming! I thought I had another few days, but it looks like she’s ready to make her grand entrance now!”

Monika: (calmly) “Don’t worry, Natsuki. Everything will be okay. We’ll get you to the hospital right away.”

Natsuki: “I-I-I don’t know if I can! The contractions are getting stronger, and I think she wants to come out right now. I-I’m scared, Monika.”

Monika: (placing a reassuring hand on Natsuki’s shoulder) “It’s okay, Natsuki. I’ll call an ambulance and we’ll get you to the hospital quickly. Stay calm and breathe deeply. You’re going to be fine, and your baby girl will be here before you know it.”

(Sayori and Yuri spring into action, grabbing Natsuki’s things and helping her to the car. Monika, all the while, stays by Natsuki’s side, offering words of encouragement and support as they rush to the hospital. But just before they can get there, Natsuki feels an intense wave of pain and pressure.)

Natsuki: “It’s happening, Monika! I-I think she’s coming!”

Monika: “Stay strong, Natsuki. We’re almost there.”

Natsuki: “I don’t think we can make it! I…I need to push!”

Monika: “Natsuki, just try and hold on a little longer. We’re almost at the hospital. Whatever you do, don’t push just yet. Stay calm, and we’ll get you the help you need-”

(Suddenly, Natsuki lets out a scream as she feels a powerful urge to push, unable to hold back any longer.)