(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Hang on, where’s Natsuki? It’s been 3 minutes and she still hasn’t shown up.”

Sayori: “I’m not sure. She was really excited about discussing the book we read for this meeting, so it’s weird that she’s not here yet.”

Yuri: “Should we give her a call or text to see if everything’s okay?”

Monika: “Good idea. I’ll shoot her a text to check in.”

(A few minutes later, and there’s no response from Natsuki.)

Sayori: “Maybe her phone died or she lost track of time. She can be kind of forgetful sometimes.”

Yuri: “Perhaps we should start the discussion without her and she can catch up when she arrives?”

Monika: “I agree. Let’s not wait too long for her, but we can always fill her in later if she shows up.”

(As the club members begin discussing the book, Natsuki suddenly bursts through the door, panting and out of breath.)

Natsuki: “Sorry I’m late, guys! I got caught up in something and lost track of time. OOF!!! Gosh, it feels like Sakura is trying to kick her way out of my stomach…”

Monika: “Are you okay, Natsuki? You look like you’re in pain.”

Natsuki: “Yeah, I’m fine. It’s just…ow! Jeez! Calm down, Sakura, I’m trying to talk here! Sorry, she’s just really active today.”

Yuri: “Are you sure you’re okay? Maybe you should sit down and take a breather.”

Natsuki: “I’m fine, really. Let’s just continue with the discussion. I can catch up- ACK!!! Sakura, knock it off!”

Sayori: “Are you sure you don’t need to go see the nurse or something? You look like you’re in a lot of pain.”

Natsuki: “I’m fine, I promise. Let’s just focus on the book discussion- GAH!!! Sakura, I said knock it off! Ugh, this is so distracting…”

Monika: “Maybe we should take a break and let Natsuki rest for a bit. We can continue the discussion later when she’s feeling better.”

Natsuki: “No, I’m okay, really. Let’s just keep going. I don’t want to miss out on the discussion- AAH!!! Okay, maybe I should get to the nurse. Sakura is really kicking up a storm in there. Sorry, guys. I’ll catch up with you all later.”

(She stands up slowly, wincing in pain, and heads out of the clubroom with the support of her friends. A few minutes later, she returns with a worried look on her face.)

Natsuki: “Guys…the nurse said that I’m showing signs of early labor. I might have to go to the hospital…”

Monika: “Oh my gosh, Natsuki! Are you serious? Should we call an ambulance?”

Natsuki: “Y-Y-Yeah…I left my phone at home. Can one of you please call for me?”

Sayori: “Of course, Natsuki! We’ll make sure you get to the hospital safely.”

Yuri: “Don’t worry, Natsuki. We’ll take care of everything. Just focus on staying calm and we’ll get you the help you need.”

(The club members quickly call for an ambulance and keep Natsuki company while waiting for it to arrive. They reassure her and try to keep her calm as they wait for medical assistance to arrive - all while her contractions become more frequent.)

Natsuki: “I-I can’t believe this is happening. Sakura wasn’t supposed to be due for another few weeks. I’m so scared…”

Monika: “It’s going to be okay, Natsuki. Just focus on breathing and staying calm. The ambulance will be here soon and they’ll take care of everything.”

Sayori: “We’re all here for you, Natsuki. We’ll stick by your side through this and make sure you and Sakura are both okay.”

Yuri: “Try to stay positive, Natsuki. You’re strong and you’ll get through this. We’ll be here every step of the way.”

(The girls continue to