(In the clubroom…)

Monika: “Um…where’s Natsuki?”

Sayori: “Hmm… I’m not sure. She was here just a little while ago. Maybe she went to grab something to eat?”

Monika: “That could be. She does usually get hungry pretty quickly.”

Yuri: “Well, I hope she comes back soon. We were going to discuss some ideas for the next literature club event.”

Sayori: “Oh yeah, I’m excited to hear what everyone came up with!”

Monika: “Me too. It’s always interesting to see the creativity that goes into planning these events.”

(Meanwhile, at a hospital…)

Doctor: “Natsuki, your contractions are getting closer together, and there’s a possibility that Sakura needs to be delivered early.”

Natsuki: (wincing in pain) “I know, I know… but I wanted to make sure she’s okay. Can I at least see her on the monitor before we make a decision?”

Doctor: “Of course, Natsuki. Let’s get you set up and we’ll check on Sakura together.”

(Natsuki is carefully helped onto the bed, and the doctor adjusts the ultrasound equipment. They both watch as the monitor shows a visual of Sakura, her tiny form getting clearer.)

Natsuki: (gazing at the monitor) “She’s so tiny…but she looks strong, doesn’t she?”

Doctor: “Yes, she does. Babies born prematurely often surprise us with their resilience. We’ll do everything we can to ensure her safety, Natsuki.”

Natsuki: (teary-eyed) “Thank you, Doctor. I just want her to be okay.”

Doctor: “We’ll keep a close eye on you and Sakura. Your health and hers are our top priority. Let’s monitor your contractions closely while we discuss the best course of action.”

(Natsuki takes a deep breath, clutching her belly as the doctor starts recording the frequency and intensity of her contractions. Meanwhile, back at the clubroom…)

Monika: “I hope Natsuki’s alright. She’s been gone for quite some time.”

Yuri: “Yes, it’s concerning. I hope everything’s okay with her and the baby.”

Sayori: “I’m sure she’ll be back soon. Let’s wait a bit longer before discussing the event.”

(Monika nods, her mind preoccupied with worry for her friend. She glances at her phone, hoping to receive an update from Natsuki soon.)

(At the hospital, after carefully monitoring Natsuki’s contractions, the doctor returns with a serious expression.)

Doctor: “Natsuki, your contractions are becoming more frequent and intense. It’s time to make a decision about Sakura’s delivery.”

Natsuki: (nervously) “What do we do, Doctor? Is it safe for Sakura to be delivered now?”

Doctor: “There are risks involved with delivering Sakura prematurely, but waiting longer could also pose risks to both you and the baby. I recommend we proceed with an emergency C-section to ensure her safety.”

Natsuki: (teary-eyed) “Okay, if it’s the best option for Sakura, then l-” (looking down between her legs) “…oh…oh no…”

Doctor: “Natsuki, what’s wrong?”

(Natsuki starts to panic)

Natsuki: “I think my water just broke…”

Doctor: (turning to the rest of the medical team) “Get the delivery room ready! We need to move quickly! We’ve got a patient in active labor!”

(The medical team swiftly brings Natsuki to the delivery room, wheeling her bed down the hallway. Natsuki grips the sides of the bed tightly, her breathing becoming more rapid and shallow as she gets ready to push.)