(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “Natsuki, shouldn’t you be resting?! You’re 9 months pregnant AND on your due date!”

Natsuki: “I know, I know, but I just couldn’t stay away from the literature club. Besides, sitting at home all day feels boring!”

Yuri: “Natsuki, I understand your enthusiasm for the club, but it’s important to prioritize your health and the well-being of your baby. Maybe it would be best if you took some time off until after the baby arrives.”

Natsuki: “I appreciate your concern, Yuri, but I feel perfectly fine. Plus, spending time with all of you brings me joy and distracts me from the discomfort.”

Sayori: “Natsuki, I’m worried too. Your safety and the baby’s safety are our top priority. Just think about how relieved we would all be if you took it easy until the baby comes.”

Natsuki: (pauses and looks down) “Alright, alright, you guys win. I’ll at least go home and rest today. But no promises about tomorrow!”

Monika: (smiles) “That’s the spirit, Natsuki. Taking care of yourself and your baby is the most important thing right now. We’ll definitely miss you, but we’ll be waiting here for you when you’re ready to come back.”

Natsuki: (grumbles) “Fine, I’ll take a break, but only because you all care so much. Don’t think you’ve won just y-” (looks down at her belly) “…oh no…”

Monika: “Natsuki, what’s wrong? Is something happening?”

Natsuki: “I think my water just broke…I…I think the baby is coming!”

Yuri: “Oh my goodness! We need to get you to the hospital right away!”

Sayori: “Quick, someone call an ambulance! Natsuki, try to stay calm, everything will be okay!”

(As they await an ambulance…)

Monika: “Natsuki, just focus on your breathing and try to stay as relaxed as possible. We’re all here for you, supporting you.”

Natsuki: (panting as the contractions start to get closer together) “I…I can’t believe this is happening now…”

Yuri: “It’s alright, Natsuki. Just take deep breaths and remember that you’re strong. We’re here to support you through this.”

Sayori: “You’re doing great, Natsuki! Just keep breathing and stay strong. The ambulance will be here soon to take you to the hospital.”

Natsuki: (gritting her teeth) “I…I can’t believe I didn’t listen to you all earlier. I should have taken better care of myself.”

Monika: “Natsuki, don’t blame yourself right now. The most important thing is that you and the baby are safe. We’ll figure out everything else later.”

Natsuki: (straining) “OWWWWWWWW!!!”

Monika: “Hang in there, Natsuki! The ambulance will be here any minute now.”

Natsuki: (gasping for breath) “But…the baby…it’s starting to come out!”

Monika: (panicking) “Oh no! We need to help Natsuki deliver the baby right here, right now!”

Yuri: “I’ll try to find some clean towels or blankets to lay down. We need to create a safe and comfortable space for the delivery.”

Sayori: “I remember reading about emergency childbirth. We need to support Natsuki as much as we can. Let’s gather around her and offer words of encouragement.”

Natsuki: (in a mix of fear and determination) “I-I can do this! Just…just tell me what to do!”

Monika: “First, try to find a comfortable position, Natsuki. You can lean against me for support. Breathe deeply and focus on staying calm.”

Yuri: “We should time the contractions, so we know how close they are. That way, we can provide updates to the emergency services when they arrive.”

Sayori: “I’ve got my phone on me! I could time the contractions that way!”