(In the school literature clubroom…)

Monika: “There! Everything’s all set up for today’s meeting. Now we just need Sayori.”

Natsuki: “Typical Sayori, always running late. She’ll probably show up with snacks or something.”

Yuri: “I hope she’s alright… she tends to get easily distracted. It’s not like her to keep us waiting like this.”

Monika: “You’re right, Yuri. I’m sure she’ll be here soon. In the meantime, is everyone ready to discuss the poem we all wrote together? I’ve been looking forward to hearing everyone’s thoughts.”

Natsuki: “I just hope we don’t spend too much time on it. I’d rather work on my manga today! Besides, I think we all know my part was the best anyway!”

Yuri: “I think it’s important to consider everyone’s contributions, Natsuki. Each perspective adds depth to the poem. That’s what makes our club special, after all.”

Monika: “Exactly! Collaboration is key. Oh, I hope Sayori’s not too far behind. Maybe we should send her a message?”

Natsuki: “Ugh, fine. But let’s keep it short. I just want to get to the good stuff!”

Yuri: “I can send her a quick message if you’d like. I have her number saved.”

Monika: “That would be great, Yuri! Just let her know we’re waiting and that we’re excited to get started.”

Natsuki: “And maybe remind her not to bring any weird snacks this time! Last time we had those… weird gummy things that tasted like soap.”

Yuri: “Yes, I’ll mention that! But perhaps she was just trying to share something she enjoyed. We should be open to trying new things, even if they don’t go as planned.”

Monika: “That’s true, Yuri! It’s the thought that counts. Alright, I’m sure she’ll appreciate the reminder. Let’s not forget to encourage her creativity in the future too!”

Natsuki: “Sure, but let’s not go overboard. I do have my limits when it comes to those ‘creative’ snacks. If she brings anything strange today, I’m going to hide them.”

Yuri: “Maybe we could all suggest something for her to bring next time? That way, we can have a variety that appeals to everyone.”

Monika: “That sounds like a perfect idea, Yuri! A little ‘snack brainstorming’ session could be fun—”

Natsuki: “OW!!! Sakura, knock it off! Mommy’s trying to have a serious discussion here! Jeez… being 7 months pregnant certainly isn’t making it any easier to concentrate!”

Monika: “Oh no, Natsuki! Are you okay? Do you need to take a break?”

Natsuki: “I’m fine! Just a little kick is all. I guess Sakura’s just as excited about the meeting as I am.”

Yuri: “It’s amazing how connected you can feel to your baby even before they’re born. I can only imagine how special that must be for you, Natsuki.”

Monika: “Right? And it’s so impressive that you’re balancing everything—being pregnant, working on your manga, and still finding time for our club. You’re really strong!”

Natsuki: “Thanks, I guess. But sometimes it feels overwhelming. I just want to make sure I’m still engaged with everything, and that includes you guys and our discussions. It’s hard to focus with all this… movement!”

Yuri: “If it helps, we’re here to support you. You could always share how you’re feeling or even bring that into your writing. It might provide some inspiration for your manga!”

Natsuki: “You know, that’s not a bad idea. I could write about motherhood or the challenges that come with it. But let’s save that for a later meeting! Right now, I just want to enjoy our time together.”

Monika: “That’s a great plan! Maybe after the meeting, you can share some ideas for your manga with us? We’d love to hear about it.”

Natsuki: “Sure! Just as long as I don’t have to share any embarrassing baby stories—like how I am still figuring out how to be a mom.”

Yuri: “I think we would all love to hear about your experiences, and we’ll be respectful. It can be a great source of inspiration.”

Monika: “Yeah, it could help us understand how you balance your passion and preparing for a new life. Plus, it adds to the depth of our discussions in the club!”

Just then, the door swings open, and Sayori rushes in, arms full of snacks and a big smile on her face.

Sayori: “I’m here! Sorry I’m late, everyone! You won’t believe the amazing snacks I found! I even brought some—”

Natsuki: “Wait! Please tell me you didn’t bring those weird gummy things again!”

Sayori: “Uh… no! I promise! I got chips, cookies, and some fruit! Oh, and I’m really sorry for making you all wait! I got distracted by the bakery on the way…”

Monika: “You’re just in time, Sayori! We were just about to start discussing the poem we wrote together. That’s really sweet of you to bring snacks, thank you!”

Yuri: “Yes! We were also talking about how we might brainstorm for what snacks to bring for next meeting.”

Natsuki: “Exactly! No weird stuff this time, okay?”

Sayori: “I promise, I’ll stick to snacks everyone likes! So, what’s the first topic? I’m excited!”

Monika: “Let’s dive into our poem! I’m so happy to have everyone here. The club really wouldn’t be the same without Sayori’s energy—let’s make our meeting fun!”

Natsuki: “Agreed! And hopefully, without any unexpected surprises… like weird snacks!”

Yuri: “Every meeting is a new adventure, isn’t it?”

Natsuki: “Yeah, let’s hope it’s an adventure full of delicious snacks instead! I’m ready to hear what everyone thought of the— OW!!! Sakura, calm down! You’re getting a little too kick-happy in there!”

Sayori: “Aww, it sounds like Sakura is excited too! Maybe she wants to join the discussion!”

Monika: “It seems like she is! This meeting is even more packed than usual. Just remember, if it becomes too much, it’s okay to take a break, Natsuki.”

Natsuki: “Thanks, Monika. But I think I’m okay for now!”