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Chapter Text

SCENE 1

Sayori:

“Haaahh… haaahh…!” Sayori huffs out, jogging down the street to catch up to MC. “I overslept again! But I caught you this time!”

MC lets out a groan of false annoyance.

MC:

“Maybe, but only because I decided to stop and wait for you.”

Sayori pouts, tapping both of her index fingers together.

Sayori:

“Ehhhh, you say that like you were thinking about ignoring me! That’s mean, MC!”

MC:

“Well, if people stare at you for acting…” 

MC pauses, his eyebrows slightly furrowing. 

“Never mind, I forgot what I was gonna say.” 

Sayori raises an eyebrow, her demeanor now curious.

Sayori:

“What were you gonna say?”

MC simply flicks his hand.

MC:

“Oh, never mind. Let’s just head to school, so you’re not late again.” 

Sayori lets out a soft “hmm,” before quickly jogging to meet up with MC.

Sayori

“By the way, MC, have you decided on a club to join yet?” 

MC:

“Club?”

MC barks out quizzically, scoffing under his breath.

“I told you already, I’m not interested in joining any clubs. I haven’t been looking, either.”

Sayori’s face turns softly saddened, her shoulders slightly slumping.

Sayori:

“Ehh? That’s not true! You told me you were gonna join a club this year!”

MC:

”…did I?”

MC asks himself out loud, his eyes slightly widening at the revelation. He knew he probably did, while dismissively going along with whatever Sayori was talking about.

Sayori:

“Uh-huh! I was talking about how I’m worried that you won’t learn how to socialize or have any skills before college! Your happiness is really important to me, you kn—“ 

MC quickly cuts Sayori off with a soft sound from his throat.

MC:

 “Sayori, listen. I get that you’re worried about me, and that you’re most probably right about me lacking in social skills, but I’m perfectly fine without any clubs. Seriously.”

Sayori’s face softens, her eyes meeting the sidewalk below her.

Sayori:

“…but… but I…” She murmurs out sadly, trying to sound overly pitiful.

MC’s face turns to slight panic, a nervous smile appearing on his face.

MC:

 “S-Sayori , I didn’t mean—“ 

He stops himself with a sigh, his eyes meeting hers.

 “I’ll try out a club of your choice, just this once. I can’t agree that I’ll join, though.” 

Chapter Text

SCENE 2

The two jog down the halls, as Sayori drags MC behind her, running upstairs to the literature club as quick as she could.

Sayori:

Huff… huff— Come on, MC! I don’t wanna keep them waiting!"

She huffs out, the bow in her hair slightly faltering. She swiftly fixes it, continuing her feverish pace.

MC lets out a breathless groan, his chest rising and falling as he tries to keep up with Sayori, hoping to god he doesn’t trip. 

MC:

"S-Sayori, come on. It’s just a club, I’m sure they would be fine with us being a bit late." 

He barely manages to retort, before the hyperactive girl swiftly dips into the club room, MC in hand. 

Sayori:

"EVERYONE! THE NEW MEMBER IS HERE!~"

The few girls in the clubroom perk up, a soft smile on (most) of their faces. Sayori couldn't help her excitement. After all, she's been waiting ever since she joined the club to finally bring MC in. It just felt so perfect to her, like she had a little school family, all to herself.

MC exhales sharply, still catching his breath. 

MC:

"I never agreed to—"

?:

"Welcome to the literature club. It's a pleasure to meet you." 

MC hysterically swiped his head to see who had noticed him, quickly being met with a taller, long, purple haired girl, who had seemingly taken an interest in him, the base of a crimson colored book nicely slid between the index finger and thumb of both of her hands.

"Sayori has been saying nice things about you."

Before he could respond with his humble gratitude, another club member greeted him.

?:

"Seriously? You brought a boy? Way to kill the atmosphere."

Another interrupts after another.

Monika:

"Ah, MC! What a nice surprise! Welcome to the club!"

Quips Monika, her pupils stiffly snapped to MC's. It was almost creepy, how she was always able to spot him as the first person in a room.

All words escaped MC in this situation. This club... Is full of incredibly cute girls!

?:

"What are you looking at? Do you think this is funny?" 

MC:

"N-no, of course not! I just—"

Sayori: 

"Oh, don't mind Natsuki! She's just a bit grumpy, is all. Hehe...~"

The pink haired girl, who's name was apparently Natsuki, seemed to calm down as Sayori hugs her from behind. MC didn't recognize her, but Sayori said she was the one who made the cookies, so he was going to be as calm around her as he could. Sayori clears her throat, taking a step towards MC.

Sayori:

"Anyway! That's Natsuki, always full of energy." 

Sayori points at Natsuki, who was staring at a tinfoil covered tray intensely, as if it would run away.

Sayori:

"And this is Yuri, the smartest in the club!"

Yuri shoves the crimson book into her lap, a soft flush covering her face.

Yuri

"D...Don't say things like that..."

Yuri, who MC could now tell was the more mature, timid one of the group.

MC:

"Ah... Well... It's nice to meet the both of you." Sayori perks up with thought.

Sayori:

"And it sounds like you already know Monika, is that right?"

Monika:

"That's right. It's great to see you again, MC."

Monika smiles sweetly.

Mc lets out a hum. He and Monika shared the same class last year, but rarely ever talked. Monika was probably the most popular girl in class— smart, beautiful, athletic. Basically, completely out of MC's league. So the fact that now, Monika was paying all of this attention to him.

MC:

"Y-you too, Monika."

Sayori giggles to herself, before turning to MC once more, her eyebrows shot up in excitement.

Sayori:

"Alright, alright. Come sit down, MC! We made room for you at the table! You can sit next to me, or Monika. I'll get the cupcakes!~"

Natsuki:

"I made them, I'll get them!"

Natsuki snaps, mumbling under her breath.

Sayori:

"Sorry, I got a little too excited... heheh...~"

Yuri:

"I might as well make some tea. Every celebration like this deserves some."

A few minutes later, the girls huddle around a few desks, formed to make a table. The tin foiled tray, along with tea, sat nicely on top of it. MC stares at it for another moment, before Natsuki slides the tinfoil off, revealing a a dozen white, fluffy, cupcakes decorated to look like little cats.

Natsuki:

"Ta-daa!!" 

MC couldn't help but marvel at the detail. The little choclate chip ears, down to the frosting whiskers.

Sayori:

"This is... DELICIOSULY ADORABLE LOOKING!"

Sayori blurts out, her smile reaching the sides of her face. Monika lets out a content hum.

Monika:

"I had no idea you were so good at baking, Natsuki!"

Natsuki lets out a huff of pride, a small smirk formed on her lips. 

Natsuki:

"Oh, it was a piece of cake." 

MC:

"Don't you mean cup-cake?" 

The 4 girls stare at mc for a moment, before Yuri lets out a quiet pity chuckle.

MC:

"...never mind."

Natsuki:

"Okay, whatever, just TAKE one already!" Natsuki enthusiastically quips, beaming as the 3 girls grab a cupcake.

MC follows shortly, before unwrapping the cupcake, biting at it's soft base. He pauses.

MC:

"This is..."

"...Delicious! Natsuki, how long did it take you to make these?"

Natsuki:

"Oh, pshh... Ya'know... Couple hours, maybe? Nothing too impressive..." She gloats proudly, still grinning ear to ear.

Sayori:

"Yeah, I agree! It's-" Sayori mumbles with her mouth full, before pausing, taking a moment to chew.

Natsuki begins to giggle. 

Natsuki:

"How did you already manage to get so much on your face? You took like two bites!" Natsuki giggles out, snickering into her hand.

The group finishes their serving of cupcakes in a few minutes, (well, except for Sayori,) talking about something or other.

Yuri:

"I think we should have some tea, now." 

Yuri's eyes flutter closed as she speaks, her breathing heavy. It didn't sound... abnormal, though, just as if she was more calm than the others were. Or, focused, for that matter

MC:

"Do you make the tea yourself?" MC quizzes Yuri, his head slightly tilted to the side. 

Yuri:

"Not usually, no. I've tried, but it didn't come out how I wanted it to." 

Sayori:

"Well, practice makes perfect, don't it? I'm sure you'd be a perfect tea maker, Yuri!" Sayori presses her hands together, smiling warmly at Yuri.

Yuri lets out a hum of content, slightly adverting her gaze. 

Yuri:

"Thank you, Sayori. It means a lot." Yuri carefully picks up her cup of tea, taking a sip of it. Monika follows. 

Monika:

"What made you want to join the literature club, MC?" 

MC:

"Ah... Well, uh... y'see," 

MC beings to stumble over his words. He was worried this question would come up. Monika's expression softens, her hands at her sides.

Monika:

"Ah, it's alright. I know how... passionate, Sayori can be about this club. That is why she's vice president, after all!" 

Monika pats MC on the shoulder, softly smiling.

"I'm sure you'll love it here, MC." Monika clears her throat, walking off.

Monika:

"Okay, everyone! I have an idea!" 

The three girls, who were still stuffing their faces with tea and cupcakes, (mainly Sayori on that part,) stare quizzically at Monika.

"How about we all go home, and write poems of our own? Then next time we meet, we can all share them with each other? That way, everyone is even!"

Natsuki:

"...er..."

Yuri:

"..." 

Sayori:

"YEAAHH, LETS DO IT!~" Sayori's inability to read the room, never got old to MC. 

Monika:

"Plus, now that we have a new member, I think it will help us all get a little bit more comfortable with each other, and strengthen the bond of the club."

Natsuki lets out a soft, hesitant, agreeing noise.

Monika:

"Isn't that right, MC?" Monika smiles warmly at MC once again.

MC:

"...Hold on, there's still one problem."

Monika:

"Eh? What's that?" Monika's eyebrows raise, her gaze locked onto MC, as it has been since he's walked in the room. 

MC... Really didn't want to join this club. He didn't like reading, and he didn't wanna make some dumb poems just to get closer to some pretty girls. Sure, it would be for Sayori, but that wouldn't be very genuine, would it?

MC:

"I never said I would join this club. Sayori may have convinced me to stop by, but I never made my decision. I still have other clubs to look at." 

One by one, the girls stare become a mix of either bitterness, or sadness. 

Yuri:

"B-But..."

...

Monika:

"I'm sorry, I thought..." 

...

Natsuki:

"Hmph. What a shocker.

...
Sayori:

"MC..."

MC 's gaze snaps to each of the girls, looking back and forth at them hesitantly, before sighing.

MC:

 "Alright. I've decided, then." MC picks up his backpack, glancing once more at the girls.

"I'm sorry, Sayori. We can... Go get ice cream, later today, if you want." He quips quietly, before walking out of the clubroom, his demeanor slightly less confident. 

     The 4 girls stare at the floor, Sayori's lip slightly trembling, trying to cover her face. "Don't worry about him, Sayori. He was a lost cause anyway." Natsuki quips, wrapping her arms around Sayori. "We can always get new members. People love literature!" She as lying through her teeth, and she knew it. Yuri glances up at Monika, her expression laced with concern. "...Monika? Are you... Are you alright?"     

      Monika's hands shake vigorously at her side, her breathing erratic. Her eyes were shot up like none of them have ever seen before, her mouth agape, and her body twitcing. "This... wasn't.... wh..." Monika's eyebrows furrow, her entire demeanor a furious cocktail of visible emotions. Shock, confusion, and most of all, 

terror.

Chapter Text

Monika's gaze snaps onto the other club members, her heart pulsing and writhing in her chest. "Wh...Why... Why didn't he..." Monika brings her hands up to her chest, her stance wavering and shifting backwards. 

Sayori wipes away her own tears, her eyes widening at the sight of Monika. None of the club members had seen their president so... distraught. Terrified, even. It was heart wrenching for all of them to watch, especially Sayori. "Monika...? Monika it— it's alright, please, just—"

"IT'S NOT ALRIGHT, GOD DAMNIT! IT'S- THIS-... THIS WASN'T SUPPOSED TO HAPPEN!" Monika grips and claws at her face, hysterically trying to compile 1's and 0's in her mind, searching for a way out. But there was nothing to compile, or delete. There was no available script that she could find. The files weren't there, and it's not like there was any file directory to change, anyways. Monika only now realized that she had never learned how to improvise, in such a simple, static world. Maybe actually trying out the debate club wouldn't have been such a bad idea, after all.

The club members stare in horror at their panicked president. unsure of what to do in such an unstable situation. Sayori begins to speak up, before Yuri quickly cuts her off, knowing she would most likely say something else that would accidentally tick off Monika. "Do you... want us to leave the room for a moment, Monika?" Yuri murmurs out softly, attempting to sound as sincere as she could in her un-natural state. Monika shifts her hand, her pupils crazed, now peering at Yuri through a gap in her fingers. "...Please..."

A few minutes had past, even though it felt like hours. Natsuki was desperately attempting to calm Sayori down to the best of her ability, while Yuri tried to do the same with herself, thinking of how she could possibly sort this situation out without her nerves getting to her. Sayori was trying to copy Yuri's composure, but was failing miserably. "Sniff—... I'm sorry, you guys... I should've— I should've never—" "Oh, come on, Sayori! It's not like any of this was your fault! So, what? He didn't join the club, and now Monika's freaking out a bit. She'll be fine, everything can go back to normal. There's no need to worry about some stupid absence of a boy." Natsuki bitterly states, letting Sayori grasp onto her like a frightened puppy. 

Yuri's head swivels back to the club room door, glaring through the crack. "Monika...? May we... Come in now?" Yuri could hear Monika let out a defeated sigh, her voice somewhat trembling. "Fine." As much as the girls didn't understand Monika's original panic, they could sympathize with her sorrow. Yuri gently opens the door. 

There sat Monika, hunched up against the club wall across from the door. her face in her hands. Yuri takes quiet notice of the now dark demeanor of the club room, all the lights cut, and the blinds sheathing the sunshine. Many of the desks were shoved either into an empty corner of the room, or next to Monika, as if she was trying to barricade herself in her own self pity. Sayori takes a few steps forward, sitting in the seat closest to the entrance. Monika lifts up her head, before leaning back, letting her skull lightly tap against the wall. "...I'm sure we can always find new members, Monika." "It isn't about new members, Yuri." Monika blurts out, her unfocused eyes pointed towards the ceiling. 'It's just—" Monika's words catch in her throat, her eyes welling up with tears for a moment more. "You don't have to talk about it, Monika. Sometimes things can make us sad without an explainable reason. And that's okay." Sayori's voice goes a bit more hushed, trying to stop her voice from cracking. "But whatever it might be, we'll be by your side no matter what." 

Monika smiles softly, shoving herself up from the ground, her smile swiftly dropping. "...Do we... Still have those cupcakes?" Natsuki lets out a giggle, pointing over to the cupcakes. "'course we do!" "Monika, if it doesn't bother you too much, may I turn on the lights?" Monika nods at Yuri's query, sitting down at the slightly rearranged desk. Monika stares at the cupcake tray, gently grabbing one, taking a small bite. Sayori sits next to her, a sincere smile wrapped onto her lips, as if the sight was a gift for Monika to see. "Even though he may not have joined, I'm sure we can still have just as much fun preparing for the festival together, can't we?" Sayori had been desperately hiding her own sadness at the fact that MC hadn't joined, but now, looking at Monika's sad expression, she couldn't help but forget about it, her full attention on making her friend feel better. "...Yes, I... I guess so. I guess we can." The girls sit in silence for a minute or two, finishing Natsuki's cupcakes, and half of Yuri's tea. (Even though Yuri was the only one who was actually drinking it.) "...Do you think we should call this meeting short, Monika? Just so we can recoup a little bit?" Sayori questions Monika gently, residue of cupcake frosting still visible on Sayori's fingers, and parts of her face. 

"I don't see why not." Monika avoids eye contact with any of the girls, glaring blankly at the wall. Sayori, Natsuki, and Yuri all grab their backpacks, slipping their belongings into the bags. The girls seemed to stall for time, stealing glances at Monika. "Aren't you gonna get your stuff?" Monika turns to Natsuki, her lips slightly twitching. In all truth, Monika didn't have anything to bring home, let alone a home to bring it to. She was never coded to have a life outside of the literature club like the other girls were. Whenever the girls went home, Monika watched them leave, and sat in the literature club the rest of the day. That's how it was for all of her life, even though she could only recall her existence after she had met the girls and created the literature club. Monika shakes her thoughts away, clearing her throat. "Yeah, I— I will in a minute. You two can go home. Have a good day." Natsuki and Yuri reluctantly exit, waving Monika goodbye. Monika stiffly waves back.

Sayori stands where she is, her light pink backpack hauled over her shoulders. The president, and vice president of the literature club exchange a tender stare, as if they silently understood each other. Monika knew Sayori would never know of her existential truth, but nonetheless found her ignorant confidence amusing. Sayori flashes a soft smile, before turning on her heel, beginning to leave the literature club. "Wait—" Sayori turns back to Monika, her eyes perked up quizzically. "...Could I... Maybe..." Monika's sentence trails off. "Come over?" Sayori's eyebrows hit her hairline, her smile instantly turning to a surprised grin. "I— Well, of course! Why do you ask?" Monika adverts her gaze from the now ecstatic girl. "I don't really-... have anywhere else to..." Monika stops herself, forcing a light hearted smile onto her pitiable expression. "I just thought it may calm me down a bit more." Sayori begins to giggle, running over to Monika, embracing her tightly. "I'll do anything in my power to make you feel better, Monika!" Monika's demeanor becomes a bit less tense, a light flush fading onto her face. "It means more than you could ever know, Sayori..." Monika's warm smile fades away from her face as she looks up at the clock, the ticking of the hands reverberating bitterly in her mind. There was no more game, no more tropes, and no more lines of code or script to follow.

She had became conscious in a universe that abandoned her, and her reality was only an echo of what she wished she could scream.

Chapter Text

Sayori's house, 3:50 PM.

Sayori creaks open her front door, keeping a close eye on Monika. She slips off her shoes, tossing them by the door. "Mama, I'm home!" Sayori's greeting was met with silence. Monika raises an eyebrow, her eyes flicking around the living room. It was a decent sized living room, which didn't surprise Monika, seeing the size of Sayori's house from the outside. She knew Sayori was never programmed to have a life outside of the literature club, other than her battle with depression, so the idea of her having a mother was definitely shocking. Sayori clears her throat, forcing a small smile. "Well, Monika— Welcome to my glorious humble abode! This is the living room, which is where we live," Monika nods her head in slight amusement. "This is the kitchen, which is where my mom cooks yummy food," Monika stares blankly at Sayori's kitchen, a realization dawning on her. The reason MC hadn't joined, the reason parts of Sayori's life that were never supposed to be in game, were now available for her to see. The reason she couldn't access the script, or the file directory

The game didn't exist anymore.

There was no "code," or "programming" in this world. It was... freedom. Freedom from her dull, scripted world. But it didn't feel like freedom. "...Mmmonika?" It didn't feel like freedom at all. Monika still didn't feel like a person, she still couldn't feel... Love. "Monika??" Monika perks up at Sayori's voice, a soft "hm?" escaping her lips. "I know my kitchen's awesome, but come on!" Sayori giggles out, grabbing Monika's hand, dragging her up to her room. Sayori opens her door, pushing Monika onto her bed. Monika takes a sharp breath of air, her eyes wide. "J-Jeez, Sayori!" Monika begins to chuckle to herself, her head flopping onto Sayori's plush cow. Sayori hops onto her bed, snuggling into her blankets. "Isn't my bed cozy?" Monika takes a deep breath, letting her eyes flutter closed. "Yeah, it really is."

The two girls talk about the festival for a while, even though Monika had lost almost all of her interest for it. There's no player, no script, no control for her to have. Monika's sentence begins to drift off, as her head becomes lighter and lighter, before hitting sayori's soft bed, her eyes lidded, her body curled into a ball. Sayori's expression becomes filled with concern once more, pushing herself up against Monika. "Can't you... You know... Talk to him? Ask him why he didn't join?" Monika's eyes couldn't help but well up with tears, her gaze adverting Sayori's. "...I could try, but I don't think he'd be all that persuaded... He was never an easy egg to crack, even when we were kids. I'm super duper sorry, Monika, I could always—" Monika nods, cutting Sayori off. "I think it's about time for me to go home, Sayori." Sayori flashes a sad smile. "Already? It's only been 10 minutes!" Monika pauses, thinking of a quick excuse. "My mom needs me to help her out with a few errands." Sayori wraps her arms around Monika. "Well, I hope you have fun, Monika. I'll see you later, alright? Try not to let the rainclouds get to your head!" Monika doesn't care to aknowledge Sayori's kind farewell, much too caught up in her thoughts to do so. She walks out of her bedroom door, glancing around the inside of Sayori's house once more, the ideas rushing into her brain making her feel almost dizzy. She shakes it off, waltzing back over to the highschool.

The club door opens with a slight creak, Monika's foot pushing it open the rest of the way. She quickly sat herself on a chair, staring at the chalkboard. She felt as if she was just watching paint dry, at this point. Today had grinded her gears a bit too hard, and she wouldn't let that slide. No, not this time. And so, Monika closed her eyes, beginning to focus, attempting to calm herself down, to fix what was broken. Her heartbeat rang through her ears, her breathing rhythmic. This world was broken, now, and she could fix it. She could save them, and she could save herself. She just had to try. Monika felt as if she was drifting through space, hum of the florescent lights in the club being the only noise that invaded her thoughts. MC didn't have to go. The girls didn't have to be programs anymore. Her hands instinctively curl onto themselves, her fingers entwined, resting under her chin. Reds, greens, and blues flood her vision, her eyes squinting roughly at the feeling. She slowly opens her eyes, her vision slightly blurry. But everything was the same.

Nothing had changed. It was still the lonely little literature club it always was. Monika stares ahead blankly, glaring at the chalkboard. What was the meaning of the festival, if her motivation to write literature was gone? If there was no one to watch her life, to tell her how amazing she was? She deserved it. She knew she deserved that type of praise. But she never got it. Never enough. Monika lets out a dry chuckle, slamming her fist on the desk, bitterly, her eyes welled with tears. She just wanted to be happy. She wanted to have her friends, and she wanted to feel normal. But she didn't, and she hadn't, for a long, long time. She could sleep it off, and everything would be okay in the morning, but now, the feeling was too strong. The ache eating away at her rusted heart had cracked it far too much today. Monika reaches into Sayori's backpack, which she had only just realized she had accidentally taken from her house. "It's gotta be in here somewhere... Come on, come on..." Her murmurs become more desperate and ragged, her searching hands twitching. 

Oh, there they were. Monika grabs a orange tinted pill bottle stiffly, glancing over the words on the bottle. "SAYORI ANASHI — ANTIDEPREESANTS. TAKE ONE TABLET EVERY MORNING, NO MORE."  Monika fumbles with the bottle, popping the cap open, letting a pile of about 7 remaining pills spill onto the table. Without another thought, her heart racing, she grabs all 5, popping them in her mouth one by one, washing them down with a small bottle of apple juice she had yanked from Sayori's backpack pocket. A "content" sigh escapes Monika's lips, letting her head gently fall into her arms. Everything would be okay. Eevrything would...

Natsuki rolls her eyes, suppressing a sarcastic chuckle at Yuri's remark. "Parfait Girls teaches the reader about important life lessons, like how to not be a JERK! Maybe you should read it sometime, Yuri. It would teach you a lot." Yuri ignores Natsuki, continuing to walk down the hall. "Natsuki, if you could appreciate people's more complex infatuations with literature, then maybe you wouldn't be so simple." "God, WHATEVER! Lets just go do what we came here for." Natsuki bitterly mumbles, gently opening the door to the literature club.

"The colors flash, darkening my retinas, wilting my sight.

Oh, always regarded, but never adored.

Never to be seen, never to be found. 

Never to be played.

All poems must come to an end, no matter how they writhe and convulse.

No matter which direction,

No matter how bold.

They will always end how they began.

As an endless

cacophony

of meaningless

Chapter Text

Beams of sunlight flood into Sayori’s room as her alarm clock blares, the light highlighting her dresser, as well as various scattered stuffed animals. A soft grumble escapes her lips, ducking her head under blankets to cover her face. "...mmm…” Sayori’s hand reaches for the alarm clock, clumsily smacking it on her nightstand, before successfully turning it off. Her squinting eyes gaze around the room, as if she was trying to find a reason to get out of bed. She eventually perks up, slinking her way onto the floor, grasping at her comically large cow plushie that had somehow fallen over. She continues to aimlessly grab at different things in her room, rearranging them ever so slightly, just to end up putting them in the exact same spot they were in before. After about 15 minutes of this, she scrambles out of the door in a hurry, a piece of burnt bread gently clasped between her jaws. She had always walked to school alone, but tried to start getting up a bit earlier, at least for the literature club.

“Gosh, does Sayori ever come to school on time?” “Oh, spare her some sympathy, Natsuki. Don’t we all sleep in sometimes?” Yuri quips gently, her fingers delicately wrapped around a teacup, strings of steam escaping from the top. “Well, of course we do, Yuri. I’m just saying, I–” The door slams open, a quivering, breathless Sayori standing her ground. Er– More slouching her ground? I’m not sure, at this point… “Sorry, sorry!! I was just trying to–” She comes to a halt, glancing around the room. “...What’s… Going on?” “We’re decorating for Halloween, of course!” A gasp escapes Sayori’s lips at Natsuki’s answer, a giddy grin plastered on her face. “OH MY GOSH! I ALMOST FORGOT HALLOWEEN IS COMING UP!! I still don’t have a costume!” Sayori pouts, wrapping her arms around her torso. “Just like last year…” Yuri mumbles, speaking before she could even think about what she’s saying. Natsuki perks up from her desperate attempt to find the 3rd volume of Parfait Girls in the closet, waltzing over to Sayori, an ambitious smirk on her face.

“You know, Sayori, this time around, I think I might be able to help you out with picking a costume.” “Well isn’t that sweet of you, Natsuki.” Monika quips, softly chuckling to herself. "You know, I wonder how we could incorporate literature with Halloween. Or any other holiday, for that matter." The fwip of Yuri's book closing quickly alerts the club members to stop talking. "The simple thing to do in this situation would be to make more dark, or creepy poems, but I think we could do better then that." Yuri glances around the room, the realization that everyone's attention was now on her almost causing her to sit back down. "I-I think we could always... You know... use the festivity of Halloween to include our perspectives on the holiday into our writing. Human celebrations have always interested me, even if I was usually too frightened to participate in them." Yuri pauses once more. "It could also be seen as a bonding activity, if we wish to see it in that light." Sayori suddenly wraps her arms around Yuri, giggling, her fingers stringing into Yuri's well brushed hair. "That's a great idea, Yuri! I think an activity that makes us better friends is just as good as eggs and toast!!" Yuri's face flushes a soft crimson, her expression tensing. "Well, thank you, S-...Sayori." "Sayori, come on, get off o'her!" Natsuki tries to make her tone sound more angry, but was failing miserably at the oddly adorable sight. 

"Sorry, sorry..." Sayori lets out an embarrassed chuckle, slinking off of Yuri, tapping her pointer fingers together. "I agree with Sayori, Yuri! That's a great idea!" Yuri softly hums in gratitude, running her fingers through her hair. "I think we should really try to make this a bonding activity, overall. I have a feeling that would do well for the club." "Ooh, Monika! I think we should pair up! Then I can finally hang out with my buddies outside of the club more!" Monika barks out a laugh at Sayori's enthusiasm, sliding her hands onto her hips. "Perfect! Well, I'd say that it's settled! We can go home in pairs of two, make some decorations and poems, and really get into that spooky spirit!" Yuri chuckles under her breath, her demeanor actually seeming quite excited, even though her eyes stayed the same. "Hallows' eve is simply enthralling. The cool fall air, the collective mindsets of eeriness. It really is something to celebrate, I'm happy we can all share this experience." 

The girls continue to banter on about ideas and such, discussing what Halloween can truly mean to someone, and the history of it. Well, that part was mainly just Yuri. It was ONLY Yuri, actually. The other 3 didn't mind one bit, seeing Yuri so interested in what they saw as a simple holiday warmed their heart in a way they couldn't exactly pinpoint. The clock strikes 3:45PM, Monika taking quick notice of it. "Well, that's our time for today, ladies. Have we chosen partners yet?" "How... homosexual of you." Natsuki chokes on her own spit at Yuri's remark, a surprised look plastered on her face. "SHE DIDN'T MEAN IT LIKE THAT, YURI!" "Haha, what you just said would be a lot more ironic in translation, Natsuki!" "...What?" "Oh, never mind. But seriously, have we?" The room falls silent. "Hmm... How about this. I can go with Yuri, and Natsuki can go with Sayori. Does that sound okay with you all?" "Fine by me, Monika." Yuri gently states, her eyes fluttered closed. "YAAYY!! I can finally taste Natsuki's cooking in person!!" Sayori's happy announcement led an almost cocky smirk to Natsuki's face. "I don't blame ya a bit, Sayori. I don't know of even one person that can resist my cooking!" Yuri looked like she wanted to say something, her eyes popping open for a moment before closing back down, keeping her words to herself. "I'll see you all tomorrow. Have a Nice Weekend, girls!"

Chapter Text

Natsuki slowly went to pick up her bag, shoving the 3rd volume of Parfait Girls into her secondary backpack pocket. "God, I wish these stupid books weren't so big. I mean, I get that it's because it has so much content in it, but still!" Natsuki uttered, half to herself, half to Sayori, who was excitedly looming over her, her eyes practically glowing. "That just means it's full of love and hard work from the author!" Natsuki grunts in soft agreement. swiping the straps of the backpack onto her shoulder. "You still haven't gave back the second volume, y'know." The shorter girl reminds, her demeanor seemingly reluctant to even start moving. "...Natsuki?" Sayori gently pushes, glancing over at the girl with a hint of concern. "Geez, what the heck are you lookin' at me like that for? Can you blame a girl for being a bit tired after a long school day?" Sayori softly giggles to herself, a whisper of worry still in the back of her mind. "Ah, you're right... I think I might be a little tired, too! My mind is working a bit slower!"

The two girls had reached Natsuki's house, it's demeanor a bit most rusty than Sayori had thought it would be. Not to the point where it looked run down, but just enough to make a statement. Natsuki stops abruptly at the door. "Alright, just— just don't make small talk with my dad, or anything. He's not very talkative around this hour." Natsuki's quip reeked of a half truth, as if there was something she wasn't telling Sayori; but she let it pass. It seemed like a touchy subject, anyways. Natsuki hesitantly creaked open her door, the interior of the home stinking of alcohol and cigarette ash. Natsuki didn't seemed fazed by it at all, but Sayori struggled to keep a cough in her throat.

A man lay on the couch, his chest rising and falling, his appearance being similar to that of a wet stray cat. Sayori follows as Natsuki swiftly waltzes up to her room, the concern in her mind growing as Natsuki quietly closes the door, as well as locking it on her way in. Her expression was twisted with fear, not only for herself. "Woooahhh... Natsuki, your room's adorable!" Sayori heartily murmurs, trying to lighten the mood a pinch. In all honesty, Sayori had to overexaggerate her reaction. The room was dull, lacking of any bright colors, or self expression. Sayori knew Natsuki well enough to know that she wasn't some jerk who truly anything cutesy, or colorful, so seeing an environment that Natsuki spends most of her time in being so DESOLATE was... Depressing, to say the least. 

"How kind of you." Natsuki scoffs out. Sayori softly hums to herself for a moment, sitting herself on Natsuki's bed. "You got the stuff?" Natsuki nods, grabbing parchment paper, scissors, and glue from her backpack. "I tripled checked, don't worry." A light pink sheet of paper falls onto the bed, as Natsuki simply stares at it. "What are we gonna make?" Natsuki perks up at Sayori's words. "Oh well, I'm thinkin' we make some posters. But usually, posters for clubs are stupid looking. Just a big heading saying how you should join, along with a few colors. It's lousy, and I want to be the person to change that." She takes the scissors, cutting the paper in half, beginning to fold it into shapes. First, a poorly made dove, which was then thrown away, followed by a better looking version. 

"You know origami, Natsuki?" Sayori perks up, her grin a bit more characteristic now. "Ah, it's nothin'. I picked it up a while back." "Could I try?" "'Course, just don't get mad when you're not a pro like me." Sayori quickly grabs a cut piece of paper, scrambling with it, folding it every which way she could. "What is that, a paper-" Natsuki's sentence quickly gets cut off, as Sayori chucks the now airborne folded paper at her chest. "H-HEY!" Natsuki hisses out good naturedly, chuckling a bit to herself.  "Alright, lets just try to focus for a second. Wouldn't want my professional skills to go to waste." The two girls continue on designing posters, with Natsuki using mainly paints of different colors, and Sayori almost only using colored glitter glue. 

About 10 minutes later, the final result is finished, with a mix of colors, doodles, and sticky notes placed all about. "Told you it would turn out great." "I don't think I ever said anything that would contradict-" Sayori's quip was abruptly cut off by a banging at Natsuki's door, a voice booming outside of her room. "NATSUKI, YOU- HIC- You know what I say about locking doors in this GOD DAMN HOUSEHOLD!" The man slurs out, shaking the handle of the door. Every muscle in Natsuki's body seems to tense, as she glances over at Sayori. "Don't move." Natsuki breathlessly mutters, before slinking over to her door, hesitantly opening it. "I-I have a friend over, we're working on a school project." The man stares down at Natsuki's small, trembling body, as Natsuki seems to sink into the ground, grasping her arms tightly. "And you needed to lock the door for that, eh?" Natsuki didn't even attempt to respond, taking a step back, her breath hitching.

The man's breathing gets heavier, his eyes locked onto her's, like a shark out for blood. "You lyin' to me, you little brat?" Sayori quickly stands up, taking a wary step forward off of the bed. "She's not lying, sir. She's really working hard in here to get her grades up, and she's the most creative, nicest people I know." Sayori's hands clench as the man's dull eyes move to her's, but she doesn't flinch, standing her ground. The man scowls, before waltzing out, slamming the door behind him. Natsuki rushes over to Sayori, wrapping her arms around her, her mouth agape, her eyes crazed. "DON'T- DON'T FUCKIN' DO THAT!" She cries out, making sure to keep her voice down. Sayori slightly falters, but her voice was still reeking of confidence. "He was yelling at you, it was up for me to help." She pauses, hugging Natsuki back tightly. "Are- are you okay?" Natsuki sniffles, her hands quivering. "I'll be alright. I just hate when my dad gets drunk." Sayori begins to tear up herself, softly hiccupping. "Oh- d-don't cry, Sayori..." "N-no one deserves to live like this! NO ONE!" She sobs out, her nails digging softly into Natsuki's back, her head in the crook of her neck. "I- I should've came over sooner... I... I-" 

"We can always finish the project later, Sayori. It's getting late." (I say, knowing damn well that technically only like 30 minutes has passed since they got out of school. Listen, man. I'm a gay teenage girl writing fanfictions, just go with it for now. :P) Sayori hesitates, before slowly nodding, wiping her tears with her sleeve. "I-If you're not comfortable sleeping in my bed with me, that's fine, I can try to-" Sayori giggles to herself now grinning ear to ear. "Jeez, someone's a bit sappy! Of course I'm fine with it, silly. As long as you are." Natsuki just stays silent, the two having a mutual agreement that they were comfortable with sleeping in the same bed. 

Natsuki involuntarily wraps her arms around Sayori for comfort, a soft sigh escaping her throat. "I'm sorry if this whole thing made you uncomfortable. I was supposed to give you a good time, and I- I blew it." Sayori pulls her closer. "I'm having a good time, as long as you are." The two slowly begin to drift off into a deep sleep, a light blush on Natsuki's face from the more-close-than-normal comfort she felt from Sayori. It was like having her own happy heater. Maybe, just maybe, they could do this more often.