Our Reality (Doki Doki Literature Club!)

The Truth

"I didn't really get a chance last time we were here, but I must say that the tea here is very well made," Yuri brought the edge of the teacup back to her pursed lips and took another sip.

Sayori belted a massive sigh, partially for air and partially as an attempt expel some of the heat from her body. "Very relaxing."

"Makes sense," Monika agreed, failing to stifle a chuckle. "Given where we're at, it's almost a requirement."

The two continued to quietly, peacefully drink their tea, an activity that deeply confounded Natsuki.

"...What are you guys doing?" she finally asked.

"Enjoying tea," the three answered simultaneously.

"Yeah, but..."

Natsuki could not understand how they could just sit and drink tea after what just happened to them.

"You should come join us, Natsuki," they continued, still speaking in sync.

Nor could she understand the reasoning behind them speaking in unison as if possessed. "What's wrong with you guys?"

"Nothing," they replied.

"Then why are you talking like that?"

"Like what?"

"At the same time."

The three exchanged glances with each other. "We're doing that?"

"Yes! You're doing it right now!" Natsuki snapped.

"We are?"

"Yes! Right now!"

Natsuki's frustration over her friends' inability to understand was skyrocketing until a brief laugh slipped out of Monika.

"What's so funny?" Natsuki questioned.

"Ehe, I wasn't the first to give it away this time," Sayori smiled proudly over her achievement.

"Give what away?" Natsuki stared uncomprehendingly.

"Fufu, Sayori suggested that it might be a good idea to distract you with this little act," Yuri explained.

"Distr-?" Natsuki bit the bottom of her lip as it all became too clear. "You mean to say that creeping me out and annoying me was all a part of some plan?"

To respect the rules of the establishment they were in, Natsuki stifled a groan and muttered a single word, "Why?"

"So, you don't act the way we all did after Shiko suddenly fell asleep," Sayori explained. "So we needed to distract you, especially since we're back here."

Natsuki turned away in a huff. "...Geez, you really think being here again would make me feel bad?"

"Even if it's our third time here, that doesn't mean it's any less awkward for any of us," Monika added.

"Third?" Sayori shot Monika a perplexed look. "Have you been here another time, Monika?"

"Huh?" Monika tilted her head in confusion.

"This would be our second time, correct?" Yuri, confused as well, played with her hair.

That's weird.

It had to be just a slip of the tongue and yet Monika felt a chill when she tried to contemplate it any further.

"I guess I was just confused for a moment," Monika said with a thin smile.

"...You guys are trying to outdo Mali, aren't' you?" Natsuki sat down beside them with a tired sigh. She was unable to admit it now, but she appreciated the effort her friends made for her.