Question

read the following original passage and answer the questions.
maya glanced over her shoulder as she hurried down the narrow alley, her heart pounding with every step. the sound of footsteps echoed behind her, steady and relentless. she clenched her fists, forcing herself to keep moving, though her legs felt like lead. she could feel the weight of mr. coles gaze even though he was still several paces away. there was something about his calm demeanor that unnerved her. he never raised his voice, never made threats. he didnt have to.
maya knew that her refusal to sell the bookstore had angered him, but she hadnt expected the situation to escalate this far. mr. cole had built his empire by being ruthless, and now she was standing in his way. his influence in the town was undeniable—shops had closed, neighbors had moved, all after a single conversation with him. yet, she had stood her ground, clinging to the only thing that connected her to her late father.
the footsteps grew closer, and mayas breath quickened. she didnt need to look back to know that mr. cole was smiling, that cold, calculating smile. he would win this game of cat and mouse, just like he always did. but maya wasnt ready to give up—there had to be a way to protect her fathers legacy from a man who had never faced resistance before.

1. what theme is most evident in the passage?

a. the importance of family
b. the danger of isolation
c. the power of friendship
d. the struggle between good and evil

Explanation:

The passage emphasizes Maya's connection to her late father and her determination to protect his legacy, which is related to family.

Answer:

a. The importance of family