How do Lucas and Valentina feel about their mother? 

What does Lizeth wish she had more of? 

What is Lizeth’s main challenge in her daily life?  

Reading 1 

Clara, affectionately known as Clarita, was a beautiful woman who worked as a seller in a shopping center in San Andresito, Bogotá. Every day, she greeted customers with a bright smile and a warm personality. She loved her job, but life was not always easy for her. As a single mother of twins, Gabriela and Sofía, she had to juggle work and family responsibilities. 

Clarita often thought about her dreams. If she could change something in her life, she would have more time to spend with her daughters. They were her everything. Every morning, she would wake up early to prepare breakfast for Gabriela and Sofía before heading to work. “If I had a little more time,” she would say to herself, “I would take them to the park or help them with their homework.” 

Despite her busy schedule, Clarita always made sure that her daughters felt loved and supported. After work, she would return home to help them with their studies. “If you study hard, you will achieve your dreams,” she often told them. Gabriela and Sofía loved their mother dearly and admired her strength. 

One day, while working at the shopping center, a customer named David caught her attention. He was tall, charming, and had a friendly smile. He came to the store often, always complimenting her and making her laugh. “If I could meet someone like him,” Clarita thought, “I wouldn’t feel so lonely.” David would often say, “If you ever need help, just let me know.” Clarita appreciated his kindness and felt a connection growing between them. 

As the weeks passed, David would come to the store and chat with Clarita. They talked about everything: their favorite movies, their dreams, and their families. Clarita found herself smiling more whenever he was around. One day, David surprised her by asking, “Would you like to have coffee with me this weekend?” Clarita was taken aback. “If I say yes, will this change my life?” she wondered. After a moment of hesitation, she replied, “Yes, I would love to!” 

That weekend, they met at a cozy café. The atmosphere was warm, and the aroma of coffee filled the air. They talked easily, sharing stories about their lives. Clarita felt happy and free, as if she had forgotten her worries. “If I had met someone like David earlier, maybe I wouldn’t have felt so alone,” she thought. He listened to her, and she shared her dreams of providing a better life for her daughters. 

As their relationship blossomed, Clarita introduced David to Gabriela and Sofía. The girls were excited to meet him. “If he treats us well, he might be a great addition to our family,” Gabriela said, her eyes sparkling. Sofía nodded in agreement. David was kind and patient with the twins, and they quickly grew fond of him. 

One afternoon, while they were all at the park together, David turned to Clarita and said, “If we continue to grow closer, I would like to help you in any way I can.” Clarita felt a rush of emotions. She had never expected to find someone who cared so much. “If only I had met you sooner,” she replied, feeling grateful for the new direction her life was taking. 

However, Clarita also had doubts. “What if this doesn’t work out? What if I get hurt again?” she thought. She had been through difficult times as a single mother, and she didn’t want to put her heart on the line. One evening, while talking with her best friend, she shared her fears. “If I let him in, I might get hurt,” she said. Her friend replied, “But if you don’t take the chance, you might miss something wonderful.” 

After reflecting on her friend’s words, Clarita decided to take a leap of faith. She knew that love required risk, but she also understood that it could bring joy and happiness. “If I trust David, maybe he will prove to be a good partner,” she thought. They continued to spend time together, and their bond grew stronger. 

Months passed, and Clarita felt more confident in her relationship with David. He was supportive and understanding, always encouraging her to pursue her dreams. “If you ever want to start your own business, I will help you,” he said one day. Clarita’s eyes sparkled at the thought. She had always dreamed of opening her own boutique, where she could sell beautiful clothes and accessories. 

One evening, Clarita sat down with Gabriela and Sofía. “Girls,” she said, “if I had the opportunity to open my own store, would you support me?” Their faces lit up with excitement. “Of course, Mom! We believe in you!” they exclaimed. Clarita felt a rush of happiness. “If I take this step, I will make my daughters proud,” she thought. 

With David’s support, Clarita began to plan her boutique. She worked hard to save money and create a business plan. She also continued to work at the shopping center, balancing her time between her job and her dream. “If I focus on my goals, I can achieve anything,” she reminded herself. 

Finally, the day came when Clarita was able to open her boutique. She named it “Clarita’s Closet” and filled it with beautiful clothes that reflected her style. The grand opening was a success, and many customers came to support her. David was there, cheering her on. “If you keep believing in yourself, you will go far,” he said with pride. 

As Clarita looked around her store, she realized that her life had changed in ways she had never imagined. She had found love, support, and the courage to pursue her dreams. “If I hadn’t taken that chance with David, I wouldn’t be here today,” she thought, filled with gratitude. 

With her daughters by her side and David’s unwavering support, Clarita knew that she could face any challenge. Together, they were building a beautiful future, filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities. 

Questions: 

What is the name of Clara’s boutique?

How do Clara’s daughters react when she discusses opening her own store?

What does David encourage Clara to pursue?

What is Clara’s initial concern about her relationship with David?

How do Clara’s daughters feel about David?

What happens when Clara and David go for coffee?