Fifth Grade
Worksheets
The Mystery of the Multiplying Chocolates
Lucinda loved Valentine's Day. As the self-proclaimed prettiest girl in the eighth grade class, she always managed to get more Valentine's Day surprises than anyone else. Her black eyes, fringed by lush lashes, matched her shiny black hair. She wore bright colors and cultivated a shrill laugh that got everyone's attention. Lucinda was prepared to rake it in on this Valentine's Day as she had for most of her short life.
"I just expect a miracle of some kind today," said Lucinda haughtily to her friend as she tossed her hair over her shoulders. Lucinda often thought she was better than anyone else.
"What are you expecting?" said Ashley, whose blonde hair contrasted sharply with Lucinda's dark good looks.
"I don't know, but I hope I get some treats and mushy cards before the day is over. Wow, what is that in front of my locker?" Lucinda said as she ran over to examine a package.
Lucinda did get a wonderful surprise. In front of her locker was a pink heart-shaped box, but there was no card to identify the giver. Inside the pretty box was a luscious pile of delectable chocolates. The thought of devouring cherry cordials, Vermont fudge, and cashew clusters made Lucinda's mouth water all the way home.
"You are lucky you are my best friend," said Lucinda. "I will share this box of chocolates with you when we get to my house."
"I thought you'd never ask," said Ashley. The girls trotted to Lucinda's house in anticipation of stuffing themselves with sweets.
When they reached the large, ranch style house, the girls went down into the basement to sit on the sofa, watch television, and eat comforting bits of chocolate. One by one they sampled every imaginable confection. One by one the beautiful treats disappeared until only two were left.
