We stood perfectly still and _________ the rustling in the bushes, waiting for the rare bird to appear.

5
writing

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

watched

B

can watch

C

have watched

D

were watching

Correct Answer: A

Choice A is the best answer. The verb must agree with the simple past tense "stood" in the first part of the compound predicate. This maintains parallel structure and tense consistency.