Sssssh, listen!” said terry. “i can hear her coming down the hallway.” everyone hid behind the couches or in corners. they tried
to stifle their giggles and make no sound at all. there was only the sound of a key in the lock as sheila, the birthday girl, came in for the evening. what word gives the reader a clue that what is happening is going to be funny?
I believe that the most fitting answer for this question would be the word "giggle." Even if you have never read this story before, you can assume from the girls' laughter that what is about to happen is going to be amusing and fun. This word is the best hint that something amusing is going to happen. I hope this helps.