Answer: The best meaning of "gaunt" as it is used in the sentence provided is A. skeletal.
Explanation: "Gaunt" is an adjetive used to describe someone as very thin and haggard. In the sentence provided,<u> the word "gaunt" has been used to describe a sinister figure</u>; therefore, in this case<u>, the best meaning of "gaunt" is "skeletal"</u>. "Skeletal" is also an adjective and<u> it makes reference to someone that does not have a lot of flesh</u>, that is to say someone that resembles a skeleton.
Rapport, because rapport is when basically two people have an understanding relationship and have empathy for each others situation.
This will make the reader side with the main character more and try to relate to her because as the reader, you know that she is actually seeing these things and she is not crazy. Although her husband just believes that she needs time and air, both she and the reader believe otherwise. The story itself is quite spooky because you're not really sure what the girl in the wallpaper represents or if she is real or part of the woman's imagination.