To tell a story in the past, we need words that link actions and descriptions:

• Mientras: Means “while”. Usually connects two simultaneous actions in the Imperfecto.
• De repente / De pronto: Means “suddenly”. Triggers a specific action in the Indefinido.
• Al principio: Means “at the beginning”. Used to set the initial scene.
• Entonces / Luego: Means “then / later”. Used to sequence completed actions.
• Por eso: Means “therefore / that’s why”. Explains the consequence of a situation.