Micheal's question hung in the air, filled with uncertainty and longing. Mrs. Thompson's expression softened, and she gently stroked his arm.

"Oh, dear boy, you deserve to be happy," she said, her voice filled with warmth. "If you want to make amends with your father, I think it's worth a try. But you must do it for yourself, not anyone else's approval."

"I think it's worth a try," Micheal said. "I've carried this weight around for so long. Maybe I can find a way to resolve things with my father and have a life with Della.”

Mrs. Thompson smiled, her eyes shining with encouragement. "I think you can, dear boy....